Paekākāriki Escarpment Track – a hiker’s point of view
The hiker’s point of view of a 9.5km hike along the Escarpment Track from Pukerua Bay to Paekākāriki taking in wonderful coastal views and a golden sunset.
The Escarpment Track is a spectacular 10km trail that runs between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki on the Kāpiti Coast.
Often called the “Stairway to Heaven,” it winds along a steep hillside high above State Highway 59 and the railway line, offering dramatic coastal views throughout.
The sometimes narrow path hugs the edge of the escarpment, with several long stair climbs, and two exciting swing bridges.
The walk is certainly not considered dangerous or scary but there are only a few edge barriers so it is best for those who are reasonably comfortable with heights.
One of the most talked-about features is the number of steps—reports vary widely, with some sources citing 400 and others over 1,200.
You could count the number yourself but why not just enjoy the view—however many there are doesn’t really matter, it’s being there that does.
The track weaves through open ridgelines and regenerating native bush, where on clear days you can see to Kapiti Island and across Cook Strait to the South Island.
Most people walk northbound from Pukerua Bay to Paekākāriki, which offers generally better views and a downhill finish.
It’s part of the Te Araroa Trail and takes 3–4 hours to complete.
The video shows the walk from a hiker’s POV starting from Pukerua Bay after work and arriving at the highest point just on sunset. But probably best done the first time in daylight.
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