Manawatu-Whanganui Conservation Walks
Special conservation areas in the Whanganui-Manawatu area are the Whanganui National Park, Ruahine Forest Park, and the Manawatu Gorge. Hiking, short walks and canoeing are popular outdoor pursuits.
- Whanganui National Park - the Whanganui River flows through a vast wilderness of lowland forest. The river is of great spiritual significance to the Maori people, who have lived along its banks for centuries. In the early 1900s, a fleet of river steamers brought a brief but busy tourism era to the river. Today, the deserted middle reaches are a scenic spectacle, as the river cuts through forest covered banks and deep river gorges. The Whanganui River Journey, a three to five day canoe trip suitable for novice canoeists, is listed as a Great Walk. Other park activities include hiking, short walks, hunting (introduced deer and pigs) and visiting historic sites.
- Manawatu Gorge – a scenic reserve of special geological interest, traversed by a walking track through native forest, with scenic views of the gorge. The gorge is also a popular kayaking spot.
- Ruahine Forest Park – deep cut river gorges, lowland forests and tussock tops are features of the western Ruahine Ranges. A network of tracks and huts offer scope for day walks and extended hiking trips. Cross-country skiing is an option in heavy snow seasons.
