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.

Starting from Scorch-O-Rama Cafe in Karaka Bay at 8:30am, we'll loop the coast road, through Miramar and out to Moa Point, before looping back to the beginning. and Meet at Huia at 8:00am to car share.

Starting from the Lady Norwood Rose Garden at 8:30am, climb up through Wadestown and along the Northern Walkway and through Kelburn for lovely city views. Meet at Huia at 8am to car share. Coffee and cake in the Picnic Cafe afterwards.

Meet at Huia Pool at 8:00am to car share. Run from Ngaio at 8:30am to Johnsonville and up and along the Skyline ridge track. Spectacular views to the coast on both sides. 10.2km, 15.9km or 20.9km options.