Wellington Regional Trails
People walking through a large monument sitting between trees and bush on the Kaitoke regional park trail.

The magical home of Rivendell is home to camping, swimming, hiking, and iconic scenes from The Lord of the Rings.

Three friends enjoy some drinks by a fire while camping at Kaitoke Regional Park.

About the park

Kaitoke Regional Park is a short drive from Wellington city and is a popular day trip and camping destination. Nestled in the foothills of the Tararua Range, the park covers 2,860 hectares of native bush, including centuries-old rimu, beech, and rātā trees.

The trails range from short easy walks to more challenging climbs, catering to people of all ages and abilities. 

The gentle waters of the Pākuratahi River are a hotspot for visitors and are perfect for cooling off after enjoying one of the trails. If you choose to stay overnight, camping facilities are available along with BBQs and fresh drinking water. 

Kaitoke Regional Park is a haven for fans of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. Explore the magical location Rivendell film location including a replica Elvish Archway. 

Explore the trails

A large suspension bridge over a river surrounded by Native bush and trees in the Kaitoke Regional Park.

Swingbridge Track

Walking/Running2.1km

Cross an exhilarating swing bridge and take in stunning views of the Hutt River gorge.

View trail
The Pākuratahi River in Kaitoke Regional Park.

Pākuratahi River Walk

Walking/Running1.1km

Enjoy this family-friendly trail linking Kaitoke Regional Park to Pākuratahi Forks.

View trail

Getting there

  • There are multiple entry points to Kaitoke Regional Park and most have car parking available:
    • Waterworks Road is the main entrance. The turn-off is 12km north of Upper Hutt and the park entrance is 1km down Waterworks Road.
    • You can also enter from Te Marua. Turn off State Highway 2 at Twin Lakes Road, just 5km north of Upper Hutt
  • Regular bus and train services are available. Check timetables on the Metlink website. Note: you will need to drive if you plan on using the Waterworks Road entry.
A long suspension bridge above a river, surrounded by Native bush and trees in the Kaitoke Regional Park.

Know before you go

  • Toilets and water are available at Kaitoke Regional Park campground via the Waterworks Road entrance. There are also toilets at the water treatment building at Te Marua.
  • Camping is available year-round on a first come first served basis. Pay when you arrive at the machines near the information kiosks.
  • Four powered-sites are available in the campsite near the park ranger's office.
  • Fires are only permitted with consent from the park ranger, and are only allowed on the campground riverbed.
  • Free BBQs are available to use.
  • Dogs are permitted but must be under control at all time.

For more tips and advice before heading out on Wellington’s trails check out our before you go section.