Last updated October 2026
The Sledge Track is a popular walking destination in the Kahuterawa Valley, offering access to native bush, stream features and historic sites just south of Palmerston North. The track follows an old route through regenerating and mature forest in the Tararua foothills, with options ranging from short family-friendly sections to longer loops.
Official information from Palmerston North City Council highlights rocky waterfalls, a popular swimming hole and historic mining relics along the route. The track connects to Arapuke Forest Park and Harding’s Park loops, providing varied terrain for walkers of different abilities.
Access is via Kahuterawa Road, approximately 17 km from central Palmerston North. The area forms part of the wider Kahuterawa outdoor recreation hub managed under the Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Plan.
Practical Information
- Location
- Kahuterawa Valley, end of Kahuterawa Road, south of Palmerston North
- Distance from Palmerston North
- 17 km, approximately 25-minute drive
- Track options
- Short walks to swimming hole (10-15 minutes one way); longer loops 5-7 hours return
- Difficulty
- Easy initial sections; moderate to challenging further loops with climbs
- Surface
- Formed bush track; can be muddy after rain
- Dogs
- Must be on leash
- Facilities
- Car park, toilets and picnic tables at trailhead; basic facilities only
About the Sledge Track
The Sledge Track takes its name from historic logging activity in the valley. It was opened in 2003 and now provides access through native bush including towering trees and typical Tararua foothills vegetation. The track runs alongside the Kahuterawa Stream for much of its length.
Walkers can choose short out-and-back sections or combine routes into loops. The initial part of the track is suitable for families or those seeking an easier outing, while extensions lead into Harding’s Park and connect toward Tararua Forest Park.
The setting includes streamside environments, rock formations and elevated viewpoints on longer routes. Preparation for changeable weather and variable track conditions is recommended, especially on the more demanding sections.
Swimming at the Sledge Track Swimming Hole
A popular swimming hole lies approximately 10-15 minutes’ walk from the Black Bridge along the Sledge Track. The spot offers a natural pool in the Kahuterawa Stream suitable for cooling off on warm days.
Water temperatures remain cool even in summer. Visitors should follow water safety guidance, including waiting 72 hours after rainfall before entering and checking for hazards such as depth changes or strong currents.
Picnic tables are available near the trailhead, making the area convenient for a combined walk and swim outing. The hole is one of the main attractions for families and day visitors.
Waterfalls and Scenic Features
The track passes rocky waterfalls and streamside rock formations that add visual interest to the walk. These features are visible from the early sections onward and contribute to the varied scenery.
Views open up at higher points on longer loops, including vistas across the Kahuterawa Valley and toward the wider plains. The combination of bush, water features and terrain changes makes the track appealing for photography and nature observation.
Platinum Mines Loop and Historic Mining Relics
The Toe Toe Loop Track leads to an area where prospector Alexander Menesdorfer searched for platinum ore in the late 1800s and early 1900s. A short Platinum Mines loop extension takes about 30 minutes and allows visitors to see exploratory mine shafts.
Walkers are advised to stay on the marked track due to the possible presence of undiscovered shafts. The loop returns via Toe Toe Flats, which are noted for their appearance in February and March.
This extension adds a historical dimension to the bush walk and is reachable as part of the Sledge Track and Toe Toe Loop combination, which takes 5-6 hours return.
Combining Activities in the Kahuterawa Valley
The Sledge Track forms part of the Kahuterawa outdoor recreation area, which also includes Arapuke Forest Park mountain bike trails, Kahuterawa Reserve and Harding’s Park. Visitors can combine walking with other activities in a single day.
Longer options link to the Otangane Loop (6-7 hours return) or crossings toward Naenae Road. The valley has limited commercial facilities, so visitors should bring supplies and plan for daylight hours on extended trips.
Harding’s Park Loops
Harding’s Park is a scenic reserve of about 860 hectares of native bush in the Kahuterawa Valley, and it’s where the Sledge Track’s longer loops go. Palmerston North City Council publishes them on the same page as the Sledge Track.
All of them begin at the swing bridge into Arapuke Forest Park, about 2.2 km (40 to 60 minutes) from the car park.
Past the bridge the council recommends the tracks only for people who are fit, prepared and ready for a challenge. If you’re with young children or new to tramping, the bridge is a good place to turn around.
About 200 m past the bridge is a junction. Go left for the Toe Toe and Otangane loops, or right for the Aruwaru Loop via Quartz Creek.
Otangane Loop
An 8.5 km loop from the swing bridge. It heads west, then south across Harding’s Park into Tararua Forest Park, circling the headwaters of the Otangane Stream. The viewpoint at Pukenaenae looks out over the Tararua District.
A 1.7 km side track follows a paper road down to the end of Naenae Road. The council gives 4 to 5 hours for the crossing of the range between Naenae Road and Kahuterawa Road.
Aruwaru Loop
The council calls this a tough 10 km circuit from the swing bridge. It climbs south from Quartz Creek up a ridge to the Aruwaru trig at 767 m, then heads west and comes back to the Sledge Track along part of the Otangane Loop.
Before you go
Plan for changeable weather and hard tramping conditions. Allow most of a day for the longer loops. On the Toe Toe side, the old platinum prospecting area is the reason to stay on the marked track, because there may be undiscovered mine shafts nearby.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council – Sledge Track and Harding’s Park loops: Official track descriptions, walking times, safety information and maps.
Palmerston North City Council – Kahuterawa Reserve: Details on the wider recreation area including connections to Arapuke Forest Park and other tracks.
Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Plan: Management framework for the valley’s tracks and facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Sledge Track located?
At the end of Kahuterawa Road in the Kahuterawa Valley, approximately 17 km south of central Palmerston North.
How long are the walks?
Short sections to the swimming hole take 10-15 minutes one way. The Sledge Track and Toe Toe Loop takes 5-6 hours return; the Otangane Loop takes 6-7 hours return. The Platinum Mines loop adds about 30 minutes.
Is there a swimming hole?
Yes, a popular swimming hole is located about 10-15 minutes from the Black Bridge. Water safety precautions apply, including waiting after rainfall.
Are there waterfalls?
Yes, rocky waterfalls and streamside rock formations are visible along the track.
What about the Platinum Mines?
A 30-minute loop extension off the Toe Toe Track leads to historic mine shafts from late 19th and early 20th century prospecting. Stay on marked tracks.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash.
What facilities are available?
Car parking, toilets and picnic tables are at the trailhead. No facilities are provided further along the track.
Is the track suitable after rain?
The track can become muddy. Longer loops are best avoided after heavy rain due to safety considerations around streams and terrain.
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