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Clive, Hastings
6 km
2 hours
30 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a weekend stroll that combines fresh river air with a fascinating deep dive into Hawke’s Bay’s past, the Clive Heritage Trail (also known as the Waipureku Heritage Trail) is an absolute must-do. Nestled right between the cities of Napier and Hastings, the small township of Clive often feels like a place people simply drive through on their way elsewhere. However, this 6km loop reveals that Clive is the historical heartbeat of the Heretaunga Plains.
Whether you are a local wanting to know more about your backyard or a visitor looking for an easy, flat walk with plenty of "wow" moments, this trail delivers. It is a gentle two-hour journey that is as much about the stories of the people as it is about the beautiful landscapes shaped by the "mighty" rivers of the region.
The beauty of the Clive Heritage Trail lies in its accessibility and its variety. Starting at the Evers-Swindell Reserve, you are immediately greeted by the wide, expansive views of the Tukituki River. The trail is a 6km loop that takes about two hours at a leisurely pace, with almost zero elevation gain—making it a fantastic option for families with prams, elderly walkers, or anyone just looking for a relaxed outing with their dog.
The walk begins on the gravel stopbanks of the river. These stopbanks are a crucial part of the Hawke’s Bay landscape, built to protect the plains from the temperamental nature of the rivers. As you walk along the Tukituki River stopbank, you’ll feel the coastal breeze and see the massive scale of the riverbed. From here, the path transitions from the natural riverside into the quiet, leafy streets of Clive township.
One of the most engaging aspects of this walk is the sense of discovery. You aren’t just walking through a park; you are walking through a living museum. The terrain is a mix of well-maintained gravel paths and paved suburban footpaths. It’s the kind of walk where you find yourself stopping every few hundred metres to read an interpretive sign or admire a historic building. The loop is cleverly designed to guide you past the most significant sites in town, weaving together the Māori history of Waipureku with the colonial development of West and East Clive.
Parking is available at Evers-Swindell Reserve (approx. -39.6080, 176.9200) which provides access to the Tukituki River stopbank and cycleway. Additional street parking can be found throughout Clive township near various points of interest along the trail.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Best time: Year-round
Ardea alba modesta
A large, elegant white heron, highly revered in Māori culture as a symbol of rarity and beauty.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
800m away
A historic pub and restaurant, The Clive Hotel is a local institution offering a welcoming atmosphere, family-friendly dining at 'The Corner' cafe, and a classic pub experience. It's known for its hearty food and being a social hub.
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Loop
The Clive Heritage Trail is packed with historical gems that tell the story of resilience and adaptation.
Waipureku Pā Site: This is perhaps the most culturally significant stop. Long before European settlers arrived, this area was a bustling hub for Māori. Understanding the deep roots of the mana whenua* here adds a layer of respect to your walk as you stand near the confluence of the rivers. * The 1931 Earthquake History: Like much of Hawke’s Bay, Clive was forever changed by the devastating 1931 earthquake. A highlight for many is learning about the Clive Hotel. After the quake, the hotel had to be relocated and rebuilt, and seeing it today provides a tangible link to that era of reconstruction. * The "Meeting of the Waters": Clive sits in a unique geographic position between the Ngaruroro and Tukituki Rivers. The trail offers fantastic vantage points to see how these waterways have dictated the layout of the town and provided a lifeline for the region’s agriculture. * Architectural Charm: Keep an eye out for St Francis Cooperating Church and St Joseph’s Catholic Church. Their classic New Zealand church architecture is incredibly photogenic, especially on a bright Hawke’s Bay afternoon. * The Clive War Memorial Statue: A poignant stop that honours the locals who served. It’s a quiet place for reflection before you head back towards the river.
Finding the trailhead is straightforward. Head to the Evers-Swindell Reserve, located off Main Road (State Highway 51) in Clive. There is plenty of dedicated parking available at the reserve (approx. -39.6080, 176.9200), which also serves as a popular spot for freedom campers and rowers.
If the reserve parking is full, or if you prefer to start closer to the shops, there is ample street parking throughout the Clive township. Because it’s a loop, you can technically hop onto the trail at various points, though starting at the reserve gives you that "big sky" river view right from the get-go.
For bird lovers, the Clive estuary and the river stopbanks are a paradise. The area where the rivers meet the sea is a rich feeding ground for a variety of native and migratory species.
