Last updated July 2026
Wainuiomata Regional Park lies in the Wainuiomata Valley southeast of Wellington, providing access to extensive native lowland forest, river swimming and a range of tracks. The park serves as the gateway to some of the largest and most pristine lowland forests in the lower North Island. Vehicle access operates on seasonal hours while foot entry remains available at all times. Facilities include picnic areas, toilets and a water history museum. Access and parking are free.
Practical Information
| Location | 10 Whitcher Grove, Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt |
| Hours | Vehicle gates open 6am–6pm (winter) and 6am–8pm (daylight saving); foot access always available |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Car parks, toilets at Ranger’s Office (Lower Dam), picnic tables, river swimming holes, water history museum (open daily 9am–5pm), viewing points |
| Managed by | Greater Wellington Regional Council |
About Wainuiomata Regional Park
Wainuiomata Regional Park protects regenerating native bush and waterways in the Wainuiomata Valley. The area has supplied drinking water to Wellington since 1884, when the Lower Dam and pipeline were constructed. The Morton Dam followed in 1911, with later infrastructure changes including decommissioning of the Morton Dam in the late 1980s and a new treatment plant in 1993 that now supplies around 15 percent of the region’s water.
The Lower Dam area features a water history museum opened in 2018, along with wetland habitat that supports birdlife. The sheltered valley setting offers a calm environment amid native forest, with opportunities for picnicking beside the Wainuiomata River.
Guided walks into the adjoining protected water collection area provide access to old-growth forest on a seasonal basis. Dark-sky events are also popular due to the park’s low light pollution.
Walking and Tracks
The recreation area offers easy walks suitable for families and a range of abilities. The Nīkau Track covers 1.5 km and takes about 30 minutes return on an easy grade. The Gums Loop is 2.7 km and takes around 40 minutes return, passing through gum trees and regenerating bush. The Sledge Track Loop is 1.5 km and takes about 40 minutes return, offering valley views. The Tana Umaga Track is 1.1 km one way (25 minutes) with some steeper sections and good views. The Lower Dam Walk is 3.2 km return and takes about one hour on an easy sealed or formed path.
The Whakanui Track provides a longer option linking toward the Ōrongorongo Valley in Remutaka Forest Park. Dogs are permitted on leads on most tracks but are excluded from certain sections, including parts of the Lower Dam Walk, due to kiwi presence.
Mountain Biking
The park includes tracks suitable for mountain biking alongside walking routes. Riders should check current conditions and any temporary restrictions on the official park page before visiting.
Swimming
Several swimming holes exist along the Wainuiomata River within the park. Visitors should check water levels and clear debris after rain. Swimming is not permitted at the Lower Dam itself, which is an ecologically sensitive area.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the peaceful native forest setting and the variety of easy walks that suit families and different fitness levels. Many note the clear river swimming spots and the interesting water supply history on display at the museum.
Reviewers frequently mention the sheltered feel of the valley and well-maintained tracks, making it a reliable spot even on windier days elsewhere in the region.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington – Wainuiomata Regional Park: Official page with current opening hours, track information, maps and activity details.
Wainuiomata Regional Park brochure (PDF): Detailed track descriptions, map and facilities information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Wainuiomata Regional Park?
At 10 Whitcher Grove, Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt, southeast of Wellington city.
Is the park free?
Yes, entry and parking are free.
What are the vehicle access hours?
Gates open 6am–6pm in winter and 6am–8pm during daylight saving; foot access is always available.
Can I swim in the park?
Yes, there are swimming holes along the Wainuiomata River. Check conditions after rain and avoid the Lower Dam area.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are welcome on leads on most tracks but must be excluded from some sections, including parts of the Lower Dam Walk, due to kiwi.
What is the easiest walk?
The Nīkau Track (1.5 km, 30 minutes return) or Gums Loop (2.7 km, 40 minutes return) are among the shortest and easiest options.
Is there mountain biking?
Yes, the park offers mountain bike tracks suitable for a range of abilities.
Is there a museum?
Yes, the water history museum at the Lower Dam is open daily 9am–5pm.
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