Hutt City, officially known as Lower Hutt, lies to the south of New Zealand's North Island, close to the capital Wellington. The first recorded settlers of Hutt City were the Maoris who settled in the Petone Valley. The New Zealand Company established its first settlement in Petone Valley in 1840. The city was named in honor of William Hutt, one of the founding fathers of the city. The city is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure sports lovers, beach lovers and those who wish to know more about the Maori tribes of New Zealand.
Trekkers and bikers can travel through the scenic routes and trails of the Belmont Regional Park, the Rimutaka National Park, the Hutt Riverside trail and the east Harbor Regional Park. Water sports enthusiast can indulge in kayaking, canoeing and golfing at the Hutt City seaside area.
Museum enthusiasts can visit the Dowes art gallery and Petone museum showcasing Maori history and culture. Other fun activities within the city limits are go carting, indoor rock climbing and visiting the nearby wildlife reserves.
Shoppers who wish to pick up a great bargain or two in between trekking, canoeing and visiting museums can visit the Jackson Street stores selling street fashion items, the central part of Hutt City has some high end retail stores, while the seaside quays on Eastbourne offers fresh seafood cuisine and souvenirs. Jackson Street also has many restaurants and cafés offering an eclectic cuisine ranging from Continental to East and South East Asian.
The accommodation available at the Hutt City ranges from luxury hotels to motels and camping tents. The many forests and cleared parklands are an ideal destination for those who wish to spend the day camped on the forest floor or on their camper vans.
