Explore
upper hutt’s guide to the outdoors
At every turn you take, you’re met with stunning greenery and amazing scenery. Over 50% of Wellington’s green space is located right here in Upper Hutt, we have a backyard of beautiful bush walks and breathtaking bike rides for everyone to enjoy.
Breathe in the fresh air and tune into nature as you explore our pristine river valleys, native forests, and steep hillsides. Discover the elves' Lord of the Rings residence at Kaitoke Regional Park and savour sweeping views from Wairarapa to the South Island while ascending Mt Climie.
Experiences not to miss
kaitoke regional park
Ancient rainforest, camping, swimming, hiking and Rivendell… Welcome to the award-winning kaitoke Regional Park!
Find out why Kaitoke is one of Wellington’s most visited parks. The perfect spot for a day trip full of bushwalks and river swims, or an overnight camping experience.
Remutaka Rail Trail
Follow along as our pals pedal through historic railways and tunnels along one of New Zealand's 23 'Great Rides'.
The Remutaka Rail Trail is one of the most epic things to do in Upper Hutt. Starting at Kaitoke Summit Road, weave through the Remutaka Ranges. Pack a picnic and stop at the summit for a bite to eat with a side of epic views. What a great way to explore Upper Hutt.
A-Z of Upper Hutt’s Best
Birchville Dam
The Birchville Dam really is jaw dropping after a rainfall, but even on a sunny day it’s still an absolute hit!
Challenge yourself and carry on to Cannon Point to be rewarded by views of the valley. Perfect for getting in those steps and gram photos all at the same time.
Entry: Tulsa Park, Totara Park
Difficulty: Moderate
1hr return
Take the scenic route into Upper Hutt and bike or walk next to our very own Te Awa Kairangi (Hutt River).
A gentle track that stretches from Kaitoke Regional Park to Lower Hutt. Journey past swimming holes, Lord of the Rings sets and playgrounds. Jump on the track at Silverstream to see the best of the Upper Hutt trail.
Entry: Silverstream Bridge
Difficulty: Easy
1hr return
Swerve through history as you mountain bike on an old 1800’s logging trail through native and exotic forest.
Located in Akatarawa Forest, there are two mountain biking track options, one for the medium level riders and the other for the more hardcore. Both options offer a scenic ride through natural beauty and wilderness. Popular amongst the mountain biking scene, they describe this track as ‘rad’—which means cool in mountain biking lingo!
Entry: Karapoti Road Car park
Difficulty: Moderate
A bushwalk with a view, close to the city centre… you guessed it, Latimer Lookout!
Not only is Maidstone Park home to Maidstone Max, the best playground in the country, but you’ll also find a lovely trail at the back of the park that winds up to Latimer Lookout. This short, yet moderately steep, track takes 20 minutes to get to the top for the best views of the city centre and down the valley. Make your way back down the way you came, or carry-on down Kingsley Heights. It’s a great little workout.
Entry: At the back of Maidstone Park
Difficulty: Moderate
30-45 minutes return
Tucked away in the Pākuratahi Forest, Mt Climie is one of the highest peaks in the Wellington Region.
This 12km return track walks you through native forest. After hiking a mighty 860m up, you reach the most rewarding part - the summit. With 360-degree views of the Hutt Valley, Wairarapa and South Island, the spectacular vistas make it all worth it.
Entry: Tunnel Gully, Remutaka Hill
Difficulty: Moderate
5 hr return
Don’t go chaasssing waaaaaterfalls ….wait! That’s actually exactly what you should do!
We have just the trail for you if a little waterfall chasing is what you’re after. Tane’s Track starts from the lower carpark at Tunnel Gully and takes you through tall rimu, mātai, kahikatea, black beech and tawa forest. Halfway into the track is where you’ll find the waterfall, it is most impressive after a rainfall. This is a stunning, leisurely walk and one of our favourites if we’re honest.
Entry: Tunnel Gully, Remutaka Hill
Difficulty: Easy
1 hr return
