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Hutt City (more commonly known as Lower Hutt) is situated at the southern end of the North Island, settlers first arriving to Wellington between 1839 and 1888. Hutt City borders on the city of �Windy� Wellington, and is often mistaken as a region of Wellington � instead of as a city in it�s own right. The geography of the Hutt incorporates a variety of steep hills, the flat of the valley floor, and the meandering Hutt River, that leads to the harbour of Petone on the coast. This River (which follows closely along Wellington Fault) is popular for fishing, boating, many Watersports and swimming.
The bulk of the city is based on the floodplains, whilst the fault depression along the river has created a distinctive escarpment along the Western Hills of the valley. This distinctive landscape is covered by rich native vegetation and is criss-crossed by small streams feeding into the river. The Eastern Hills are covered more in scrub, while the valleys of Stokes Valley and Wainuiomata cling to the steeply surrounding hills.
The sheltered Harbour of Petone is popular for swimming, while the more rugged coastlines harbouring many seaside towns can be found at the head of the Harbour and the south coast. The large Rimutaka Forest Park covers much of the steep mountain ranges and river valleys, which is popular for trampers, campers and hunters.
With the varying landscape, outdoor trails are plentiful and very popular � whether it is through native bush, or biking down the Pencarrow Coast Road to Pencarrow Head, which holds New Zealand�s first lighthouse. Hikers head to the more rugged Rimutaka Forest Park, or you can visit the Turakirae Seal Colony. For the fit, there are trails along the Western Hills, or the Eastern Hills, which offer breathtaking views at the top. Sail the harbour, wine and dine, or hit shops � Hutt City has something for everyone.
Quick Facts:
Area - 38,000 hectares
Coastline - 40 kms
Population 96,000 - 9th largest City in New Zealand