Located in Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve in the Manawatu/Whanganui region
You can start the track from the Woodville or Ashhurst end.
Use caution when walking the section of track from Ashhurst carpark, between SH3 and the river. Beware of the sharp drop-off to the river.
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 Balance 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.
The Manawatu Gorge Track is located approximately 12 km east (20 minutes drive) from Palmerston North, adjacent to the old SH3.
Access to the track:
The Manawatu Gorge Track is not a loop track – you will need to arrange transport at both ends of the track.
If you are using two cars, park one at the Woodville end and leave the other in the carpark at the Ashhurst end.
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.
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 are not permitted in the Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve.
Te Apiti has information on the Manawatu Gorge, including Whatonga.
The track passes through a unique landscape of steep greywacke ranges covered in native vegetation. The vegetation type is mainly tawa and podocarp forest but also has a significant number of broadleaved trees.
What makes this piece of forest so unusual is the predominance of the giant maidenhair fern. This fern is found only in the Manawatu in New Zealand. Nikau palms are here in abundance giving a tropical touch to the track.
Take the right gear to keep yourself safe on your tramp.
Tell someone your plans using the Outdoors Intentions form including when to raise the alarm if you haven't returned.
| Te Papaioea / Palmerston North Office | |
| Phone: | +64 6 350 9700 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | manawatu@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
28 North Street Palmerston North 4410 |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 11010 Manawatu Mail Centre Palmerston North 4442 |
| Full office details | |