Manawatū Gorge Loop Track (Woodville End)

Loop

Another charming highlight is the series of small interpretive signs dotted along the path. These weren't created by a government agency, but by the students of College Street Normal School. Their insights and perspectives on the bush provide a delightful, educational layer to the walk. It’s wonderful to see the forest through the eyes of the next generation of conservationists, and kids will love reading what other children have discovered about the plants and animals here.

For the photographers among us, the nikau groves offer incredible opportunities for "forest bathing" style shots. The way the light filters through the palm fronds, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, creates a magical, dappled effect that is hard to beat.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making it a great pit-stop for those travelling between the Hawke’s Bay and the Manawatū. The track is located at the Woodville end of the gorge.

From State Highway 3, you’ll turn onto Ballance Gorge Road and cross the iconic Ballance Bridge. Immediately after the bridge, you’ll find a dedicated carpark. The trailhead is clearly marked from this point. If you are coming from the Woodville side, it’s a very short five-minute drive. For those coming from Palmerston North, the drive takes about 15 to 20 minutes through the scenic Ashhurst end.

Across the road from the carpark, you’ll find the Ballance Domain. This is a great spot to regroup before or after your walk, as it features a playground for the kids and public toilet facilities.

Wildlife Spotting

The Manawatū Gorge is a vital ecological corridor, and even on this short loop, the birdlife is abundant. Because the track is so easy and quiet, the birds often feel bold enough to come quite close to the path.

• Tūī: You will almost certainly hear them before you see them. Their complex melodies, clicks, and whistles provide a constant soundtrack to the walk. Look up into the canopy of the flowering trees to spot their iridescent feathers and white throat tufts.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed companions. They love to follow hikers, flitting around your head to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): Keep an ear out for the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of wings. These large, colourful birds are often seen perched on branches, looking somewhat clumsy as they feast on berries.
• Korimako (Bellbird): While a bit more elusive than the tūī, their clear, bell-like notes are frequently heard, especially in the early morning.
• Riroriro (Grey Warbler): Listen for their long, trilling song. They are tiny and camouflaged, so you’ll need sharp eyes to spot them amongst the foliage.

Tip: For the best birdwatching, try to visit in the early morning or as the sun begins to set. This is when the "dawn chorus" or evening activity is at its peak.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Manawatū Gorge Loop Track is truly a year-round destination, but each season brings a slightly different vibe:

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vibrant. The new growth is a bright, electric green, and the birdlife is incredibly active and vocal.
• Summer: The deep shade of the tawa canopy makes this one of the coolest places to be in the region. It’s a perfect escape from the summer heat.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the forest floor is often damp, bringing out the earthy scents of the bush.
• Winter: While it can be chilly, the forest remains lush and evergreen. The track is well-maintained, so it rarely gets excessively muddy, though good sneakers are recommended.

• Footwear: While the track is easy, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are best. Avoid jandals if it has rained recently, as the surface can occasionally be a bit slick.
• Water: It’s only a 30-minute walk, but a bottle of water is always a good idea, especially if you’re exploring with kids.
• Sun protection: Even under the canopy, NZ’s sun is strong. Wear sunscreen for the walk from the carpark to the bush edge.
• Bug spray: Being a damp, native forest environment, you might encounter a few sandflies or mosquitoes, particularly near the river end.

Note on Dogs: Please leave your furry friends at home for this one. To protect the sensitive native birdlife and the unique ecosystem of the gorge, dogs are not permitted on this track.

Local & Regional Context

Te Āpiti (the Manawatū Gorge) is a place of immense geological and cultural significance. Geologically, it is a rarity; the Manawatū River is one of the few in the world that flows from the east of a mountain range to the west. Over millions of years, the river cut through the rising land, creating this dramatic "gap" between the Ruahine Range to the north and the Tararua Range to the south.

For Māori, the gorge is steeped in legend. One story tells of a great giant log named Okatia that forced its way through the mountain ranges, creating the pathway for the river to follow. Historically, the gorge was a vital transport route for iwi (tribes) and later for European settlers.

Today, the gorge is the focus of a massive collaborative conservation project involving local councils, iwi, and the Department of Conservation. The goal is to restore the biodiversity of the area, making it a safe haven for native species. By walking this loop, you are visiting a landscape that is being carefully preserved for future generations.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and emerged back into the daylight, you’ll likely have worked up a small appetite. Woodville is just five minutes down the road and offers some fantastic local hospitality:

• Cafe 88: This is a favourite for a reason. Located on the main street, it has a lovely courtyard where you can sit and enjoy a coffee and a slice of cake. Their menu is generous and the atmosphere is very welcoming to hikers.
• Wind Farm Cafe: If you’re looking for a cozy, homely feel, this is the spot. It’s a great place to grab a warm savoury muffin or a hearty lunch.
• Fish Spot: For something more casual, you can’t go wrong with a classic NZ fish and chips. It’s a local staple and perfect for a quick, filling meal before you hit the road again.

Whether you are a local looking for a quick nature fix or a visitor wanting to see the "real" New Zealand, the Manawatū Gorge Loop Track is a small but mighty experience that showcases the very best of our native flora and fauna.

4.5km away

A popular and welcoming cafe located on Woodville's main street, known for its pleasant courtyard dining experience.