* Bar-tailed Godwit (Kuaka): If you visit during the summer months, keep your eyes peeled for these incredible endurance flyers. They migrate all the way from Alaska to spend their summer in the New Zealand sun. White Heron (Kōtuku): Though they are occasional visitors, seeing a Kōtuku* is considered a sign of good luck in Māori culture. Their elegant white silhouettes are unmistakable against the blue of the river. * Royal Spoonbill (Kōtuku Ngutupapa): Look for these unique birds with their distinctive "spoon" bills wading in the shallows near the river mouth. * The Locals: You are almost guaranteed to see Pied Stilts, Black Swans, and White-fronted Terns year-round. Overhead, the Australasian Harrier (Swamp Harrier) is often seen circling the riverbanks looking for a snack.
Pro Tip: Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them. The best time for bird watching is usually an hour or two either side of high tide, as the rising water pushes the wading birds closer to the shore and the stopbanks.
Clive is beautiful year-round, but each season brings a different vibe:
* Spring & Summer: The best time for bird watching and enjoying the lush greenery of the township. However, Hawke’s Bay summers can be scorching! Start your walk early in the morning (around 8:00 am) to avoid the midday heat. * Autumn: The deciduous trees in the township put on a spectacular display of gold and orange, making the suburban part of the walk particularly beautiful. * Winter: The air is crisp and the views of the distant, often snow-capped ranges are stunning. It’s a great way to get some Vitamin D on a clear, blue-sky winter day.
What to pack: * Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the Hawke’s Bay sun is fierce. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen. * Footwear: While the track is flat and easy, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are recommended for the gravel sections. * Water: There aren't many drinking fountains along the river section, so carry a reusable bottle. * Windbreaker: The coastal "nor'wester" wind can pick up suddenly, so a light jacket is a good idea, even in summer.
To walk the Clive Heritage Trail is to understand the struggle and harmony between humans and water. The area was originally known as Waipureku, meaning "the meeting of the waters." For centuries, this was a site of strategic importance for Māori due to the abundance of resources from the rivers and the sea.
When European settlers arrived, they renamed the settlement after Lord Clive of India. The town became a vital port and transport hub for the Heretaunga Plains. However, the rivers that gave the town life also brought destruction; Clive has a long history of battling floods, which eventually led to the massive engineering projects (like the stopbanks you walk on today) that reshaped the landscape.
The 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake was another turning point. The land rose significantly, changing the river flows and the coastline forever. The heritage signs along the trail do a fantastic job of explaining these geological shifts, making you realise that the ground beneath your feet has quite a story to tell.
Once you’ve finished your loop, you’ll likely be ready for a "refuel." Fortunately, Clive has some of the best local spots in the region.
* The Clive Hotel: This is the perfect place for a post-hike lunch. It’s a classic, historic Kiwi pub with a modern twist. The 'Corner' cafe inside is very family-friendly, and if the weather is nice, their outdoor seating is a great place to relax with a cold drink. * Box Espresso: If you’re a coffee lover, you can’t miss this. Located in a refurbished shipping container, it’s a local favourite for a reason. It’s very dog-friendly and cycle-friendly, making it a popular hub for those using the nearby Hawkes Bay Trails. Their First Hand coffee is top-tier. * Clive Cafe and Bakery: For something quick and delicious, head here. Their pies and pastries are legendary among locals, and the staff are incredibly welcoming. It’s a great spot to grab a treat to enjoy back at the Evers-Swindell Reserve.
The Clive Heritage Trail is more than just a walk; it’s an invitation to slow down and connect with the heart of Hawke’s Bay. Whether you're interested in the Kōtuku in the estuary or the ghosts of the old township, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for this charming corner of New Zealand.
Best time: Year-round
Limosa lapponica
These incredible migratory birds undertake one of the longest non-stop flights of any animal, travelling 11,500km from Alaska to New Zealand for the summer.
Best time: Summer
Cygnus atratus
An iconic sight on New Zealand's waterways, these large, elegant birds are known for their entirely black plumage and striking red bills.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Circus approximans
New Zealand's largest bird of prey, the kāhu (Swamp Harrier) is often seen soaring slowly over open country, wetlands, and farmlands.
Best time: Year-round
900m away
Known for its friendly staff, good hot coffee, and tasty food in a clean and airy setting, it's a great spot for a post-hike treat.
1km away
A popular on-the-go coffee spot housed in a stylishly refurbished shipping container, offering First Hand coffee and local pastries. It's dog-friendly, cycle-friendly, and family-friendly.