10 Must-Do Walks in Porirua

1. Te Ara Piko Walkway (50 Minutes One Way)

Discover the stunning Te Ara Piko Walkway, a picturesque trail that hugs the northern edge of Pāuatahanui Inlet. This flat, gentle path meanders through indigenous salt marshes and wetland habitats, offering a perfect mix of nature and accessibility.

We love the boardwalks and bridges that offer stunning harbour views and excellent opportunities for bird and wildlife watching.

The walkway’s easy gradient makes it suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, though some assistance may be needed in certain areas.

For those seeking a longer adventure, continue past the colourful Camborne boatsheds to connect with the Camborne Walkway at the western end of the inlet.

Location: Start from Matukaraka Point, off Greys Road in Plimmerton, Porirua, Wellington Region, North Island. Park at the toilets and walk around Motukaraka Point Road to the pathway at the eastern end.

© Mark Tantrum - WellingtonNZ

2. Colonial Knob Walkway (3-5 Hours Return)

This fantastic hike takes you on a steep uphill climb to Te Titiro o Rangituhi (the Rangituhi Lookout), revealing epic views over Porirua and beyond.

The return track winds through native forest and includes more than 700 steps, offering a challenging but rewarding experience. We admire watching the sunrise or sunset from the lookout, as the name Rangituhi translates to ‘Sky Glow’, reflecting the stunning colours that spread across the ridge line.

Part of Ngā Ara o Rangituhi, a 110-hectare scenic reserve, this walkway holds great significance to mana whenua Ngāti Toa Rangatira as a symbol of resilience and strength. It’s the perfect adventure for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural importance.

Location: Raiha Street, Elsdon, Porirua, Wellington Region, North Island.

© WellingtonNZ

3. Pauatahaunui Wildlife Management Reserve (1 Hour 15 Mins One Way)

On your exploration of the Pauatahanui Inlet, don’t miss the Pauatahaunui Wildlife Reserve with its stunning “Meandering Path” through native salt marshes and wetland habitat!

This easy 5.1 km (3.2 mi) one-way walk takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, perfect for the whole family. It’s buggy and wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible for everyone.

As you stroll along the mixed surface path, keep your eyes peeled for native plants, birds and even mud crabs scuttling across the bridges!

Pop into one of the bird-viewing hides and you might spot white-faced herons, oystercatchers, royal spoonbills, banded dotterels, white-fronted terns, pied stilts and many other wonderful birds. According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, “It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise!”

Location: Off Paekakariki Hill Road, Pauatahanui Village, Wellington Region, North Island. 30 km (19 mi) north of Wellington city centre.

© Mark Tantrum - WellingtonNZ

4. The Camborne Walkway (30 Minutes One Way)

The Camborne Walkway offers a delightful perspective of the Pāuatahanui Inlet. This sheltered and flat path hugs the shoreline, providing stunning views of Whitby and the iconic, colourful Camborne boatsheds. On a calm day, the water’s glassy surface creates a perfect backdrop for peaceful reflection.

We’re big fans of packing a picnic to enjoy at the Grays Road end of the track. The western section of the inlet is particularly beautiful, where you’ll find the Camborne Walkway in all its glory.

Location: Start from either Dolly Varden Beach, Pascoe Avenue, Mana Esplanade or from Greys Road, Plimmerton (by the water-ski club).

© Rudolph89 on Wikipedia

5. Aotea Lagoon (10 Minutes Loop)

Just off State Highway 59 in Papakōwhai, Aotea Lagoon is a family-friendly oasis that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages. The 732 m (800 yd) paved trail encircling the lagoon offers a perfect playground for families, joggers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

At the heart of the park lies a huge playground, complete with a separate toddlers’ area, ensuring endless fun for the little ones. Picnic and BBQ areas provide the perfect spot for a family lunch, while the pétanque court adds a touch of European flair.

According to locals, the lagoon is a hub of activity on Sundays when a charming miniature train chugs along, much to the delight of children.

We appreciate how accessible the park is for wheelchairs and buggies, allowing everyone to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.

Location: Papakowhai Road, Papakōwhai, Wellington Region, North Island. From State Highway 1, take the Whitford Brown turn-off then left onto Papakowhai Road.

