Belmont Regional Park - Oakleigh to Hill

The first part of the trail, once you enter the bush at the Oakleigh Street entrance, is a nice downhill then uphill through native bush that mostly follows a stream and is frequented by Tuis and other birds. You will more than likely encounter other walkers and runners on this part of the trail as it is very popular.
The Belmont Trig is the destination for most walking groups and a great photo opportunity. After this, you will probably be on your own as you follow the ridge north. This takes you through historic World War 2 ammunition bunkers that are placed all over a section of farmland. Lots of sheep around here too, as well as noisy pairs of ducks that like to remind you very loudly that you are not welcome. I encounted a few small hawks or kestrels flying around too. You may see a cow or two, but the sheep will move out of your way.

If you are arriving at the start by car, just park in the parking area outside the Maungaraki shops. Plenty of spaces there during the day. Otherwise, you can get the number 150 bus from Petone railway station to here. This trip only takes about 5 minutes and will cost you $2. Where I finished this trail..that is, when I stopped my Garmin, I was down by the Normandale overbridge so you can either walk back up the hill to your car which will take 10 - 15 minutes (or just keep running) or cross the overbridge and walk to Lower Hutt about 10 minutes away or either Melling or Petone railway stations. Ensure you check the correct timetable for both of these.

5 km

8 minutes

Unknown

No

Moderate.

Make navigation of this route super-easy by using the Capra app on your phone. View on Capra .

Keep an eye on those track markers after you leave the Belmont Trig. I started down a 4WD track and almost got to a pylon before I realised it was a dead end. So I had to turn and run back uphill to the correct turn off. Most intersections or track deviations are marked or signposted. If you come to a fence and there is no gate or steps to get you over, you are probably at the wrong place. I think I crossed over about 8 or 9 fences.

Generally good.

Lightweight fleece top, Long-sleeved thermal top, Windproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map.

Take your own water. There are streams down below but after running around farmland that is home to cattle and sheep, you can safely assume that the water is not safe for drinking. It can also get very hot and dry up there, depending on the season.

It can get windy...very windy... up on the ridgeline and on top of the Trig and Boulder Hill if you go that way. Parts of the trail to the Hill Road entrance are crossed by streams which vary from a little jump, to hopping over a couple of rocks, to maybe just getting your feet wet. And it can get a bit muddy here too.

Most of this trail is made for easy to moderate walkers so it's good to run on. The sheep will move and won't be a danger to you, but they may be a danger to themselves if you startle them so give them a bit of room and clap your hands if you need to hurry them along.
The last quarter over the farmland is full of lumpy grass downhills so watch where your feet are going. it would be easy to roll an ankle here. Once you get out onto the path beside the roads, common sense kicks in so be aware of cars and other people. We may be superhuman...just not immortal.

Benedicts Cafe
Maungaraki
If you return to this spot, make sure you grab a coffee from here. Depending on the day of the week and the time you are there, they have all you can eat pancakes and a big selection of other sweet treats, as well as normal cafe food.