Kaitoke Regional Park is a Greater Wellington regional park at Kaitoke, Upper Hutt, popular for picnics, camping, swimming and tramping. It has a 4.7 rating from 942 Google reviews. Its website lists opening from 6am to 6pm from 1 April to 30 September, and until 9pm from 1 October to 31 March. Walks include the 15-minute Weir Walk, the 30-minute Terrace Walk through rimu and rata forest, the Loop Walk over a swingbridge, the 40-minute Pākuratahi River Walk and the Rivendell site from The Lord of the Rings. The Ridge Track gives a longer hike. Reviewers praise the river, the campground and the tracks.
A good regional park gives you a range of walks, so you can match the track to your group's energy and age. Most Kaitoke walks suit street clothes and comfortable shoes, but bring water and a snack, and a warm layer, because forest weather can change quickly. River swimming is most inviting in summer, but water is cold and levels change after rain, so check conditions before getting in. Camping at holiday times is popular, so arrive early or book if possible.
For forest walks, a swim and a look at Rivendell near Upper Hutt, Kaitoke is an easy day out.