Hutt River Trail
Cycle Trails
Running alongside the Hutt River from Hikoikoi Reserve, Petone to Birchville, Upper Hutt, the 29km Hutt River Trail is an easy scenic walk and cycle path.
It also allows access to the river for swimming, fishing and kayaking. Predominantly flat, the Hutt River Trail offers very easy tracks and pathways suitable for biking, walking, and pushchairs.
The Trail runs the entire length of the eastern riverbank. There are trails on all but three sections of the western side to provide shorter loops between bridges.
Along the way you will find four golf courses, swimming holes, trout fishing spots, playgrounds, shopping, a campground at either end, and various parks and reserves on the banks of the river.
A Day on the
Hutt River Trail
8:00am – Start slow at Seashore Cabaret. Settle in with breakfast surrounded by eclectic vintage decor.
9:30am – Head into the city centre and pick up an e-bike to keep things easy and cruisy for the day.
10:00am – Ride along the Hutt River Trail. An easy, scenic stretch perfect for all levels.
11:00am – Let loose at Avalon Park. Flying fox races, playground challenges, and plenty of space to run wild.
12:30pm – Refuel with a relaxed lunch at Janus Bakkerij – fresh, hearty, and always a good call.
2:00pm – Pop into the at The Dowse Art Museum and check on their current art exhibitions.
4:15pm – Take a wander through Hikoikoi Reserve. Stretch the legs or try a round of disc golf.
6:00pm – Wrap up the day along Jackson Street. Park once, wander, and take your pick from local spots for dinner.
local tip:
Don’t feel like you need to do all 29km. Pick a section, park once and loop back using the bridges.
For an easy option, start around Avalon or Petone for a flat, scenic route with plenty of spots to stop for a swim or coffee along the way.
How to get there
Hutt River Trail runs from Hikoikoi Reserve through to Birchville, with multiple access points along the way.
Click on the map to open Google Maps navigation.
Popular starting spots
Hikoikoi Reserve (Petone)
Harcourt Park (Upper Hutt)
Various bridge crossings along the river.
BEST ROUTE
There’s parking available at most entry points, and the trail is well connected to local streets, making it easy to jump on and off wherever suits.
Public transport can get you close to several access points — from there it’s a short walk or ride to the river.