09 October 2026
Cloudy with the odd shower, clearing to fine early evening as easterlies die out.
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1 / 7Ruapehu
Sunshine Track
Walk up through native bush for views of the Whanganui River valley.
Distance
1.8 km
Walking time
1 hour return
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Allowed — check local rules
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
Taumarunui forecast
Issued 9 Oct 2026, 4:49 pm
10 October 2026
Cloudy periods. Isolated showers developing around midday, becoming confined to the ranges in the evening. Northeasterlies developing in the morning.
11 October 2026
Occasional rain, clearing for a time in the afternoon. Northerlies, dying out in the evening.
12 October 2026
Mostly cloudy with isolated showers, clearing to fine in the morning. Light winds.
13 October 2026
Mostly cloudy with isolated showers developing in the morning. Light winds.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Sunshine Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Sunshine Track
The walk winds up through a valley with large kahikatea, tōtara and ponga (silver ferns) along the way. When you reach the top of the track, climb over the stile to the grassy area on the other side. This is a good place to have a rest. From here you get a view of the Whanganui River valley and the redwood plantation on the other side of the fence.
Essential information for Sunshine Track
The track is well‐formed with plenty of steps on the steeper parts but be prepared for mud after heavy rain.
Getting there for Sunshine Track
Cross Victory Bridge and turn left down Marsack Road. The entrance to the walk is sign-posted on the right. The narrow drive leads to a small car park with a wooden fence and a stile to show the beginning of the track.
Helpful resources
www.taumarunui.co.nz/walks/sunshine-track/ This track is part of the Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa track database. Herenga ā Nuku has maps and advice about public access to the outdoors . 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 .
Before you walk Sunshine 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.