A classic mountain run in the Tararua Ranges Summary This 24km loop over Mount Jumbo and Mount Holdsworth is one of the most popular routes in the Tararua Ranges, and for good reason. It is very doable as a day trip from Wellington and includes a great variety of terrain and scenery. You’ll experience a … Continue reading Jumbo-Holdsworth Loop

A Big day out Summary Mt Matthews is the biggest peak in the Rimutaka Range, standing majestically within view of Wellington city. Trivia: Kiwi: North Island brown kiwi were released into the area in 2006. Views: The views along the way add up to 360 degrees over the course of the climb: south to the … Continue reading Conquering Mt Matthews

Sanctuary by name, sanctuary by nature: an extended edition around the Zealandia fenceline and chasing some of Wellington’s finest hills Summary The Zealandia Sanctuary is an otherworldly environment a mere three kilometres from the city centre. It is termed a “Mainland Island”; where the predator fence keeps mainland pests out and fosters the ecosystem within. … Continue reading The Zealandia fenceline loop

Looking for a solid hill workout? Meet Mt Climie (aka Mt Climbie)! Summary The Mount Climie track starts from the Tunnel Gully Recreation Area, just north of Upper Hutt. It is probably one of the most accessible “alpine” runs in the Wellington area. Although a return trip only clocks in at around 12kms, the tops … Continue reading Mount Climie

A native bush escape 5 kms from downtown Wellington Summary Otari-Wilton’s Bush is only 5kms from the city centre but it feels like another world. The reserve contains quite a few different trails that wind their way along the river valley and up the hill through dense native bush.  The tops of these trails join … Continue reading Otari-Wilton Bush and Johnston Hill Loop

City trails and spectacular Wellington views Summary You can’t go wrong with a run on the trails of Mount Victoria. With easy access and a great trail network, this is one of the best road-to-trail options within 5 mins from the busy Wellington CBD. Mount Victoria or Mt Vic, as it is known to many of … Continue reading Mt Vic: Loop of Faith

The golden triangle of Transient, Highbury Fling and Clinical Summary Polhill Reserve is based in Wellington’s Aro Valley. It connects the suburbs of Aro, Brooklyn and Highbury. The Polhill Reserve entrance on Aro Street is our suggested start point  due to accessibility and refreshments. Fun trivia: This was Chris McDougall’s (author of Born to Run) … Continue reading Polhill Reserve Loop