Last updated July 2026
Harcourt Park is a premier destination park in Upper Hutt featuring playgrounds with a flying fox, a seasonal splash pad and paddling pool, botanical gardens and native bush areas, plus easy access to the Hutt River Trail. Located at 43 Akatārawa Road, the park sits close to Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River and offers free electric BBQs, picnic facilities, public toilets and ample parking. It is listed as accessible and caters to all ages with junior and senior play equipment, a learn-to-ride cycle track and open spaces. The park is managed by Upper Hutt City Council and serves as a popular family spot for both locals and visitors from the wider Wellington region.
Practical Information
| Location | 43 Akatārawa Road, Akatarawa, Upper Hutt |
| Access | Large car park; short walk or drive from Upper Hutt CBD; entry points from surrounding suburbs |
| Entry | Free |
| Playground features | Junior and senior playgrounds with flying fox, forts, climbing and swinging equipment |
| Water play | Paddling pool and splash pad open seasonally (around mid-November to early April), 10am–7pm (weather dependent); unsupervised, parental supervision required, no dogs |
| Gardens and bush | Botanical areas including azalea and rhododendron gardens; native bush |
| Facilities | Free electric BBQs, picnic tables and shelters, public toilets (dawn to dusk), drinking fountains, shade areas, AED |
| Accessibility | Accessible throughout |
| Other features | Learn-to-ride cycle track, disc golf, sports fields, stage area, walking trails |
| Managed by | Upper Hutt City Council |
About Harcourt Park
Harcourt Park is one of Upper Hutt’s premier destination parks, offering a wide range of family-friendly facilities in a riverside setting. The park includes dedicated junior and senior playgrounds equipped with a flying fox, forts and opportunities for climbing, swinging and active play suitable for different age groups. A learn-to-ride cycle track with road signs and intersections provides a safe environment for children to practise cycling skills.
The seasonal paddling pool and splash pad operate for approximately 16 weeks from mid-November to early April, with water features running 10am to 7pm when open. The area requires active parental supervision at all times and does not permit dogs. Botanical gardens featuring azaleas and rhododendrons, along with native bush areas, add seasonal colour and quieter spaces within the park.
Two free electric BBQs, picnic tables, shelters and open grass areas support extended visits. Public toilets are located between the playgrounds and remain open from dawn until dusk. An AED is available at the toilet building. The park also hosts a covered stage suitable for events and concerts.
Harcourt Park lies close to Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River and serves as an entry point to the Hutt River Trail, enabling easy walking, cycling, swimming, fishing or kayaking access. Sports fields for soccer and cricket, plus a disc golf course, further expand the recreational options available year-round.
Trails and River Access
Harcourt Park provides direct access to the Hutt River Trail, a flat, scenic path running along the Hutt River from Petone to Upper Hutt. The trail supports walking and cycling and offers multiple points for river activities including swimming, fishing and kayaking. Visitors should follow river safety guidelines. Short unpaved walking trails within the park connect play areas, gardens and bush sections.
What Visitors Often Say
Families describe Harcourt Park as a full-day destination with plenty to keep children of all ages entertained through the playground, splash pad and cycle track. The combination of water play, open spaces and nearby river trail makes it especially popular during summer visits.
Reviewers note the park feels spacious and well-maintained, with the botanical gardens providing attractive seasonal interest for adults while children play. Easy parking and free BBQs are frequently mentioned as practical advantages for group outings.
Where to Learn More
Upper Hutt City Council – Harcourt Park: official details on facilities, seasonal water play hours, bookings and park rules.
AllTrails – Harcourt Park Loop: user reviews and trail information for the park loop and surrounding paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a flying fox at Harcourt Park?
Yes, the senior playground includes a flying fox along with forts and climbing equipment.
When is the splash pad and paddling pool open?
The paddling pool and splash pad operate seasonally for around 16 weeks from mid-November to early April, weather dependent, with water features from 10am to 7pm. Check the Upper Hutt City Council website for current dates.
Is Harcourt Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park is listed as accessible throughout.
Are dogs allowed at the splash pad?
No, dogs and animals are not permitted in the paddling pool and splash pad area.
Is there parking at Harcourt Park?
Yes, the park has a large car park with multiple access points from Akatārawa Road and Norbet Street.
Are the BBQs free to use?
Yes, two electric BBQs are available for casual shared use and do not require booking.
Can I access the Hutt River Trail from Harcourt Park?
Yes, the park is an entry point to the Hutt River Trail for walking and cycling, with river access nearby.
Are there toilets at Harcourt Park?
Yes, public toilets are located between the junior and senior playgrounds and are open from dawn until dusk.
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