Upper Hutt is home to some of the most beautiful parks, playgrounds, and open spaces in the region. This Parks Week, we’re inviting everyone in our community to step outside, get moving, and reconnect with the green spaces that make Upper Hutt such a special place to live.

What you can do in our parks

There are so many ways to get active during Parks Week. We invite you to step outside and rediscover the joy of our parks. Whether you’re exploring scenic walkways, playing at one of our many playgrounds, or simply relaxing in nature, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Find out more at: https://www.upperhutt.govt.nz/News/parks-week

Why our parks matter

Parks are more than just open spaces. They are essential green infrastructure that supports:

• Physical and mental wellbeing
• Social connection and community life
• Children’s play and lifelong recreation
• Biodiversity and native habitat
• Climate resilience, shade, and urban cooling
• Natural water management

Spending time outdoors reduces stress, improves mood, encourages movement, and helps cut down screen time. For tamariki, outdoor play builds strength, coordination, confidence, imagination, and social skills. No matter where you live in Upper Hutt, there’s a park or green space nearby ready to explore.

Parks Week is about celebrating what our parks already do for our communities – play, culture, connection, nature, and health – and encouraging everyone to experience them in new ways. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, a family picnic, a weekend bike ride, or simply sitting under a tree with a book, every visit strengthens our connection to nature and each other.

We invite you and your family to explore our parks and reserves this March. so get outside, get moving, and make the most of our big green backyard.

Source: Upper Hutt City Council

28/02/26