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One of the Locals: An Insider's Guide to the Hutt Valley

A woman making coffee at a coffee machine.
Story Hutt Valley
The Hutt Valley: severely underestimated, often misunderstood, and full of surprises for every type of visitor.

One of a Kind Experiences in the Hutt Valley

Inside a tattoo studio.
Story Hutt Valley

From historic streets and artisan craft to quirky collections, the Hutt Valley is packed with experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else - here, every stop tells its own story.

Hutt Valley Businesses Leading the Sustainable Way

Assorted products on display at The Dowse gift shop.
Story Hutt Valley

From the pristine coastlines of Lower Hutt to the rugged nature walks in Upper Hutt, the Hutt Valley is full of scenic wonders - and plenty of homegrown, sustainable businesses.

Lower Hutt

A cafe counter at Twenty Eight in Lower Hutt.
Story Hutt Valley
For a smallish city - often seen by many as an extension of Wellington - Lower Hutt certainly packs a lot of punch.Only a short drive from the Wellington CBD and hosting an incredible range of things to see and do, it’s no wonder Lower Hutt is a popular day trip or weekend option for families around the region. Each suburb in the city brings a unique flavour to the overall Lower Hutt experience, from the arts and culture of central Lower Hutt; to the brunch, beach, and shopping hotspot of Petone; and the industrial yet welcoming embrace of Seaview. Like the Hutt River that weaves its way through the heart of the city, a sense of creativity and community is the common thread, linking the disparate locations together. With some of the region’s trendiest cafes and plenty of cultural highlights to explore, it’s never a dull day in Lower Hutt.

10 Trails in the Hutt Valley and Where to Treat Yourself After

People biking on a trail in native bush.
Story Hutt Valley

Nestled within the lush, rolling landscapes that make up the lower North Island, Hutt Valley offers an expansive network of interesting walks appealing to both seasoned hikers and casual strollers alike. Whether you’re after a leisurely meander or a more challenging multi-hour ‘slog’, Hutt Valley trails offer a variety of native bush landscapes and panoramic vistas, meaning there really is something for everyone. Fortunately, the adventure doesn’t have to end with the last step of the walk; Hutt Valley also offers a yummy selection of culinary spots to reward the tired explorer. Our guide below unveils ten of the best walks in Hutt Valley and our suggestion of the perfect places to treat yourself afterwards.

Your Insider's Guide to Eastbourne and Days Bay

The exterior of Goldie homewares store in Eastbourne.
Story Hutt Valley

Just across the harbour from Wellington are the charming seaside villages of Eastbourne and Days Bay. Their tranquillity and natural assets certainly make both coastal spots popular destinations for sunny-day excursions, and the community feel of the local businesses not only binds the residents but also keeps visitors coming back for more. 

How to Spend a Day in Petone, Lower Hutt

A row of old buildings with colourful facades along a street.
Story Hutt Valley
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Wellington Harbour, Pito-one, or Petone, is a suburb of Lower Hutt offering a well-blended happy mix of old-world charm and modern-day sophistication. Its seaside location adds to its natural allure and its historic main street exudes a charm that is often hard to come by in small towns — or, in this case, suburbs.

48 Hours Hutt Valley

People dining at tables inside an Italian restaurant.
Story Hutt Valley
Just across the harbour from Wellington city lies the Hutt Valley, an underrated and outdoorsy destination offering popular eateries and a happening cultural scene. Spending 48 hours in the Hutt Valley has never been so easy (in fact, you’ll likely be pressed for time!) as the sister cities of Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt continue to grow and offer an abundance of things to do. There are picturesque parks and walking trails, bountiful shopping, arts scenes and an array of culinary delights; this guide is designed to help you make the most of two days spent immersed in this vibrant community. 

Beers, Bites, and Bowling: A Guide to Upper Hutt’s Brewtown

People walking under a large 'Brewtown' stign.
Story Hutt Valley

Just a stone’s throw from Upper Hutt train station lies Brewtown, a 6,000-square-metre entertainment and dining hub that effortlessly attracts families, parties, and thrill seekers from around Wellington and beyond.

Upper Hutt

The exterior of Dough Bakery in Upper Hutt.
Story Hutt Valley
Upper Hutt can perhaps be best described as a harmonious juxtaposition. While much of it can have a gritty, industrial feel, largely due to its history, it’s also a real breath of fresh air and home to some of the best natural places to explore in the country. The city has embraced both of these qualities over the years to turn itself into an immensely popular place to visit.From the sprawling Kaitoke Regional Park, with its swimming holes, walking tracks, and its own little slice of Middle Earth, to the ever-popular Staglands Wildlife Reserve, there are plenty of spots to explore for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Venture towards the heart of the city centre and you’ll encounter Brewtown, a beer craft connoisseur and foodie’s paradise that also doubles as an entertainment hub.Sprinkled elsewhere throughout the city you’ll find art galleries, cosy cafes, and all manner of eateries from chicken shops to sandwich bars to keep you nourished.