Located in Mākara Beach area in the Wellington/Kapiti region
7 km loop
Part of track closed for lambing season between 1 August and 30 September. Access to the gun emplacements is via Mākara Beach during this time.
The start of the Makara Walkway, with Mana Island in background Image: Megan Martin | DOC
Gun emplacements at the top of the cliffs mark the position of Fort Opau Image: Megan Martin | DOC
Looking north to Ohariu Bay, with Mana and Kapiti Islands in the distance Image: Megan Martin | DOC
View looking north to Wharehou and Ohariu Bays Image: Megan Martin | DOC
Wharehou Bay, along the Makara Beach section of the walkway Image: Megan Martin | DOC
The track climbs to vantage points with spectacular views, and returning along the beach.
The high cliffs and spectacular views for centuries have provided the people of the area with good vantage points for the defence of their land. A Ngati Ira pa site lies on the promontory at the western end of Fisherman's Bay, and gun emplacements at the top of the cliffs mark the position of Fort Opau, which was garrisoned by 100 soldiers during World War II.
Makara Walkway begins and ends at Mākara Beach, 16 km north of Wellington. The beach is at the end of Makara Road which runs from the south end of Karori Road.
For more information on what you will see on the walk, the history of the area, and how to get there, download the Welly Walks app, Makara Walkway tour.
Kapiti Wellington Visitor Centre | |
Phone: | +64 4 384 7770 |
Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
Email: | wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz |
Address: |
18 - 32 Manners Street Wellington 6011 |
Postal Address: |
PO Box 10420 The Terrace Wellington 6143 |
Full office details |