In the Rangitikei District, forest tracks, river views and historic sites tell different stories. A walk might lead to a memorial park, a track through a forest sanctuary to a hut; elsewhere, art, settlement history or activities on the water take centre stage. This makes it possible to explore the region according to your own interests, without every discovery having to be the same kind of outing.
Forest Tracks, Plants and Views
Near Taihape, a three-hour track leads through Hihitahi Forest Sanctuary to Seke’s Hut, which has four sleeping spaces. Along the way, it passes through forest and stands of mountain cedar, also known as kaikawaka. Views stretch across the plateau landscape to Ruapehu. Paengaroa Scenic Reserve near Taihape offers a different botanical focus: it is home to many rare species and more plants with a divaricating growth form than any similarly sized area in New Zealand.
In Hunterville, an easy track in Bruce Park passes through a remnant of podocarp and broadleaf forest. Other attractions mentioned there include long-tailed bats, large native trees and fungi. Children can also earn a Kiwi Guardians medal in the park. At Mangaweka Scenic Reserve, a short loop track with views over the terraces of the Rangitīkei River is the main attraction.
Walking times also provide a practical guide: the Marton Memorial Park Walkway is a loop behind the park and takes about 20 minutes. McPherson’s Bush near Hunterville has three tracks with walking times of 10 minutes, 30 minutes and one hour. The three tracks at Pryce’s Rahui Reserve take between 20 minutes and an hour; allow 1.5 to 2 hours to combine them. Tutaenui Reserve near Marton adds a permanent orienteering course to the selection, with easy, intermediate and difficult routes.
By the Water and on the Road
Dudding Lake near Marton offers several ways to spend time by the water: visitors can enjoy the lake during the day, and a 2-kilometre track goes all the way around it. Swimming, boating, jet skiing and water skiing are also possible there. Check current operating conditions before visiting and follow the applicable conditions for activities on the water.
For a different perspective on the landscape, Gentle Annie is presented as a drive-and-cycle route from Taihape to Hawke’s Bay. The route offers 360-degree views and plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery of the upper Rangitīkei District. Road and route conditions can change, so check the latest information before setting out. A short section of Te Araroa – Whanganui – Bulls follows a 4-kilometre track along a black-sand beach to the settlement of Koitiata.
Art, Settlement History and Distinctive Structures
In Bulls, the annual Wear-a-Bull Arts Event celebrates local artistic expression, creativity and craftsmanship in an art and fashion show. The Bulls Museum explores the history of settlers in the Bulls District, from the earliest settlers to the present day. In Marton, the Marton Historic Village brings together museum buildings from the early settlement period. Historic furniture, household appliances, war relics and other materials offer an insight into local history.
Marton Memorial Park combines landscaped garden paths with remembrance: trees commemorate members of the British royal family, as well as important local dates and historical events. Statues are dedicated to those who fell in the First and Second World Wars, the South African War and other conflicts. Several Māori storage pits have been found in the wooded section of the north-facing cliff at Sutherland-Puriri Reserve.
Near Mangaweka, Mangaweka Bridge was built in 1904 as a road bridge over the Rangitīkei River. It is considered New Zealand’s only surviving cantilever road bridge. Rangatira Golf Club near Mangaweka has an 18-hole course on three levels, with views of the river. An electric cable car is described as the only one of its kind in New Zealand.
In Mangaweka, the Yellow Church Gallery is on State Highway 1. It is also the venue for the biennial FAKES & FORGERIES exhibitions; check the date of the next exhibition separately. Check the gallery’s and Hunterville Settlers Museum’s current visiting arrangements before you go. The museum’s collection includes local buildings, including a barn, a blacksmith’s workshop and Roper Cottage. In Taihape, the Gumboot Statue shows how No. 8 wire and corrugated iron were transformed into a sculpture.
Those interested in river adventures will find Awastone near the village of Mangaweka, a river adventure company run by the Eames family. Rangitīkei Information Centres in Bulls, Marton and Taihape provide local and regional information for visitors and residents.
Explore the Wider Destination
In the wider destination of Manawatu-Wanganui, the Whanganui Journey is a 145-kilometre canoe trip on the Whanganui River; shorter trips are also available. Whanganui National Park protects one of the largest remaining lowland forest complexes on the North Island. River trips are a popular activity there, and Māori culture is an important part of the park experience. Pipiriki is an important access point to the river. The Mangapurua and Kaiwhakauka tracks are sections of the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail.
Discover more destinations: Taihape, Hunterville, Ruapehu District, Palmerston North City, Tararua District, Wanganui District, Horowhenua District, Manawatu District.
Back to the wider travel overview: Manawatu-Wanganui.
