Published: 11 August 2026
A once overlooked entrance to the Hutt River Trail is now a welcoming place to walk, rest, gather and connect.
Hutt City Council has completed the Hīkoikoi Landing project located next to the Waione Bridge. The area now has a path, hākari-inspired rest area, cultural markers and native plants beside Te Mome Stream.
The project was shaped through close working with Mana Whenua and the Pito One Steering Group. This approach recognised that the people connected to a place hold important knowledge about its history, identity and that these stories can help shape meaningful public spaces.
For generations, this area has been a place of connection, where pā and kāinga were established and whānau gathered kai from Te Awa Kairangi and the harbour. The relationship between people and the awa continues today, with the river remaining a place where people fish, gather and connect with the landscape.
The design of Hīkoikoi Landing helps make these layers of connection visible. One of the project's defining features is a sculptural pā kahawai marker, inspired by traditional fishing lures and the abundance of kahawai that once filled Te Awa Kairangi.
Historical kōrero from kaumatua Mohi Karena Te One described the river as being so plentiful with kahawai that you could "walk across the river on their backs" a reminder of the awa's importance as a source of kai, connection and belonging.
Liz Mellish MNZM, Chair, Palmerston North Māori Reserve Trust had involvement in the project.
“We are pleased Hutt City Council are recognising the historical importance of the estuary as both the home of the hapu that lived here and its use as a mahinga kai.”
Hīkoikoi Landing is one example of how Hutt City Council works alongside communities to shape places that reflect their identity, stories and values. By listening to the people connected to a place, Council can help create spaces that are meaningful and welcoming for everyone.
You can find out more about Hīkoikoi Landing here