Discover Nature and Adventure in Petone
Discover Nature and Adventure in Petone
Petone Is More Than Just Great Foodie Spot
Petone may be known for its incredible food scene, but this vibrant seaside suburb has so much more to offer. Nestled between the bustling city of Wellington and the scenic beauty of the Hutt Valley, Petone serves as the perfect base for outdoor lovers seeking adventure. From coastal escapes to rugged trails, Petone is a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. If you’re looking to step outside and explore, here are the top 5 nature and adventure activities you won’t want to miss in and around Petone.
Stroll Along the Petone Foreshore
The Petone Esplanade offers breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington Harbour and the vast Cook Strait, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves a scenic walk. On a sunny day, it’s the perfect place to unwind while taking in the stunning natural surroundings. About halfway along the esplanade, you’ll encounter the historic Petone Settlers Museum, offering insight into the area’s rich heritage. As you continue towards the end of the path, you’ll come across the family-friendly Lions Park playground, as well as the charming Lions Park Model Railway, a delightful spot for both kids and adults to enjoy.
Hike Through Percy’s Scenic Reserve
Located on the lower slopes of Maungaraki and Korokoro, Percy’s Scenic Reserve offers a peaceful escape with a mix of natural beauty and history. Wander through a lush forest gully, discover a small cave home to wētā and glowworms, and enjoy a tranquil picnic by the duck pond. For a bit of history, check out the old water wheel that once powered a flour mill, and keep walking to reach the park’s highlight, a tall, narrow waterfall.
The reserve is also a hub for conservation, with a nursery supporting native species and rare plants from across New Zealand, including the Chatham Islands and Mt Burnett. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and families alike!
Cycle or Walk the Remutaka Cycle Trail from Petone to Palliser Bay
The Remutaka Cycle Trail spans 122km, connecting Petone Foreshore to Palliser Bay along the scenic Cook Strait. Offering a perfect mix of coastal and rural landscapes, the trail is divided into four sections, ideal for a leisurely 2–3-day ride or a shorter day trip.
Starting at Petone Wharf, the trail winds through the Remutaka Range and into the picturesque Wairarapa region before heading south to the mouth of the Ōrongorongo River. With varying difficulty levels, it’s suitable for everyone, from adventurous cyclists to families looking for a relaxing outing.
Explore the Hutt Valley River Trail
The Hutt Valley River Trail offers a scenic and easy walk or bike ride alongside the picturesque Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River, stretching 29km from Petone to Te Marua. With beautiful river views and access points for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, this trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Dog-friendly and open year-round, the trail allows dogs off-lead in Upper Hutt, though they must be on a lead in Lower Hutt. Along the route, you’ll discover several inviting swimming holes—just be sure to exercise caution when swimming alone and always check for submerged rocks or logs.
Whether you’re cycling, walking, or enjoying the river, the Hutt River Trail is an ideal escape to immerse yourself in nature.
Unwind in a Sauna with Stunning Views
Breathe in the fresh ocean air, relax in soothing heat, and take in stunning views of Matiu Island and Te Whanganui-a-Tara at Embody Saunas. Located at the serene east end of Pito-one Beach, nestled between Hikoikoi Reserve and McEwan Park, it’s the perfect place to escape, recharge, and find your calm.
The sauna experience is a journey of relaxation—three 15-minute heat sessions paired with refreshing cold plunges to invigorate your body, boost circulation, and recharge your energy. The wood-fired sauna comfortably fits up to eight people, offering a cozy, communal space for friends, or a peaceful retreat for solo relaxation. Whether you’re a sauna enthusiast or new to the experience, each session is designed to leave you feeling reenergized and stress-free.
Petone is a hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its scenic trails, hiking through lush reserves, or unwinding with a rejuvenating sauna experience, Petone has something for everyone. So, next time you visit, take some time to explore beyond the incredible food scene and discover the outdoor adventures waiting right on your doorstep.
How to Get Here
Petone is only 10 Minutes from Wellington!
Petone is only a 10-minute train ride or drive from Wellington CBD, making it easy to access by multiple transportation options. Whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or car, getting to Petone is simple and convenient.
There are several convenient ways to get to Petone from Wellington:
- By Car: Petone is about a 10–20-minute drive from Wellington’s city centre. You can take State Highway 2 (SH2) over the Wellington Harbour Bridge and then head north to reach Petone.
- By Train: The train ride (HVL, WRL, MEL) from Wellington to Petone is quick and easy, taking at most 15 minutes. All 3 of the HVL, WRL, and MEL lines stop at Petone Station, making them a great option for those without a car.
- By Bus: There are also regular buses (#81, #83, #84) that run between Wellington and Petone. The journey typically takes about 25-30 minutes depending on traffic.
- By Bike: For the more adventurous, cycling from Wellington to Petone is a popular option, with a dedicated cycle path along the coast, offering scenic views along the way.
- By Taxi or Ride-share: You can always take a taxi or use a ride-share service like Uber for a direct and comfortable trip to Petone.