Spoonhill

Wainuiomata trail project, Wellington, New Zealand

Spoonhill is a downhill-only track that follows a ridge from high on Wainuiomata Hill down to the valley floor.

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Bike and Foot

The track starts at the top of Labyrinth and ends at the back of the playground on Parkway. The ECNZ pylon road also passes the top of Spoonhill – look out for power pylon 28 which is 30m downhill from the road.

Much of the track consists of a clay surface that is especially tricky when wet. Not much of the track has a solid base, so deep ruts are common.

About 150m down from power pylon 28, the track branches in two directions. Take 491 to the left for the moderate, all-weather track or continue on Spoonhill to the right for the difficult, dry weather track. The two tracks rejoin about 0.3km further down Spoonhill.

At the bottom there is a choice between a very steep clay chute that drops straight down the hill versus an alternative line that weaves off to the left. The alternative line used to be easier, but has become deeply rutted, so the clay chute might be a better option (though not if it is wet!).

Either climb the ECNZ pylon road - Spoonhill starts about 0.8km from the steel entry gate - or turn right down Spoonhill from the top of Labyrinth.

After exiting the track, return to Waiu Street by turning right on Parkway. Alternatively, turn left on Parkway and follow the road around to the bottom of the Konini Firebreak.

Walkers have the right-of-way on this track.

Helmet camera video of a run down Spoonhill

Another helmet camera video of a run down Spoonhill/491

1.73km

Single track

15 Jan 2010 by Ian

Ian