10 Best Things to Do in Miramar

1. Walk the Eastern Walkway

The Eastern Walkway is a scenic 2.5 km (1.5 mi) coastal track stretching from Tarakena Bay to Pass of Branda across Miramar Peninsula. This well-marked gravel path offers sweeping harbour and Cook Strait views, plus historic landmarks like the Atatürk Memorial and WWII gun emplacements.

We love how the track weaves through native regenerating forest and exposed ridge sections, with benches and picnic spots along the way for a breather.

The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day walk. Dogs are welcome on leads, but cyclists aren’t permitted. According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, it’s a fantastic way to experience Wellington’s natural beauty, coastal panoramas, and cultural history all in one go.

Location: Start at Tarakena Bay, Miramar Peninsula, Wellington, North Island. Entry points at Bury Grove, Sidlaw Street, Signallers Grove and Inglis Street (Pass of Branda).

© Aidan on Flickr

2. Relax at Scorching Bay

Nestled on the Miramar Peninsula, Scorching Bay is Wellington’s ultimate sandy paradise. This sheltered bay, overlooked by the historic Fort Ballance, offers warm waters perfect for swimming and paddling in summer.

The bay boasts a seaside café, picnic areas, and convenient facilities including toilets and changing rooms. Families will appreciate the children’s playground, while nature enthusiasts can explore coastal tracks connecting to Breaker and Worser Bays. Keep an eye out for seals offshore and, if you’re lucky, dolphins or orca!

With easy parking, public transport access, and a backdrop of regenerating native bush, Scorching Bay offers a peaceful escape. For more stunning beaches in the area, check out our guide to 10 Beaches in Wellington You Can’t Miss.

Location: Access Scorching Bay along Massey Road on the northeastern side of Miramar, Wellington, North Island.

© Phillip Capper on Flickr

3. Visit the Wētā Workshop

Experience the enchanting world of filmmaking at Wētā Workshop Experiences in Miramar. This creative powerhouse is behind blockbusters like The Lord of the Rings and Avatar.

We personally love the guided tours that offer a glimpse into working departments through viewing windows and interactive behind-the-scenes displays. For movie buffs, VIP experiences with restricted access are available, as well as hands-on workshops where you can try props and models.

Open seven days a week (except Christmas Day), this cinematic attraction celebrates Wellington’s film heritage with expert narration and interactive elements.

Location: 1 Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington, North Island.

© NZPocketGuide.com

4. Walk the Maupuia Walkway

For a delightful stroll with panoramic views, head to the Maupuia Walkway. This short, dog-friendly track runs through northern Miramar, offering stunning vistas over Evans Bay and Wellington Airport.

Known locally as the Old Prison Road, it’s a wide, easy walk of about 1 hour return.

The well-formed paths include open, grassy areas, perfect for picnics or plane spotting. We love watching the sunset from here, it’s a magical experience!

Whether you’re jogging, walking your furry friend, or simply enjoying the scenery, this track is a local favourite.

Location: Access is via Prison Road and Akaroa Drive, Maupuia, Wellington, North Island.

© D Coetzee on Flickr

5. Watch a Movie at the Roxy Cinema

The Roxy Cinema is a captivating blend of 1930s Art Deco architecture and modern cinematic luxury. Housed in a beautifully restored venue on Park Road, this boutique cine-restaurant offers an immersive experience that goes beyond just watching a film.

With two state-of-the-art screening rooms featuring plush leather recliners and interior art by Wētā Workshop, the Roxy transports you to a world of movie magic.

Combine your cinema visit with fine dining at the adjoining CoCo at the Roxy restaurant before or after your show. The Roxy is known for its themed previews and special film events, making each visit unique.

Location: Park Road, Miramar, Wellington, North Island.

© Gordon Haws on Flickr

6. Go Mountain Biking

Miramar’s diverse terrain offers something for every cyclist. Leisurely rides along coastal roads and shared paths provide scenic routes for casual pedalling.

