Published: 9 February 2024
Valentine’s Day is nearly here and you’re thinking about asking your loved one the BIG question? But where is the best spot to propose... Check out our list below of picture-perfect places to pop the question in Lower Hutt.
1. At the top of Te Whiti Riser
With stunning views across Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt and Wellington, it’s the perfect spot to pop the question! It takes about an hour to walk up to the top, so enjoy the exercise and quality time together as you make your way up.
Pro tip: Take some time to rest before getting that pic – otherwise, sweaty face alert!
2. At the top of Wainuiomata hill
Take in a beautiful sunrise or warm sunset, as you look out onto Wellington City and Lower Hutt – perfect for that special moment!
Pro tip: Catch it in time for the sunset (or the sunrise for our morning people) for extra romance brownie points.
3. Riddiford Garden
Riddiford Garden is one of the oldest horticultural parks in the Hutt City. This gorgeous space contains a large open lawn (perfect for a picnic), established trees, flowers, and a cute blue bridge, so there’s plenty of areas to choose from to get on one knee and grab a candid ring selfie.
Pro tip: Don’t forget the antihistamines if your sweetheart is a sneezer!
4. Petone Beach
A nice walk along the beach, plus beautiful views of Somes Island and Wellington City, equals, perfection. Walk through hundreds of shells, with the sun shining bright above. What more could you want in a proposal?!
Pro tip: If you’re planning a post proposal picnic, keep those sammies wrapped! Nothing kills romance like a sand-wich.
5. Pencarrow Lighthouse
(Image Credit: WellingtonNZ)
This walk takes 2-3 hours, with a dream destination at the end of it. Pencarrow Lighthouse sits up high, with spectacular views all around. Take in the sea breeze and sunshine over a romantic picnic at the top. For more details, visit: https://www.wellingtonnz.com/visit/trails/pencarrow-coast-road.
Pro tip: Make sure to pour your champagne out of the wind, otherwise you’ll add “expensive waterfall” to your proposal story.
6. Dry Creek Waterfall in Belmont Regional Park
Take a short (approx. 40 minutes) hike along this idyllic stream walk before getting to the Dry Creek Waterfall. There’s no better spot to get down on one knee.
Pro tip: Make sure you check the depth of the water before you drop a knee.
7. Percy Scenic Reserve
There are multiple places to propose within Percy Scenic Reserve, including a waterfall at the end of a short walking track, one of the large green spaces surrounded by trees, or for a spookier vibe, the wētā cave! There’s something for everyone at this reserve.
Pro tip: Check your sweetheart’s comfort levels with large bugs before entering the wētā cave. For some, bugs ≠ romance.
8. Pareraho Forest/Speedy's Reserve
Nestled in the Western Hills between Belmont and Kelson is Pareraho Forest or Speedy's Reserve. A short walk from Hill Road or Scenic Drive, there are plenty of picturesque spots to pop the question. Head up Rocking Horse hill for views over the valley, or venture down the stream to a secluded waterfall and swimming hole.
Pro tip: Always wear togs. You never know who is going to come down the track 👀