Cannon Point Trig

Cannon Point Trig is a popular hiking trail located in the Akatarawa Forest on the western side of the Hutt Valley in the North Island of New Zealand.

The trail is a loop of 7.7 kilometers in length, ascending to the Cannon Point trig at 341 meters, and with a total elevation gain of 304 meters. The portion of the track through the Akatarawa Forest Park is maintained by the Greater Wellington Regional Council. The trail starts from Tulsa Park and zigzags uphill through private land and Akatarawa Forest to the summit, where you'll find spectacular views over the Hutt Valley. The hike is estimated to take around 2-3 hours for the round trip. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it a great option for hikers of all skill levels.

The Cannon Point Trig hike offers stunning panoramic views of the Hutt Valley and Wellington Harbour in the distance. The view from the top is breathtaking and well worth the effort of the hike. The trail is also a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of native birds found in the area. The hike has a rich history, with a "mystery" railway excursion to Upper Hutt in 1932 attracting 800 people, many of whom took the opportunity to complete a hike of around 10 miles from the Akatarawa picnic grounds to the lookout at Cannon Point. However, a 1.7-kilometer-long zig-zag portion of the track from Tulsa Park up to the Cannon Point trig crosses private land and was closed by the landowner in December 2017 after a dispute between the landowner and the Upper Hutt City Council. Access was restored in.

Overall, Cannon Point Trig is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts visiting the Hutt Valley area. With its stunning views, rich history, and well-maintained trails, it's no wonder why it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.