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7 hours
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We invite active travellers to step beyond the city and discover one of New Zealand’s most spectacular coastal walks - the Escarpment Track, part of the iconic Te Araroa Trail.
This guided experience allows you to set your own pace along this dramatic ridgeline on the Kāpiti Coast, with sweeping views of Kāpiti Island, before unwinding in a charming coastal village. Pause for an ice cream (included), dip your toes in the ocean, and then begin your return to Wellington, relaxing in the comfort of the coastal train.
See Wellington from a different perspective – beyond the bustle of the city. Discover a trail of sweeping views and local charm. The perfect escape for those seeking adventure, discovery, and seamless organisation.
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For our Kāpiti Coast hiking tour, your local guide will meet you at the railway station to take the train (approx 45 mins) to the start of the trailhead on the Kāpiti Coast - collecting a famous Wellington coffee before we board. We will provide you with plenty of water, snacks, a picnic lunch and of course plenty of sunscreen. Your hike follows the Escarpment Track – part of the legendary Te Araroa Trail. The walk is 10km, reaching 220m above sea level in places and takes around 3 hours, depending on fitness and pace! This hike is not for the faint-hearted, climbing 1200 steps along the route. Soak up stunning views of the Kāpiti Coast and Kāpiti Island, with time for a classic kiwi morning tea, lunch and the chance to take plenty of amazing photos. Your local guide will bring the track to life with stories of Aotearoa New Zealand’s history and culture, and the region’s conservation efforts. Your walk finishes in a charming coastal village, where an ice cream awaits and maybe even a dip in the ocean. We will return via the coastal train service, where you can retrace your steps on the ridgeline above, knowing you conquered the Stairway to Heaven! ©WellingtonNZ
We will take the coastal train to the start of the trailhead and return to the city from Paekakariki at the end of your hike.
Donation to Te Araroa Trail Trust
Sunscreen Offered
No bottle, no stress - we will make sure you’ve got plenty of water for hydration along your hike.
We will provide you with a picnic lunch packed with mouth-watering treats from fresh local produce to indulgent bites, the perfect fuel for your adventure!
We will provide you with 'morning tea' made from the regions finest ingredients to fuel up before your walk whilst taking in the view.
We will grab a famous Wellington coffee to enjoy on our train ride out to the trailhead at Pukerua Bay (approx 1 hour).
Duration: 7 hours: As a guide:
1 hour - Outward journey
3-4 hour - Hike
Time in coastal village
1 hour - Return Journey
Water, Refreshments & Picnic: Coffee and bottled water will be provided along with hearty menu of snacks/lunch/ice cream
Pukerua Bay to Paekākāriki : We will hike the track from South to North.
Guide: We will bring the Escarpment Track to life with stories of Aotearoa New Zealand’s history, culture, and conservation.
2 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
KGumnut,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
What an amazing experience! Alex was an exceptional guide—knowledgeable, encouraging, and organized. I truly enjoyed the entire walk from Pukerua Bay to Paekakariki; the scenery was breathtaking and the time spent in nature was exactly what I needed. The picnic lunch was a lovely touch and the whole day was very well-organized from start to finish. I highly recommend Walkington to everyone looking for a top-tier Wellington experience!
I8391VTlynnem,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Myself and my husband had the most fabulous day on the Escarpment track tour. The organisation was faultless from the first moment we made contact with Alex, all of our requirements were taken into consideration and we were thoroughly looked after. The highlight had to be walking from Pukerua Bay too Paekakariki. At the end we could sit and relax with a cold beer and reflect on the day before our transfer back to the city. A great escape from the city with stunning views. This tour is a must!!
Operated by Walkington