Explore the Paekākāriki Hill Road Viewpoint
Located on the Kāpiti Coast in Wellington, the Paekākāriki Hill Road is a convenient way to enjoy breathtaking views similar to those from the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track. On a clear day, this drive provides stunning vistas without the need for a long hike.
Spectacular Coastal Views
The viewpoint is situated at an elevation of 240 metres. From here, you can take in sweeping views of the entire coast, Kāpiti Island, and even the South Island. This spot is perfect for those looking to experience the area's natural beauty with minimal effort.
A Surprising History
The Paekākāriki Hill Road was built in 1849 by British army engineers alongside Māori road‑building crews as a strategic military route following the Hutt Valley War. It was the main highway north of Wellington until 1939, when the Centennial Highway rerouted traffic via a less arduous path.
Winding its way over the ridges of the Transmission Gully region, west of the motorway, the road features steep gradients of up to 16 %, making it both a scenic drive and one of the more technically demanding routes in the area. As you traverse its bends and lookouts, remember its layered history: a military supply route, and then a coach road in the 1800s, and now a scenic route for cyclists, drivers and photographers alike.
The road terminates at the east end of Te Ararua-o-Poirirua.
How to Get There
To reach the Paekākāriki Hill Road viewpoint, drive along State Highway 59 and take the turnoff just south of Paekākāriki. Follow the Paekākāriki Hill Road up the hill to the viewpoint, a steep and narrow drive. After enjoying the view, you can either return the same way or continue on a scenic drive to Porirua.
Other places to visit on the Kāpiti Coast include Queen Elizabeth Park, Raumati, Paraparaumu and Waikanae Beach.
