Wellington’s Best Buggy-Friendly Walks (According to Locals)
Wellington proudly sits among the most beautiful capital cities in the world. Ask any local and you’ll hear the same phrase on repeat: “You can’t beat Wellington on a good day.”
As a Wellingtonian and a parent, I couldn’t agree more.
Whether you’re easing back into movement after having a baby, entertaining a busy toddler, or just need a reason to get out of the house and clear your head, Wellington delivers. Even better? So many of its best walks are buggy-friendly, making it easy to get outside with little ones in tow.
Here’s our updated pick of Wellington walks that work beautifully with a buggy — safe, scenic, and parent-approved.
Round the Bays Wellington
You can still sign up for the iconic Round the Bays event each February, but this route is just as good at a slower, everyday pace.
This is one of the most scenic walks in Wellington, hugging the coastline with wide, mostly flat paths and plenty of stopping points along the way. Start from whichever end suits your energy levels both directions offer cafés, toilets, playgrounds and plenty of spots to pause.
On a good day, the harbour turns an almost unreal shade of blue. Why parents love it: smooth paths, ocean views, lots of exit points if nap time suddenly hits.
Wellington Botanic Garden
An absolute classic and for good reason.
The Botanic Garden offers a mix of gentle gradients and smooth paths that are buggy- (and dog-) friendly, with plenty to keep toddlers entertained and adults relaxed. You can choose a short wander or spend an entire morning exploring.
Highlights include:
- The Rose Garden
- The Begonia House
- Duck pond
- Children’s play area
- Open lawns for wriggle breaks
- A great café for a well-earned coffee
Why parents love it: flexible routes, shade, toilets, and somewhere to sit while your child burns off energy.
Trentham Memorial Park – Upper Hutt
Located about 45 minutes from Wellington city, Trentham Memorial Park is well worth the drive.
Spanning 48 hectares, this park is a haven for families. The wide walking path runs alongside the Hutt River and connects to the Rimutaka Cycle Trail, making it ideal for longer buggy walks without feeling repetitive.
It’s flat, spacious, and calm — perfect if you want to stretch your legs without navigating crowds or traffic.
Why parents love it: space, flat terrain, and room for kids to roam safely once the buggy stops.
Rimutaka Rail Trail
The Rimutaka Rail Trail has become a go-to for walkers of all levels, including parents with buggies.
With multiple entry points and walks of varying lengths, you can tailor the experience to your energy level (and your child’s patience). If you’re new to it, the Cross Creek to car park section is a great place to start — manageable, scenic, and a good test run with a buggy.
Why parents love it: choose-your-own-adventure distances and a real sense of “getting away” without going far.
Mount Victoria lookout
For one of the best views in the region, Mount Victoria is hard to beat.
The easiest buggy-friendly route is via the road, which offers wide paths, gentle inclines, and plenty of tree cover. If you’re feeling more adventurous and your buggy can handle it, there are several trails where you’ll hear native birds and find regular rest spots.
At the top, the view across Wellington, the harbour and beyond is spectacular especially on a still day.
Why parents love it: achievable with a buggy, rewarding views, and lots of places to stop and regroup.
Wellington Buggy Walks a Real Treat
Wellington is full of hidden gems and everyday favourites that make getting outside with a buggy not just possible, but genuinely enjoyable.
So if you’re stuck inside scrolling weather apps or wondering where to go next — ask a local, pack some snacks, and get out there. On a good day? You really can’t beat Wellington.
Discover more buggy walk recommendations in other cities around the world:
- London UK
- Fort Collins USA
