Kitchener Park Cycleway

Loop

One of the most striking features is the Pukatea with its distinctive buttress roots. These roots spread out like the fins of a rocket ship to provide stability in the soft, swampy soil. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a great way to teach kids about how plants adapt to their environment.

Another highlight is the "stepping back in time" sensation. Because this is a remnant forest, it hasn't been cleared and replanted; it is a continuous link to the ancient landscape of the Manawatū. The way the light filters through the dense canopy, reflecting off the swampy pools of the wetland, creates a prehistoric aesthetic that feels like a scene straight out of a nature documentary.

Getting There Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists passing through. The park is located on the outskirts of Feilding.

To get there, head towards Kawakawa Road. You will find a well-marked, sealed car park that provides easy access to the start of the trails. A quick tip for the planners: the entrance gate is controlled and locked at dusk, so make sure you’ve finished your exploration and moved your vehicle before the sun goes down!

For those who appreciate sustainable facilities, you’ll find eco-friendly compostable toilets right next to the car park. They are well-maintained and fit perfectly with the park's "leave no trace" ethos.

Wildlife Spotting Kitchener Park is a haven for native birdlife. The combination of ancient fruiting trees and a reliable water source from the nearby streams means the "bush telegraph" is always active here.

• Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex melodies and that iconic "grunt and whistle." They are common year-round and particularly love the nectar from the Kōwhai trees.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): These large, iridescent green and white birds are often seen perched heavily on branches or flying with a distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of wings.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds will often follow you along the boardwalk, flitting around to catch the tiny insects your footsteps disturb.
• Riroriro (Grey Warbler): Though they are tiny and hard to spot, their long, trilling song is a constant soundtrack to the forest.

Pro Tip: If you visit in the early morning or late afternoon, the bird chorus is at its peak. Bring a pair of binoculars and stand still on the boardwalk for five minutes; you’ll be amazed at how much wildlife emerges once the forest forgets you’re there.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips The Kitchener Park Cycleway is truly a year-round destination, but each season brings a different "flavour" to the experience:

• Spring: This is arguably the best time for birdwatchers, as the Kōwhai begins to bloom, attracting Tūī and Bellbirds in droves.
• Summer: The deep shade of the podocarp canopy offers a perfect escape from the heat. It’s a natural air conditioner!
• Autumn & Winter: The forest takes on a moodier, more atmospheric feel. The mosses and lichens become vibrant green against the dark bark of the trees.

• The Wetland Factor: This is a natural semi-swamp. Following heavy rain, the area can flood. While the boardwalk keeps you dry in most conditions, the park may occasionally close for safety during significant flood events.
• What to Wear: Even though the path is easy, wear sturdy walking shoes. If you’re visiting in summer, insect repellent is a must, as the wetland environment is a favourite playground for mosquitoes.
• Dogs: Your four-legged friends are more than welcome to join you, but they must be on a lead. This is a protected ecosystem with fragile ground plants and nesting birds, so keeping them on the designated paths is crucial.
• Kid-Friendly: This is one of the most kid-friendly walks in the region. The flat terrain and the "jungle-like" feel of the boardwalk make it an exciting adventure for little ones without being exhausting.

Local & Regional Context The land that Kitchener Park sits on has a deep and significant history. It is closely connected to the Ngāti Kauwhata iwi, who settled in the Awahuri area in the early 1800s. For the local Māori, these forests were essential for food, medicine, and spiritual connection. Knowing that the iwi have walked this land for centuries adds a profound layer of respect to your visit.

Geographically, the park is tucked between the Makino and Mangaone West streams and sits near the Oroua River. This convergence of waterways is what creates the unique wetland conditions that allow the Kahikatea to thrive. In a region where so much land has been converted to agriculture, Kitchener Park stands as a vital "green lung" and a reminder of the Manawatū’s natural heritage. Ongoing conservation efforts continue to protect this area from invasive weeds and predators, ensuring the 800-year-old trees survive for another few centuries.

After the Walk Once you’ve finished your loop and filled your lungs with fresh forest air, you’re only a five-minute drive from the heart of Feilding, which has some fantastic spots to refuel.

If you’re after a hearty meal, The Strong Room (3.8km away) is a local favourite. It’s a stylish gastropub housed in a historic building, offering excellent modern bistro food and a great selection of local meats. For something more casual, Essence Cafe & Bar (3.7km away) is an award-winning spot perfect for a coffee and a slice of cake—it’s very family-friendly and has a welcoming vibe.

If you’ve got the kids with you and they’re craving pizza, The Farmers Son (3.6km away) offers fantastic wood-fired options in a rustic, relaxed setting. Or, if you’re visiting later in the day and fancy a pint, Murrays Irish Public House (3.5km away) is the place to go for a Guinness and some traditional pub fare.

Whether you're a Feilding local or just passing through the Manawatū, the Kitchener Park Cycleway is a short but soul-filling journey into New Zealand’s past. It’s easy, it’s beautiful, and it’s a powerful reminder of the ancient world that still exists right on our doorstep.

3.6km away

Feilding's home of wood-fired pizza and hearty meals, offering a warm and welcoming modern rustic feel. Family-friendly dining, perfect for relaxed meals.