Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve
Alert/Important notice
There may be delays on the track while work is carried out to repair the road slip.
Heavy machinery will be accessing the Manawatu Gorge Road slip from the scenic reserve, so track users may be asked to wait while machines cross the track. Stop-Go signs will be used on the track to notify users when it is not safe to proceed. Please comply with all signage for safety reasons.
Introduction
In only a few places in the world does a river pass through a dividing range and the Manawatu Gorge is one of them. The steep bush clad hills of this spectacular Gorge are only 20 min drive from Palmerston North. The reserve straddles both sides of the Manawatu River and State Highway 3.
Features
History
The formation of the Tararua and Ruahine ranges began about 1.5 million years ago. The rising of the greywacke ranges combined with erosion by the river has formed the steep gorges which exist today.
In the past the gorge was a formidable barrier to west-east travel. Known as Te-Apiti, the gorge was travelled by Maori who would haul their canoes upstream through the rapids.
Beginning as a surveyor's line, by 1872 a "road" existed but was a perilous trip for coaches. Travellers had to cross the river by punt or take an aerial trip using a cageway, pulley and wire system suspended high above the river.
The railway through the gorge was contracted for in 1886. Men worked in large gangs shovelling metal winched up from the river. The line was completed in 1891 and the first train over it carried 1500 passengers in eighteen double carriages.
Natural history
Today the Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve and surrounds is part of an inter-agency biodiversity project that will see DOC, Horizons Regional Council, Palmerston North City Council, Rangitaane, Tararua District Council, On Track, Transit and Ashhurst Action Group work together to protect the native flora and fauna of this special area.
Volunteer opportunities
There are several different volunteer opportunities available to the public in this area.
Location
The Manawatu Gorge and Scenic Reserve form a link between the Manawatu province on the western side of the lower North Island and the northern Wairarapa province on the eastern side.
Getting there
The Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve is approximately 12 km from Palmerston North. Drive north-east on State Highway 3 to the carpark at the beginning of the Manawatu Gorge.
Places to stay
Camping is available at the nearby Ashhurst Domain and both Palmerston North and Woodville, at the eastern edge of the gorge, have accommodation options.
Plan and prepare
The road through the Manawatu Gorge is susceptible to slips during times of heavy rain. Surrounding hills are often covered in low cloud.
Location map
