10 October 2026
Fine spells with isolated showers developing in the afternoon. Easterlies dying out in the evening.
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1 / 28Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve
Manawatu Gorge Track
Walk through native bush, enjoy scenic views and experience native wildlife only a short distance from Palmerston North.
Distance
9.1 km
Walking time
3 - 5 hr one way
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Ballance Loop Track partial closure
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 Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Manawatu Gorge Track
Time required : 3 - 5 hr one way You can start the track from the Woodville or Ashhurst end. 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.
Essential information for Manawatu Gorge Track
Use caution when walking the section of track from Ashhurst carpark, between SH3 and the river as there is a sharp drop-off to the river. 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.
Getting there for Manawatu Gorge Track
The Manawatu Gorge Track is located approximately 12 km east (20 minutes drive) from Palmerston North, adjacent to the old SH3. Ashhurst end 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. Woodville end is from the Ballance Gorge Road just across the Ballance Bridge. Use this location in Google Maps.
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 . We recommend trying these 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 Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Manawatu Gorge Track
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.