Carrington Walkway

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Carrington Walkway isn't just a path; it's a collection of local landmarks. Here are the spots you shouldn’t miss:

• The Malone Gates: These historic gates serve as a poignant entry point, built to honour Colonel William Malone, a local hero of the Gallipoli campaign. They lead you into the Victorian elegance of King Edward Park.
• Taranaki Maunga Views: While the bush is lovely, the "hero" views of the mountain from the farmland sections are breathtaking. On a clear day, the volcano feels close enough to touch.
• The Elephant Playground: If you have children in tow, this is a mandatory stop. It’s a whimsical, nostalgic spot in the park that has entertained generations of Stratford kids.
• Three Bridges Trail: A delightful subsection of the walk that criss-crosses the water, offering different perspectives of the river’s ecosystem.
• McCullough Rhododendron Dell: Taranaki is world-famous for its rhododendrons. This dell is a riot of colour when in bloom, feeling like a scene from a fairytale.
• Thompson Arboretum: A serene collection of trees that showcases both native and exotic species, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.

Getting There

Stratford is centrally located in the Taranaki region, about a 30-minute drive from New Plymouth. The primary trailhead is at the Malone Gates, located at the Fenton Street entrance to King Edward Park.

• Regan Street
• Brecon Road
• Page Street
• Cloten Road
• Swansea Road

This accessibility makes it easy to park near a specific highlight if you aren't planning on doing the full 11.5km loop.

Wildlife Spotting

For bird lovers, the Carrington Walkway is a fantastic place to see New Zealand’s native aviators. Because the track transitions between dense bush and open edges, you get a great variety of species.

Keep an ear out for the melodic, bell-like song of the Tui and the Bellbird (Korimako)—they are common year-round. You’ll frequently see the Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon) perched heavily on branches; listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly overhead.

The friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka) will likely follow you along the river sections, flitting about to catch the insects you disturb as you walk. If you are quiet in the denser bush areas, you might even spot the New Zealand Robin (Toutouwai) or the occasional Whitehead (Pōpokotea). The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the "dawn chorus" or evening activity is at its peak.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Carrington Walkway is a true four-season trail, with each time of year offering a different "flavour."

• Spring: This is arguably the most spectacular season. The McCullough Rhododendron Dell bursts into vibrant pinks and reds, and the native kōwhai trees bring in the nectar-loving birds.
• Summer: The thick bush canopy provides a welcome shield from the sun, and the riverside sections offer a cooling breeze.
• Autumn: Stratford is known for its deciduous trees, and the mix of European and American species along the walkway turns brilliant shades of gold and orange.
• Winter: Taranaki winters can be crisp, but this is often when you get the clearest, most cloud-free views of the snow-covered Maunga.

• What to wear: Even though it’s an easy walk, Taranaki weather is notoriously changeable. Bring a waterproof shell and wear comfortable walking shoes. After heavy rain, some sections near the river can get a little muddy.
• Hydration: While you are never far from town, 11.5km is a long way. Carry at least a litre of water and some light snacks.
• Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the NZ sun is strong. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen, especially for the exposed farmland sections.

Local & Regional Context

Stratford is unique in New Zealand for its strong connection to William Shakespeare—most of its streets are named after characters from his plays. Walking the Carrington Walkway, you might find yourself crossing from 'Orlando Street' to 'Miranda Street', adding a literary charm to your hike.

Beyond the Shakespearean themes, the area is deeply significant to Māori. The Patea River, which the walkway follows, is a lifeline that flows from the slopes of Taranaki Maunga down to the South Taranaki Bight. For local iwi, the mountain is an ancestor, and the river is a vital link between the peaks and the sea.

The walkway itself is named after Frederic Carrington, the surveyor who laid out the plans for New Plymouth and much of the region. The blend of indigenous flora and introduced species along the track reflects the colonial history of the area, creating a "botanical melting pot" that is uniquely Taranaki.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your five-hour loop, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel. Stratford has some fantastic options just a stone's throw from the trail:

• Colonel Malone's Restaurant & Bar (0.2km away): Located right near the Fenton Street entrance, this is an iconic local spot. It’s full of character and history, offering hearty meals that are perfect for hikers. Their craft beer selection is excellent for a post-walk toast.
• Shakee Pear Cafe (0.8km away): If you finish your walk near the park, head here for a more relaxed vibe. They do great coffee and have a cabinet full of house-baked treats, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options.
• Fenton Street Art Collective & Distillery (0.5km away): For something a bit different, this spot combines an art gallery with a gin distillery. It’s a beautiful space to grab an artisan coffee and browse some local art.
• Masala Bay Indian Restaurant (0.7km away): If you’ve worked up a serious hunger, their generous portions and popular lunch specials are a local favourite.

The Carrington Walkway is more than just a path; it’s the heart of Stratford. It offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle of modern life and reconnect with the birds, the river, and the mountain. Whether you do the whole loop or just a quick twenty-minute stroll, you'll leave feeling refreshed by the natural magic of Taranaki.

New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.

Best time: Year-round

Fenton Street Art Collective & Distillery

500m away

A unique blend of art gallery, distillery, and exceptional coffee experience, offering artisan coffees including their own blend, set in a beautifully restored space with art displays and tasting opportunities.