The Pettifar and Gilchrist Loop Tracks lead you down a series of terraces towards the Pohangina River. This ancient forest is flourishing with kahikatea and tōtara trees, with ample opportunities to snap a photo of the towering totara trees reaching to the sky. 

The birdlife is abundant throughout the area so keep your eye out for birds such as the Tūī, Fantail, Bellbird and Kererū.  

Fact: Both walks make use of the Old Coach Road, an original horse and cart track which ran along the Pohangina Valley. 

Getting there
The track is located in the Pohangina Valley about 35 minutes drive from Palmerston North. From Ashhurst, drive north along Pohangina Road, then turn right at Raumai onto Pohangina Valley East Road. Keep your eye out for the signage leading to the walk and a small carpark located on the left-hand side of the road.