Te Ara o Ngā Tūpuna (Korokoro)

Loop

The highlight for most visitors is the 8-metre waterfall that cascades over the face of the dam. Depending on recent rainfall, this can range from a delicate, lacy veil of water to a thundering torrent. There is a viewing area that provides the perfect angle for photos, and the sound of the falling water creates a natural white noise that is incredibly peaceful. It is the ideal spot to pull a thermos out of your bag and enjoy a quiet moment.

Another standout feature is the abundance of nīkau palms. These are New Zealand’s only native palm tree, and in the Korokoro Valley, they grow in impressive groves. Their distinctive green fronds and smooth, bulbous trunks give parts of the walk a distinctly tropical feel, contrasting beautifully with the more rugged beech and broadleaf trees. Look out for the "sentinel" nīkau that stand tall over the stream, providing a dramatic silhouette against the sky.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making this an easy "spur of the moment" adventure. The main entrance is located at the top of Oakleigh Street in Petone, Lower Hutt.

• By Car: If you’re driving from Wellington CBD, it’s a quick 15-minute trip up State Highway 2. Take the Petone exit and follow the signs toward the western hills. Drive to the very end of Oakleigh Street, where you will find a dedicated car park for Belmont Regional Park.
• Parking: The car park is reasonably sized, but because this is such a popular spot for local dog walkers and families on the weekend, it can fill up by mid-morning. If the main lot is full, there is usually plenty of street parking nearby—just be mindful of the local residents.
• Public Transport: While a bit more of a mission, you can take a train to Petone Station and a local bus partway up the hill, though you should be prepared for a bit of an uphill walk to reach the actual trailhead.

Wildlife Spotting

The Korokoro Valley is a haven for native birdlife, thanks to extensive conservation efforts within Belmont Regional Park. As you walk, keep your ears open for the complex, melodic song of the tūī. These birds are everywhere here, often seen diving between the flowering trees or puffing out their white throat tufts as they sing.

You are almost guaranteed to be joined by the pīwakawaka (New Zealand fantail). These tiny, energetic birds are famously inquisitive and will often flutter just a few metres ahead of you on the path, using your footsteps to kick up small insects for them to eat. Their chattering "cheep-cheep" is the soundtrack to much of the walk.

Higher up in the canopy, keep an eye out for the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon). You’ll likely hear them before you see them; their wings make a heavy, rhythmic "whoosh-whoosh" sound as they fly. These large, iridescent green and white birds are often seen perched precariously on thin branches, feasting on berries. If you’re lucky and quiet, you might also hear the high-pitched whistle of the riroriro (grey warbler) or see the tiny tauhou (silvereye) moving in busy flocks through the undergrowth.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The beauty of Te Ara o Ngā Tūpuna is that it is truly a year-round destination, though each season brings a different flavour to the experience:

• Spring: This is arguably the best time for birdwatchers. The bush is bursting with new growth, and the bird song is at its most frantic and beautiful. The stream is usually running high, making the dam waterfall look its most impressive.
• Summer: When the Hutt Valley is sweltering, the Korokoro loop offers a cool, shaded retreat. The dense canopy acts as natural air conditioning. It’s the perfect time for a morning walk before the heat of the day sets in.
• Autumn: The light during autumn is spectacular. As the sun sits lower in the sky, it filters through the ferns in long, golden shafts, creating a magical atmosphere for photography.
• Winter: Even in the depths of winter, the bush remains a vibrant evergreen. The track can get a bit muddy after heavy rain, so sturdy footwear with good grip is a must during the colder months.

• Start Time: A mid-morning start is perfect, allowing you to finish just in time for lunch in Petone.
• Gear: While it’s a short walk, New Zealand weather is famously fickle. Bring a light waterproof jacket, even if the sky is blue.
• Water & Snacks: There are no water fountains on the trail, so bring a bottle with you.
• Safety: The track is well-marked, but it’s always a good idea to let someone know your plans. If you’re bringing the kids, keep a close eye on them near the dam and the stream edges, as the rocks can be slippery.

Local & Regional Context

The name Te Ara o Ngā Tūpuna translates from Māori as "The Path of the Ancestors." This reflects the deep cultural significance of the area. For centuries, these valleys and ridges served as vital transit routes for Māori moving between the Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington Harbour) and the Porirua area. The Korokoro Stream itself was a source of mahinga kai (traditional food gathering), providing freshwater fish and materials from the surrounding forest.

In the colonial era, the area shifted toward industry. The dam you see today is a remnant of a time when the young township of Petone was rapidly expanding and desperate for a reliable water source. It’s part of the wider Belmont Regional Park, the largest park in the Wellington region. This park is a fascinating mix of working farmland, historic military sites (like the WWII bunkers further up the hills), and regenerating forest. Walking this loop is a way to connect with both the natural history of the land and the layers of human history that have shaped the Wellington region.

After the Walk

One of the best things about the Korokoro loop is its proximity to the vibrant cafe culture of Petone. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the climb back to Oakleigh Street, head down the hill to Jackson Street for a well-earned refuel.

• Seashore Cabaret: Located just 2.5km away in the historic Petone Rowing Club building, this place is an absolute must. It’s quirky, retro-themed, and has an expansive deck with stunning views across Wellington Harbour. Their pinball machines and circus-style decor make it a hit with kids, while the "big breakfasts" and excellent coffee are exactly what a hiker needs.
• The House of Good Fortune: If you’re a coffee purist, head here (2.2km away). It’s the home of Good Fortune Coffee Co., and the smell of roasting beans hits you the moment you walk in. It’s a bit more "alt" and very welcoming, with a cabinet full of legendary vegan and vegetarian treats.
• Speight’s Ale House Petone: If your hike has left you craving something heartier, this friendly pub (1.9km away) is the go-to. It’s warm, spacious, and perfect for groups. They offer classic "Southern Man" hospitality and a great range of tap beers, making it a perfect spot to relax and chat about the day's adventure.

Whether you’re a local looking for a midweek escape or a tourist wanting to see the "real" New Zealand bush without driving for hours, Te Ara o Ngā Tūpuna (Korokoro) is a fantastic choice. It’s short, sweet, and packed with enough history and nature to keep you coming back season after season.

Fantail (Pīwakawaka)

Best time: Year-round

2.2km away

A quirky and welcoming cafe, home to Good Fortune Coffee Co., offering freshly roasted fair trade coffee and a vibrant selection of homemade sweet and savoury cabinet food, with many vegetarian and vegan options.