A Gateway to the Outdoors with Space to Breathe
Upper Hutt, nestled in the lush Hutt Valley north of Wellington, is a city where nature is always close. Surrounded by hills, rivers, and regional parks, it’s a magnet for those who love walking, cycling, and connecting with the outdoors. The Hutt River Trail begins here, winding through the city and into nearby bush reserves – perfect for everything from morning jogs to full-day adventures.
While it’s an outdoor playground, Upper Hutt also offers local flair. Boutique shops, craft beer breweries, and weekend markets give the city its own laid-back identity. Places like Brewtown combine food, drinks, and family-friendly fun, making it a perfect stop after a day on the trails.
Remutaka Cycle Trail
Walks, Waterfalls and Family Adventures
One of Upper Hutt’s biggest drawcards is its access to green space. Kaitoke Regional Park offers lush native bush, scenic river spots for swimming or picnicking, and filming locations from The Lord of the Rings. It’s a favourite for weekend day trips and school holiday getaways alike. Another local gem is Tunnel Gully, with easy bush walks, tunnels to explore, and mountain biking tracks.
Families will love Harcourt Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas and wide open lawns. On a sunny day, the kids can enjoy the splash pad while adults relax under mature trees. With the Remutaka hills as a backdrop, it’s a slice of the outdoors without having to leave the city.
Top Things to Do in Upper Hutt New Zealand
Upper Hutt is full of outdoor fun, local flavour, and hidden gems – here are some top things to do:
- Walk or cycle the Hutt River Trail starting from Upper Hutt
- Explore Kaitoke Regional Park’s bush tracks and riverside picnic areas
- Visit Tunnel Gully for scenic walks and off-road cycling
- Spend the day at Harcourt Park with playgrounds and green space
- Tour Brewtown’s craft breweries, eateries, and entertainment venues
- Hike up Mt Climie for panoramic views over the valley
- Swim in the Te Mārua and Hutt rivers in summer
- Enjoy coffee and shopping in Upper Hutt’s relaxed town centre
- Ride the Remutaka Cycle Trail – great for mountain biking
- Browse local art, food, and crafts at the Upper Hutt Markets
