Paekākāriki Escarpment Track

The Paekākāriki Escarpment Track runs from Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay, taking in sweeping views of the spectacular Kāpiti Coastline and Kapiti Island. The trail can be walked in either direction, but most choose to walk from north to south.

Heading south, the trail follows the Kāpiti railway line, then veers uphill and across privately-owned farmland. You’ll climb 220 metres above sea level and navigate steep, narrow pathways on what is one of the highlights of Te Araroa Trail.

This challenging track is not recommended for the faint-hearted - you’ll scale around 1,200 steep steps, navigate narrow pathways across ridgelines, and traverse two swing bridges.

For the latest information on the status of the track (including any closures) visit Te Araroa. see: https://www.teararoa.org.nz/trail-alerts/

• Following the signposts to the start of the trail, you can access the Escarpment Track from either Paekākāriki or Pukerua Bay.
• Check the track status on the Te Araroa website.
• Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sunscreen, food and water.
• Toilets are available at Paekākāriki Station on weekends and in Paekākāriki village during daylight hours. There is also a toilet at the Pukerua Bay shopping area. 

• The track is adjacent to operating farmland, so no dogs or cycling are permitted.
• Take walking sticks if you're not used to prolonged steep ascents and descents. People with vertigo are warned against doing this walk.
• Seating is available along the trail.