The Kaitoke area has a rich history for both Maori and other New
Zealanders. The Whakataka Pa is said to have been in existence in
1820 at the Mangaroa River-Hutt River junction (Te Marua). A number
of early Maori routes from Wairarapa to Wellington crossed the
Pakuratahi flats. By 1856 a road was opened to connect the fertile
plains of the Wairarapa with the port of Wellington.
Forests near what is now the park were important to early
European settler communities, providing timber, farm supplies,
water and transport routes. There is still evidence of the Benge
homestead at Te Marua, while logging tramways can be found in the
park along with abandoned machinery.
However, not all the forests were logged. In 1939 the untouched
areas of Kaitoke Regional Park and the Hutt Water Collection Area
were purchased to supply water to the Wellington region. World War
II interrupted construction works and it was not until April 1957
that the dam-like water intake weir, an underground aqueduct and
the first treatment plant were completed.
Since that time the Kaitoke area has been popular for picnicking
and swimming. In 1976 the Wellington Regional Planning Authority
identified the area as a potential regional park because of the
unspoilt forests, as well as the recreational and educational
opportunities. The park as it is now, began in 1983, with the aim
of providing areas of open space for informal recreation.
Today, visitors enjoy easy access to pristine lowland
rainforest, landscaped picnic and camping areas, and an excellent
track network suited to a wide range of ages and abilities.
Cache is 400ml Sistema container. When placed it contained a log
book, pencil, bath bomb, elephant key ring and plastic toy.
Placed by a member of
The
Kiwicaching Association of NZ