For those craving more adventure, challenging trail riding awaits in nearby Ōrongorongo or Belmont Regional Park.

While bikes are prohibited on the Eastern Walkway, the Coastal Cycleways along Cobham Drive and Evans Bay Parade offer picturesque paved routes with stunning sea views.

Mountain biking enthusiasts can tackle steeper tracks towards Mount Crawford or join regional trails just beyond Miramar. For a mix of coastal vistas and off-road thrills, we personally love combining these routes.

The Centennial Reserve remains a favourite spot, featuring trails for all abilities, from family-friendly Grade 2 paths to the adrenaline-pumping Jail Brake track, which descends through native bush.

Location: Access points include Darlington Road, Nevay Road and Main Road. Centennial Reserve trails start at the end of Darlington Road.

© NZPocketGuide.com

7. Go Fishing on the Miramar Wharf

Cast a line and try your luck at Burnham Wharf or Miramar Wharf at the eastern end of Evans Bay! These convenient local spots are perfect for recreational fishing, offering calm waters and relaxing sea views.

According to locals, common catches include kahawai, snapper and blue moki. We admire watching the yachts pass by Eastern Bay while dipping our lines off the wharf edge.

Please remember that fisheries regulations and catch limits are in effect. When you need a break between throws, take advantage of the quiet benches nearby.

Learn more about What You Need to Know About Fishing in New Zealand.

Location: Corner of Cobham Drive and Shelly Bay Road, Miramar, Wellington, North Island.

© Jojoe.photography on Flickr

8. Check Out the Views from the Atatürk Memorial

Perched dramatically on a cliff at Tarakena Bay, the Atatürk Memorial offers more than just a poignant tribute to Turkish–New Zealand wartime connections.

This striking monument, we’ve found, serves as a spectacular vantage point for breathtaking panoramas across Cook Strait, Wellington Harbour entrance, and the coastal ridges of Miramar.

A short ramble along the Eastern Walkway takes you to this thoughtful spot, where history and natural beauty converge. It’s a favourite among locals and attendees of the dawn service alike, offering a moment of reflection amidst stunning ocean vistas.

Location: Access is above Tarakena Bay at 166 Breaker Bay Road, Seatoun, Wellington, North Island. About 8 km (5 mi) from Wellington city centre.

© Aidan on Flickr

9. Grab Yourself a Bite to Eat

Miramar is a foodie’s paradise with diverse dining options. Along Park Road, you’ll find a range of eateries to satisfy any craving. We love CoCo at the Roxy for a unique cinema dining experience, while café enthusiasts will appreciate the local coffee spots.

For those seeking international flavours, Tulsi Restaurant, Park Kitchen, and Rempah Malaysia offer delectable cuisines.

Venture to nearby Seatoun and Scorching Bay for scenic waterfront cafés. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick coffee, pastries, casual lunches or themed exotic dinners, it’s all within walking distance after exploring the peninsula.

Location: Park Road, Miramar, Wellington, North Island. Seatoun and Scorching Bay are nearby coastal suburbs.

© NZPocketGuide.com

10. Check Out the Art Galleries

Immerse yourself in Miramar’s thriving grassroots arts scene. The Wellington Art Club on Chelsea Street hosts exhibits, workshops and community shows in a historic arts centre.

For a more intimate experience, visit Three Eyes Gallery on Breaker Bay Road, showcasing local painters and sculptors in a converted house (open by appointment).

Visit the Miramar Cultural Centre, which features the Ansin Family Art Gallery and its curated exhibitions.

These galleries offer a glimpse into Miramar’s creative spirit and local talent in relaxed, accessible settings.

Location: Wellington Art Club – Chelsea Street, Miramar, Wellington, North Island. Three Eyes Gallery – Breaker Bay Road, Miramar, Wellington, North Island. Miramar Cultural Centre – Miramar, Wellington, North Island.

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