Settlers Track

Out and back

While the Settlers Track is short, it is packed with beautiful details. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for along the way:

• Victoria Bridge from Below: Walking directly underneath this historic steel arch bridge is a real highlight. Built in 1907, it is one of Cambridge's most iconic landmarks, and looking up at its intricate steelwork from the forest floor is a treat for history and engineering buffs alike.
• The Riverside Ecology: Because the path hugs the water, you will get an intimate look at a thriving riverine ecosystem. Look closely at the damp, fallen logs and mossy banks beside the path—you will find an enchanting miniature world of delicate ferns, liverworts, and velvet-green mosses thriving in the damp river air.
• Community Replantings: Much of the lush greenery you see today is thanks to the incredible work of the Cambridge Tree Trust. They have worked tirelessly to replace old pine trees with thriving native and exotic species, transforming the riverbank into a rich, biodiverse corridor.

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Getting There

The Settlers Track is highly accessible from downtown Cambridge, meaning you don't have to travel far to get your nature fix.

The main trailhead starts near the intersection of Bath Street and Shakespeare Street. If you prefer to start from the opposite end, you can access the track from Riverside Park on Dominion Avenue.

• Dominion Avenue Skate Park: This is a highly recommended starting point as it offers plenty of parking and public toilet facilities.
• Hallys Lane Parking, Gaslight Theatre Parking, & Cook Street Parking: All of these town-centre parking options are just a short walk from the trailhead, making it easy to park the car, enjoy the walk, and head straight into town for a bite to eat.

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Wildlife Spotting

The restoration of native plants along the Waikato River has created a fantastic habitat for local birdlife. As you wander beneath the canopy, keep your ears open for the beautiful chorus of native birds.

• Tūī (Common, Year-round): You are almost guaranteed to hear the metallic, melodic whistles of the tūī. Look up into the canopy to spot their glossy, iridescent feathers and distinctive white throat tufts.
• Piwakawaka / Fantail (Common, Year-round): These friendly, inquisitive little birds love to flutter right alongside walkers, darting through the air to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Riroriro / Grey Warbler (Common, Year-round): Though they are tiny and often hard to spot in the foliage, their long, trilling song is a constant and peaceful accompaniment to your walk.
• Kererū (Occasional, Year-round): Keep an eye out for these large, heavy-set wood pigeons. You will often hear the loud whoosh-whoosh of their wings before you see them resting on branches.
• Makomako / Bellbird (Occasional, Year-round): Listen for their clear, bell-like notes ringing through the trees, particularly in the quieter morning hours.
• Pīpīwharauroa / Shining Cuckoo (Occasional, Spring-Summer): If you are walking during the warmer months, listen out for their high-pitched, ascending whistle—a classic sign that summer has arrived in New Zealand.

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Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Settlers Track is a beautiful walk at almost any time of year, but planning your visit can help you get the absolute most out of the experience.

• Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Autumn are the premier times to visit. During these seasons, the path is dry, the foliage is lush, and the birdlife is highly active.
• Winter Considerations: Because sections of this track sit right at water level, they can occasionally be subject to flooding during heavy winter rains. If you do visit in winter, check local conditions first and wear sturdy footwear, as the path can become muddy and slippery.
• Best Time of Day: Early morning is magical on the river. The mist often hangs low over the water, the air is crisp, and the birds are at their most vocal. Alternatively, a late afternoon walk offers beautiful golden light filtering through the trees.
• What to Bring: Standard walking shoes or trainers are perfect for this flat gravel path. Bring a light jacket, a bottle of water, and some insect repellent, as the damp riverside environment can attract a few friendly mosquitoes.

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Local & Regional Context

The Waikato River (Waikato-Taniwharau) is New Zealand's longest river and holds immense spiritual, cultural, and historical significance for local iwi (tribes). For centuries, it served as a vital highway for travel, trade, and sustenance.

In more recent history, the town of Cambridge developed as a colonial outpost, earning the nickname "The Town of Trees" due to the early settlers' love for planting exotic European trees alongside native flora.

The Settlers Track highlights this unique blend of heritage. The local Cambridge Tree Trust, a volunteer-led group established in 1991, has spent decades actively transforming the riverbanks. By clearing wild pine and invasive weeds, they have allowed both native New Zealand plants and beautiful exotic species to flourish, creating a vibrant green belt that honors both the natural heritage of the land and the town’s leafy identity.

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After the Walk

Once you have finished your riverside stroll, you are perfectly positioned to enjoy some of Cambridge’s famous hospitality. Here are some fantastic nearby spots to refuel, all within a short distance of the trail:

• Paddock (1km away): This vibrant, modern cafe is a local favourite. It's the perfect spot to grab an excellent Supreme coffee, a fresh salad, or one of their famous bagels. They focus heavily on organic, seasonal produce and free-range meats, offering a clean and delicious post-walk treat.
• Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar (1.1km away): If you are looking for something a bit more substantial, this refined yet casual bistro offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the heart of town, their seasonal lunch and dinner menus feature gorgeous local ingredients.
• Good Union (1.1km away): Housed in a beautifully restored church, this lively eatery is famous for its authentic wood-smoked BBQ and range of Good George craft beers and ciders. It’s an incredibly relaxed spot to sit in the sun and swap stories after your walk.
• The Clubhouse Sports Bar (1.7km away): Located at the Cambridge Raceway, this family-friendly venue offers a relaxed, informal setting with a great all-day menu. It is an ideal spot to unwind with a cold drink while enjoying panoramic views of the track.

Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.

Best time: Year-round

1.1km away

A refined-casual bistro in the heart of Cambridge, offering seasonal menus with local ingredients in a warm atmosphere. Great for lunch or dinner.