11 October 2026
A few showers, possibly heavy, clearing to fine in the afternoon. Northeasterlies, turning northwesterly in the morning.
Loading outdoor place details…
KiwiTools
Search KiwiToolsFind tools, guides and categories in one place.
Loading photo
1 / 29Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve
Pinnacles Ridge Track
Enjoy amazing views of the famous Putangirua Pinnacles from the lookout, then return to the carpark along the ridge. Note: the river track continues to be closed due to considerable danger caused by flashing flooding and rockfall.
Distance
3.6 km
Walking time
2 hours return
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Pinnacles Ridge Track closed
Putangirua Pinnacles car park closed
Putangirua Pinnacles car park closed
Weather outlook
Wairarapa forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 11:01 pm
12 October 2026
Fine. Northwesterlies, dying out in the morning.
13 October 2026
Mainly fine, isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
Partly cloudy with isolated showers. Northwesterlies.
15 October 2026
Rain developing. Northwesterlies, turning southwesterly.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Pinnacles Ridge Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Pinnacles Ridge Track
From the carpark, head up the easy bush walk for 500m, before heading left through the beautiful forest as you gradually ascend to the ridge line. Follow this for another 1.2km until you see a sign indicating to turn right to reach the lookout. This is situated above the pinnacles, giving impressive views of these geological formations. From there, return the way you came. The track along the river has been closed due to erosion and risks caused by rockfall and flash flooding. For a longer walk with excellent views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke, continue uphill from the lookout to a bulldozed 4WD track and turn left. It returns you to the coast 300 metres from the Pinnacles Road entrance. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the return trip. Note that this involves some road walking to get back to the car, so take care.
Essential information for Pinnacles Ridge Track
Part of the Pinnacles Ridge Track car park is damaged from a washout. Stay clear of the washout edge and temporary safety barrier. Follow the signposted tracks if accessing the river and walks. Following the stream bed is discouraged. The track which used to follow the stream is permanently closed.
Huts and campsites
Putangirua Pinnacles Campsite Te Kopi Homestead Te Kopi Cottage
Getting there for Pinnacles Ridge Track
This walk is in Aorangi Forest Park which lies between Martinborough in the north and Cape Palliser in the south. It starts in Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve which is 13 km along Cape Palliser Road from the Lake Ferry turn-off, approximately one hour’s drive from Martinborough. The turn-off and campsite are 500 m past DOC's bookable Te Kopi Lodges. 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 Pinnacles Ridge Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk Pinnacles Ridge 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.