Wellington Walks: Hutt River Trail

 I had heard about this trail a while back from someone who i worked with and would spend time  walking a small section of the trail.
 It may not be the most stunning of walks in the area but what it lacks in views it offers many opportunity’s to take short loops with family and friends,go for a run or have a good cycle with the kids.

 Day 1: I started the walk where the river empties into Wellington Harbour by the small Hikoikoi Reserve near Petone and headed to Silverstream.
 You can walk on either side of the river bank with the path being made of concrete. Take care if you are on the side of the golf course and stay to the footpath.

 You will pass under the Hutt Valley Rail Bridge and here you will see sections of stones exposed where feeding birds gather. Also along the bank you will also see fishermen trying their luck.Near the river head there is salt water option for fishing  which requires a licence.

 At about 9k (between Taita and Pomare)  is a good section that is suitable for swimming.
 To you left if heading towards Siverstream you will see the hills of The Belmont Regional Park, a stunning Park  affording some great views with peace and quiet.

 I finished my 1st day at Silverstream and headed to the rail station for the trip back to Wellington.

 Day 2: Silverstream to Birchville. The scenery changes from the flat area on day 1 to feeling that you are being closed in by the hills on either side. I found this section more enjoyable to walk with more interest around and the changes  of the river from as it comes down from the hills to the flatter and wider area.

 The best place to finish the walk is Birchville where you can get the bus back to Upper Hutt for train services.
 If you do continue you will find the walk becoming a little more rugged in places. The track heads towards Te Marua and at some point heads into the Kaitoke Regional Park.

 Overall this is a great track for spending a pleasant few hours with the family on a Sunday afternoon after Lunch.

 With the many bridges that  cross the river you can do loops as long or short as you wish. Overall a great few hours.

General Information:  The

 The track is approx 28Km to Birchville,with Silverstream is approx 13.5km
 There are some very good maps all along the track showing where you with distances and places behind and in front of you.
 There are toilets along the walk.
 Also there is wheelchair access and the route is pram and bike friendly.
 Dogs are allowed and must be under control or on a lead.
 Please be considerate to other uses.
 Remove litter.
 Note  no trail bikes,quads and trikes allowed on any part of the track.

Thank you to @thebay on Twitter. Over 500000 people use the trail each year. Just goes to show how popular it is.
 Good maps can be picked up from Wellington I-Sites and at Upper Hutt Visitor Centre:

For Map and Information click on link below:

Hutt River Trail Wellington Council 

Getting there and back click on link below:

Metlink Wellington