A park on Lake Horowhenua, historic gardens and a steep trail with panoramic views as far as Kapiti Island and Mount Ruapehu offer different ways to explore Levin. Your plans for the day may influence your choice of accommodation: alongside parks and cultural attractions in town, there are short forest walks and the climb to Kohitere Trig. There are also rules governing activities on the lake that you should take into account when planning your visit.
Park on Lake Horowhenua
The landscaped Muaūpoko Park is on Lake Horowhenua (Punahau). The grounds include a playground and views of the lake. Lake Horowhenua is not suitable for swimming, and motorboats are not permitted. You can walk into the park via the entrance on Queen Street; vehicle access is not guaranteed. Bear this in mind when planning your visit.
Play areas and gardens
Levin Adventure Park offers a wide range of facilities, including a flying fox, wobble drums, a rope course, a climbing wall, a fitness trail, a mini basketball court, a skate area, a sand volleyball court, accessible swings and pétanque courts. There is also a separate dog exercise area. Children under five have a brightly designed play area; other play equipment is intended for all age groups. Facilities may change, so it is worth checking before your visit.
The Rotary-operated miniature railway runs free rides on weekends and during school holidays from 12 to 2 pm. Check in advance whether the rides are operating. There are also three parking spaces for self-contained motorhomes in the northern car park at Adventure Park.
The Nola Simpson Rose Garden surrounds the historic Levin Courthouse, built in 1903, and is home to many varieties of roses. It is named after Nola Simpson, an award-winning rose breeder from New Zealand. Another green space is Thompson House Park, on the grounds of the historic Thompson House. It has botanical attractions in every season. The park first received Green Flag status in 2018/2019, and the award has been renewed every year since.
Forest trails and panoramic views
Prouse Bush Reserve contains preserved podocarp forest and offers short walking trails in Levin’s southeastern industrial and residential areas. There is also a picnic area; the reserve is about a five-minute drive from the town centre. Kohitere Trig offers a different kind of outing: the steep climb is about two kilometres long and takes approximately 60 minutes to reach the summit. From the top of the Kohitere Trig Walk, panoramic views stretch beyond Horowhenua, south to Kapiti Island and north to Mount Ruapehu.
Access to Kohitere Forest is across private land; public access is considered a privilege. Check the current signage before visiting. Kohitere Trig provides access to Tararua Forest Park via Kohitere Forest. The trail also connects with the Mangahao-Makahika Track towards Palmerston North and forms part of the Te Araroa Trail. Check trail conditions before setting out.
Culture, shopping and getting around
Te Takeretanga o Kura-hau-pÅ brings together leisure, cultural, learning, digital and social services in the heart of Levin. The cultural and community centre includes library services as well as services and facilities for the community, businesses, young people and visitors. For a different perspective on the town, browse its second-hand shops, outlet stores and antique shops. Roadside stalls sell fresh produce; what is available at each stall may vary.
The Day Out In Town bus service offers low-cost rides every Friday between Levin, WaitÄrere Beach, Foxton, Foxton Beach and Shannon. Check the current timetable before travelling.
In the wider Horowhenua District
Beyond Levin, the wider Horowhenua District offers another nature experience: Papaitonga Scenic Reserve has a short, easy trail around a dune lake, with views and opportunities for birdwatching. The reserve is an important refuge for birds that depend on wetlands or lowland forests. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Foxton.
Go to the wider travel guide: Horowhenua District.
