10 October 2026
Cloud increasing, with the chance of a shower at night. Light winds.
12° / 20°
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1 / 12Te Kopahou Reserve
Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track
Starting from Te Kopahou Carpark, this loop walk takes you to the stunning Red Rocks, and then sends you up above the South coast, providing stunning views out over the Cook Strait.
Distance
8.51 km
Walking time
3 hours
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
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
Wellington forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 9:34 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, clearing to fine spells early afternoon, then clouding over towards evening with drizzle on the ranges. Northerlies.
12° / 17°
12 October 2026
Cloud clearing and becoming fine in the morning. Northerlies.
12° / 18°
13 October 2026
Occasional rain. Northerlies.
13° / 17°
14 October 2026
Occasional rain clearing in the afternoon but remaining cloudy. Northwesterlies.
10° / 16°
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track
Start out by crossing the first stream from the carpark, and then take an immediate right to follow this stream. Within a few metres, the track heads uphill until you emerge above a series of bluffs. Take care not to get too close to the edge here as the rock is fragile and can collapse. The track then starts to contour while climbing and provides great views down to the coast. Keep to the ridge until you come to the first high point. After this, the track drops down to meet Spooky Gully track, which heads downhill to the right, but you’ll stay straight ahead to walk uphill to the junction with Red Rocks Track. Turn left here and follow Red Rocks Track down until you arrive at the coast. You’ll need to cross the stream twice towards the bottom of the gully, so be prepared to get wet feet. On arriving at the beach, either turn right and head out to Sinclair Head to check out the fur seal colony, otherwise, turn left and follow the coastal track back to the carpark.
Essential information for Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track
Even on a beautiful day, the weather in Wellington can change. Bring protective clothing for all weather- wet, windy, or sunny. There are two stream crossings so be prepared and pack extra socks or bring sandals for the occasion. Ensure you take a topographical map with you as it can be difficult to find the descent back down to the carpark if you choose to walk clockwise. Stay at least 20metres away from seals. Never come between them and the ocean. Dogs must be kept on a leash and at least 20m away from seals and other native wildlife. Along the Coastal Track, beware of approaching 4WD vehicles. On Sundays, the gate is closed and the route is only open for walkers and mountain bikers.
Getting there for Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track
Parking is available at Te Kopahou Visitor Centre car park (at the end of Owhiro Bay Parade). Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
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 Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop Track
Keep dog under control at all times and away from seals.
Before you walk Pariwhero/Red Rocks Loop 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.