10 October 2026
Fine spells with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Easterlies dying out in the evening.
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1 / 21Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve
Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
This track passes through native podocarp broadleaved forest with views over Palmerston North and Ashhurst.
Distance
4.2 km
Walking time
1 hr 40 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Manawatu forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, clearing to fine spells in the afternoon. Clouding over in the evening with drizzle on the ranges. Light winds, then afternoon westerlies.
12 October 2026
Showers becoming isolated with longer fine breaks in the morning. Westerlies developing for a time in the morning and afternoon.
13 October 2026
Showers developing in the morning. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
A few showers. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
The Tawa Loop is a scenic two-hour walk starting at the Ashhurst end of Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge. The track winds through ancient native bush and offers access to stunning viewpoints. About 500m in, the loop branches off the main track, meandering along the southern edge of the reserve. A lookout about halfway through provides spectacular views across Palmerston North. The track eventually reconnects with the main Manawatū Gorge Track at the junction where the Whātonga sculpture stands. Whātonga was a Māori warrior and one of three recognised chiefs aboard the Kurahaupō waka, which voyaged to Aotearoa, New Zealand, possibly as early as the 12th century. From the junction, walkers can return to the Ashhurst car park via the main track. Note: Rockfall hazards exist on the track and there are sections with steep drop offs and bluffs. Supervise children closely. Always stay on the track. On the approach to Tawa Loop, walk on the river side of the road and keep moving.
Getting there for Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
The track starts at the western end of the Manawatu Gorge Track. The Manawatu Gorge Track is located approximately 12 km east of Palmerston North adjacent to the old State Highway 3. Access to the track is from the new car park on the right side above the old SH3 road, immediately before the gorge entrance. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . Level up in your outdoor knowledge with these interactive online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
No dogs.
Before you walk Manawatu Gorge Tawa Loop Walk
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.