The Best Things to See and Do in Miramar, Wellington

History buffs will enjoy taking a trip to Fife Lane to see the first state house, just to the east of Crawford Green. The house was completed in 1937 and officially opened by Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage. Marking the first of the Labour government’s state housing programme, Savage famously lifted a heavy table towards the house’s threshold, symbolising a unified government that was “for the people”. In the 1980s, it was registered with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust as a Category I heritage site, cementing its significance in the country’s history.

The great outdoors is what New Zealand has in abundance, and Centennial Reserve is a favourite destination for Wellingtonians who want to take a walk, cycle and relax with nature. Offering fabulous views and secluded tracks, walkers love this part of Miramar for its gentle gradients combined with more challenging verdant slopes. It’s ideal for mountain biking, with the Miramar Track Project being founded in 2009 by local riders in partnership with the Wellington City Council Parks and Gardens team. The reserve is also ideal for dog walkers – although the four-legged friends must be kept on a leash.

In the northeast section of the peninsula on Massey Road is Fort Ballance, a coastal fortification of historical and architectural importance. A prime example of a Kiwi coastal defence, it was constructed in 1885 and remained Wellington’s principal defence up to 1911. After its crucial use during World War I, it was brought into action again during World War II. Its significance is not lost on residents – and indeed the whole of New Zealand – capturing people’s admiration and remaining a focus of the community’s identity and history.

Walkers flock to Maupuia for its 360-degree views and wonderful scenery, and to burn off a bit of energy via the bike tracks (there’s even a children’s bike circuit) and a popular accessible walkway around the park. Follow the trail between Shelly Bay Road and Kaikoura Street. At about 1.5km (1mi) in length, it isn’t too demanding, and dogs are free to roam the paths and through the lush vegetation. It’s a real treat, even for an hour, and the sunsets are dreamy.