Hutt River Trail
The Hutt River Trail is a flat, easy trail along the Hutt River from Petone to Upper Hutt. Cycle, walk or run on this well-maintained Grade 2 trail.
7m climb
7m descent
11m highest point
The Ngauranga to Petone section of Te Ara Tupua (the Ancient Pathway) takes in sweeping views of Wellington's spectacular harbour. The shared path is just over 4km long and can be walked or cycled in either direction. Tracing the coastline, the smooth, flat path is ideal for commuters and families with strollers alike.
Designs woven into the pathway conceptualise a waka taua and acknowledge the leadership, mana and maritime authority of Māori chiefs Te Wharepōuri and Honiana Te Puni. Six located at key sites along the shared path’s length provide rest areas for users as well as habitat restoration. Offshore habitats have been built for sea birds, and the sea walls feature marine habitats built into their design.
Connecting cycle lanes run into the city centre at the southern end along the Hutt Road. At the northern end, users can connect to the Petone Esplanade or the Hutt River Trail.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
The Niho Taniwha artwork, created for Te Ara Tupua by Iwi Lead Designer Len Hetet (Te Āti Awa), serves as more than just an aesthetic, it is a symbol of protection. On this shared path, the Niho Taniwha acts as a visual kaitiaki (guardian) to guide your journey. When you see this tauira (pattern) on the shared pathway, be aware of your surroundings as it marks transition points at each ūranga (resting) area and the bridge, where other users are entering or exiting.
You can start the Ngauranga to Petone section of Te Ara Tupua from either end of the trail at:
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
The Hutt River Trail is a flat, easy trail along the Hutt River from Petone to Upper Hutt. Cycle, walk or run on this well-maintained Grade 2 trail.
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