Going Places
Looking for somewhere to go on an outing? We used to run a feature in our print edition called Going Places, which lists a variety of parks, walks, tracks, swimming pools and destinations that are great for family outings. Now its available here on our website. However, it may pay to double check the availability of the destination before making the trip, because we no longer check the listings regularly.
BIKING, HORSE RIDING
Ara Harakeke
Ara Harakeke (The Flax Pathway) is an award winning cycleway and walkway linking Plimmerton and Pukerua Bay. Leave State Highway 1 north of the Plimmerton Weighstation and cycle along gently undulating and landscaped pathway, constructed from new materials and reusing parts of the old State Highway. Cyclists travel along the Taupo Swamp reserve land to finish the cycleway at the south end of Pukerua Bay.
Country Club Riding Academy
Guided rides to magnificent views over Cook Strait. Horses and friendly guides for all levels of experience. Café on site. Open weekends, public holidays and Wednesdays of school holidays. Crossroads, Ohariu Valley, Johnsonville. Ph 478 8472. www.horsetrekking.co.nz
Makara Peak
Various levels of difficulty from easy to tricky, time 1-3 hours. A new mountain bike park, with more tracks under construction. Start at the carpark on South Karori Road – all the tracks in Makara Peak are sign posted at beginning and end so it’s easy to find your way around. Also, you can get a free map at the carpark, which has the latest tracks marked on it, or check out www.makarapeak.org
Mud Cycles
Hire full suspension bikes for riding on purpose-built trails at Makara Peak Mountain Bike Park. Also tours and instruction 338 Karori Rd, Karori. For hours ph 476 4961. www.mudcycles.co.nz
Pencarrow Lighthouse
Muritai Road, Eastbourne
Walking or biking only. NZ’s oldest lighthouse and coastal scenery. A booklet published by the East Harbour Environmental Association is available at the Eastbourne Service Centre.
Wellington Bays
Start at Frank Kitts Park on Jervois Quay in the central city, and sticking to the harbour’s edge, ride along past Te Papa, Chaffers Marina and around Oriental Bay to Point Jerningham. Here the dedicated cycle lane ends, but adventurous and roadwise cyclists can continue to the south bays.
ENTERTAINMENT/RECREATIONAL CENTRES
Bowland
One stop bowling shop catering for special needs, with café and bar. Open 9am-midnight daily. Petone 12 Western Hutt Rd, ph 568 3168; Porirua 35 Kenepuru Dr, ph 237 4428.
Chipmunks Children’s Adventure Playland
24 Main Road, Tawa – (Dressmart Complex)
Phone 232 6363
Open 9.30–6.00pm seven days a week
Entry prices: under ones and adults free; under 3yrs $4.95; 3-4yrs $6.95, 5+ yrs $7.95. Chipmunks also offers a very reasonably priced child-minding service for ages 5 to 11.
Daytona Indoor Raceway
Largest indoor karting track in NZ. Karts for 8-12 yr olds & 13+ yrs. Open 7 days, 12am-10pm weekdays, 10am-10pm Sat, 10am-9pm Sun. 43B Seaview Rd, Seaview, ph 586 8632.
Fergs Rock ‘n’ Kayak
New Zealand’s largest indoor rock climbing and abseiling wall. Lots of challenges for all abilities, suitable for 6 years on. Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, weekends 9am-8pm. Shed 6, Queens Wharf, Wgtn. Ph 499 8898.
Hang Dog Indoor Rock Climbing Centre
Adventure climing for the whole family. Harness & equipment with entry cost, bouldering room for harness-less climbing. Mon-Fri 1-9pm, Sat, Sun 10am-7pm. 453 Hutt Rd, Lower Hutt. Ph 589 9181.
Indoor Grand Prix
Karting fun for children over 1.2m tall, or over 7yrs. Also lounge area with air hockey and vending machines, and 18 hole mini golf. Open daily 10am-9pm. Cnr Hutt Rd & Westminster St, Kaiwharawhara. Ph 499 0676. www.karting.co.nz
Kapiti Miniature Railway
Close to beach, pool and playground and only $1 a 200m ride. Also indoor model railway. Sun & pub hols 1-4pm. Garden Rd, Raumati Beach.
Kilbirnie Recreation Centre
Phone 387 149
101 Kilbirnie Crescent, Kilbirnie
Admission rates are between 50c and $2, with a little extra for hiring gear (maximum total cost $5).
