Review: Paekākāriki to Pukerua Bay Escarpment Track

If you like your walks with a side of adrenaline, ocean views, and a few “what was I thinking?” moments — the Escarpment Track between Paekākāriki and Pukerua Bay is for you.

This 10km section of the Te Araroa Trail is one of the most spectacular (and slightly nerve-testing) walks on the Kāpiti Coast. Starting from the seaside village of Paekākāriki, the track climbs quickly — and just when you think you’ve reached the top, it keeps climbing. There are over 1,200 steps, two swing bridges, and countless moments where you’ll be torn between admiring the view and watching your footing.

But what views they are. The Kāpiti coastline stretches endlessly, Kāpiti Island sits majestically offshore, and the trains below look like toys winding along the tracks. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the South Island — if you’re not too busy catching your breath.

The track is well maintained, though steep and narrow in places, so not one for those afraid of heights. Good shoes, water, and a reasonable level of fitness are essential. If you’re doing it one-way, catching the train (or bus ) back makes it easy — though you might want to reward yourself first with an ice cream or a pint in Paekākāriki. 

In short:
Distance: ~10km (allow 2.5–3.5 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (especially on windy days)
Highlights: Coastal views, native bush, swing bridges, and that unbeatable sense of achievement at the end.
Lowlight: Realising you’re only halfway up when your legs are already burning.

This track is a local gem — wild, beautiful, and a little bit mad — just the way a good New Zealand walk should be and great training for my great walks adventure. Here is my youtube review https://youtu.be/G85qD9K4ZJs