Getting there and staying safe

Private vehicle

Waterworks road entrance

Turn left off SH2 at Waterworks Road, 12km north of Upper Hutt. The park entrance is 1km from the highway, down Waterworks Road.

Te Marua entrance

Turn left off SH2 at Twin Lakes Road, Te Marua, 5km north of Upper Hutt.

Opening hours

The park is open daily from 6am till 6pm (1 April - 30 Sept) or 9pm (1 Oct - 31 March).

Campers' vehicles may not be moved around the park between sunset and sunrise.

Staying safe

The Hutt River has several deep swimming pools. Take care as the water is cold and can be swift. The Pakuratahi River and Farm Creek offer shallower paddling and swimming spots suitable for young children.

For longer walks, wear strong lace-up shoes or boots and take warm waterproof clothing and enough food or drink for your trip.

If rafting in the Hutt River Gorge, start before 10am as the trip takes between 2 and 6 hours. Take extreme care and beware of logjams. Take survival gear, wear a wetsuit, lifejacket and helmet and let someone responsible know your intentions.

During the summer months toxic algae can be an issue. Keep an eye on our Is it Safe to Swim? information for updates.