Mount Kaukau
Hike to the summit of Mount Kaukau for breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington city, the harbor, and surrounding mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Mount Kaukau
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the summit of Mount Kaukau for breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington city, the harbor, and surrounding mountains.
"Truly worth the climb, be sure to go beyond the lookout to the true peak though!"
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Hiking or trail running shoes are recommended, especially in winter for grip on grass and rocks.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Wellington's wind can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Kaukau Summit
True Peak
Reach the highest point for panoramic views of Wellington city, the harbor, and surrounding mountains.
Skyline Walkway
Ridge of Mount Kaukau
Follow the scenic ridge trail, offering continuous breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and ocean.
City and Harbor Vistas
Various viewpoints along the trail
Capture iconic shots of Wellington, its bustling harbor, and the distant mountains on a clear day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trailhead Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Hiking or trail running shoes are recommended, especially in winter for grip on grass and rocks.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Wellington's wind can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the summit, so pack essentials for your hike.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Lookout
Don't stop at the main lookout; head to the true peak behind the building for the best views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Hiking or trail running shoes are recommended, especially in winter for grip on grass and rocks.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Wellington's wind can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the summit, so pack essentials for your hike.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Lookout
Don't stop at the main lookout; head to the true peak behind the building for the best views.
☀️ Aim for Clear Days
The panoramic views of the city and harbor are spectacular on a clear day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Kaukau for its stunning panoramic views of Wellington city and the harbor, making it a top hiking spot. The accessibility from various points and the well-maintained trails are also highlighted as positives. However, some note the unpredictable and often strong winds, recommending appropriate gear for comfort.
"Had an amazing walk through the outskirts of the northern suburbs of Wellington. The Skyline Walkway runs along the ridge of Mount Kaukau and can be accessed from various points like Johnsonville, Khandallah, and Karori. On a clear weekend, you can take on a longer stretch of the trail, either starting from Johnsonville and heading to Makara Saddle in Karori or going the other way."
Amjad Ali
"Lovely mountain with great lookout view! My husband and I enjoy hiking to the top and follow the skyline walkway. Along the walking you can have nice captures of the city, ocean and mountains. The trails are not hard so if you want to exercise sometime it can be your destination."
Hanajan
"Truly worth the climb, be sure to go beyond the lookout to the true peak though! (behind the building keep heading towards the sea)
Update: if its a northerly it'll be colder than you expect and in winter slippery on the grass and smooth rock. I'd recommend hiking or trail running shoes in winter. Source: me slipping over twice 😂"
Leslie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Kaukau is accessible from several points around Wellington. Popular starting points include Johnsonville (via the Skyline Walkway), Khandallah (near Khandallah Pool), and Karori (via Makara Saddle). Public transport can get you close to some trailheads, but check local bus routes.
Yes, parking is available at various trailheads. For example, parking can be found near Khandallah Pool. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots can fill up.
You can use public transport to get to areas near the trailheads. For instance, buses can take you to Johnsonville or Khandallah. From there, you'll need to walk to the actual start of the hiking trails.
The best side to start the Skyline Walkway depends on your preference. Starting from Johnsonville or Khandallah offers a different experience than starting from Karori. Many find the Johnsonville to Makara Saddle route a good full-day option.
The hike to the summit can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on your fitness level and the chosen route. Some people trail run it in much less time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Mount Kaukau and accessing the Skyline Walkway is free. There are no admission fees or tickets required for this natural attraction.
Mount Kaukau is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor natural area. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and to enjoy the views.
Generally, no permits are required for hiking Mount Kaukau. It's a public access area. However, if you're planning any organized events, it's always wise to check with local authorities.
Dogs are generally allowed on Mount Kaukau, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local council regulations for the most up-to-date information.
While Mount Kaukau is a hiking destination, mountain tubing is a popular activity on the other side of Kauai, Hawaii, and not available near Mount Kaukau in Wellington. +2
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most iconic view is from the summit, looking out over Wellington city, the harbor, and the Cook Strait. The Skyline Walkway also offers continuous, stunning vistas.
It's recommended to bring water, snacks, a jacket for the wind, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Sunscreen and a hat are also good ideas for sunny days.
No, there are no toilets available on the summit or along most of the trails. You'll need to use facilities at the trailhead or in nearby suburbs before or after your hike.
The difficulty varies depending on the route. Some paths are steep with many hills or stairs, while others are more gradual. It's generally considered a moderate hike, suitable for most fitness levels.
The 'mt kaukau skyline walk' refers to the Skyline Walkway, a popular trail that follows the ridge of Mount Kaukau, offering continuous scenic views of Wellington.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit provides a sweeping panorama of Wellington. The entire Skyline Walkway offers numerous vantage points for capturing the city, harbor, and surrounding landscapes.
Early mornings offer beautiful soft light and fewer crowds. Late afternoons can also be stunning with golden hour light. Clear days are essential for the best visibility.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on city details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or windy days.
Look for interesting cloud formations, the contrast between the natural landscape and the urban sprawl, and the dramatic weather patterns Wellington is known for.
Drone regulations can be complex and vary. It's crucial to check with the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) and local council bylaws before flying a drone in this area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting from a more accessible trailhead and not pushing for the furthest points if you have young children. The experience of being outdoors and seeing the city from above can be very engaging for kids. Make it a memorable family adventure by focusing on the journey and the stunning scenery.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider tackling the longer routes, such as the Johnsonville to Makara Saddle traverse, for a more demanding run. The unpredictable Wellington weather can add an extra layer of challenge, so be prepared for wind and potential rain. Proper trail running shoes are a must for grip and stability.
📸 Photography Buffs
Experiment with different times of day to catch the best light – early mornings and late afternoons are particularly rewarding. Don't forget to look for interesting weather patterns and the interplay between the natural environment and the urban landscape. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grandeur of the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Skyline Walkway
When planning your walk, consider the weather. Wellington is known for its changeable conditions, and the exposed ridgeline can be windy and cold, even on a sunny day. Dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear are essential. The trails are generally well-maintained, but can become slippery in wet conditions, especially on grassy sections and smooth rock.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, exploring different access points can reveal unique perspectives. Whether you're aiming for the true summit of Mount Kaukau or a longer trek along the ridge, the Skyline Walkway promises rewarding scenery and a great way to experience Wellington's natural beauty.
Best Times for Photography
Late afternoons also offer excellent photographic opportunities, with the golden hour casting a warm glow over the landscape. However, be mindful of the rapidly changing weather. Wellington can experience dramatic cloud formations, which can add a unique element to your photos, but also obscure the views. Always check the weather forecast before you go.
When composing your shots, consider the contrast between the natural environment and the urban landscape. The winding trails, the vastness of the ocean, and the intricate details of the city all offer compelling subjects. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific features of the city or distant landmarks.
Understanding Trail Access and Difficulty
The difficulty of the hike can range from moderate to challenging, depending on the chosen route and your fitness level. While the main summit is relatively accessible, some of the steeper sections and longer stretches of the Skyline Walkway require good stamina. Trail running shoes or sturdy hiking boots are advisable, especially during wetter months, to ensure good grip on the varied terrain.
It's important to note that there are no facilities like toilets on the mountain itself. Therefore, it's crucial to be prepared by bringing sufficient water and snacks for your excursion. Planning your route in advance and checking the weather forecast will ensure a more enjoyable and safe experience on Mount Kaukau.
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