LaserForce
For families with children over 8yrs, with exciting smoke, music and lighting effects. Mon-Fri 10am-10pm (Wed 9pm), Sat 10am-midnight, Sun 10am-6pm. 15 Courtenay Pl, Wgtn. Ph 384 4622. www.laserforce.co.nz
Lollipops Playland
Variety of equipment for children 6 months to 12 years to play with supervision. Also casual minding service for 5-11 year olds. Open 9.30am daily, phone for closing times of individual centres. 133 Tory St, Wgtn, ph 384 4466. Hutt Rd, Lower Hutt, ph 566 6677. www.lollipopsplayland.co.nz
Penthouse Cinema
Movies in a friendly relaxed atmosphere specially for parents and caregivers with babies and toddlers. 10am Thurs. 205 Ohiro Rd, Brooklyn. Ph 384 3157. www.penthousecinema.co.nz
Tinytown
Indoor adventure play for pre-schoolers, also birthday parties. For hours ph 387 1491. Kilbirnie Recreation Centre, 101 Kilbirnie Cres, Kilbirnie. www.feelinggreat.co.nz
Upper Hutt Roller Skating Club
Public Roller Disco sessions on Saturdays and school holidays, also speed skating daily, artistic skating classes and precision skating as well as the Rimutaka Inline Hockey Club. 34B Goodshed Rd, Upper Hutt. For hours ph 938 8718 or the rink on 939 0507 evenings.
SKATE PARKS
Avalon Skatepark
Consists of three rails, three basic banks, a funbox and a quarterbowl. Fairlie Dr, Lower Hutt.
Hugh Sinclair Park
The Strand, Wainuiomata
Ian Galloway Park
Curtis St, Tawa
Newlands Park Reserve
Consists of a concrete pad and obstacles.
Porirua Skateboard Park
A gigantic 900 square metre area consisting of one smooth bowl, banks, rails, grinders and fun boxes for extra air time. Floodlit at night. Te Rauparaha Park, Cnr Norrie and Durie Sts, Porirua City
Sievers Grove Playgrounds
A small skateboard bowl behind the basketball court. Seivers Grove, Cannons Creek, Porirua.
Speargrass Park
Timberlea, Upper Hutt
Waitangirua Mall
A half pipe located beside the basketball and volleyball courts. Natone Cres, Waitangarua
Whitby Skatepark (Adventure Park)
This large park area features curved and straight ramps and various levels of flats, with steps and rails between levels. Night lighting shuts off at a specific time (usually 10pm).
Discovery Dr, Whit
Bank of New Zealand Museum and The Old Bank Clock
Bank of New Zealand’s Museum showcases nearly 150 years of banking history in New Zealand. It is a living archive of the Bank and those that Exhibits track the development of banking technology as well as provide a fascinating insight into the social and architectural heritage of our country interact with it – customers, staff and the community. . The displays include Gold and Early Banking (early gold rush days, notes and coins), Technology (development from the manual adding machine to computers), the working environment, recruitment, banking services and women in banking, Decimal Currency, old bank buildings, sponsorship and advertising through the years. Hands on activities for the youngsters. Free entry. 9.30am-4.30pm Mon-Thurs, 9.30-2.30 Fri. Grand Arcade, Willis St. Ph 474 6933.
Then nip across the road to the Old Bank Clock, a huge, animated musical clock featuring 3D animated scenes depicting the history of the site. It plays on the hour, and is best viewed from the bridge on the upper gallery. Ph 922 0600.
Cable Car
Visit Botanical Gardens, Carter Observatory, or Cable Car Museum from the Cable Car. 7 minute rides through tunnels, under the motorway. 7am-7pm Mon-Fri, 9am-10pm weekends. 280 Lambton Quay & Upland Rd, Kelburn. Ph 472 2199. www.wellingtonnz.com/cablecar
Capital E
Theatre, arts and events centre especially for children. Exhibitions ongoing, children’s theatre during school holidays. Civic Square, Wgtn, ph 913 3725.
Dominion Post Ferry
Return trips to Days Bay or Matiu-Somes Island. Phone to check sailings and weather on the day. Ph 494 3339. www.eastbywest.co.nz
Go Vetical Bungy Trampoline
A gravity-defying ride which has all the adrenaline of bungy jumping. Look down on the crowd from more than two storeys up. Frank Kitts Park (or lawn outside Capital E, depending on events running in FKP) Weekends and throughout school holidays – weather dependent. Ph: 0800 144 244
The New Zealand Film Archive
The perfect rainy day venue. 30,000 titles available free in the library, a gallery, a cinema, and fantastic coffee. Room for strollers, and knowledgeable staff to help you navigate the collections. Cnr Taranaki and Ghuznee Sts, Mon – Fri from 9am, Sat from noon. Ph 384 7647. www.filmarchive.org.nz
The Enormous Crocodile Company
Travel around Wellington’s waterfront on a 2 or 4 seater covered four-wheel bicycle. Fun for the whole family and friends! Next to The Overseas Passenger Terminal, (Clyde Quay Wharf), Wgtn.
Tours of Parliament
All tours approx 1 hour. Free admission. Weekdays 10am-4pm, weekends Sat 10am-3pm, Sun 12-3pm. Ph 471 9503. www.ps.parliament.nz/tour.htm
Wellesley Weekend Harbour Cruises
One hour cruises around Wellington Harbour, with commentary on the history of Wellington and the harbour. Snacks and refreshments for sale on board. Free for children under 12 (accompanied by an adult), $5 everyone else. Departs 1pm, 2pm, 3pm Sat and Sun. No bookings necessary, subject to weather conditions. Ph 474 1308.
