About Upper Hutt
Upper Hutt is a vibrant destination nestled in the lush, bush-clad hills of the Akatarawa Valley, situated along the pristine Hutt River, renowned for its trout fishing and natural beauty. As the capital gateway to recreational adventures, Upper Hutt offers activities for everyone—from serene forest and riverside walks to thrilling mountain biking trails and world-class golf courses.
Explore the Top Attractions
Brewtown
A true hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, Brewtown is a vibrant entertainment and dining precinct that offers something for everyone. It’s home to multiple award-winning breweries, a distillery, and an array of fantastic restaurants serving delicious, locally-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or a lively night out with friends, Brewtown has you covered.
What makes Brewtown stand out is its family-friendly atmosphere, with events and activities designed to cater to all ages. Every Sunday, from 8 am to 2 pm, Brewtown hosts a Farmers Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, artisan goods, and unique local products while soaking up the community vibe.
Brewtown isn’t just about food and drink—it’s a full-fledged entertainment complex with activities for all ages. Families with young children will love Chipmunks Playland, a safe and fun indoor play area perfect for toddlers and kids. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, try your hand at axe throwing or unleash your creativity by forging your own knife in one of the specialized workshops available onsite.
With its dynamic mix of entertainment, delicious food, craft drinks, and vibrant community events, Brewtown is an unmissable destination in Upper Hutt.
Explore Brewtown
Kaitoke Regional Park
A must-visit for nature lovers, this park features centuries-old trees, picturesque walking trails, and refreshing swimming spots. It’s also the iconic filming location of Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings.
Discover Kaitoke Regional Park
Cars Inc, Car Museum
Car enthusiasts will be captivated by this museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of classic and vintage cars. It’s a must-visit destination for automobile history buffs and anyone passionate about New Zealand's automotive heritage. Adding to the experience is a retro diner-style café, offering a great menu of food and drinks in a nostalgic setting.
Located adjacent to the historic GM Car Plant in Trentham, Upper Hutt, the museum is steeped in history. This site was the spiritual home for many of the vehicles that graced New Zealand's roads during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, making it a fitting location to celebrate the country’s motoring legacy.
Learn more about Cars Inc
Daytona Adventure Park
An adrenaline-packed destination offering go-karting, paintball, mini-golf, and more. Perfect for thrill-seekers and families looking for exciting activities.
Visit Daytona Adventure Park
H₂O Xtream Leisure Centre
A modern aquatic facility featuring wave pools, hydro slides, a lazy river, a sauna, and spa facilities. Ideal for a fun family day out or a relaxing swim.
Discover H₂O Xtream
NZCIS (New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport)
Visit the All Blacks Training Centre, part of NZCIS, and experience cutting-edge sports innovation facilities. Perfect for sports fans and those interested in high-performance athletics.
Explore NZCIS
Hutt Valley Clay Target Shooting Club
For something unique, try your hand at clay target shooting. It’s an exciting and engaging activity for individuals or groups looking for an adventure.
Learn about Clay Target Shooting
Maidstone Max Playground
Recently revamped, this expansive park features a large children's playground, skate park, mountain bike track, and scenic bush trails. It’s the perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit Maidstone Max Playground
Akatarawa Forest
This regional park is a paradise for adventurers, offering opportunities for cycling, hunting, fishing, trail biking, and horseback riding amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Learn more about Akatarawa Forest
Harcourt Park
Known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and spacious recreational areas, Harcourt Park offers picnic spots, BBQ facilities, a children’s wading pool, and occasional events. It was also a filming location for The Lord of the Rings.
More about Harcourt Park
Staglands Wildlife Reserve
Staglands Wildlife Reserve, nestled in the scenic Akatarawa Valley near Upper Hutt, Wellington, offers young families a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a safe and interactive environment.
Children can delight in feeding and interacting with friendly animals, exploring engaging attractions like the Forest Wetlands and the Old Bush Settlement, and participating in hands-on experiences such as the Junior Ranger Experience, designed for children aged 7-13.
The reserve also features picnic spots and a cozy café, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled family day out.
Visit Staglands
The Hutt River
The pristine Hutt River is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and trout fishing. Scenic walking and biking trails along its banks provide a serene escape.
Discover the Hutt River
Expressions Whirinaki Arts and Entertainment Centre
A cultural hub showcasing art exhibitions, performances, and community events. This vibrant venue adds a touch of creativity to your Upper Hutt experience.
Explore Expressions
Bluebank Blueberry and Emu Farm
Enjoy a unique family-friendly experience at this farm, offering fresh blueberries, emus, and engaging farm tours.
Visit Bluebank Farm
A Relaxed Lifestyle with Modern Conveniences
Upper Hutt is a haven for outdoor activities, yet it also offers a relaxed shopping experience with a mix of well-known outlets and boutique stores. Complementing this is a selection of charming cafés and restaurants that cater to all tastes.
A Touch of Movie Magic
Upper Hutt takes pride in its cinematic history, playing a significant role in the Oscar-winning The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Discover iconic filming locations like Rivendell, Harcourt Park (Isengard), and Kaitoke Regional Park, and embrace the magic of Middle-earth.