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Manawatū River Pathway and He Ara Kotahi: A Local Link

MANAWATŪ RIVER PATHWAY AND HE ARA KOTAHI: A LOCAL LINK

Like links in a chain, the Manawatū River Pathway and He Ara Kotahi connect Palmerston North city, neighbouring suburbs and our university and research institutes with forestry, farmland, and parks. Some days it may be a commute, other days an adventure. Whether with the whānau, walking buddies, or your fluffy friends – this pathway is a convenient shortcut, an escape from the 9-5, and a playground for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, all wrapped into one.

With over 15kms of clearly marked riverside pathways, bridges and trails to roam, it’s easy to see why so many enjoy exploring this network of trails, venturing through rich farmland, wildflowers, forests, pā sites, a military camp, streams, parks and gardens, and lush native bush filled with birdsong.

Bikers and runners weave in and out of walkers, dogs and prams, whether they’re exercising, exploring, or on their daily commute..

So, whether it’s your first time visiting, your standard commute or a daily favourite to get the steps up, here’s a few highlights to keep an eye out for along the way.

RECONNECT WITH THE RIVER

Venture off the paved path along well-trodden dirt paths down to the rocky riverbanks, and reach the river’s edge. Here you can skip stones, connect with nature, and find a moment of mindfulness. Along the way are several sets of giant steps where you can picnic, ponder and soak up the awa views. 

Make sure to check our Guide to Staying Safe before getting into the water.

HE ARA KOTAHI AND FOUR BRIDGES

The striking He Ara Kotahi bridge is aptly named the “pathway that brings people together” – where visitors, trainers, and commuters  can merge city with country, past with present and work with home and play. 

Originally designed to provide a safe and direct route to educational centres east of the river, it’s also an opportunity for residents and guests to connect with the rich farmland, and the history of surrounding areas. 

More than just a bridge, this piece of local toi (art) exists for the people and by the people. The entirety of the design gives nod to the karaka tree grove that originally provided food and shelter for the local early settlers, the Rangitāne iwi. At night, be sure to watch underfoot for the bespoke Rangitāne design, cleverly lit and patterned to symbolise the puriri waka and koru – life in the tree and the people around it. 

But don’t stop there! 

Carry on to the lesser known (but just as adventurous) series of four unique bridges along the undulating 7.1km track to Linton Military Camp. Each with its own impressive design, the bridges bring you up to forest blocks, amongst a canopy of native trees, over an eel breeding site, and swinging over a stream. 

WORKOUT (AND WIND DOWN) WITH A VIEW

The wide open flat spaces of Manawatū River Pathway and He Ara Kotahi beat the treadmill any day. With sign-posted running and walking loops of every distance imaginable, it doesn’t matter if you are exercising your pup or yourself, there are options for marathon runners and casual joggers alike. Fitness fans can find their happy place amongst the open-air gym equipment available near the Fitzherbert Avenue entrance near the road bridge. Those who prefer the slower approach will find bench seats strategically placed to stop and take in the seasonal views.  

ADVENTURES ON TWO WHEELS

Cyclists and mountain bikers, follow your nose through the fragrant pine forest by the Albert Street entrance to find a few special trails and ride a dirt pump track amongst the trees. Head west and you’ll find another hidden network of dirt trails and pathways at Ahimate Reserve

Though walkers and cyclists share the path, those on two wheels will also find mini-tracks to ride along the way, with dips, jumps and bumps thrown in for those seeking an adrenaline fix. 

EXPLORE VICTORIA ESPLANADE

Between the Fitzherbert Avenue bridge and He Ara Kotahi there’s a plethora of bush trails that merge into Victoria Esplanade for more nature time. Explore with a curious mind and you’ll find world-renowned rose gardens,, a paddling pool, duck pond, aviary, a flying fox, Café Esplanade, the Esplanade Scenic RailwayCentral Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery and a variety of playgrounds for all ages. 

SEEK HIDDEN GEMS

Like the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, Awapuni’s Ahimate Reserve, is a local favourite at the end of Maxwell's Line. Catch some rays or bring your bike to tackle the thrilling tracks and jumps of the mountain bike park, or let your pooch run off-leash with Palmy’s finest dog agility park. Tamariki can play the day away while connecting with the environment, on a natural playground full of giant logs and low-hanging trees.   

At 22  hectares, the Manawatū River Pathway weaves through the entirety of the park. Rich with local history, and home to a fairy grotto, local art, and even a resident ghost in the trees, it’s treasured for its sense of wilderness and remoteness. Visit once and chances are you’ll keep coming back again and again. 

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