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Foxton Beach
4.4 km
1 hour 12 minutes
50 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a breath of fresh coastal air combined with the peaceful, earthy scent of a pine forest, the Cousins Ave Track in Foxton Beach is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located just a short hop from the wild Tasman Sea, this track offers a different kind of coastal experience—one where the roar of the surf is softened by a canopy of mature trees and the ground beneath your boots is a soft carpet of pine needles.
Whether you are a local looking for your daily dose of nature or a visitor exploring the Manawatū region, this 4.4-kilometre loop is the definition of "easy-going." It is the kind of place where you can switch off your phone, let the kids burn off some energy, and truly enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors.
Stepping onto the Cousins Ave Track, you are immediately greeted by the towering presence of a mature pine plantation. The terrain here is wonderfully flat and consistent, making it an ideal choice for anyone—from seasoned hikers looking for a recovery stroll to families with little ones in tow. With only 50 metres of elevation gain across the entire loop, you won’t find any heart-pumping climbs here, just a steady, rhythmic walk through a landscape that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle.
The trail winds gracefully through the forest, where the dappled light filters through the needles, creating shifting patterns on the forest floor. There is something incredibly therapeutic about the sound of the wind sighing through the pines—a soft, rushing noise that mimics the nearby ocean. As you move through the loop, the scenery shifts slightly, occasionally opening up into rear dunes and grassed clearings. These open spaces serve as a gentle reminder that you are on the edge of the coast, with the salt air ever-present in the breeze.
One of the best things about this track is its versatility. It’s not just for walkers; it’s a shared-use haven. You’ll likely see mountain bikers humming along the well-maintained paths. For those with children just learning to ride off-road, there is a fantastic 1.8-kilometre section of the trail specifically designed for novice riders. It’s safe, flat, and a brilliant way to build confidence before they tackle the more adventurous 6 kilometres of trails that extend into the adjacent forestry.
The walk typically takes around an hour and 15 minutes at a leisurely pace. Because it is a loop, there’s no need to worry about backtracking, and the well-marked paths mean you can simply relax and follow your nose. It’s a dog-friendly paradise, too, so expect to see plenty of happy pups enjoying the scents of the forest.
The main entrance and car park for the Cousins Ave Track are located at the very end of Cousins Ave West in Foxton Beach. There are other access and egress points along Cousins Ave. The car park area is spacious enough to accommodate horse floats, as equestrian groups also have access to the reserve.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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: Spring-Summer
Best time: Winter
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
1.5km away
A popular local spot in Foxton Beach offering a relaxing atmosphere for coffee, meals, and wine. It's an ideal place for a post-hike refreshment.
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Loop
While the forest itself is the main attraction, the Cousins Ave Track has several standout features that make it a local favourite:
Finding the trailhead is straightforward. The main entrance and a spacious car park are located at the very end of Cousins Ave West in Foxton Beach.
If you are coming from the main Foxton township, head west toward the beach and follow the signs for Cousins Ave. The car park is large enough to accommodate horse floats, which is a common sight here as the reserve is also open to equestrian groups. There are several other access and egress points along Cousins Ave if you happen to be staying nearby and want to join the track from a different spot.
The Cousins Ave Track is located right next door to one of New Zealand’s most significant ecological sites: the Manawatū Estuary. Because of this proximity, the birdlife in and around the track is exceptional, particularly where the forest opens up near the dunes.
For the best birdwatching, a quick five-minute drive or a short walk from the track to the estuary lookout is highly recommended. The estuary is a Ramsar site, meaning it is recognised internationally for its importance to bird conservation.
The Cousins Ave Track is truly a year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:
Foxton Beach isn't just a holiday spot; it’s a place with deep roots. For Māori, the Manawatū River and its estuary have been a vital source of mahinga kai (food gathering) for centuries. The area is rich in history, from the early days of the flax trade to its current status as a premier spot for kiteboarding and birdwatching.
The Cousins Ave Track sits within a reserve that represents a balance between industry (the pine plantation) and conservation. The nearby Manawatū Estuary is one of only a handful of Ramsar-listed sites in New Zealand, highlighting the global importance of this particular stretch of coastline. By walking here, you’re stepping into an area where the community works hard to preserve the delicate balance between recreation and environmental protection.
Once you’ve finished your loop and dusted the pine needles off your shoes, you’ll likely be ready for a "refuel." Luckily, Foxton Beach has some fantastic spots just a few minutes away:
The Cousins Ave Track might be easy on the legs, but it’s big on rewards. It offers a sense of peace and a connection to the coast that is uniquely "Foxton." Whether you’re on foot, on a bike, or on horseback, it’s a slice of New Zealand outdoors that everyone should experience.
Best time: Year-round
Best time: Year-round
Anarhynchus frontalis
The only bird in the world with a beak that is bent sideways, always to the right, a unique adaptation for feeding in braided rivers.
Best time: Winter
1.5km away
Located on Signal Street, this eatery offers a range of food options in a beachside setting, perfect for a casual meal after exploring the track.
1.8km away
Found on Seabury Avenue, this cafe provides another great option for coffee and light bites, offering a cozy atmosphere in Foxton Beach.
5.5km away
Located a short drive away in Foxton town, this popular restaurant is known for its Asian and Kiwi fusion cuisine, offering a diverse menu with a welcoming atmosphere.