Walking time
Length
Uses
Type
Walking difficulty
Profile
60m climb
-60m descent
63m highest point
Dogs
About the trail
Take in highlights of the lower Whareroa Farm, an ancient kohekohe forest and views over Queen Elizabeth Park and the coastline beyond.
Starting from the Whareroa Farm car park, the track winds up to the lookout. You’ll then head down through the native forest to a farm access road. This will take you past the working farm with sheep grazing, and an orchard. US Marines lived and trained in this area during WWII.
From May to June you’ll find the kohekohe trees bloom delicate sprays of white orchid-like flowers that attract tūī and pīwakawaka. There are also wētā hotels and spider houses to explore.
The trail starts at the main entrance to Whareroa Farm, Paekākāriki, about 35 minutes north of Wellington. You can also catch the train to Paekākāriki Station.
Begin your ride or walk a short distance south of Queen Elizabeth Park. Follow the signs to the coastal lookout, which links into the Forest Loop Track.