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.
Rumgay Street in Epuni, Lower Hutt, is named after the Rumgay family, who were known for their market gardening activities in the Waiwhetu area. The family resided in Park Avenue and contributed to the local community through their agricultural pursuits. The naming of Rumgay Street serves as a recognition of their involvement in the development […]
Airdrie Avenue in Naenae, Lower Hutt, derives its name from a house called “Airdrie” that was located in the area. The house belonged to Mr and Mrs Tilbury junior, with Mrs Tilbury being born Jean Rumgay. Airdrie, a town in Scotland, was her birthplace, and naming the avenue after her hometown serves as a connection […]
Aglionby Street in Alicetown, Lower Hutt, is named in honour of Henry Aglionby Aglionby (1790-1854), a British barrister and Whig politician who played an influential role in the New Zealand Company between 1840 and 1850. The company was responsible for promoting and funding the settlement of New Zealand, with a focus on the systematic colonisation […]
Puketapu Grove in Waiwhetu, Lower Hutt, derives its name from the Puketapu hapū. Their most prominent member was Īhāia Pōrutu Puketapu, O.B.E. (1887-1971) of Te Ati Awa. Īhāia Pōrutu Puketapu was a respected Māori leader who made significant contributions to the community, culture, and history of the area. The decision to name the street after him […]
Te Awa Rere means “The swift flowing river” in te reo Māori. It takes into consideration the area’s close proximity to Te Awa Kairangi, and as a close community each day the community would see the different colours and moods of the river as it travels daily at different speeds towards the harbour. It was named on the 9th […]
Takapū is a well-known cultivation associated with Motutawa pā, situated to the northwest of the pā on the banks of Te Awa Kairangi (Hutt River). Te Aro o, means “the pathway”. The name was submitted by the iwi partners of the development Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa. This street name was adopted by Hutt […]
George Gee Drive is named after George Gee, the former mayor of Petone Borough Council from 1968-1980. He was the first Chinese Mayor in New Zealand. He was awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Queen’s Service Order in 1981. A very popular Mayor, ill health forced his retirement in 1980, and sadly he […]
Named for Queen Elizabeth II on her first visit to New Zealand. The road was completed in 1953 and the Queen was one of the first people to drive along it.
Te Ara o Te Amo Hohipene is named after Amo Hohipene. She was the mother of Wi Hape Paku Love (Mother-in-law to Ripeka Wharawhara). The new street is a subdivision at 124 Richmond Street, Petone.
Te Ara o Ripeka Wharawhara is named after Rīpeka Wharawhara Love and is a subdivision located at 124 Richmond Street, Petone. Rīpeka Wharawhara was through descent and marriage kin to Te Āti Awa chiefs whose mana continued to extend over the Wellington region after the arrival of Pākehā settlers in 1840. As an heir to […]