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Raetihi
4 km
1 hour
50 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a breath of fresh air without the intensity of a mountain climb, the Mākōtuku River Walkway is Raetihi’s best-kept secret. This 4-kilometre loop offers a gentle, soul-soothing experience that perfectly captures the "heart of the mainland" vibe of the Waimarino district. Whether you are a local stretching your legs after work or a visitor breaking up a long road trip along State Highway 4, this trail provides a remarkably diverse landscape within a very manageable one-hour timeframe.
The walk begins by drawing you into a world where community effort and nature shake hands. The terrain is notably flat and well-maintained, making it a fantastic choice for those with prams or wheelchairs. As you set off, the path meanders alongside the gentle flow of the Mākōtuku River, where the sound of running water provides a constant, rhythmic backdrop to your journey.
What makes this walk particularly special is the transition in scenery. You’ll find yourself moving seamlessly between sections of regenerating native bush—where young ferns and shrubs are beginning to reclaim the land—and older, more established stands of mature trees that offer deep, cool shade. Interspersed among the wilder sections are beautifully landscaped garden areas, which give the walkway a "botanic garden" feel in parts. Because the trail consists of two distinct loops, you can choose to do the full circuit or a shorter version if you are pressed for time, but we highly recommend the full 4km to really soak in the atmosphere.
The path is wide and the gradients are almost non-existent, with an elevation gain of only 50 metres. This makes it an "easy" grade in the truest sense. For families, it’s a dream; kids can run ahead safely, and dog owners will find it a welcoming space for their furry companions (provided they are kept on a lead). You’ll likely share the path with a few local cyclists or even the occasional BMX rider heading towards the specialised bike sections, adding a sense of community life to your stroll.
The Mākōtuku River Walkway punches well above its weight when it comes to unique features. While many river walks are simply a path next to water, this one has been curated with a real sense of local pride.
Multiple entry points are available along State Highway 4 in Raetihi. The main access points are approximately 300 metres north of Raetihi Toyota (the garage at the main intersection) or just south of the Raetihi Holiday Park. Street parking is generally available near these entrances.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
500m away
A homely cafe known for its delicious hamburgers, fish and chicken pies, and good coffee. It offers a friendly atmosphere and is a great spot for a post-hike meal or takeout.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
The Mākōtuku River Walkway is truly a track for all seasons, with each time of year offering something unique:
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.
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:
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.
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
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
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Native owl also known as Ruru. Named for its distinctive two-note call heard at night.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus
Known for its vibrant blue-green plumage and spectacular dive-bombing hunting technique to catch prey.
Best time: Year-round
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.