This is 28km of very easy, flat tracks and pathways that follow the Hutt River from Hikoikoi Reserve on the Wellington harbour foreshore, through to the Akatarawa River in Upper Hutt.
Two million years of movement in the Wellington fault line has helped form one of the region's most powerful rivers. Starting in the southern Tararua Ranges, it flows through the Hutt Valley to the Petone foreshore.
Along the way there are four golf corses, swimming holes, trout fishing spots, play grounds, shopping, a campground at either end, parks and reserves and all following the Hutt River.
The Hutt River Trail is suitable for walking, biking and push chairs.
Petone to Ava - 2.5km
Once the site of a stockaded Ngati Awa village. Stick to the track as you pass through the golf course. In Sladden Park there is a playground, fitness circuit and toilets.
Ava to Melling - 2.5km
Land skirmishes in the 1840s-50s saw Fort Richmond established in 1845 near the site of the bridge. Ewen Bridge near the centre of this section, offers a shorter loop or figure of eight alternative. Shops, cafes and restaurants are available between Ewen and Melling Bridges.
Melling to Avalon - 2.5km
On the site of the substation was once the Maraenuku Pa. A visit to Avalon Park is excellent for the kids with a large playground, Smiling Windmills public sculpture, train rides and a road rules cycleway.
Avalon to Silverstream - 8km
There is a good swimming hole just north of Fraser Park and this section is very popular for picnics.
Silverstream to Moonshine - 4km
Fly fishers get the best access from the service road on the eastern banks of the river. Bartons Bush in Trentham Memorial Park is the only remaining example of river terrace forest in the region and offers playgrounds and bush walks which link the trail.
Moonshine to Totara Park - 4km
Upstream from Moonshine Bridge, large trees shade pleasant picnic spots at Poets Park. This part of the river was a film location for The Great River Anduin in Lord of the Rings.
There is a good swimming hole downstream from the confluence of the Whakatikei River while the rapids upstream are a popular challenge for kayakers.
Totara Park to Birchville - 2.5km
The open parklands, remnant trees and rocky outcrops are a natural highlight of the Hutt River Trail. There is good swimming in this part of the river.
For maps and further information, talk to the team at an i-SITE Visitor Centre or you could also get more information from the Greater Wellington Regional Council.
If you like this walk you could try the Hutt City Tracks & Trails. Read the descriptions and view the brochure.
Mountain bike hire is available at the Hutt City i-SITE Visitor Centre.
Children, adults, begginers and overhang experts will all experience their own challenge at Hangdog Rock Climbing.
Easy kids walls, bouldering room, climbs up to 14m high and overhangs.
History, serenity and privacy. From the moment you arrive, Wallaceville House will delight. The surrounding bush providing a natural amphitheatre with the chattering of birds being the only interruption.
The 14th Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games will run in Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand from the 2nd – 9th March 2012. With over 40 sports for Police & Emergency Services personnel to choose from.
A walk in one of the regional parks and forests is a great way to explore the diverse landscapes of this region.
