Hutt River Trail

We have been a little remiss about getting out for our morning walk over the last week, I’m sad to say.  But enough of the excuses - after a few morning chores we laced our sneakers up and set off briskly in the cool windy conditions along the river bank.  The Hutt River Trail runs from Birchville in Upper Hutt down to Petone, the 29km trail is an easy scenic walk and cycle path. It also allows access to the river for swimming, fishing and kayaking.  We were certainly not walking the full length of the trail, but just a short local portion before heading back home. 

Hutt River Trail sign

Our walk took us past the Norbert Street footbridge, 106 metre cable-stayed bridge, completed in 1993.  Built for pedestrian usage, the bridge was designed  to provide emergency vehicle access across the river if required.  If you look carefully, you can spot Robin posing on the bridge.

Norbert Street Bridge

The Hutt River, looking upstream 

This walkway is well used by joggers, cyclists and walkers galore, often accompanied by the family dog.  A good brisk walk works wonders for a feeling of well-being, and we can feel the heart pumping and the blood circulating, so it’s got to be good for us.  Then it was back through the streets, around a few corners and we were almost home, when we spotted a Tui singing away above our heads.  There he was, high up in a tree bare of leaves, singing his little heart out, with the tuft of white feathers at his throat contrasting against his dark plumage.  While we were admiring the Tui outside our neighbours house, their large Rottweiler was barking and growling to let us know that he was on guard duty and that we shouldn’t be loitering around his property.  Just as well he was well contained by a stout fence. 

Tui singing away