Last updated June 2026
The Thorndon Quay Cycleway provides a separated two-way cycling path along Thorndon Quay in Wellington, linking the Hutt Road Cycleway with the central waterfront. It forms a key section of the northern cycling corridor, allowing commuters from Lower Hutt and northern suburbs to reach the CBD safely. Construction began in late 2023 and the path opened on 15 July 2025. The project also added peak-hour bus lanes to support public transport along the busy corridor.
Practical Information
| Route | Hutt Road / Aotea Quay junction to Bunny Street / Wellington waterfront |
| Surface | Sealed, two-way separated cycleway |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat urban route |
| Cost | Free |
| Opened | 15 July 2025 |
| Connections | Hutt Road Cycleway (north), Wellington Waterfront Shared Path (south) |
About the Thorndon Quay Cycleway
Thorndon Quay runs along the northern harbour edge between the rail corridor and the inner suburbs of Thorndon. For years this section lacked a safe separated cycling facility, creating a gap for riders travelling between the Hutt Road and the central waterfront.
The completed cycleway delivers a dedicated two-way path on the seaward side of the road. It connects directly to the existing Hutt Road Cycleway at the northern end and meets the Wellington Waterfront Shared Path at Bunny Street in the south. The upgrade forms part of broader efforts to improve active transport options and bus reliability in one of Wellington’s busiest commuter corridors.
Cyclists can now travel continuously on protected paths from Lower Hutt via Te Ara Tupua and the Hutt Road through to the waterfront. The route supports daily commuting and recreational rides with minimal interaction with motor traffic.
The Northern Cycling Corridor
Thorndon Quay completes a continuous northern corridor that combines three major projects. Te Ara Tupua brings riders from Lower Hutt along the harbour to Ngauranga. The Hutt Road Cycleway, upgraded in 2019, carries them from Ngauranga toward the city. The Thorndon Quay Cycleway bridges the final gap into the central waterfront. Together these investments create a decade-long improvement to Wellington’s primary commuter cycling route.
What Visitors Often Say
Cyclists appreciate the new protected path for making the northern approach into the city feel much safer than before, especially during peak commute times.
Riders note the smooth connection to both the Hutt Road and waterfront paths, allowing uninterrupted travel from the northern suburbs all the way into central Wellington.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Thorndon Quay Project: project background, design details, and connection to the wider active travel network.
Let’s Get Wellington Moving — Thorndon Quay and Hutt Road: the broader transport planning context for cycling, buses, and traffic management on this corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Thorndon Quay Cycleway open?
The Thorndon Quay Cycleway officially opened on 15 July 2025.
What does the Thorndon Quay Cycleway connect to?
At the northern end it connects to the Hutt Road Cycleway (and via that to Te Ara Tupua toward Lower Hutt). At the southern end it connects to the Wellington Waterfront Shared Path at Bunny Street.
Is the Thorndon Quay Cycleway separated from traffic?
Yes — it is a dedicated two-way cycling path separated from motor traffic lanes along Thorndon Quay.
Is the route suitable for beginners?
Yes — the path is flat, sealed, and fully separated, making it suitable for riders of all experience levels.
Are there any restrictions on the cycleway?
The path is open at all times with no fees or permits required for cyclists.
Does the project include bus improvements?
Yes — peak-hour bus lanes were added alongside the cycleway to improve public transport reliability.
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