A tour of Wellington suburbs when the wind blows.
As any runner in Wellington would know, every now and then we have to battle the fierce wind that blows through the capital. Be it a cold southerly or a northerly, if you are a bit crafty, you can avoid the wind somewhat and still get a scenic loop, running through a few suburbs.
This particular route starts from under the sails in Queens Wharf and takes on the neighbourhoods of Thorndon, Wadestown, Kelburn Village and Aro Valley. This is a somewhat hilly yet completely achievable run, and with the many opportunities to cut it short and opt for cake and coffee or beer, it is a good route both for a midweek jog or a weekend workout.
Did You Know?
- Wadestown takes its name from the settler John Wade, who arrived in Wellington in 1840 on a vessel called “Integrity”. The following year, he acquired land in the area now known as Wadestown together with James Watt. Today road names in the suburb — Wade Street and Watt Street — remind us of the early settlers.
- Fort Buckley is one of the most significant places of historic interest in Wadestown. On the top of a steep hill in Barnard Street, the fort overlooks Wellington harbour. It was built in 1885 in response to concerns that Russia was gearing up to expand its empire in the South Pacific.
- Another historic building in Wadestown can be found at 4 Goldies Brae. Due to its crescent-shaped layout, it is popularly known as the “Banana House”.
Route Details
- Distance: Roughly about 14km with options to shorten and come back to the City via Botanic Gardens to get approximately 10km
- Elevation: 250 metres up and the same down
- Difficulty: Easy or moderate if you are not used to some uphill running
- Estimated time: 60 minutes at faster pace, 80 to 90+ minutes at easy pace
Directions
Starting from under the Queens Wharf sails, head along the waterfront towards the Wellington Railway Station. After passing the historic Shed 21 (red brick building), cross the road next to the railway station and go under the pedestrian passageway to get to Mulgrave Street.
You will pass the Beehive, the Parliament buildings, the NZ Archives and head up to Thorndon via Hill Street. Cross the overbridge and turn right into Tinakori Road then left to Park Street and right again to Grant Road. Follow the signs to Wadestown.
You will run along Grant Road which turns into Barnard Street, Lennel Road and, eventually, Wadestown Road. While you are climbing up have a look out towards the city for some views across the harbour and the stadium.
From Wadestown Road you continue past the shops and through the suburb. The route takes you along quiet residential streets with shelter from the wind thanks to the surrounding hills and houses. Continue through to Wilton and then down into Kelburn Village.
From Kelburn Village you have the option to cut the run short by dropping down through the Botanic Gardens back to the city (approximately 10km total). Otherwise, continue along to the top of the Cable Car and down through the university campus, across The Terrace and into Aro Valley.
Run through Aro Street and back to the city via Willis Street and the waterfront to complete the loop at Queens Wharf.
Facilities
This is one of the great benefits of a suburban loop — you’re never far from a cafe or a water fountain.
- Kelburn Village — cafes and a local pub midway through the route
- Aro Cafe and Garage Project — near the end of the loop in Aro Valley
- Botanic Gardens — toilets, water, and the beautiful Lady Norwood Rose Garden if you take the shortcut
Transport: Start and finish at Queens Wharf in central Wellington. Easily accessible by bus, train, or on foot from anywhere in the city.