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Dogs allowedHard

Whakanui Track

Wainuiomata · Wellington · Out & Back

5101517.9 km649 m
↑ 1037 m gain↓ 1037 m descenthigh 649 msteepest 35 %
DISTANCE18.3 km
ASCENT1,037 m
DURATION7.5–8 hr
STEEPEST35 %
ROUTEOut & Back
RATING · WALKERS 4.3 · 28
DOG EFFORT5.0 /5 paws
PARKING10 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 Remutaka Forest Park dog rules: dogs must be on a lead on the "Whakanui Track from its start at Sunny Grove road end in Wainuiomata, for approximately three-quarters of its length to the Ōrongorongo River." The track forms the boundary of the kiwi area, which is closed to dogs, so keep to the formed track and keep the lead on”. 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 shade
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 Whakanui Track

Near Wainuiomata in Wellington, Whakanui Track runs 18.3 km as an out-and-back.

Graded hard, it climbs about 1,037 m overall, pitching up to 35 % at its steepest, and takes about 7.5–8 hr to walk.

Walkers come for native forest, river frontage, and big views. Dogs are allowed here, on the lead. Walkers rate it 4.3 / 5 across 28 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 Whakanui Track?

Yes, dogs are welcome on Whakanui Track. DOC's own wording for this track: "DOC names this track in its Remutaka Forest Park dog rules: dogs must be on a lead on the "Whakanui Track from its start at Sunny Grove road end in Wainuiomata, for approximately three-quarters of its length to the Ōrongorongo River." The track forms the boundary of the kiwi area, which is closed to dogs, so keep to the formed track and keep the lead on".

How long is Whakanui Track?

Whakanui Track is 18.3 km with roughly 1,037 m of climb and takes about 7.5–8 hr.

Is there water for my dog to swim on Whakanui Track?

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 Whakanui Track?

Yes. The closest is Catchpool Valley Campsite, about 9 km away, and the track page lists more under Stay nearby. Every campsite shows its dog rules.

From the pack

Walked and logged 1 time by the pack, 1 proven with a photo. first proven by Georgina & Ash.

Walks nearby

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

EasyWainuiomata
3.1 km↑46 m0.5–1 hr★4.7 rating
Swim spotShade
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Easy.
Moderate
6.9 km↑186 m1h 41m
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Moderate.
ModerateLower Hutt
13 km↑466 m4.5–5 hr★4.2 rating
ShadeGood with kids
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Moderate.
ModerateLower Hutt
4.5 km↑287 m1.5–2 hr★4.6 rating
Shade
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Moderate.

More in Wellington

EasyCarterton
4.0 km↑73 m1–1.5 hr★4.7 rating
Swim spotShadeGood with kids
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Easy.
ModerateLower Hutt
8.2 km↑342 m3–3.5 hr★4.2 rating
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Moderate.
ModerateWellington
5.3 km↑128 m1.5–2 hr★4.6 rating
Swim spotGood with kids
Dog access: Dogs allowed. Difficulty: Moderate.

See every dog-friendly track in Wellington →

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