Perfect picnic spots
Whether home or abroad, a picnic is a great outing for taking time to relax and enjoy nature
Wainuiomata Recreation Area
10 Whitcher Grove, Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt
A peaceful and sheltered valley east of Wainuiomata, the Wainuiomata Recreation Area is an inviting spot for family outings and picnics. Swim in the Wainuiomata River or take an easy walk over the swingbridge and along the valley floor. High up the lush native forests, the clear water of the Wainuiomata and Orongorongo Rivers are a source of drinking water. In the 1880s an earth dam and pipeline first harnessed this resource for the people of Wellington. Remnants of the old logging tramway remain, as do two old camp sites from the earlier dam construction days. There are a number of easy to moderate walking tracks through the regenerated bush that covers the valley.
Harcourt Park
Akatarawa Rd, Brown Owl, Upper Hutt
Harcourt Park is packed with activities for you and your family such as bike ride track, learn to ride cycle track, two adventure playgrounds and a paddling pool – all a perfect way to spend your summer day! The park also offers free electric barbeques, disc golf course, and garden and native bush walks.
Williams Park
Marine Drive, Days Bay, Lower Hutt
Across the road from one of the most popular swimming beaches in Wellington you'll find Williams Park. Several sports fields give you a chance to kick a ball around or run off some energy and the park backs on to beautiful native bush, great for a wander.