Wellington Cable Car
Cable Car Lane, 280 Lambton Quay, or Botanic Gardens. Cost: adults $1.80 one way, children/student $1, seniors 1.30, double for return, trip family pass up to 4 chn $10 return. Ph 472 2199.
Westpac Stadium Tours
Tours of the stadium include bird’s eye view of the playing field, the media and broadcasting areas and a view from the players’ tunnel. By arrangement only. Group tours weekdays 9am-3.30pm. For availability ph 473 3881. Waterloo Quay, Wgtn.
Wellington‘s City Circular
Ride the circular bus route around the inner city hot spots – Te Papa, Capital E, Cable Car. Leaves from the Railway Station every 15 minutes.
Wellington City Library
65 Victoria Street
Ph 801 4040
Hours: Mon-Thurs 9.30am-8.30pm, Fri 9.30am-9pm, Sat 9.30am-5pm, Sun 1pm-4pm
Storytimes: Tues 10.30am, Fri 10.30am, Sat 11am
Check www.wcl.govt.nz for activities.
Wet & Wild
A leisurely pedal around the inner Harbour, on 3 and 5-seater pedal boats for hire from Frank Kitts Park lagoon. Life jackets provided. Operates daily from end Nov to mid Feb (weather permitting). Also inline skate hire with safety gear and tip session for beginners. Discounts for groups of 5+. Ph 0274 505 515, email wet&zn.oc1337697383.artx1337697383@dliw1337697383
MUSEUMS
Aviation Museum
Located beside the control tower in the old terminal building, used when Paraparaumu was a major airport. Models of older aircraft with historical information, library and a video library. 2-4pm weekend and public holidays or by arrangement. Kapiti Rd, Paraparaumu, ph 04 299 4660 0r 04 298 4212.
Bank of New Zealand Museum
See Inner City Attractions.
Bedplate Press Printing Museum
Set up to preserve, restore and demonstrate working displays of printing machinery and equipment and the skills and processes from New Zealand: 1840 – 1950. Silverstream Retreat, Reynolds Bach Dr, Stokes Valley. Ph 970 6534.
Cable Car Museum
Newly fully restored original cable car from 1905, also shop. Free admission.
Top of the Cable Car, 9.30am – 5.30pm 7 days. Ph 475 3578.
Carter Observatory
Costs vary depending on programmes, bookings preferred, private functions available. Open Monday to Friday except Christmas Day, Sunday to Tuesday 10am - 5pm Sun-Tues, 10am - Late Wed – Sat.
40 Salamanca Road, Kelburn (top of Botanical Gardens)
Ph 472 8167 www.carterobs.ac.nz
Colonial Cottage Museum
68 Nairn St Brooklyn
Open in summer 12 noon –4pm every day, winter Wednesday to Friday.
Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day.
Phone Manager, Kim Townley, on 384 9122 Adult $5, student/senior citizen $2, child free when accompanied by an adult.
Cricket Museum
Old Stand, Basin Reserve, Sussex Street
Open 10.30am–3.30pm on weekends and public holidays 1 May – 30 Oct; 10.30am – 3.30pm daily 1 Nov – 30 April.
Phone 385 6602 or 384 3171
Adult $5, student or child $2, child under 13 free if with an adult
Groups by arrangement.
Golders Homestead Museum
John Golder built this cottage in 1876, and members of the family lived in it until 1985. It exhibits original furnishings, memorabilia and photographs of the family. Sat & Public holidays 1.30-4pm or by arrangement. 707 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt. Ph 528 9855.
Katherine Mansfield Birthplace
The birthplace of New Zealand’s most famous writer. The house (built by her father in 1888) is restored and furnished in its original period of decoration with antique furniture and replicas of original wallpapers. A reproduction doll’s house based on the descriptions in the 1921 story A Doll’s House is a feature. Also teas & a shop. Open Tue-Sun 10am-4pm. 25 Tinakori Road, Thorndon, Wgtn. Ph 473 7268.
Museum of Wellington City and Sea, Queen’s Wharf
Open daily 10.am – 5.pm
Phone 472 8904
Free admission.
NZ Police Museum
Early police memorabilia, forensic display and detective mysteries. Open Wed – Sun 10am-4pm, closed public holidays. Check whether open before your visit. Adult $5, child $3, family $10 NZ Police College, Papakowhai Road, Porirua. Ph 238 3141 Fax 237 0129
Olympic Museum
Presents Olympism and New Zealand’s involvement, with its origins, development, aims and importance in today’s world. Level 3, 265 Wakefield St, Wellington. Open by appointment. Ph 385 0070.
Petone Settlers Museum
Experience the stories and communities of the Wellington/Hutt Valley region. Tuesday – Friday 12.00–4.00.Weekends and Public Holidays (except Christmas Day) 1.00–5.00pm; closed Mondays.
The Esplanade, Petone. Phone 568 8373 www.petonesettlers.org.nz
Pataka Melody Farm
The greatest collection of its type in the country with Aolian reed organs, Juke-boxes, a recording gramophone, player pianos, radios from the 30s, TVs from the 60s and much more. Tours available by request, ask at Pataka reception (see below).
