Outer Loop

Wainuiomata, Wellington, New Zealand

Precipitous firebreak that runs parallel to ECNZ pylon road, near Konini Firebreak.

Expert

Bike and Foot

At the southern end go up a short and fairly steep side road off ECNZ pylon road. Turn right between two communication towers and wander along a bit between two more buildings to where the fun begins.

Soon you'll drop down the first of three outrageously steep descents. There is a narrow singletrack on the left which bypasses the steepest section of the first descent.

From there continue down the second steep descent and along to a Y-intersection. The left-hand branch (towards the Hutt) is Te Whiti, while the right-hand (northeastern) branch is the third and final steep descent on this track.

After the third descent you'll rejoin ECNZ pylon road having dropped a total of 115m, including the short ascents inbetween. With grades of 25-40% – along with drops, ruts, and loose rock – this is a challenging descent even in the best of conditions. If the surface is wet, then forget about it.

Proceed along ECNZ pylon road and you'll find a turnoff to the southern end of Outer Loop 1.1km north of Spoonhill (or 0.3km south of Konini Firebreak).

The bottom of the precipitous drop rejoins ECNZ pylon road, 1.2km north of the top of Konini Firebreak.

Presumably this track is called a loop because a loop can be formed by using part of ECNZ pylon road.

Along the way there is a signposted track to Hayward Scenic Reserve. That track is apparently very steep, with lots of steps, so not suitable for bikes.

1.08km

Double track

29 Apr 2009 by Ian

Ian