© Arnhemcr at en.wikipedia

6. Ara Harakeke Walk (2 Hours 30 Mins One Way)

For an easy coastal adventure in Porirua, take on the Ara Harakeke Walk! This 8.7 km (5.4 mi) pathway, which can be walked or cycled, meanders through Mana, Plimmerton, and Pukerua Bay.

We appreciate how it combines rugged coastline, four beautiful beaches, and a tranquil wetland. It’s a journey through time and nature, featuring historic World War II sites and a steam train operation (currently being upgraded).

The trail offers an easy to moderate gradient, perfect for leisurely explorers. As we discovered first-hand, it’s an excellent way to soak in the coastal charm of the area.

Location: Start from Paremata Railway Station or Pukerua Bay shops where the walk is signposted.

© Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia

7. Taua Tapu Track (1 Hour One Way)

Embark on a scenic rural walk with breathtaking views of Mana Island and Porirua Harbour. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the Marlborough Sounds.

This moderate 1.5 km (0.9 mi) track offers a mix of native bush and panoramic vistas, perfect for hikers and horse riders alike.

Starting at the top of The Track in Plimmerton, the trail winds its way to Airlie Road. For those arriving by train or looking to extend their walk, begin at Steyne Ave and follow Motuhara Rd before turning right onto The Track, adding about 40 minutes to your journey. Signs clearly mark the start and end points of this picturesque trail.

With its unsealed surface and moderate gradient, the Taua Tapu Track provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. We personally love the expansive views that unfold as you make your way along the path.

Location: The Track, Plimmerton, Wellington Region, North Island. 1.5 km (0.9 mi) from Plimmerton town centre.

© NZPocketGuide.com

8. Spinnaker Lookout Walkway (45 Minutes One Way)

The Spinnaker Lookout walkway is a favourite in Whitby, and it’s easy to see why! This magical trail takes you through a lush forest canopy, where the noise of the outside world fades away, replaced by the gentle chirping of birds. The best part? You don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to enjoy the breathtaking views.

With several access points (the easiest one being on Spinnaker Drive itself) and clear signposts, it’s an easy to moderate walk suitable for most fitness levels.

The grand pay-off at the top? Stunning panoramic views stretching from Pāuatahanui inlet to Porirua Harbour. It’s a moderate effort for a huge reward!

Location: Spinnaker Drive, Whitby, Wellington Region, North Island. Start from either Samuel Marsden School off Discovery Drive or from Postgate Park, following the path through the subway under Postgate Drive.

© Karora on Wikipedia

9. Whitireia Park (2 Hours One Way)

Experience a scenic coastal adventure along the Whitireia Park Walkway, which offers dramatic views of Mana Island and the South Island.

This moderate 6.5 km (4 mi) track takes you through picturesque farmland and along the stunning coastline between Onehunga Bay and Te Onepoto Bay.

According to our very own travel manager, Robin, decent footwear is a must for navigating the various farm stiles along the way. The unsealed surface adds a touch of ruggedness to your journey, making it an ideal excursion for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and a bit of a challenge.

We like how this walk showcases the raw beauty of Porirua City’s west coast, providing a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Location: Onepoto Road (near the Onepoto Boat Sheds), Titahi Bay, Porirua, Wellington Region, North Island.

© Mark Tantrum - WellingtonNZ

10. Bothamley Pathway (1 Hour One Way)

Bothamley Pathway, a hidden gem that’s fast becoming the ‘green heart of Porirua’.

This diverse trail offers multiple track options, with the longest stretching 4.2 km (2.6 mi) one-way, taking about 1 hr 7 mins to complete. The easy gradient and mixed surface, primarily gravel, make it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family outing.

As we discovered, the wide pathway meanders alongside the Kenepuru Stream, passing through a captivating mix of mature exotic trees and regenerating natives.

It’s an ideal ‘buggy walk’ for those with young children, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Thanks to an ongoing environmental development programme, this pathway is evolving into a true urban oasis.

Location: Bothamley Park, Porirua, Wellington Region, North Island. Accessible from multiple entry points in Cannons Creek and Waitangirua.

© NZPocketGuide.com