Pataka
Cnr Norrie St and Parumoana St, Porirua
Monday – Saturday 10am – 4.30pm
Sunday 11am – 4.30pm
Phone 237 1511
Silver Stream Railway Museum
Reynolds Bach Drive, Silverstream (off Eastern Hutt Road)
Phone 970 4665.
Sundays 11am – 4pm. Entrance fee includes unlimited train ride (adult: $7, child: $4, child under 5: free, family: $20.
Southwards Car Museum
The Southward Museum has on show a selection of vehicles, including cars, traction engines, motor cycles, cycles, fire engines, early motoring curios, model railway. Also an area of over five hectares of park-like surroundings (ideal for family picnics etc), a man made lake and bush walk. Hours 9 am until 4 30 pm 7days, except Good Friday, Christmas Day. Adults – $10, children – $3 (5 – 15 years), pre-schoolers free. Otaihanga Rd, Paraparaumu. Ph 04 297 1221.
Steam Inc and Rail and Heritage Museum
Running, complete locomotive and others in restoration dating from 1908. Open Thurs, Sat 10am-4.30pm. Admission by donation. State Highway 1, 1st turn north of Paekakariki turnoff. Ph 0800 783 264 or 04 292 8662.
Te Papa
Free admission, charges for some exhibitions. Cable St, Wellington. Phone 381 7000.
Wainuiomata Museum
Learn how children of the past experienced school, in an old schoolroom. It features old wooden furniture and floors, blackboards and slates, text books, pot belly stove and a huge enamel jug for serving cocoa to cold children who’d just walked to school. Main Road, Wainuiomata. Open Sunday 2-4pm, gold coin admission. Phone 970 4127 or 970 6822.
SIGHTSEEING, TRAVEL
Public transport – Metlink
An integrated network of buses, trains and harbour ferry services. Staff can help you plan a journey, provide fare and timetable information or send you a timetable or a Metlink network map – a handy guide to help you plan a trip using public transport. Timetables can also be obtained from libraries, information centres and selected outlets. For information about Metlink call 0800 801 700.
Alternatively you can go to the Metlink website at www.metlink.org.nz. Download a timetable, check fares or plan your trip using the journey planner.
The Metlink Explorer ticket
One ticket for a day’s unlimited bus and train travel. Go anywhere in the Wellington region (excluding Wairarapa) after 9am and all day on weekends and public holidays – all for $15. Take a child for free! Buy your ticket on board services operated by Cityline Hutt Valley, Mana Coach Services, Newlands Coach Services, Stagecoach Wellington and Tranz Metro.
CHILD-FRIENDLY GALLERIES
Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre
A new gallery with exhibitions and events for everyone! Disabled access. Open Tues-Sun & public holidays 10am-4pm. For current happenings ph 527 2168. 836 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt.
PLAY AREAS/RESERVES & PICNIC SPOTS
Aotea Lagoon
Turn off the motorway to Papakowhai and take the first turn left. A beautifully designed park plus lake with a variety of attractions including sealed pathway for walking, ducks and adventure park.
Avalon Park
An expansive park with duck pond, 18 hole mini-putt and miniature railway, and two play areas catering for different ages, including a miniature rock wall and circular flying fox. Western Hutt Road, Lower Hutt.
Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
Paekakariki Hill Road, 6 kms from SH 58 at Pauatahanui, or 10 kms from SH 1 at Paekakariki, and open daily from 8am till dusk. Historical site, picnic and camping areas, and walking tracks ranging from 15 minutes to four or five hours. Mountain biking and horse riders use designated trails, and a wheelchair accessible education centre provides viewing areas for the farm activities. Phone 237 5511 for more information.
Ben Burn Park and Playground
Small enclosed toddler area and adventure fort for children aged 6 plus. With playing field adjacent. Campbell St, Karori.
Bishop Park Playground
Enclosed areas for small children and adventure playground for children 6 years plus. Outdoor pool adjacent.
Marine Parade, Eastbourne.
Botanical Gardens Play Area
New features in this park are the flying fox and the rocktopus. Botanical Gardens, Glenmore St.
Central Park
At the bottom of the Brooklyn Hill near the southern end of Willis St. A small urban park with a surprising variety of scenery and walking tracks. Play area and picnic areas.
The Crescent Playground
Sunny, with stunning views, and balance beams, wobbly bridge and picnic area. Best suited for younger children, but older ones will be entertained.
The Crescent, Roseneath (near the bottom).
Frank Kitts Park and Playground
For children aged 2-10 years, with a special area for under 4s. Parking on Queens Wharf or underneath (enter from off Customhouse Quay). Wellington Waterfront, Customhouse Quay.
Freyberg Park
Complementing Oriental Bay, this recently built play area has rope climbing equipment for older children, and a chunky bright climbing frame for toddlers. Also picnic tables, toilets and car parks.
Harcourt Park
Akatarawa Road, Upper Hutt. Disc golf, play areas for all ages, summer paddling pool.
Hugh Sinclair Park
Playground, skateboard ramp, picnic area. The Strand, Wainuiomata.
