Walkers, you are not left behind as you too can explore off the paved path. Follow well-trodden dirt paths down to the rocky riverbanks to skip stones, connect with nature, and quiet the mind. Along the way are several sets of giant steps where you can picnic, ponder and soak in the view right on the river’s edge.

The striking He Ara Kotahi bridge is named the “pathway that brings people together” allowing visiting explorers, trainers, and commuters to 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. An added bonus was to create 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 art exists for the people and by the people. The entirety of the design gives nod to the the karaka tree grove that originally provided food and shelter for the local early settlers, the Rangitāne iwi. Though it will be tempting to soak up the views, be sure to watch underfoot for the bespoke Rangitāne design, cleverly lit at night 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 much of an adventure, four unique bridges that follow on the undulating 7.1km track to Linton Military Camp. Each with its own impressive design, the bridges bring visitors up to forest blocks, amongst a canopy of native trees, over an eel breeding site, and swinging over a stream.

With wide open flat spaces and measured loops of every length, it doesn’t matter if you are exercising your pup or your person, there are options for every body, shape and size. Fitness fans will be pleased to find 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.

Cyclists, 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 parallel mini-tracks to play along the way, with dips, jumps and bumps thrown in for those seeking adventure.

Between the Fitzherbert Avenue bridge and He Ara Kotahi you will find many bush trails that merge into Victoria Esplanade for another feast of micro-adventure opportunities. If you choose to explore, you will find world renowned rose gardens, public facilities, a wading pool, duck pond, aviary, a flying fox, Café Esplanade , the Esplanade Scenic Railway, Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery and a variety of playgrounds for all ages.

As you carry along the path, don’t miss Ahimate Reserve, a local favourite. At 22 hectares, this large riverside park is rich with local history and home to a riverside beach, a dog agility park, mountain bike tracks and even a natural playground. The path weaves through it all and, if you look closely you may even catch a fairy grotto, local art, and a resident ghost in the trees!