Kaitoke Regional Park sits on the Hutt River 12 kilometres north of Upper Hutt, at the foot of the Remutaka Range. The park is best known as the filming location for Rivendell in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, but it is also a genuinely beautiful park with swimming holes in the Hutt River, walking tracks through podocarp forest, and a campground. Day access is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Waterworks Road, 12 km north of Upper Hutt (via State Highway 2) |
|---|---|
| Vehicle access hours | 6am–9pm (October–March); 6am–6pm (April–September) |
| Day admission | Free |
| Camping | Available year-round; unpowered $6/adult, $3/child per night; 6 powered sites available. First come, first served. |
| Facilities | Toilets, drinking water, BBQ shelters, campground |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About the Park
Kaitoke Regional Park covers the river flats and forested hillsides around the upper Hutt River, where the river is still relatively clear and fast-moving before it widens into the valley below. The park is popular with Wellington and Hutt Valley families — particularly in summer, when the river pools offer excellent swimming in clean, cold water.
The podocarp forest here is mature and well established. Walking tracks wind through rimu, kahikatea, and tōtara, and the birdlife is good — tūī, kererū, and fantail are commonly heard and seen.
The Rivendell Filming Location
The Pākuratahi Forks area of the park — where the Pākuratahi Stream joins the Hutt River — was used as the location for Rivendell in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. A recreated Elven archway marks the site, and interpretive signs explain the filming history and help visitors visualise the scenes shot here. The walk from the main car park to the Rivendell site takes approximately 5–8 minutes on easy terrain.
“Getting to the Rivendell set is an easy 5–8 minute walk over easy terrain.” — TripAdvisor visitor
Walking Tracks
The main tracks include the Pākuratahi River Walk (3 km return, easy, through podocarp forest to Pākuratahi Forks / Rivendell site), the Swingbridge Loop (2 km, intermediate, crossing a suspension bridge over the Hutt River), and the Ridge Track (7.5 km one-way from the Twin Lakes Road entrance, moderate-challenging, through beech forest with panoramic views). A very short loop walk (450m) and the easy Terrace Walk (1.3 km) are also available from the main entrance.
Where to Learn More
FAQ
Where is the Rivendell filming location?
At the Pākuratahi Forks — a 5–8 minute walk from the main car park at the end of Waterworks Road. A recreated Elven archway and interpretive signs mark the site.
Is Kaitoke Regional Park free?
Day access is free. Camping is $6 per adult, $3 per child per night (unpowered); powered sites are also available.
Can I swim at Kaitoke?
Yes — the Hutt River has clear swimming pools within the park that are popular in summer. Check conditions before entering — rivers can change quickly after rain.
How do I get to Kaitoke Regional Park?
Take State Highway 2 past Upper Hutt, turn onto Waterworks Road, and drive about 1 km to the main entrance. The park is about 12 km north of Upper Hutt.
Is camping available?
Yes — year-round, first come, first served. Unpowered tent sites and 6 powered sites. Facilities include toilets, drinking water, and BBQ shelters.
Are there walks suitable for families?
Yes — the Pākuratahi River Walk (3 km return, easy) and the short Loop Walk (450 m) are both family-friendly. The Rivendell site is on the easy river walk.
Also in the Wellington region: Pakuratahi Forest adjoins Kaitoke and has additional walking and mountain biking tracks. See Wellington Parks and Reserves for the full range of options.