Lord of the Rings
Neighbouring Harcourt Park was one of the many locations throughout New Zealand to play a major part in the filming of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of The Rings trilogy. The Park provided the scenic backdrop for the famous “Isengard” – the Ancient Gondorian fortress at the southern end of the Misty Mountains, facing Rohan. Inside its circle was the almost impregnable tower of Orthane. It’s the stronghold of evil wizard Saruman in the Two Towers.
Other locations within Upper Hutt include: “Rivendell” – the place of the elves, “The Great River Anduin” and “Helms Deep” were all filmed in Upper Hutt!
Ask us here at Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park for more Lord of the Rings information! We are always happy to help you find the activity or tour that suits you best.
Upper Hutt is set amongst bush-clad hills with easy access to recreational pursuits ranging from quiet native forest and riverside walks, fishing and hunting, tramping, mountain biking and white water rafting! Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park is centrally located so you can explore the picturesque Akatarawa Valley and surrounds with ease!
Ask us here at the park office for ideas and brochures for local activities and attractions to enjoy during your stay!
Harcourt Park
The adjacent Harcourt Park has a large well-equipped play area for children and plenty of space for walking and running. There are BBQ and picnic areas, a wading pool and a sound stage with occasional events.
Frisbee Park and Disc Golf
Disc Golf is played much like traditional 'ball golf.' Instead of a ball and clubs, players use flying discs or Frisbees.
The park is also a national tour course with 9 baskets and 18 tees. This worldwide phenomenon has become very popular here at Harcourt Park with numerous events and fun for all! The Faultline Fury Competition runs annually with a trophy up for grabs! Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park is the perfect spot to see all the action or to accommodate your team for the next tournament!
Click here for the website.
The Hutt River
The Hutt River has an excellent swimming area that is within walking distance from Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park,
it is also a popular spot for trout fishing using both flies and lures (licence required).
Local Activities
Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park is the ideal place for people who are interested in outdoor pursuits. Take one of the short or long bush walks nearby such as the Kaitoke Waterworks, Cannon Point walkway, and the Rimutaka Incline. Head out for a mountain biking adventure on the world class Karapoti circuit taking you through the picturesque Akatarawa Valley.
Golf There are four top-class golf courses all within 10 minutes drive from Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park as well as a separate driving range.
Local Attractions
Enjoy the new Upper Hutt Leisure Centre, with its wave pool, hydro slide, rapid river ride, a sauna, spa, and steam room. Check out the action and go skating at the Upper Hutt Roller Skating Club or the Maidstone Max Skate Park offering more than just skating with fun for the whole family!
Take some time to see the Puffing Billy Steam Museum or browse the Expressions Art and Entertainment Centre – a superb arts and cultural venue. Visit the nearby Staglands Wildlife Park and the fascinating Efil Doog (meaning: “Life is good!” Garden of Art , and the Bluebank Blueberry and Emu Farm – fun experiences not to be missed!
Scenic Drives and Wine Trails
A half-hour drive over the Rimutaka Hill gives access to the Wairarapa region including the Tararua Ranges and the Martinborough Vineyards. Take a day trip exploring the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.
Explore Wellington
Wellington is only 25 minutes from Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park, here are a few ideas of what to see and do while in New Zealand’s capital city…
- Ride the Wellington Cable Car
- Experience Stansborough
- Take a tour with Hammonds Scenic Tours
- Visit the Wellington Botanical Gardens
- See the wildlife at Wellington Zoo
- Visit the Museum of Wellington City and Sea
- Discover Te Papa
Getting Around
Wellington's Kiwi Holiday Park is just four minutes drive from Upper Hutt City centre and twenty-five minutes from Wellington City and the Interisland Ferry Terminal. Bus services from our gate to Upper Hutt Station provide a useful link to Lower Hutt and Wellington City.