How about a hill whose original name meant where the parrots rested? That’s Kaukau. We’re standing at the foot of Kaukau. It’s a large hill in Wellington’s northern suburbs. Locals also call it Mount Kaukau. The Māori name is Tarikākā.
Tarikākā means where the parrots rested. This name is shared with a nearby settlement in Ngaio. Kākā were common before the tōtara forest was cleared. Over a hundred years later, kākā are returning. Zealandia’s efforts have helped. They are becoming a more regular sight in Wellington. You might even see one on Mount Kaukau today.
Mount Kaukau’s summit is 445 meters above sea level. It is the most visible high point in Wellington. A 122-meter television transmitter stands near the summit. This mast makes it even more noticeable. It is Wellington’s main TV transmitter.
From the top, you can see the city and harbor. The Remutaka and Tararua Ranges are also visible. On a clear day, look for Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku. The Kaikōura Ranges in the South Island might be visible too. To the northwest, you can spot the Porirua Basin and the Tasman Sea.
Much of Mount Kaukau’s eastern slopes make up Khandallah Park. Khandallah Park is one of New Zealand’s oldest parks. It was established in 1888. It became a domain in 1909. The park has over 60 hectares of native forest. Keep an eye out for native birds. Kererū, tūī, and fantails are common. You can also see old tōtara stumps. These are remnants of the original forest.
In 2017, an old bunker was rediscovered. It’s off Woodmancote Road at the base of Mount Kaukau. It was built for the Royal New Zealand Signals Corps in 1942. It was never really used. Mount Kaukau is part of the Northern Skyline track. This track runs from Johnsonville to Karori and Makara.
Khandallah Park has 9 kilometers of walking tracks. These tracks provide access to the peak. You can reach Mount Kaukau from Khandallah, Johnsonville, Ngaio, and Crofton Downs. Some tracks are open to mountain biking and e-biking.
The Mount Kaukau television transmitter was built in 1965. It improved TV coverage. It was originally for channel WNTV1. Today, it’s the main transmitter for Wellington. It broadcasts television and FM radio. In May 2022, the top 18 meters of the aerial were removed. It wasn’t needed after analogue television ended.
Khandallah School organizes the Kaukau Challenge every year. It’s a fun walk and run. Participants go from the school to the summit and back. The Kaukau Challenge has been an annual event since 2006. About 500 people take part.
In 2011, two men skied and snowboarded down Mount Kaukau. This was during a rare snowfall. Snow down to sea level is uncommon in Wellington. It happens less than once every 15 years.
So, as you explore Kaukau, remember its history. It’s a place where parrots once rested. It’s a place with stunning views and a rich story. It’s a place that connects Wellington to its past and present.