Mt Kaukau

Highlights: Views, dogs, stairs

Length: 1 - 2 hours

Where: 20 min by car from Wellington CBD

What to take: Active wear, water, camera

A popular walk amongst Wellingtonians, Mt Kaukau is a good, reasonably quick assent with rewarding views across Wellington from the top.

Getting there: There are several entry points, but starting at the Clarke St entrance allows for a good loop without having to do too much of the same track twice in one walk. Clarke St is situated between Box Hill and Khandallah train stations. If driving, simply follow Clarke St to the end of the road and the track starting point is well signposted.

The track begins with a reasonable incline through native bush. Emerging from the bush about halfway up, the views begin to hint at how good things are from the top. Once you've made it up, you are rewarded with 360 degree views across the Rimutakas, Wellington, farmland, the wind farms, and the Cook Straight across to the South Island. Getting back down, follow the main track back to Woodmancote Rd, and just before you hit the Khandallah pool there is a small path to the right that will take you back to Clarke St.