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Dogs allowedModerate

Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop

Wellington · Loop

246811.0 km445 m
↑ 475 m gain↓ 475 m descenthigh 445 msteepest 27 %
DISTANCE11.1 km
ASCENT475 m
DURATION3.5–4 hr
STEEPEST27 %
ROUTELoop
RATING · WALKERS 4.5 · 192
DOG EFFORT3.9 /5 paws
PARKING50 m away

This walk comes from licensed public walk data and is being progressively confirmed against the authorities. Signs on the day always win. DOC’s own wording: “DOC names this track in its own list of Remutaka Forest Park routes where dogs must be kept on a lead at all times: "McKerrow Track, Clay Ridge Track, Butcher Track, Cattle Ridge Track, Ōrongorongo Track in their entirety." The rule protects North Island brown kiwi released into the Turere Stream catchment, so there is no stretch of these tracks where the lead comes off”. Evidence: the rule-setter’s own published wording. How we check dog rules.

Nearest emergency vetWellington After Hours Veterinary Clinic, Wellington~15 min drive · after-hours (nights+weekends)
04 473 7545
The route

Good to know

Dogs are allowed here. Keep them on the lead, watch for ground-nesting birds and stock, and read the signs at the gate.

River swim spotsForest shadeA popular track, busy on weekends
Check before you go. North Island brown kiwi have been released into the Turere Stream catchment north of the Ōrongorongo Track, about 1000 hectares, and DOC has closed that area to dogs. The closure is bounded by, but does not include, the Whakanui Track and McKerrow Track, and signs mark where it starts. Dogs are the main threat to kiwi, so stay on the formed track and keep the lead on. DOC, Dog access in Remutaka Forest Park
Check the water before the dog swims. Toxic algae blooms in NZ rivers and lakes can kill a dog within hours. Scan the LAWA water quality map in warm months and keep dogs away from dark slime on rocks.

About Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop

In Wellington, Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop runs 11.1 km as a loop.

Expect moderate going, with around 475 m of climb, pitching up to 27 % at its steepest, and takes about 3.5–4 hr to walk.

Along the way there are native forest, river frontage, big views, and wildflowers. Dogs are allowed here, on the lead. Walkers rate it 4.5 / 5 across 192 reviews.

Stay nearby

Dog-friendly places to sleep within 25 km of the trailhead, each one with the distance shown. Sort out the stay, then walk.

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Can I take my dog on Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop?

Yes, dogs are welcome on Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop. DOC's own wording for this track: "DOC names this track in its own list of Remutaka Forest Park routes where dogs must be kept on a lead at all times: "McKerrow Track, Clay Ridge Track, Butcher Track, Cattle Ridge Track, Ōrongorongo Track in their entirety." The rule protects North Island brown kiwi released into the Turere Stream catchment, so there is no stretch of these tracks where the lead comes off".

How long is Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop?

Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop is 11.1 km with roughly 475 m of climb and takes about 3.5–4 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop?

Yes, the track has river access where a dog can cool off. In warm months check the LAWA water quality map for toxic algae warnings first.

Are there dog-friendly campsites near Butcher, Cattle Ridge, and Orongorongo Track Loop?

Yes. The closest is Catchpool Valley Campsite, about 1 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

From the pack

Walked and logged 3 times by the pack, 1 proven with a photo. first proven by Laura & Noah.

Walks nearby

The closest dog-friendly tracks to this trailhead, by straight-line distance.

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ModerateWellington
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HardLower Hutt
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More in Wellington

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See every dog-friendly track in Wellington →

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