Ian Galloway Park
Advanced BMX tracks suited to children of all ages, also skateboard ramp for younger children and grass park for kites and balls. Old Karori Rd, Karori.
Karori Park and Playground
Innovative equipment for everyone aged 4 years plus. Karori Rd, Karori (past main Mall).
Kelson Playground
With equipment for children aged 4 years plus, and concrete bike track for early riders. Taieri Crescent, Kelson, Lower Hutt.
Khandallah Park
Bush walks, swimming pool and play areas for children of all ages. Café nearby and barbecue for hire. Woodmancote Rd, Khandallah.
Maidstone Park
Park St, off Fergusson St, Upper Hutt. Good play areas for younger and older children, and a challenging skateboard / BMX park.
Nairnville Park and Playground
New playground with usual attractions plus rocktopus and life-size helicopter. Also large grassy area for kicking balls, flying kites or bike riding. Food and drink available at nearby recreation centre. Cochrane Rd, Khandallah.
Parkway Family Playground
Play area includes dual 60m flying foxes. Skating rink, toilets and picnic area. Parkway, Wainuiomata.
Petone Foreshore
Well-equipped play area, close to the beach and a food kiosk. Eastern end Waione St, Petone.
Pirie St Park
Small, safe toddler area, and equipment for children over 6 years. Also lots of climbing and exploring to do.
Pirie St, Mt Victoria.
Raumati Marine Gardens
Right by the beach, with indoor and outdoor pools, playground, nearby café and Trainscene, miniature trains to ride on (Sundays & public holidays, 1-4.30pm). Garden Rd, Raumati Beach. Ph (04) 904 3048.
Riddiford Gardens
In central Lower Hutt, this playground has picnic areas, gardens, conservatories, an aviary and play area. Queens Dr, Lower Hutt.
Shorland Park and Playground
Play areas for children of all ages, lawn area for ball kicking, sand for digging in. Cnr Esplanade and The Parade, Island Bay.
Speldhurst Park
Has a playground, skateboard ramp and woodland garden. Stokes Valley Rd, Stokes Valley.
Wadestown Park and Playground
Suitable for all ages, especially small children and toddlers. Completely fenced, expansive areas for picnics or moving about. Wadestown Rd, Wadestown (near shops).
Williams Park
A great place to picnic after a ferry trip from Wellington. Picnic areas, ice cream shop, toilets, and games area. Eastern Bays Marine Dr, Eastbourne.
POOLS
COVERED POOLS
Cannons Creek Poo
Toddlers’ pool, 25m pool with water dump, water canon, slide, swim classes. 6am-6pm Mon & Fri, 6am-8.30pm Tue-Thurs, 12pm-5pm weekends & pub hols. Bedford St, Porirua, ph 237 7944.
Freyberg Pool and Fitness Centre
Open seven days a week from 6.00am – 9.00pm, apart from Christmas day. Not available for public use on Fridays from 5.30pm during the school term. 139 Oriental Pde, Wellington. Phone 801 4530.
H2O Xtream
Wave pool, slides and rapid river ride, cafe. Creche, toddlers’ pool. Teen times Friday nights, weekend afternoons. Cnr Brown & Blenheim Sts, Upper Hutt, ph 527 2113.
Huia Pool
Huia St, Lower Hutt
Telephone (04) 570 6655
Moving floor for varying abilities.
Karori Swimming Pool
Open 6am – 9pm 7 days a week
Children’s pool, main pool open for children’s fun Friday nights between 7pm – 9pm and weekends from 11am-5pm, with organised activities. 22 Donald Street, Karori, ph 476 5400.
Keith Spry Pool
15 Frankmoore Ave, Johnsonville
Phone 478 9237
The Naenae Pool is a public 50 metre indoor pool complex with a moveable bulkhead. The pool has a 100 metre enclosed waterslide called the “Zoom Tube” as well as the Zipline, diving boards, sauna and sunbed. The Zipline is an exciting flying fox ride which takes you the length of the Pool with a 5 metre drop. The Pool now also offers the newest learners and toddlers pool in the City, with fun water features and exciting Pirateship.
Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre
Open seven days a week from 6.00am – 9.00pm, apart from Christmas day. As the pool hosts a number of regional, national and international events, it may close to the public from time to time. 63 Kilbirnie Cres, Kilbirnie, ph 387 8029.
Naenae Olympic Pool
Everest Avenue, Naenae
Phone 567 5043
Hours: 9am–6pm weekends; Monday to Friday 6am–8pm (except Monday 5pm). Hours could vary.
Stokes Valley Pool
Cnr George and Bowers St, Stokes Valley.
Phone 563 6828.
Toddler and disabled-friendly pool.
Tawa Pool
Heated indoor pool, graduated leisure pool, fenced toddler pool, spa pool and session for toddlers on Fridays. Davies St, Tawa. Ph ) 232 7041
Trust Porirua Aquatic Centre
Includes toddlers’ pool, licensed creche, 25m lane pool, spa pools, and leisure pool featuring Lazy River, bubble pit, vortex and wave machine. 6am-9pm Mon-Fri, 8am-7pm weekends & pub hols. Parumoana St, Porirua, ph 237 1521. www.recreationporirua.co.nz
SUMMER
Eastbourne Outdoor Pool
Children’s play area, bush, streams, picnic area.
