Wild Coast Track
Located in Turakirae Head Scientific Reserve in the Wellington/Kapiti region
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Introduction
The Wild Coast Track traverses the rugged Turakirae coast between Wellington and the Wairarapa.This track is part of the Remutaka Cycle Trail (Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails).
18 km one way
Dog access
Image gallery
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Crossing a stream on the Wild Coast Track Image: Dave Mitchell ©
![A mountain biker pedals through a rocky stream.]( "A mountain biker pedals through a rocky stream.")
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Views of the track near the sea Image: Dave Mitchell ©
![A lone biker rides along a track with trees on one side and the sea on the other.]( "A lone biker rides along a track with trees on one side and the sea on the other.")
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South Wairarapa coastline at dusk. Image: Rob Suisted ©
![Long grass and patches of trees before a grey sandy beach.]( "Long grass and patches of trees before a grey sandy beach.")
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View of Turakirae Head Scientific Reserve Image: Rob Suisted ©
![Aerial view of a beach that is split into three ridges.]( "Aerial view of a beach that is split into three ridges.")
This track contains some of the most remote and spectacular scenery of the 115 km loop. The track can be ridden or walked in either direction and has no significant climbs.
The Wild Coast Track is mostly road and is well marked when it leaves the road. The track covers many different environments including:
- streams which will require crossing
- unsealed roads
- dunes
- shingle areas.
There are spots for camping, a picnic area with water, and a toilet on the track.
Detailed description
This description covers the track from the campsite at Corner Creek in the Wairarapa to the ending at the Wainuiomata Coast Road.
From the campsite at Corner Creek, start the Wild Coast Track by following the unsealed coastal road. The old road will pass through an open gate and from here the track enters private land at the Mukamuka Stream valley. This is the first and largest of the stream crossings.
The track will leave the road and come to a picnic and camping area. The track then crosses through shifting dunes. You'll then come to a second stream the which you'll need to ford. There are informal camping spots on the terraces next to this stream. This is the last opportunity for camping before the end of the Wild Coast Track.
You'll need to go through a large metal gate as you enter the Ōrongorongo Station.
The track then crosses three streams at the Kotumu Fan. This part of the track may have numerous washouts and require you to walk your bicycle for up to 1 km.
Continuing on the track, you'll pass Barny's Whare, a private bookable hut. At a marked junction, the track leaves the main farm track and heads towards the coast and a seal colony.
The track continues to the main entry and exit gate at the Ōrongorongo River, where there is a car park and toilet. Beyond this point is the Wainuiomata Coast Road. The main gate is a narrow metal squeeze gate designed to keep motorbikes out.
From Wellington, travel to the end of the Wainuiomata Coast Road.
From the Wairarapa, the track begins at Ocean Beach at Corner Creek.
Skills/experience needed for biking the track
This is an Intermediate: Grade 3 bike trail and will suit fit, experienced cyclists. You need the strength/fitness to lift your bike over obstacles, ride into strong wind, and cycle over rocky and sandy terrain.
Walking the track is a good alternative or biking another section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail.
Need to know
The track crosses working farms where stock and farm vehicles may be present. Keep to the track.
Stay 20 m away from seals.
Avoid crossing streams or rivers if they are flooded.
Washed out sections
Several sections of the track are passable but unrideable due to washouts. Keep away from washed out track edges as there is a risk of falling. Allow additional time for your journey.
Preparing for the trip
The area has little or no shelter from the weather, especially from the south. Check the forecast and pack plenty of warm, waterproof clothes.
Cell phone coverage is good but there are patches of poor reception. As the area is remote, consider packing a distress beacon.
If riding, you need a mountain bike in good condition. Take spare parts for the bike and a first aid kit.
Stay safe in the outdoors
- Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.
- Understand the weather. Check weather forecasts.
- Pack warm clothes and extra food. Check gear lists.
- Share your plans and take ways to get help. Share directly or use the Outdoor Intentions form or Plan My Walk. Take a distress beacon.
- Take care of yourself and each other.
Contacts
| Wellington/Kapiti information | |
| Phone: | +64 3 546 9339 |
| Email: | nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz |
| About: | Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre provides visitor information for this area |