Tunnel Gully

Highlights: Abandoned tunnel, native forest, bush walk

Length: 1 hour (plenty of additional tracks if you'd like to go for longer)

Where: 40 min by car from Wellington CBD

What to take: Active wear, water, camera

Not one for the claustrophobic, this walk includes a very long tunnel. Other than that reasonably terrifying aspect, this is also a wonderful area to wander in, with a huge variety of trees and bush, and a waterfall!

Getting there: Tunnel Gully is located on the way to the Rimutaka gorge crossing, 40 mins from Wellington CBD. Head along SH2 towards Upper Hutt and, shortly after Te Marua, take a right onto Plateau Rd (opposite Te Marua golf course). The car park is located 1km along a sealed road.

First things first, the tunnel. The Mangaroa tunnel goes for an insane 253 meters. Originally part of the Rimutaka railway, the tunnel was built between 1875 and 1877. The tunnel stopped being used in the 50s, and now forms part of the wider Tunnel Gully recreation area. Once you have been through the tunnel (and assuming you don't want to return back through it), you can take a left about 300m after exiting it to climb up and around the tunnel through beautiful pine forest. This path will take you back to the carpark, from where you can re-enter the bush on Tane's track. The track offers various features, including a small waterfall, well-kept path, and beautiful views across the reserve.

For more information about these tracks and more, go here.