Lower Hutt, located in the Wellington region of New Zealand, is rich in history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, with its street names offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. These names are more than simple geographical markers; they reflect Lower Hutt’s Maori heritage, British colonial influence, and the contributions of local heroes, as well as the natural landscapes of New Zealand. Many streets honor prominent families, celebrate milestones in the city’s development, or evoke imagery of native flora, mountains, and waterways. By uncovering the histories and stories behind these names, we gain insight into the forces that have shaped this vibrant community. Whether named after industrial growth, political figures, or significant events, each street holds a unique tale, enriching the experience of both locals and visitors as they explore Lower Hutt City one street name at a time.
Avery Grove in Avalon is named after the Avery family, who arrived in New Zealand aboard the “Bolton” in 1840. The family consisted of Thomas, Elizabeth, and their children, who hailed from Kent. By the mid-1860s, Thomas had acquired land in Waiwhetu, while his son George farmed in Taita, which is now part of Avalon. […]
Mabey Road in Avalon takes its name from the Mabey family, who owned this land in the 1863. Job Mabey, had leased the land from absentee owner John Stancliffe since the 1840s, and in 1863, Job Charles purchased three acres from him on the western side of High Street, where Mabey Road is today. Job […]
Atiawa Crescent is named after Te Āti Awa, a Māori iwi with strong historical and cultural ties to the Taranaki and Wellington regions of New Zealand. The iwi has a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land, waterways, and natural resources of the region. There are a number of other streets in Lower […]
Athlone Crescent is a residential street located in the Avalon suburb of Lower Hutt. The street was named by James Stellin, who was the subdivider of the area in the 1920s. At the time, King George V was on the throne and the first and last Earl of Athlone, Alexander Cambridge (1894-1957), was a prominent […]
Atherstone Lane is a small lane located in the Belmont suburb of Lower Hutt. The name “Atherstone” is of English origin and was chosen by the developer, Mr. Treusdell, for the Belmont Park Estate. According to Treusdell, the name had a pleasant ring to it and was reflective of the early English roots of the […]
Atahu Grove is a residential street located in the Tirohanga suburb of Lower Hutt. The name “Atahu” is of Māori origin and means “love charm”. The name reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Lower Hutt community and the important role that Māori culture and traditions have played in shaping the region’s history and development. […]
Ropata Crescent is a residential street located in the Boulcott suburb of Lower Hutt. The street was formed in 1937 on behalf of the Trustees of the Anglican Boys’ Home, which is now known as St Oran’s College. The name “Ropata” comes from Ropata Wahawaha, a prominent chief of the Te Aowera sub-tribe of Ngati […]
Ariki Street is a residential street located in the Boulcott suburb of Lower Hutt. The street was formed in 1937 on behalf of the Trustees of the Anglican Boys’ Home, which is now known as St Oran’s College. The name “Ariki” means “High Chief” in Maori, and is likely a reference to the importance of […]
Aratika Grove in Stokes Valley was named with the Māori word “Aratika” in mind, which translates to “straight path”.
Arahiwi Grove is a residential street located in the hilly Lower Hutt suburb of Tirohanga. The origin of the street’s name is not entirely clear, but “Arahiwi” is a Māori word that roughly translates to “the guiding path”. It is possible that the street was named with this meaning in mind, as a nod to […]