10 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Northeasterlies dying out in the afternoon.
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1 / 178Kāpiti Coast
Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
Take in spectacular views of Kāpiti Island from high above the Kāpiti Coastline on one of the region’s finest walking experiences.
Distance
9 km
Walking time
3 - 4 hr
Difficulty
Intermediate
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Kapiti-Horowhenua forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, clearing to fine spells early afternoon, then clouding over towards evening with drizzle on the ranges. Northerlies.
12 October 2026
Fine, then a few showers developing in the evening. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon.
13 October 2026
Occasional rain. Northeasterlies, turning northwesterly in the morning.
14 October 2026
Rain. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Paekākāriki Escarpment Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
Situated between Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay, this popular walking track takes in sweeping views of the Kāpiti Coastline and the region’s famous Kāpiti Island. Heading south, the track starts by following the Kāpiti railway line then veers uphill and across privately-owned farmland. Walkers will climb 220 metres above sea level and navigate steep narrow pathways on what is one of the highlights of the Te Araroa Trail . This track is enjoyed by many, but be aware that walkers are required to scale around 1,200 steep steps, navigate narrow pathways across ridgelines, and traverse two swing bridges. The Escarpment Track can be walked in either direction, but most choose to walk from north to south.
Getting there for Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
You can access The Escarpment Track from either Paekākāriki or Pukerua Bay, both a one hour journey from Wellington by train or vehicle. Follow the signposts to the start of the trail. The walking distance from station to station is 10km. Train timetables are available from the Metlink website and tickets can be purchased onboard with cash.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
No
Before you walk Paekākāriki Escarpment Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.