What if I told you that Horokiri is more than just a name on a map? It is a place where the past and present intertwine. It’s a story etched into the very landscape around us.
Horokiri is a semi-rural outer suburb of Wellington. It offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s history. The area’s past is closely linked to travel between the Hutt Valley and Porirua.
In the early 19th century European settlers followed old Maori tracks. James Coutts Crawford described his 1839 journey from the Kapiti Coast to Port Nicholson. He wrote about crossing the stream many times. The path ascended over the range overlooking Korokoro.
After Wellington City was established the track across Paerau hill became more important. It joined the Korokoro track at Takapu and continued to Porirua.
Today Horokiri is accessible via Horokiri Road. This road climbs a hill from the Petone-Wellington motorway. There are only five streets here. Horokiwi Road runs for about 6.5 km. It eventually reaches Belmont Regional Park.
From Horokiwi Road you get scenic views of Lower Hutt and Wellington Harbour. You can also see other northern suburbs like Tawa and Grenada North. Since 2010 access to Horokiri is only from the northbound lane of the State Highway. This causes detours for residents traveling from the North.
Horokiri has a small population. In 2018 there were only 183 residents. The area covers 7.33 square kilometers. The community is close-knit.
The Horokiri Stream is the second largest tributary to Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour. It is home to native fish species like eels, bullies, inanga and kōkopu. The Greater Wellington Regional Council monitors the stream’s environmental health. Land use is mainly pastoral with some forestry. The stream generally has good water quality. However, bank erosion and sediment run-off can affect it.
Horokiri Quarry is a notable feature in the area. It is one of the few businesses.
So, as we stand here remember the stories that Horokiri holds. Think about the early travelers and the natural environment. Horokiri is a reminder of New Zealand’s rich history. It connects us to both the past and the present.