Manawatu Gorge Track

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 track can be accessed from the west (Palmerston North/Ashhurst end) or east (Woodville end):

• from the west (Palmerston North/Ashhurst end), access to the Manawatu Gorge Track is via the Tawa Loop track.  The Tawa Loop Track is located approximately 12 km east (20 minutes drive) from Palmerston North. Parking is on Napier Road, Aokautere. View new parking map (PDF, 569K). From the carpark, follow the signs for 500 m and the track starts as you enter the bush off the old State Highway 3. The carpark is open from 5 am to 9 pm between October and April, and from 6 am to 7 pm from May to September.
• from the east (Woodville end) is from the Ballance Gorge Road just across the Ballance Bridge. Parking is available.

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.

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 rockfall and steep drops

Rockfall 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

Related link

Te Apiti has information on the Manawatu Gorge, including Whatonga.