Mākōtuku River Walkway

Loop

One of the standout attractions is the sculpture walk. As you meander through the trees, keep your eyes peeled for various artistic installations that celebrate the local environment and culture. These pieces provide great "I-spy" opportunities for children and excellent focal points for amateur photographers looking to capture something a bit different from the standard forest shot.

For those visiting during the height of a New Zealand summer, the picturesque swimming holes are a major drawcard. There are several spots where the river slows down and deepens, offering a refreshing reprieve from the sun. However, a quick word of advice: water quality can fluctuate, especially after heavy rain or during long dry spells in summer, so it’s always worth checking the local conditions or simply using them as a spot for a quick toe-dip rather than a full immersion if you’re unsure.

If you happen to be staying overnight in Raetihi or at the nearby holiday park, do not miss the glow worm grotto. Once the sun dips below the horizon and the forest goes dark, a specific section of the track comes alive with tiny, twinkling blue lights. It’s a magical experience that turns a simple evening walk into a fairytale adventure—just remember to bring a torch for the walk back, but turn it off once you reach the grotto to let your eyes adjust!

Finally, the barbeque area is a highlight for those who want to make an afternoon of it. It’s a well-situated spot where you can sizzle some sausages or enjoy a picnic lunch while listening to the river. It’s these small additions that make the walkway feel less like a "track" and more like a community hub.

Getting There

Raetihi is a charming town that often serves as a gateway to the Ruapehu region, and the walkway is incredibly easy to find. There are multiple entry points along State Highway 4, meaning you can start your walk from almost anywhere in the village.

The most popular starting point is located just 300 metres north of the Raetihi Toyota garage (which sits at the main intersection of the town). You’ll see clear signage marking the entrance. Alternatively, if you are staying at the Raetihi Holiday Park, there is a convenient entry point located just to the south of the park grounds, making it the perfect "morning coffee" walk for campers.

Parking is straightforward. Because the entrances are so close to the township, street parking is generally available on the side roads near the trailheads. Just ensure you park safely off the main highway.

Wildlife Spotting

The Mākōtuku River acts as a natural corridor for birdlife, and the mix of native bush and open gardens means you’re likely to see a great variety of New Zealand’s feathered residents.

• Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex whistles, clicks, and gurgles. They are common year-round and are often seen darting between the flowering trees.
• Fantail / Pīwakawaka: These cheeky little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you. They love the insects stirred up by walkers, so expect them to flit around your feet or shoulders as you move through the bush.
• Kererū (NZ Pigeon): Keep an eye on the upper canopy, especially where there are berries. You might hear the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly overhead.
• Grey Warbler / Riroriro: Though they are tiny and hard to spot, their long, trilling song is the quintessential sound of the New Zealand bush.
• Morepork / Ruru: If you are heading out to see the glow worms at dusk or night, listen for the haunting "more-pork" call of our native owl. They are occasional residents here and are most active once the sun goes down.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to visit in the early morning. The "dawn chorus" along the river can be quite spectacular, especially in the spring months.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Mākōtuku River Walkway is truly a track for all seasons, with each time of year offering something unique:

• Spring: This is when the native bush is at its most vibrant. The new growth is a bright, electric green, and the birdlife is incredibly active and vocal.
• Summer: The best time for enjoying the swimming holes and the shade of the mature trees. It’s also the peak time for the glow worms.
• Autumn: Raetihi has many deciduous trees planted around the town, so the walk can be framed by beautiful gold and orange hues as the leaves turn.
• Winter: On a clear, crisp day, the air is incredibly fresh. You might even see a dusting of snow on the distant peaks of Mount Ruapehu while you enjoy the low-level sheltered walk of the river valley.

• Best time to start: Early morning for birdlife or an hour before sunset if you want to time your finish with the glow worm display.
• What to bring: Even though it’s a short walk, New Zealand weather can be fickle. Bring a light waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes (sneakers are fine), and a bottle of water. If you plan to swim, don't forget your towel!
• Sun Protection: The NZ sun is fierce. Even in the shade of the bush, it’s wise to "slip, slop, slap and wrap" before you head out.
• Insect Repellent: Being near a river, you might encounter a few sandflies or mosquitoes, especially in the late afternoon, so a bit of repellent is a good idea.

Local & Regional Context

Raetihi is a town with deep roots. Historically, it was a bustling timber town and a vital hub for the Waimarino district. The name Mākōtuku itself refers to the white heron (kōtuku), a bird of great significance in Māori culture, often symbolising something rare and beautiful.

The walkway is a testament to the modern spirit of the town. For years, local volunteers and community groups have worked tirelessly on native plant regeneration along the riverbanks. Every young tree you see planted is likely the result of a local’s hard work, aiming to restore the area to its former glory and provide a habitat for native species.

By walking this trail, you are stepping into a community project that connects the township’s colonial history with its Māori heritage and its conservation-focused future. It is a place where the locals take their evening "constitutional," where kids learn to ride their bikes, and where the natural beauty of the Ruapehu region is made accessible to everyone.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop, you’ll likely have worked up a bit of an appetite. Luckily, Raetihi has some fantastic local spots to refuel:

• Coach Cafe Raetihi: Located just half a kilometre from the walkway, this is a local favourite. It’s a homely, unpretentious spot known for its legendary hamburgers and "real" New Zealand pies—think fish or chicken pies that hit the spot after a walk. The coffee is consistently good, and the atmosphere is always friendly.
• Angel Louise Cafe: Just a little further down the road, this cafe offers a lovely outdoor garden area which is perfect for continuing that "nature" feeling. They do great hot food and snacks, and if you’re planning a bigger day of exploring, they can even put together a packed lunch for you. It’s very kid-friendly, making it a great second stop for families.

Whether you’re stopping for a quick leg-stretch or spending the afternoon exploring every nook and cranny, the Mākōtuku River Walkway is a delightful slice of Raetihi that shouldn’t be missed.

600m away

A charming cafe offering delicious coffee, hot food, and snacks for breakfast and lunch. They can provide packed lunches for adventurers and feature a lovely outdoor garden area and kid-friendly facilities.