Plimmerton Pukerua Loop

Join us for an away run exploring one of the Wellington region’s most scenic coastal routes, from Plimmerton to Pukerua Bay and back.

This 16.5km route has a bit of everything: fast, flat tarmac, coastal trails, an old quarry, some tricky beach pebbles, stunning harbour and island views, a short sharp climb - and a long, sweeping downhill to finish, where you can really open up the legs.

Meet at 8.40am at the small park next to the tennis courts, opposite The Big Salami in Plimmerton.

We start with an easy, flat run along the pretty Plimmerton seafront, with views across to Whitireia Park and Mana Island. From there, we head into Hongoeka, home to the Ngāti Toa marae since the 1820s. We’ll follow the public footpath through the settlement before heading off-road and into the trail section of the run.

The terrain then becomes more adventurous, taking in a mix of coastal trail, an old quarry and eventually the beach. Expect some spectacular views — and a few challenging stretches of beach pebbles to keep you on your toes!

Once we round the corner into Pukerua Bay, we follow the coastline before tackling the Goat Track. It’s short and sharp, but the climb is rewarded with fantastic views across to Kāpiti Island.

From the top, we’ll make our way through Pukerua Bay and onto the tarmac cycle track before the long downhill towards the cemetery. Here we join the Taua Tapu Track, an old Māori trail with beautiful views across Mana Island, the harbour and surrounding hills.

Then it’s downhill all the way back towards Plimmerton, where cafés and some well-earned refreshments await.

Parking
Turn left at the roundabout by The Big Salami towards the seafront. There’s plenty of free parking beyond the shops, running along the seafront towards the fire station. Please don’t park directly in front of the shops, as these spaces are short-stay only.

The route
16.5km | Coastal | Trail | Beach | Hills. Exposed so bring sun cream if it’s sunny.