Explore Wellington: Southern Walkway
Walk through Wellington's beautiful parks and discover picturesque views, stunning flora and fauna and some early history of the area. The Southern Walkway guides you along the Town Belt from Oriental Parade to Island Bay.
The Southern Walkway is an 11 km walk along the Town Belt between Oriental Bay and Island Bay. The total walk can be completed in 4-5 hours depending on fitness and interest.
The greatest attraction of this walkway is the variety of scenery, from views of the harbour and central city at Oriental Bay, the shade and tranquility of the Town Belt forest to the rugged and exposed southern coastline between Houghton and Island Bays.
Although the walk is steep in places, it is not difficult overall and is suitable for those of average fitness. Various access points from suburban streets allow you to complete the walkway in stages if you choose. From the city, take either the No. 14 Kilbirnie (via Roseneath), or the No.24 Evans Bay bus to Oriental Parade (the walkway entrance is sign-posted and begins near the intersection of Oriental Parade and Carlton Gore Road); or take the No.1 bus to Island Bay (the walkway begins in Shorland Park).
All along the route are numerous seats and picnic spots. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash.
View a printable map (part one, part two), marking points of interest along the way.
You can pick up copies of all the Explore Wellington brochures from the Wellington Railway Station, Wellington Airport or i-SITE Visitor Centre (corner Victoria and Wakefield Streets).
