Timeline
19:39
Take the Johnsonville train from Wellington Station to Khandallah.
19:54
Walk north from the station to the summit at Kaukau. The 122-metre television transmitter makes this hill unmistakable. Stand at the top and look south to see the city lights waking up, but keep your eyes on the horizon for the main show.
20:54
Watch the sun dip below the horizon toward the WSW. The golden light fades into twilight, leaving you with a clear view of the coast.
21:24
Head back down to Khandallah. Check the train route for the return trip to Wellington Station.
Local tip
The summit is an exposed lookout. Bring a layer even in summer as the wind can pick up near the transmitter.
Check before you go
- Train schedules change. Check the route for the last train back from Khandallah to avoid being stranded.
- The summit walk is short but steep. Wear sturdy shoes.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Wellington (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).