Mount Victoria Summit Walk

4.7km, 2.5 hours, easy to moderate fitness required Starting off from Charles Plimmer Park - you’ll find this green space at the top of Marjoribanks St not far from the famous Embassy Cinema. You can take a Number 20 bus to get there, although it’s pleasant urban walking from anywhere in town if you’re in the mood. Where the pavement ends and the park begins, look for the sign pointing to the Mt Victoria Lookout and the purple trail markers. With choices between a scenic route and a more direct way up to the summit the signage is very helpful so you can decide as you go which path to pick. Whichever way you do go, you’ll get to the top, and be faced with occasional steep patches and easier on the legs places to sit down dotted along the way. And when you reach the Maitairangi, aka Mt Victoria, summit car park, heading to the top is a simple stroll and the views of the city, harbour and surrounding suburbs are outstanding. With helpful signs pointing to all sorts of fascinating items of interest, this really is a marvel on a clear day although do dress for wind as Wellington is famous for its often blustery conditions and you wont be able to enjoy the sights if your teeth are chattering and you’re turning blue. If there’s time, take a detour along the Maitairangi Nature Trail, featuring habitat stations of various flora and fauna, especially popular with younger walkers.