Last updated July 2026
The Birchville Dam sits in the Akatarawa Forest north of Upper Hutt and offers visitors a short to intermediate forest walk to a historic concrete arch dam with a waterfall over its face. The dam was constructed in the early 1930s as a water supply for Upper Hutt and now stands disused amid regenerating native bush and older plantation trees. The route follows sections of the Cannon Point Walkway and includes a swingbridge on the descent to the dam. Greater Wellington Regional Council manages the forest and tracks.
Practical Information
| Location | Akatarawa Forest, north of Upper Hutt |
| Main access | Cannon Point Walkway from Bridge Road entrance or Tulsa Park, Upper Hutt |
| Distance | Short out-and-back to dam approximately 1.8 km; longer Cannon Point routes up to 8 km |
| Time | 30 minutes to dam; 2–3 hours for combined Cannon Point routes |
| Difficulty | Easy to intermediate |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About Birchville Dam
The Birchville Dam is an unreinforced concrete arch dam on Clarke’s Stream in the Akatarawa Forest. It was completed in early 1931 after construction began in 1930 and replaced an earlier smaller dam on the same site. The structure supplied water to Upper Hutt until the Kaitoke scheme took over, with full regional supply ending in 1958.
Today the dam remains in place with water flowing over its face as a waterfall into the valley below. The surrounding forest mixes native bush with older exotic plantings such as pine and eucalyptus that have blended into the landscape over decades. The site provides a tangible reminder of the region’s early water supply infrastructure.
Access follows the Cannon Point Walkway, which ascends from Tulsa Park through private land and forest before reaching the dam area. A swingbridge crosses a stream on the descent section. The track offers views and a mix of terrain suitable for walkers of moderate fitness.
History of the Dam and Forest
Akatarawa Forest has a long history of Māori use for hunting and travel, followed by European sawmilling from the early 1900s. The dam forms part of that story of resource use in the hills between Upper Hutt and the Kāpiti Coast. Logging and later exotic tree planting shaped the forest that visitors see today.
The dam itself is noted as one of the early arch dams built in New Zealand for municipal water supply. It operated reliably until superseded by larger regional schemes in the 1950s.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the route as rewarding and scenic, with beautiful forest, interesting historic features at the dam, and a pleasant swingbridge crossing. Many note it as one of the better short walks near Upper Hutt that combines history and nature.
Visitors often highlight the mix of forest types, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to the dam waterfall as highlights of the experience.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Regional Council — Akatarawa Forest: official park information, track details, maps and current notices.
Engineering New Zealand — Birchville Dam: heritage record with construction and technical details.
Wikipedia — Birchville Dam: summary drawing on primary historical sources for dates and context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Birchville Dam?
In the Akatarawa Forest north of Upper Hutt, reached via the Cannon Point Walkway.
When was the dam built?
Construction occurred in 1930 with completion in early 1931.
How long was the dam in use?
It supplied Upper Hutt until the mid-1950s and contributed to regional supply until 1958.
What is the walk like?
The route to the dam is easy to intermediate, with options for longer walks along the Cannon Point Walkway through mixed forest.
Is there a swingbridge?
Yes, the descent to the dam includes a swingbridge.
Who manages the area?
Greater Wellington Regional Council manages Akatarawa Forest and its tracks.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are welcome in most areas but must be on a lead on the southern section of the Cannon Point Walkway that crosses private land.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available at the Bridge Road entrance to the Cannon Point Walkway.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.