Marine Parade, Eastbourne
Phone 562 7582
Khandallah Summer Pool
45 Woodmancote Road (Khandallah Park)
Phone 479 6644
McKenzie Outdoor Pool
Inflatables and slide. Udy Street, Petone Phone 568 6563.
Thorndon Summer Pool
26 Murphy St, Thorndon
Phone 472 8055
Wainuiomata Outdoor Pool
Moohan Street, Wainuiomata
Phone 564 8780
SHOPPING KIDS WILL LOVE
Cats Galore
Everything cat-related, including soft toy cats, stickers, puzzles, T shirts, and toys for real cats. 264 Jackson St, Petone, ph 586 5806.
The Met Shop
A mind expanding array of fun educational resources large and small from mood rings, beads and stickers to kaleidoscopes, ant farms, science kits and kites. Open 9am-5pm weekdays, 10am-4pm weekends public holidays. 5 Swan Lane, just past Cuba Mall, Wgtn, ph 384 7683.
The Playcentre Shop
Unit 2, 73 Kenepuru Drive, Tawa, Phone 237 7827
6 Trafalgar Square, Waterloo, Lower Hutt, phone 569 3599.
Quality educational toys.
Trash Palace
What is old to one person can be funky to another. Toys, children’s books, appliances, furniture, and the kitchen sink! See the building made of recycled materials, innovative flooring, water treatment ponds, permaculture and a playground. Hours 7am-5pm 6 days, 9am-5pm Sun & pub hols. Spicer Landfill, Broken Hill Rd, Porirua. Through the landfill gates, then halfway up the hill on your right. Ph 237 6440.
WALKS
Ataturk Memorial
A 5 minute walk up from the carpark at the southern end of the Eastern Walkway to this memorial with a moving inscription from the Turkish government. Views of the southern harbour across to Pencarrow Head, and you can continue along the Eastern walkway.
Barton’s Bush
Part of Trentham Memorial Park and adjoining the Hutt River Trail, these flat, easy walking tracks wind through the only surviving remnant of tawa forest, in a park with other recreational activities. Walking time 30 minutes to an hour. Entrance to Trentham Memorial Park is from Barton Rd and Brentwood St carparks. Access also from Holdsworth Avenue or Hutt River Trail. Closest public transport stop: Trentham Railway Station.
Belmont Regional Park
Divided into four areas, including Korokoro Valley, Stratton St, Hill Rd, and Dry Creek. For a more strenuous hike try Korokoro Valley, to the historic Korokoro Dam, and onto the Belmont Trig. Take warm clothes.
Stratton St valley has picnic tables, and the track is suitable for horse riding and mountain biking. Hill Rd takes you to see WW2 munition magazines.
Dry Creek at the foot of Haywards Hill provides walking and hiking and mountain biking tracks.
Bothamley Park
A walk with a rural character, following an old farm track route from Champion St, Porirua to Warspite Ave, mainly along the valley created by Kenepuru Stream. 45 mins, suitable for ‘power prams’. Easily accessed from Lincoln Grove, Bellona Place and Cannons Creek Park.
Butterfly Creek
From Kowhai St, Eastbourne or other nearby tracks, climbing through bush, then descending to Butterfly Creek. Picnic, toilets, limited camping.
Brooklyn Wind Turbine
Gates closed daily at 5pm April – September and 8pm October – March
Cannons Creek Lakes
Starting at Warspite Avenue beside the shopping centre, follow the path around Cannons Creek Lakes. Good areas for picnics and feeding ducks and swans. 30 mins. On main bus route, with parking at shopping centre. Take sturdy shoes if wet.
Fossil Forest at Titahi Bay
See the preserved remains of an ancient tall forest protruding through the sand along most parts of this picturesque beach. Rimu, kahikatea and totara that have been identified give scientists clues about conditions forests grew in 100,000 years ago. Most visible after stormy weather. From Porirua, follow signs to Titahi Bay.
Frank Cameron Park
Views of Petone from the carpark. The tramping track to Camels Hump and its views of the harbour and Hutt Valley has sections of footpath. Exit Frank Cameron Park (access from Bushey Way, Maungaraki) and turn right into George Gee Drive. Take easy grade tracks to end of Acacia Ave, then a short walk via Protea St and Maungaraki Rd to Camels Hump or Belmont Regional Park. Links with several other tracks.
Hutt River Trail
An easy route for cyclists and walkers, also access for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Starts at eastern end of Marine Parade, Petone, ends 24 km away at Upper Hutt. Easy entry at many points, and you can catch the train back.
