This track is well made and follows Waikanae river from the bridge at SH1 just before you enter Waikanae from Wellington, all the way to the coast at Waikanae and the Waikanae Reserve.
There is a track either side of the river, with 2 places where you can cross.Both bridges are close to either end of the walk.
There are a number of entry/exit points along the track with most on the Northern Side. The track is well maintained and good underfoot with the Southern side having track’s wide enough for 4WD.
There are some places where a track will lead down to the river where you will find the water can be shallow enough for a paddle during the summer. During and after high levels of rain care will be required and to be safe it would not be suitable to enter the water.
This is a good easy walk for the family as its on the flat. The tracks are also great for cycling with plenty of room for both bikes and walkers.
Don’t be surprised that you will also come across runners with or without prams and horses.Along the banks you may come across those trying there luck with a fishing rod or a family having a quite picnic, whilst enjoying the quiet.
Along both sides of the river you will come across sections of the bank that has been cleared or being cleared over a number of years and have been replanted or completely new planting.
After about 5km the area opens up into a park where you will come across the second bridge just before the Waikanae reserve.
If you are on the Northern side of the river you can either continue along the track that follows the river. You will see some houses to your right. The tracks follows round some of the marsh land and then after about 15/20 minutes you will see the main point where the river meets the sea. You then climb over some sand dunes and in front of you is the beach and the Kapiti Island to your left.
For the Scientific Reserve: At the wooden bridge keep to the Southern side of the river.There is a clearly marked walking/cycling track as you exit Makora Rd and cross Otaihanga Road. The roads can be quiet and there are signs that show the Kapiti cycling route. You enter the Waikanae Estuary Scientific Reserve off Hana Udy Place.You will find a number of tracks that you through the reserve.
Waikanae Reserve and area Google Map
Waikanae Reserve Information. Good info on the reserve.
Waikanae-Estuary Care Group. Local group that looks after the Waikanae Estuary.
If feeling that you wish to go further the reserve boarders onto the main coastal beach. Head South and you will end in Paraparaumu and a well earned rest.
Information: Distance approx 10km for the round trip for river walk.
Getting there. Train from Wellington to Waikanane
From Waikanae station to Waikanae Beach No 280 bus.
From Waikanane to Paraparaumu via beach. Approx 4km.
From/to Paraparaumu. Train from Wellington.
From Paraparaumu Station to Paraparaumu Beach. Buses 260,261,262
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