Last updated July 2026
Belmont Regional Park is a 3,500-hectare reserve spanning the hill country between Porirua and the Hutt Valley in the Wellington region. It features native bush, open farmland, tussock ridgelines and historic sites including the Korokoro Dam and remnants of World War II ammunition stores. The park offers an extensive network of tracks for walking, mountain biking, trail running and horse riding, with the 456-metre Belmont Trig providing panoramic views over the Hutt Valley, Porirua Harbour and Wellington Harbour on clear days. Access is free and the park is managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council.
Practical Information
| Location | Multiple entrances including Oakleigh Street (Belmont), Hill Road (Normandale), Stratton Street (Waterloo), Kaitangata Crescent (Kelson), Cornish Street (Petone) and Dry Creek (near Haywards) |
| Hours | Always open to the public; Dry Creek gate has seasonal hours (5am-9pm summer, 6am-6pm winter) |
| Admission | Free entry and parking at most entrances; camping fees apply at Dry Creek |
| Facilities | Toilets and picnic areas at main entrances; camping at Dry Creek; Boulder Field House available for group hire or accommodation |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About Belmont Regional Park
Belmont Regional Park covers 3,500 hectares of varied terrain between Porirua and Lower Hutt. Steep gullies hold native forest while open farmland and tussock cover the exposed ridgelines. The park includes historic features such as the Korokoro Dam, Pareraho Pā site and World War II ammunition stores, along with the original coach road alignment from Wellington.
Greater Wellington Regional Council manages the park for recreation and conservation. Tracks are well maintained and signposted, with options suited to different fitness levels and experience. The park sees regular use by local walkers, runners and cyclists from the Hutt Valley and Wellington.
Weather on the ridgelines can change rapidly with strong winds and sudden rain common. Visitors should carry layers, waterproof clothing and sufficient water. Track conditions and any temporary closures are listed on the Greater Wellington website.
Walking and Hiking
The Belmont Trig Track climbs to the 456-metre summit from the Oakleigh Street entrance, offering 360-degree views on clear days. The return trip typically takes about one hour for fit walkers. The Korokoro Dam Loop is a short family-friendly track through bush to the historic 8-metre dam and waterfall.
The Puke Ariki Traverse is a full-day point-to-point walk of approximately 23 kilometres across the park’s main ridgelines. It starts near Dry Creek or Petone and finishes at the opposite end, passing through forest, farmland and open tops with extensive views. Several shorter loops and connecting tracks allow for half-day or easier outings.
Mountain Biking
Belmont Regional Park has a dedicated mountain bike area with trails ranging from beginner-friendly to intermediate grades. Riders can choose routes lasting one to four hours that combine forest singletrack with open ridgeline sections. The park is popular with local mountain bikers for its variety and proximity to the Hutt Valley.
Tracks are shared with walkers and runners in places, so riders must give way and control speed. Maps and current track status are available on the Greater Wellington website. Some trails connect with the wider Belmont mountain bike network.
What Visitors Often Say
The park offers varied scenery with good access from Lower Hutt suburbs and a mix of bush, farmland and ridge views that feels like proper countryside close to the city.
The Puke Ariki Traverse provides a challenging full-day hike with plenty of variety and rewarding panoramic views across the region.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington — Belmont Regional Park: official page with track maps, current notices, facilities and activity information.
Greater Wellington — What’s happening in Belmont Regional Park: updates on track works, events and management notices.
Department of Conservation — Belmont Regional Park: additional park notes and context.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Belmont Regional Park?
Multiple entrances serve the park from Lower Hutt suburbs including Oakleigh Street in Belmont, Hill Road in Normandale, Stratton Street near Waterloo and Cornish Street in Petone. Dry Creek provides access from the Haywards area. Check the Greater Wellington website for maps and the nearest starting point for your chosen track.
Is Belmont Regional Park free to visit?
Yes, entry and parking are free at most entrances. Camping at Dry Creek requires payment of fees on arrival via the iron ranger.
What is the Belmont Trig walk like?
The track climbs to the 456-metre trig point with sweeping views. The return trip from Oakleigh Street takes about one hour for most walkers and is moderately challenging.
Can I mountain bike at Belmont Regional Park?
Yes, the park has a range of mountain bike trails from one to four hours in length on varied terrain including forest and open ridgelines. Riders share some tracks with walkers.
Is camping available?
Camping is available at Dry Creek on a first-come, first-served basis with basic facilities including toilets and water. Fees apply and there are no powered sites or bookings.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are welcome on a lead in the Korokoro, Stratton Street and Dry Creek valleys. They are not permitted on farmland areas. Always follow signage and pick up droppings.
Is the park suitable for families?
Shorter walks such as the Korokoro Dam Loop are suitable for families. Longer ridge tracks require more fitness and preparation.
Are there any track closures?
Temporary closures can occur for maintenance, weather events or farm operations. Always check the Greater Wellington website for the latest notices before heading out.
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