Jackson Street, Petone
A walk down some of this street is a great experience. Check out its heritage buildings, speciality shops and little cafes
Johnsonville Park (35 minute walk but add extra time for exploring)
Truscott Avenue, Johnsonville
Jubilee Park
Access and parking just above Normandale overbridge near Minoh Friendship House. Loop tracks through native and exotic vegetation to pleasant meadows. Woodland garden around the house. Access also via Gaskill Grove, Harbourview.
Kaitoke Regional Park Picnic areas along the river, with toilets and coin-operated barbecues. Weir Walk and Terrace Walk both suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Locate 12 km north of Upper Hutt, follow SH2 to Waterworks Rd, turn left.
Lees Grove Track
A challenging walk taking you to Lowry Bay trig. 40 mins to main ridge. Start from beyond the last house in Lees Grove, Wainuiomata (no 72).
Maidstone Park Bush Walks
Behind Maidstone Park these walks range from a lower walk passing through native bush and ferns to higher walks reaching to the ridge line. 30 minutes for small lower loop track. 45 minutes for longer lower track. 1 hour for ridge top walk. Accessible from within the park off Park Street, or from Seymour Grove in Kingsley Heights. Closest public transport stop: Upper Hutt Railway Station.
Makara Beach
Good places for climbing, rock pools, and collecting driftwood. Walk an hour further on past an ancient pa site to WW2 gun emplacements, but supervise children around hill climbs as there are sheer cliffs. Take warm clothing. 25 mins from Karori.
Matiu/Somes Island
Open to the public from 8.30am – 5.00pm daily. One of NZ’s most accessible predator-free islands, home to giant weta, kakariki, tuatara and little blue penguin. No smoking, bring own food and drink.
For ferry times phone 494 3339, to book 499 1282. Adult $16.50 return, child $9.00, family concessions available.
Nikau Creek Track Approach from the end of Hine Rd, Wainuiomata, This 30 minute (one way) walk along the stream is one of the loveliest in the Wellington region. This is also the starting point for the Gum Loop Walk, about ¾ hour circuit.
Otari Wilton’s Bush
Wilton Road, Wilton
Phone 801 3071
Percy’s Scenic Reserve
The reserve and gardens that you always speed past on the Hutt motorway. Come via the Petone overbridge and head north a short distance until you see a parking bay. Suitable for wheelchairs, buggies and small children to the duck pond, more challenging thereafter.
Petone Esplanade Trail
Hutt City has recently put out a pamphlet “Tracks and Trails”* and walking the Esplanade is trail number 36 of 52.
* Tracks and Trails – available from the Hutt City Visitor and Information Centre, phone 560 4715
Pinehaven Track
Start at Pinehaven Scouts Building at Pinehaven Domain, a fork of two short tracks through beech and tawa forest. One route is a short easy walking track ending at Pinehaven School, the other graduating to steps reaching Blue Mountains Road. 15 minutes for Pinehaven School Track, 15 minutes for Blue Mountains Road Track. Enter the Domain on Pinehaven Road, on a local bus route and with car parking
Red Rocks Walk
Walk the southern coast to a seal colony (May-August, November-January). Suitable for able-bodied walkers and babies/toddlers in backpacks.
Owhiro Bay
Rimutaka Forest Park
Between Wainuiomata and the coast on Coast Road. Flooding in 2005 made the park more challenging for trampers, but family walks and picnic areas are still available for use.
Stokes Valley Stream, Lower Hutt
Starting opposite the Stokes Valley shopping centre in Evans St, follow the Kiwiwalks path to Delaney Park, then the waterway until Chittick St. Follow street paving back along George St to Bowers St and follow the waterway to just past Rawhiti St, along Stokes Valley Rd back to the start. On main bus route, parking available. Care needed with younger children alongside waterway.
Te Rauparaha Monument
A short walk on what is said to be the smallest native reserve in New Zealand, a carving of Te Rauparaha commemorates his being seized by Governor Grey’s troops in 1846. Walk along a narrow strip of land from the cul-de-sac at the end of Moana Rd.
Wainuiomata Coast and Seal Colony
Continue from Wainuiomata along Coast Road until you reach the wild coast. Walk about 3 km to seals in winter and earthquake- raised landscape at Turakirae Head.
Waiwhetu Stream – Lower Hutt
A 40 minute scenic walk along the banks of the Waiwhetu Stram. Starting at Te Aroha clubrooms at Te Whiti Park, Riverside Drive, follow the stream north to Birdwood Rd, then follow the path back along Cleary St back to the clubrooms. On bus route, plenty of parking. Sturdy footwear needed in winter.
Wellington’s Waterfront
There are many attractions down by the waterfront, which stretches from Queen’s Wharf past Te Papa to the Overseas Terminal.
Wright’s Hill Fortress
Top of Wright’s Hill Rd, Karori. An insight into measures taken to protect NZ during WW2. Open Waitangi Day, Queen’s Birthday, and Labour Day. Adult $5, children under 15 $3, family $12. Enquiries: Box 17-248, Karori, Wellington.
