Peep-O-Day route:

on the country road

Aptly named after Peep-o-Day, which is the first place in northern
Manawatū to see the morning sun

This scenic Manawatū route cuts in off State Highway One and travels through sweeping valleys.

Watch the landscape evolve as you travel past ranges, dramatic limestone cliffs, lush farmland, world class gardens and historical buildings.

Peep-o-Day Route takes through stunning, yet unseen landscape of rural Manawatū. Between Rangiwahia and Apiti, make the most of Iron Gates Experience with some great local knowledge and experiences.

Download The Country Road Brochure for a map and full details on the Peep-O-Day Route.

Friends at Ian McKean Pinetum foxgloves and rainbow ManawatuNZ.co .nz

Palmerston North & Manawatu | WhiteCliff Boulders walk

Cross Hills Gardens courtesy irongates.co .nz

Duration:

2 days

oHINGAITI to pALMERSTON nORTH

Distance: 107 - 155km each way
Surface: 100% Sealed Roads

DAY 1.

Rangiwahia Scenic Reserve, Manawatū

ohingaiti — ĀPITI

40km, 45mins

HIGHLIGHTS

If you are heading south down SH1, turn left onto Otara Road just before Ohingaiti.

Experience middle earth at the magical and extremely intriguing Whitecliff boulders, just 12km off SH1 (approx 4km on gravel road, not recommended for motorhomes).

Known as cannon ball concretions made from mudstone, they have to be seen to be believed. Enjoy the 2 km walk across farmland down into the Boulders from the car park. Open from October to July, no bookings necessary. This is a self guided walk with a reasonable degree of fitness required, $5 per adult.

Experience native NZ bush and learn the various native tree names at Rangiwahia Bush Reserve walk.

Further up the road, head to Ian McKean Pinetum which is home to more than 1500 conifers trees planted across 14 hectares of rugged hill-country.

Stop at Apiti for the night and meet the locals at Apiti Tavern and Eatery for a highly rated meal.

see & do

WhiteCliff Boulders
Rangiwahia Scenic Reserve Walk
Ian McKean Pinetum
Rangiwahia Hut Walk
Mangahuia Wetlands
Apiti Tavern & Eatery

where to stay

Distance from Ohingaiti (SH1)
- Āpiti Domain (47km)
- The Last Church in Āpiti – Renovated cosy and quirky church. (46km)
- Makoura Lodge - Country accommodation with onsite activities. (52km)

Top Tip!

Next petrol station is Feilding, up to 125km away. Make sure you fuel up in the township of Mangaweka before starting your journey.

Āpiti — Palmerston North

62km, 56 mins

HIGHLIGHTS

Peep-o-Day Route follows through the high altitude village of Kimbolton, which is a gardener’s delight – home to several world-class gardens, including Cross Hills Gardens. Travel past historical monuments, rural villages, hidden swimming spots and magical viewing points.

SEE & DO

- Cross Hills Gardens - Best time during October and November
- Heritage Park Rhododendron Gardens
- Hansens Cafe
- Feilding

where to stay

- Londons Ford, Kimbolton (basic camping, campervan)
- Heritage Tiny Home
- Rangeview Bed and Breakfast, Colyton
- Brindle Cottages - unique Bed & Breakfast

See all Feilding and Palmerston North Accommodation

Over 2000 Rhododendrons at Cross Hills Gardens

Truck Display John Deere at Coachhouse Museum 1

Day 2.

John Deere collection at The Coach House Museum

Manawatu | Feilding Farmers Market fresh produce circle

Top Tip!

Visit on a Friday! The charming town of Feilding comes alive on a Friday with all the local farmers in town for the weekly stock sales.

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Peep-O-Day route:

on the country road