Makara Walkway

3-4hours, 6km loop, decent fitness required.

Featuring 62 statuesque wind turbines, these space age windmills are capable of generating enough electricity each year for 62,000 homes – from wind alone! With the track ascending to various vantage points you’ll be faced with some spectacular views from Kapiti Island, the regularly rugged ocean and, on good days, all the way to the South Island with the loop returning walkers to their starting point, the invigorating Makara Beach. As you walk, look for the ancient Ngati Ira pa sites on the promontory where Maori tribes once resided at the western end of Fisherman's Bay and you’ll also find World War II gun emplacements around the cliffs which is where Fort Opau would’ve been when it was occupied by over 100 soldiers during that war. To enjoy this coastal beauty, drive the 16 km from Wellington, it’ll take about half an hour, then park at the end of Makara Road by the beach. And as you enjoy this walk, you’ll find this endearing walk has a couple of swimming beaches that, if you’re lucky will be sheltered from the sometimes brutal southerly winds. Because this area can be besieged by weather and strong winds, with the hills often cloaked in cloud or fog, do check the forecast before you set off and always wear sturdy shoes and wind-proof clothing.