WILDLIFE
Kahutara Taxidermy Gallery
A mounted collection includes a large bird collection, rocks, insects including wetas, stick insects, dragonflies, butterflies, animals and birds, with exotics such as tigers, lions, alligators, crocodiles. Also a Kayak/Canoeing operation, live animal feeding, & BBQ and picnic facilities. Open school holidays, weekends, or by appointment. RD1, Featherston, 15mins from Martinborough on Featherston – Lake Ferry road. Ph 06 308 8453.
Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
Waiapu Rd, Karori. Phone 920 9213. See birds protected by a predator proof fence and not found in the wild anywhere else in the Wellington region. Kaka, saddleback, North Island Robin, whiteheads, weka, tui and the rare little spotted kiwi, thought until the 1960s to be extinct. Also bird hides for observing native waterfowl, Morning Star gold mine with historic information, glow worms and cave wetas. Night tours for seeing glow worms, watching kiwi feed and hearing nocturnal birdcalls. Open 10am-5pm in summer. Admission $8 adult, $4 child, $20 family (2 adults, 3 children. Free admission for members and pre-school children. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Lindale Tourist and Agricultural Centre
A tourist complex with a New Zealand farm theme with restaurants and production units including honey and candies as well as shopping. Farm walks daily, farm shows weekends and public holidays. Open 7 Days, 9am-5pm. Main Highway, Paraparaumu. Ph 04 297 0916
Mount Bruce National Wildlife Centre – Pukaha
Open daily between 9am and 4.30pm except Christmas Day.
30km north of Masterton on State Highway 2 (2 hours drive from Wellington)
Adults $8, under 17yrs free. Phone 06 375 8004. Website: www.mtbruce.org.nz
Nga Manu Nature Reserve
Wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Open 10am – 5pm daily except Christmas Day. Eel feeding 2pm. Group bookings available outside these hours. Cost Adults $10.00, children under 15 $4.00. Family (Max 2 adults plus children of that family) $20.00 20% Discount for groups of 10 or more. Ngarara Rd, Waikanae. www. ngamanu.co.nz
Pauahatanui Wildlife Reserve
Off State Highway 58
Pauatahanui
Bring binoculars, bird books.
Riverleigh Lodge
Gardens, wetlands and animal park – interact with the animals.
Mt Holdsworth Road, Carterton
Open 26 Dec to 31 Jan 10am – 5pm every day except Monday. Open weekends, Tuesdays and Wednesdays & public holidays September to May, June, July, August weekends and school holidays.
Phone 06 378 8054. Admission charge to the gardens and animals: $7.50 adults/$5 children/under 2 years free.
Seal Coast Safari
A nature adventure in Wellington, 4 wheel driving on remote beaches amid spectacular scenery, seeing wild goats and visiting a colony of NZ fur seals in their natural habitat. 32 Salamanca Rd, Kelburn, Wgtn, ph 0800 73 25 27.
Staglands Wildlife Reserve
Akatarawa Valley off SH 2
Upper Hutt
Open daily 10am-5pm
Ph 526 7529 Fax 526 8529
Adult $12, child $6 (3yrs and under free)
Tuatara at Victoria University
Victoria University tuatara enclosure
Murphy Building, Victoria University of Wellington, Kelburn Parade
8am – 6pm weekdays. Phone 463 5324.
Wellington Zoo
Go wild at Wellington Zoo. Check out the animal kingdom and book in for a Close Encounter. Open 9:30am-5:00pm every day (except Christmas Day).
$12 adults, $6 children. Group concessions. 200 Daniell St, Newtown, Wellington. Ph Ph 381 6750. www.wellingtonzoo.com
BEACHES
Days Bay Beach
Catch a ferry from Queens Wharf or drive round to Days Bay. Fishing off the jetty, tearooms across the road, ducks and chickens to feed, bush walks. Main Rd, Days Bay, Eastbourne.
Makara Beach
A wild and rugged beach offering a range of walks, hill-climbs, stunning views, old-style kiwi baches, and a pebbly beach with rocks for climbing and finding marine life. Walk to WW1 gun emplacement and ancient pa site or a more strenuous trip to Opau Bay (3 hrs round trip). 25 minutes from Karori by car.
Oriental Bay Beach
Recently extended sandy area, good children’s playground, changing areas and showers, also a kiosk for ice cream, sunblock and drinks. Oriental Bay, between Freyberg Pool past Band Rotunda.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Between Paekakariki and Raumati South, entry from Paekakariki or McKays Crossing. Beach, picnic areas, safe swimming and surfing, play area, horse riding stables with horses for hire, motor camp, tram museum with rides, model aircraft area. For more information phone 04 292 8625.
Petone Waterfront
Expansive sandy beach, playground, miniature train, fishing from the jetty. Kiosk, changing rooms and toilets.
Scorching Bay Beach
Sheltered, sandy beach for playing in rock pools, building sand castles and swimming. Massey Rd, Scorching Bay.
Seatoun Beach and Playground
Playground, fishing wharf, sand and grassy area for picnics. Marine Parade, Seatoun.
Titahi Bay
Offers safe, sheltered swimming, a larger beach suitable for a variety of marine activities from windsurfing, board surfing to boating and fishing. Good cliffs for rock climbing or abseiling, café.
