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Paddling near Upper Hutt, Wellington

Upper Hutt sits at the northern end of the Hutt Valley, flanked by the Tararua and Remutaka ranges, with Te Awa Kairangi / Hutt River running through its heart. The area is known for whitewater paddling, with the river's upper gorge section running Grade 3 and a more accessible Grade 2 stretch closer to Birchville. The Whakatīkei, Akatarawa, and Ōtaki rivers add further variety, while the Waiohine River in the Wairarapa draws paddlers seeking a scenic float through gorge country.

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