Putangirua Pinnacles
Eerie, ancient gravel spires in a forest park, famous as a Lord of the Rings filming location. Offers unique hiking and stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Putangirua Pinnacles
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Eerie, ancient gravel spires in a forest park, famous as a Lord of the Rings filming location. Offers unique hiking and stargazing.
"An otherworldly landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet or into Middle-earth."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots for the stony riverbed and uneven terrain.
🗺️ Check DOC Before You Go
Riverbed track can close due to slips. Check DOC website for updates.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Eerie Pinnacles
Main valley floor
Towering, ancient gravel spires that create an otherworldly landscape, famously featured in Lord of the Rings.
Lookout Track
Ridge overlooking the pinnacles
A more challenging hike offering panoramic views of the pinnacles and surrounding Wairarapa region.
Milky Way at Night
Campground area
Experience the magic of the night sky with incredible stargazing opportunities, perfect for astrophotography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Track Status Before You Go
Plan for the Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots for the stony riverbed and uneven terrain.
🗺️ Check DOC Before You Go
Riverbed track can close due to slips. Check DOC website for updates.
🐶 Dogs Welcome!
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed on the tracks.
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Wellington
Just a 2-hour drive, making it a perfect escape from the city.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking boots for the stony riverbed and uneven terrain.
🗺️ Check DOC Before You Go
Riverbed track can close due to slips. Check DOC website for updates.
🐶 Dogs Welcome!
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed on the tracks.
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Wellington
Just a 2-hour drive, making it a perfect escape from the city.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for stunning landscapes and potential night sky shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Putangirua Pinnacles as a unique and otherworldly destination, especially for Lord of the Rings fans. The walks are generally considered worthwhile, offering stunning geological formations and great views, though the terrain can be challenging and tracks may be subject to closure.
"Great activity just 2 hours from Wellington.
Moderate to difficult walk on the stoney riverbed with heavy erosion.Mostly elevation is minimum except for the last bit.
Total about 45mins to 1 hour one way."
Samitha Abeysinghe
"They are just rebuilding the path. Today, end of May, it was not finished along the river bed and difficult to cross the stream but once its finished a very worthwhile little hike. It goes up quite a few steps, so a little fitness is required. Beautiful view of the Pinnacles at the top even in bad weather."
Anna Grob
"Hidden gem near Wellington. Should work as a one day trip from the capital city. Short but challenging hike to the lookout, easy hike to the pinnacles. But there was ground slip so be really careful. You won’t get the Army of death in the end of the trail, but the views and scenery are worth it!"
Petr Beňo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Putangirua Pinnacles are located in the Wairarapa region, approximately a 2-hour drive from Wellington. Head north on State Highway 2, then turn off towards Martinborough and follow signs for the Pinnacles. There's a large parking area available.
Public transport options are limited. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or join a guided tour for easy access to the Putangirua Pinnacles.
Yes, there is a campground available at the Putangirua Pinnacles, offering a great opportunity for stargazing and experiencing the area after dark.
The drive is scenic, taking you through the Wairarapa countryside. The final approach involves driving on a gravel road, which is generally well-maintained.
Yes, the Wairarapa region offers wineries, charming towns like Martinborough, and other natural attractions, making it ideal for a weekend trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Putangirua Pinnacles is free. There are no admission fees to access the walking tracks or the campground.
The Putangirua Pinnacles are open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and better visibility of the formations.
The riverbed track can sometimes be closed due to slips. It's crucial to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for the most current track status before your visit.
Parking at the Putangirua Pinnacles is free. There is a large parking area available for visitors.
Basic facilities include a parking area and a toilet. The campground also offers a place to stay overnight.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
There are two main tracks: the riverbed track (easier, flatter, about 30-45 minutes one way) and the lookout track (more challenging, involves elevation gain, about 45 minutes one way). The riverbed track leads directly to the base of the pinnacles, while the lookout offers a higher vantage point.
The riverbed walk to the pinnacles typically takes 30-45 minutes one way, while the lookout track takes around 45 minutes one way. Allow 1.5-2 hours for a round trip, including time to explore.
The riverbed walk is moderately difficult due to the stony and uneven terrain. The lookout track is more strenuous due to the elevation gain. Sturdy footwear is essential.
While the pinnacles themselves were used as a filming location, the specific 'Army of the Dead' scene might not be clearly identifiable or accessible due to track conditions or the nature of the landscape. The overall atmosphere is what evokes Middle-earth.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change. Bring water and sun protection.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing the pinnacles. For astrophotography, clear nights are ideal, especially with the Milky Way visible.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the pinnacles. A tripod is essential for low-light photography and astrophotography.
Absolutely! The unique geological formations, the surrounding landscape, and the potential for dramatic skies provide endless photo opportunities. +1
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and park rules. It's best to check with the Department of Conservation for any restrictions before flying a drone.
The dramatic, eroded spires, the textures of the rock, and the sense of scale create a visually striking and unique landscape that photographers love. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main formations are accessible, be mindful of potential track closures due to slips, which might affect the direct route. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for the latest information. The campground on-site is also a family-friendly option for an overnight stay, allowing for more exploration time and a chance to experience the area after dark.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Wellington
You can easily combine a visit to the Pinnacles with a stop at local wineries or the charming town of Martinborough. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours at the site to comfortably complete one of the walks and soak in the atmosphere. The riverbed walk is a good option for a shorter visit, while the lookout track offers a more rewarding experience if time permits. Remember to check track conditions beforehand, as closures can impact your itinerary.
🌌 Astrophotographers and Stargazers
The on-site campground is a major advantage for stargazers, allowing you to stay overnight and maximize your time under the stars. Ensure you have a tripod and appropriate camera settings for low-light photography. The eerie landscape under the moonlight or starlight adds an extra layer of mystique to the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Geological Formation and Lord of the Rings Connection
Visitors often remark on the surreal atmosphere, feeling as though they've stepped onto another planet or into a fantasy realm. The sheer scale and unusual shapes of the pinnacles are captivating, drawing comparisons to otherworldly landscapes seen in films. This connection to Middle-earth adds a layer of magic and intrigue for many visitors, making the walk feel like an adventure through a cinematic world.
While the main riverbed track is the most direct route to the base of the pinnacles, the lookout track offers a different perspective. This more strenuous hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the entire valley and the surrounding Wairarapa landscape. It's a great option for those seeking a more challenging experience or when the riverbed track is closed due to slips.
Navigating the Tracks and Terrain
For those seeking a more elevated view or when the riverbed track is closed due to slips, the lookout track is an excellent alternative. This track involves a more significant climb and offers stunning panoramic views of the pinnacles and the wider Wairarapa region. It typically takes around 45 minutes one way. It's important to note that the 'Army of the Dead' scene from Lord of the Rings might not be clearly identifiable or accessible from either track, but the overall experience is still highly rewarding.
Essential preparation includes wearing sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain is rough and can be slippery. Bringing plenty of water, sun protection, and checking the weather forecast is also advised. Dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit