Kaitoke Regional Park

Highlights: Swing bridges, swimming, views, Lord of the Rings filming location

Length: 30 min - 6 hours

Where: 45 min by car from Wellington CBD

What to take: Active wear, water, snacks, camera, togs

A truly fantastic park, full of tracks for all abilities, a river for swimming/kayaking, and the (somewhat disappointing) filming location of Rivendell!

Getting there: Kaitoke regional park is located on the way to the Rimutaka gorge crossing, 45 min from Wellington CBD. Head along SH2 towards Upper Hutt and, shortly after Te Marua turn left onto Waterworks Rd. Follow the road until you reach the main campground and you will see both the tracks signposted.

While there are a number of tracks to do, the most 'grammed photo is of the main swing bridge, which is right next to the main car park. Starting the walk from there, you can follow the swing bridge track which is a 45 min loop around a series of bridges, with beautiful native bush and access to swimming spots in the river.

If you're after something a bit more grueling, the ridge track (which turns off from the swing bridge track) offers a good climb to get the glutes going, and then levels out along the ridge to a beautiful, remote path winding through beech forest with occasional views over the Tararua Ranges. The track goes for 7.5 km, and is 5 - 6 hrs return, but you can of course turn back earlier if necessary.

More info available here.