Arched bridge on the Rangiwahia Hut Track
Image:
Bev Bacon
| DOC
Family-friendly walks and tramps in Manawatu/Whanganui
Introduction
Introduce children to the outdoors with these interesting short and overnight walks in the Manawatu/Whanganui.-
Papaitonga Scenic Reserve walks
Take a short, easy walk around a dune lake with some great spots to enjoy views and look for and listen to birds – it's a good option for kids.Duration 10 min | 20 minDifficulty Easiest -
Gordon Park Loop Track
This flat and well-formed track passes through native podocarp-hardwood forest and has a variety of birds - with a picnic table at the start, it's a good option for families.Duration 15 minDifficulty Easiest -
Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
This track passes through native podocarp broadleaved forest with views over Palmerston North and Ashhurst.Duration 2 hoursDifficulty Easy -
Rangiwahia Hut Track
This well-graded track to the tussock tops on Whanahuia Range is a great overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers.Duration 2 - 3 hrDifficulty Easy -
Manawatu Gorge Loop Track
This is an easy loop walk through bush a short distance from Palmerston North - it's a good option for families with children.Duration 15-30 minDifficulty Easiest -
Alice Nash Memorial Heritage Lodge Track
This track in the scenic Oroua River valley can be enjoyed as a half day tramp but it's also a good overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers.Duration 30 min one wayDifficulty Easy -
Mangaweka Scenic Reserve Track
Enjoy great views over the Rangitikei River terraces on this short loop walk that's suitable for children.Duration 1 hrDifficulty Easy -
Te Maire Loop Track
Walk through a fine example of the podocarp forest that once covered much of the central North Island. It's a suitable track for kids.Duration 2 hrDifficulty Easy -
Sunrise Track
This well-graded track is a great overnight tramp for families with children and new trampers - it passes through changing forest types to the open tops, with great views of the Hawke’s Bay plains and excellent sunrises from the hut.Duration 2-3 hr one wayDifficulty Easy -
Bruce Park Loop Track
An easy walk through a podocarp and broadleaf forest remnant with impressive specimens of rimu, totara and kahikatea. It's a great walk for kids.Duration 1 hr loopDifficulty Easy -
Atene Viewpoint Walk
Just 40 minutes drive from Whanganui this is a great walk for families to a viewpoint over Whanganui National Park - there is a picnic table 20 minutes from the start with spectacular views of the Whanganui River.Duration 1 - 2 hrDifficulty Easy