Pack your togs and a delicious picnic as you’re not going to want to leave this spot once you’ve arrived. Wind your way down a gravel road to the Ruahine Dress Circle, which boasts its name because it reminded early settlers of a dress circle in an opera house: trees and shrubs decorate the cliffs and drape down like nature’s curtains. This spot has been a local favourite for swimming, exploring and picnics for more than 100 years.

From gentle strolls to overnight tramps to huts, there is a walk for everyone in northern Manawatū. Rangiwahia Hut Track is a popular, well defined track that winds its way through bush, horopito forests and tussock to the 12-bunk hut that’s perched on top of the Ruahine Ranges. The views are stunning and half way up there’s a beautiful arched-wooden bridge over a deep gorge that resembles a Lord of the Rings movie scene. There are many more stunning walks to discover in northern Manawatū, such as the Alice Nash Heritage Memorial Lodge Track that’s ideal for families.

A pinetum is a collection of trees that have been planted for ornamental or scientific purposes and it’s pronounced pine-ee-tum. Ian McKean was a third-generation sheep and beef farmer whose real passion was growing and planting conifers (cone-bearing) trees. So much so, that the pinetum he in began in 1958 is now home to more than 1500 trees! With well-defined walking tracks, a gazebo to picnic in, and spectacular views of the mighty Mt Ruapehu, you can easily spend a few hours exploring and marveling at this collection of trees. 

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The Mangahuia Wetlands are home to abundant bird life: white and black swans float gracefully across the water and are joined by different breeds of rare ducks and other feathery inhabitants. Take a leisurely stroll around the one-kilometre walking track that winds its way around the lake to catch glimpses of the wildlife. The wetlands are surrounded by collections of exotic trees, like Cherry Blossoms and Rhododendrons which burst into vibrant colour spring or visit in the autumn when the trees turn fiery red and deep, burnt orange. 

This original native bush reserve is spread across 132 acres on the outskirts of Rangiawahia Village and was spared by the early settlers who were balloted land and felled most of the surrounding bush to farm the land. The walk through the reserve offers a glimpse into some of the area’s oldest native bush and includes a stunning collection of labeled native trees such as rimu, matai, maire, and kahikatea. The songs from the abundant bird life will keep you company throughout the 90-minute walk.

Grab your gumboots and get ready to explore the glow worm caves that are as equally breath taking during the day as they are at night. A short walk down a steep track will bring you to a creek, which you’ll crisscross until you reach the main cave. These spectacular caves, set in lush native bush, are as natural as they come. Take a deep breath and a moment of silence to listen to the water droplets, chirps of native birds, and the gentle flow of the stream. You’ll leave with a sense of adventure – this 600m adventure can be enjoyed by all ages, although small children will need help walking across the creek. Rain jackets recommended and expect to get wet feet.

There’s no doubt you’ll need to refuel after a day of exploring. If you’re travelling home to Feilding or Palmerston North, the crafty and rustic Hansen’s Café and Store provides a delicious menu, as do the Kimbolton and Cheltenham pubs. Click here to discover more of the region’s top places to eat and drink.