Belmont Regional Park sits in the hills west of Lower Hutt, with eleven walking tracks that range from a 15-minute stroll to a full 8-hour traverse. Tracks wind through native bush, past waterfalls and stream valleys, or climb exposed ridgelines to tussock grass plains with sweeping views over the Hutt Valley, Wellington Harbour and beyond. It’s one of the larger accessible parks in the Wellington region, suited to everything from a quick walk to a demanding day hike.
Practical Information
| Location | Western hills of Lower Hutt, Wellington |
| Total tracks | 11 walking and hiking tracks |
| Walk times | 15 minutes to 8 hours |
| Main access | Dry Creek via Hebden Crescent; Tākapu Road, Grenada North; multiple other entrances |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | On lead |
Key Tracks
Belmont Trig Track climbs to the Belmont Trig at 457m through bush, with occasional waterfalls and rural track sections. The summit is very exposed to wind. This is the park’s signature climb.
Puke Ariki Traverse is a rewarding full-day walk that crosses the length of Belmont Regional Park from the Dry Creek Haywards entrance, rising through farmland to the Airstrip, Round Knob, Cannons Head and Belmont Trig before descending into the Korokoro Valley and exiting at Cornish Street in Petone. It’s one of the better full-day walks in the Wellington region.
Boulder Hill Circuit loops through farmland over the Boulder Hill summit (442m), with good views of the Hutt Valley and surrounding hills.
Speedy’s Reserve Loop between Belmont and Kelson passes through the Pareraho Forest, with native trees and a stream through a sheltered valley.
About the Park
Belmont Regional Park covers a broad sweep of the Outer Green Belt rising above Lower Hutt’s western suburbs. The park contains a mix of native bush, open tussock grassland on the higher ridges, and farmland on the lower slopes. The ridgeline walks on clear days offer views over the Hutt Valley, Wellington Harbour, and the Kāpiti Coast to the north.
What Visitors Say
“The Puke Ariki Traverse is one of the best full-day walks in the Wellington region — varied terrain, great views and a real sense of achievement.” — AllTrails
“The Belmont Trig is a great climb with big views from the top. Just be prepared for wind at the summit.” — AllTrails
Where to Learn More
WellingtonNZ — Belmont Regional Park covers the park’s tracks, access points and visitor overview.
Greater Wellington Regional Council — Belmont Regional Park has official park information including track maps and access.
AllTrails — Belmont Regional Park has trail maps, visitor reviews and current conditions for all the park’s tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Belmont Regional Park?
In the hills west of Lower Hutt, with multiple entrances including Dry Creek via Hebden Crescent and Tākapu Road in Grenada North.
How many tracks are there?
Eleven walking and hiking tracks, ranging from 15 minutes to 8 hours.
What is the Belmont Trig?
The highest point in the park at 457m, reached via the Belmont Trig Track. The summit is very exposed to wind.
What is the Puke Ariki Traverse?
A full-day walk crossing the length of Belmont Regional Park from the Dry Creek entrance to Cornish Street in Petone — one of the more demanding and rewarding walks in the region.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on lead.
Is there parking?
Most park entrances have car parking available.
What is the best track for views?
The Belmont Trig Track and the Boulder Hill Circuit both offer good views over the Hutt Valley and Wellington Harbour.
Is the park suitable for beginners?
Yes — some tracks are short and easy. The Speedy’s Reserve Loop is a gentler option, while the Puke Ariki Traverse is best for fit, experienced walkers.
The Wellington Walking Tracks hub lists all walking routes across the Wellington region. East Harbour Regional Park Tracks in Eastbourne offer bush walks on the opposite side of the harbour. For a more challenging ridge walk closer to the city, the Skyline Walkway traverses Wellington’s western hills between Johnsonville and Karori.