Manawatu Gorge Track
WalkManawatū-WhanganuiOpen
- Grade
- Easy
- Walking time
- 5 hr
- Distance
- 11.2 km
- Route
- One way
- Dogs
- No dogs
Getting there
We have not checked a road end or car park for this place yet, so we do not give driving directions to it. Check how to get there before you go. Some routes cross private land and need the landowner's permission.
How to get there, on doc.govt.nzThe track can be accessed from the west (Palmerston North/Ashhurst end) or east (Woodville end):
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Map
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Topo map: LINZ, CC BY 4.0. 40.32502° S, 175.80301° E
About this place
Walk through native bush, enjoy scenic views and experience native wildlife only a short distance from Palmerston North.
The route
You can start the track from the Woodville or Ashhurst end. From either end the track climbs steadily (and steeply in places) before levelling out for a spell high above the gorge. Five viewpoints along the way give spectacular views of the river, road, railway, reserve and turbines at nearby windfarms. After climbing up from the Woodville end, the Upper Gorge Bridge track gives an alternative route back down to SH3. This return track takes between 1 hr 30 min to 2 hr. If you choose to go for a short walk, just stay on the Manawatu Gorge Loop Walk , starting at the Ballance Gorge Road carpark. A 4 km loop option is available at the Ashhurst end of the track. See the Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk page for more information.
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Know before you go
Be prepared and know your limits
The weather can change quickly. Carry sufficient supplies, such as warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear and plenty of food and water. Know your abilities, give yourself plenty of time and be prepared to turn around or stop for safety.
Be aware of steep drops
Landslide hazards exist on the track and there are sections with steep drop offs and bluffs. Supervise children closely. Always stay on the track.
Other hazards in this area
The track is slippery in places – please use caution. Wasp nests and ongaonga (stinging nettle) are present on the track. Both can cause strong skin irritation and allergic reactions. Do not touch ongaonga and stay away from areas of wasp activity. Watch out for these hazards, particularly in the open parts of the track. If you are concerned about allergies, consider taking antihistamines or other treatment with you.
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed in the Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve.
Pest control/toxins
Te Āpiti Manawatu Gorge is part of an ongoing pest control programme which includes the use of toxins. For up to date information on the current toxin use please read the signage at track entrances, or check the DOC Pesticide summaries: Animal pests
Source: DOC Te Papa Atawhai.
Nearby stops
Te Waha o Te Kurī / Woodville Ferry Reserve
Manawatū-Whanganui • 1.6 km
Ashhurst Domain Campground
Manawatū-Whanganui • 4.6 km
Ashhurst Domain Campground is a campsite located in the Manawatū-Whanganui region. It is situated within the Ashhurst Domain area.
Mangatainoka Reserve
Manawatū-Whanganui • 12 km
Carnival Park
Manawatū-Whanganui • 15.2 km
Walks nearby
Notes from people who have been
No notes yet. If you have been, say what you found.
Something missing or out of date?
Closed, moved, wrong facts, or something we have missed? Travellers keep the Road Guide up to date. Tell us what you found at contribute@parkup.nz and we will check it and add it.
Ask us to take this down
A person reads every request. We do not remove a place until we have checked it.
Sources
- DOC Tracks (API) · CC BY 4.0Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai. Data sourced from the DOC Developer Portal (api.doc.govt.nz).
- DOC Tracks & Trails · CC BY 4.0Data sourced from the Department of Conservation (DOC), New Zealand.