wairarapa trails
The Putangirua Pinnacles is one of the most incredible walks in the Wairarapa, near Cape Palliser on the stunning south coast.
About
The Pūtangirua Pinnacles near Cape Palliser are some of the most amazing rock formations you will ever see. This spot has star quality too - Peter Jackson filmed here for The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.
Walk up the Pinnacles Ridge Track to a lookout with dramatic views over the pinnacle formations. The track starts at the car park off Cape Palliser Road, then follows Pūtangirua Stream. Follow the signposts as the track leads up the hill to a ridge above the pinnacles. Allow 90 minutes to do the return trip.
There is no track to the base of the pinnacles or up the stream beyond the ridge track turnoff.
Doing the walk early morning is best for the effect of the early sunshine coming through the rock formations, conveniently avoiding the heat of the day.
Location
The track starts in Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve, 13 km along Cape Palliser Road from the Lake Ferry turn-off, approximately one hour’s drive from Martinborough.
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