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New Plymouth
2.7 km
48 minutes
4 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you find yourself in the vibrant city of New Plymouth, you likely already know about the world-famous Coastal Walkway. But what if I told you there is a serene, river-side sibling to that iconic path that offers a completely different, yet equally charming, perspective of the Taranaki landscape? Enter the Waiwhakaiho Walkway.
At just 2.7 kilometres long, this easy, point-to-point trail is the perfect way to spend an hour or so soaking in the natural beauty of the Waiwhakaiho River. Whether you are a local looking for a fresh dog-walking route, a family with little ones on their first bikes, or a tourist wanting to see the "green" side of the city, this walkway is a fantastic choice. It is flat, accessible, and provides a gentle transition from the leafy suburbs to the dramatic Taranaki coastline.
Stepping onto the Waiwhakaiho Walkway feels like taking a deep, refreshing breath. The trail primarily traces the western bank of the Waiwhakaiho River, a significant waterway that begins its journey high on the slopes of Mount Taranaki before winding its way down to the Tasman Sea. Because the elevation gain is a mere 4 metres over the entire distance, you won't find any heart-pumping climbs here—just a smooth, easy-going path that allows you to focus on your surroundings.
The journey typically starts in the quiet suburb of Merrilands. As you begin, the sound of the flowing river becomes your constant companion. The path is a shared-use track, which means you’ll likely share the space with friendly locals on cruisers, joggers, and parents pushing prams. The atmosphere is quintessential New Zealand: relaxed, polite, and deeply connected to the outdoors.
The terrain is well-maintained and wide enough for easy passing. As you meander northward, the scenery shifts beautifully. One moment you are tucked under a canopy of native trees with the river rushing past over smooth stones; the next, the landscape opens up as you pass through sections bordering local business areas. This transition is quite unique—it’s a reminder of how New Plymouth manages to weave nature into its urban fabric so seamlessly.
As you approach the Fitzroy end of the trail, you’ll pass the local netball courts. This marks the home stretch of the walkway, where the river widens and the air begins to carry that distinct, salty tang of the nearby ocean. The trail concludes near the mouth of the river, where it links up with the Coastal Walkway. If you still have energy in the tank, you can continue your adventure toward the iconic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge or head south back toward the city centre.
On-street parking is available at most access points along Riversdale Drive, Rimu Street, Devon Road, and Raiomiti Street.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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
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
1.4km away
A well-known cafe chain offering a range of breakfast, lunch, and coffee options, conveniently located near the Fitzroy end of the walkway.
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Point to point
While the entire walk is a highlight in itself, there are a few specific things to keep an eye out for:
The Waiwhakaiho Walkway is incredibly convenient to access, with multiple entry points depending on how much of the trail you want to cover.
On-street parking is readily available at most of these access points. If you are doing the walk as a point-to-point, you might consider parking one car at the Fitzroy end (near the netball courts or Lake Rotomanu) and another at Riversdale Drive. However, since the return trip only makes for a 5.4km total walk, most people find it manageable to simply walk back the way they came!
Pack your binoculars or just keep your ears open, as the Waiwhakaiho Walkway is a haven for birdlife. The combination of flowing water and established trees makes it a prime "supermarket" for many of our native species.
You are almost guaranteed to see the friendly Piwakawaka (Fantail). These tiny birds are famous for following walkers, flitting through the air to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You’ll also hear the melodic, clear notes of the Grey Warbler hidden deep in the foliage.
High in the canopy, look for the iridescent green and bronze feathers of the Tūī. They are particularly active when the flax is in flower. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) perched heavily on a branch—listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly.
Near the river's edge and as you get closer to the coast, you’ll see Black-backed Gulls and the occasional Spur-winged Plover patrolling the shallows.
One of the best things about this trail is that it is truly a walk for all seasons.
The Waiwhakaiho River is more than just a scenic backdrop; it holds significant cultural and historical importance. For local Māori, the river has long been a source of mahinga kai (food gathering) and a vital transport link. The name itself carries weight, and the river continues to be a focal point for local Iwi (tribes) in terms of guardianship and conservation.
The river is also a reminder of the powerful volcanic history of the region. Every stone in that riverbed originated from Mount Taranaki. During heavy rain, the river can transform from a gentle stream into a powerful torrent, carrying sediment from the mountain out to the sea.
The connection of this walkway to the Coastal Walkway and the nearby Te Rewa Rewa Bridge (which is designed to look like a whale skeleton or a breaking wave) highlights New Plymouth's commitment to creating a world-class network of non-motorised trails. It’s part of a bigger vision to keep the city walkable, bikeable, and beautiful.
Once you’ve finished your stroll, you’ll likely be looking for a caffeine fix or a tasty treat. You are in luck, as there are some excellent options nearby:
The Waiwhakaiho Walkway might be short, but it packs a lot of soul into its 2.7 kilometres. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes the best adventures don’t require a mountain of gear or a whole day—sometimes, all you need is a river, a path, and an hour to yourself.
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
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
Best time: Year-round
Vanellus miles
An introduced species, they are often seen in open paddocks and wetlands, known for their distinctive call and aggressive defence of nests.
Best time: Year-round
1.5km away
Nestled within Palmers garden centre, this cafe offers a delightful atmosphere with a garden setting, organic coffee, and homemade pastries. It's a relaxing spot for post-hike refreshments.
2.5km away
A bustling and popular cafe known for its great coffee and delicious food, making it a good spot for a post-walk refuel.