Image: Kathrin and Stefan Marks | Creative Commons
Manawatu Gorge with rail tunnel, river and road.
Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve

Located in the Manawatu/Whanganui region

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 reserve straddles both sides of the Manawatu River and State Highway 3.

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.

It is approximately 12 km from Palmerston North. Drive north-east on State Highway 3 to the carpark at the beginning of the Manawatu Gorge.

The road through the Manawatu Gorge is susceptible to slips during times of heavy rain. Surrounding hills are often covered in low cloud.

Be aware of rockfall and steep drops

Rockfall hazards exist on the tracks and there are sections with steep drop offs and bluffs. Supervise children closely. Always stay on the tracks in this area.

Other hazards in this area

There are wasp nests and ongaonga (stinging nettle) in this area. Both can cause strong skin irritation and allergic reactions. Do not touch ongaonga and stay away from areas of wasp activity. If you are concerned about allergies, consider taking antihistamines or other treatment with you.

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.

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.