Belmont Regional Park is a large reserve on the Hutt Valley side of Wellington’s hills, covering forest, open farmland, and ridgelines above Lower Hutt. It has an extensive track network for walking, mountain biking, and trail running — including the 457m Belmont Trig summit and the all-day Puke Ariki Traverse. Access is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Multiple entrances: Oakleigh Street (Belmont), Hill Road (Normandale), Stratton Street (Waterloo), Kaitangata Crescent (Kelson), Cornish Street |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open year-round, all hours |
| Admission | Free; parking free at most entrances |
| Facilities | Toilets at main car parks, picnic areas, camping at Dry Creek (fee-based; check status), Boulder Field House (group hire) |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About the Park
Belmont Regional Park covers thousands of hectares across the Hutt Valley hill country, from the lower suburbs of Lower Hutt up to the exposed ridgelines above. The terrain ranges from steep native forest in the gullies to open farmland and tussock on the tops. Tracks are well-signposted and maintained, with clear grades suited to different fitness levels.
The park is popular with Wellington and Hutt Valley residents for day walks, trail running, and mountain biking. It gets less tourist traffic than the city’s more famous walks but is consistently well-regarded by locals as one of the most varied and accessible regional parks in the Wellington region.
Key Walks and Tracks
The Belmont Trig Track climbs to the park’s highest point at 457m — about an hour return from the Oakleigh Street entrance, with 360-degree views over Wellington Harbour and the Hutt Valley on a clear day. The Korokoro Dam Walk is a short loop through native bush to an 8m waterfall — popular with families. The Puke Ariki Traverse is a full-day challenge covering 23km of varied terrain across the park’s ridgelines — one of the best long walks in the Wellington region. Mountain biking trails range from one to four hours duration.
“The Puke Ariki Traverse is a challenging day hike that has variety with spectacular views.” — TripAdvisor visitor
What to Bring
The upper ridgelines are exposed and Wellington’s weather changes quickly — bring waterproof layers and warm clothing even on fine days. Solid walking shoes or tramping boots are recommended as tracks can be rocky and muddy. Carry water and check the Greater Wellington Regional Council website for any track closures before visiting.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Belmont Regional Park — additional track notes and park information.
FAQ
How do I get to Belmont Regional Park?
The park has multiple entrances across the Lower Hutt suburbs — Oakleigh Street in Belmont, Hill Road in Normandale, Stratton Street near Waterloo, and others. Check the Greater Wellington website for the entrance closest to your starting track.
Is the park free?
Yes — entry and parking are free at most entrances. Camping at Dry Creek is fee-based.
What is the Belmont Trig walk like?
About an hour return from the Oakleigh Street entrance, climbing to 457m with 360-degree views. A moderately challenging but rewarding walk.
Can I mountain bike at Belmont Regional Park?
Yes — the park has five mountain biking trails ranging from one to four hours, on varied terrain including forest and open ridgelines.
Is camping available?
There is a camping ground at Dry Creek (fee-based) and a group hire house (Boulder Field House). Check the Greater Wellington website for current availability — facilities may be closed for maintenance or after weather events.
Is it suitable for families with children?
Yes for shorter walks — the Korokoro Dam Walk is a gentle loop to a small waterfall suitable for families. The upper tracks are more demanding.
Also in the Wellington region: East Harbour Regional Park offers coastal and bush walking from the Eastbourne side of the harbour. See Wellington Parks and Reserves for all options.
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