Last updated June 2026
Adderstone Reserve is a 6.8-hectare semi-rural council reserve in the Aokautere suburb on the southeastern edge of Palmerston North. The reserve lies off Aokautere Drive in the Fitzherbert area, a short drive across the Manawatū River from the city centre, and features open grassy fields alongside a gully with native vegetation and a small stream.
Practical Information
| Location | Aokautere Drive, Fitzherbert / Aokautere, Palmerston North |
| Distance from central Palmerston North | Around 6 km south-east across the Manawatū River, 8-10 min drive |
| Size | 6.8 ha |
| Landscape | Open grassy fields plus a gully of native vegetation and stream |
| Recent additions (summer 2025) | New pathways, picnic table, seating, levelled grass area, nature play space built from logs and concrete pipes, initial planting |
| Walking | Turitea and Adderstone Walkways (2.3 km, flat to steep, views over Manawatū countryside) |
| Dogs | Dogs on lead only |
| Cost | Free |
| Best for | Dog walking, local recreation, walkway access, picnics, nature play |
About Adderstone Reserve
Adderstone Reserve is managed by Palmerston North City Council as a community recreation space serving the growing Aokautere area. The reserve combines flat open grass suitable for casual play, picnics and ball games with a gully section planted with native trees as part of the Green Corridors network.
In 2022-2023 the council consulted on possible rezoning and disposal of part of the reserve for housing. Following submissions, council decided in April 2023 to retain the majority of the land as reserve, keeping the gully and walkway areas intact while leaving options open for future community facilities.
Summer 2025 upgrades funded by council improved accessibility and amenities. New pathways, a picnic table, seating and a levelled grass area were added, along with a nature play space constructed by the parks team using reclaimed materials. Initial native planting has begun and will continue over time.
The reserve provides everyday green space for Aokautere residents. It includes a stream and wetland features and connects directly to the wider walkway network.
Walking and the Turitea Adderstone Walkways
The reserve provides access to the Turitea and Adderstone Walkways, a 2.3 km route rated difficulty 3 out of 5. The track features gravel and chip seal surfaces with flat to steep sections and forms part of the Te Araroa Trail in places.
Walkers starting from Aokautere Drive can climb toward Turitea Road and Pacific Drive, enjoying views over the Manawatū countryside. The route continues to connect with other access points including Old West Road. Dogs must remain on lead throughout the walkways.
The steeper sections make the walkway unsuitable for buggies or wheelchairs. Flat areas within the reserve itself remain accessible for casual use.
What Visitors Often Say
Adderstone Reserve serves mainly as a neighbourhood spot for Aokautere locals seeking daily dog walks and open-space recreation. The mix of grassy fields and the native gully receives positive comments, and the recent nature play space and seating additions are appreciated for casual family visits.
Practical notes include the steep nature of the walkway sections, which requires allowing extra time and suitable footwear. The reserve lacks a formal playground or toilet facilities, making it better suited to short visits or as a starting point for walks rather than an all-day destination. On-street parking along Aokautere Drive provides the main access.
Where to Learn More
PNCC Adderstone Reserve page: Official details on location, features, recent upgrades and facility snapshot.
PNCC Turitea and Adderstone Walkways: Track description, difficulty rating, distances, access points and rules including dogs on lead.
PNCC future use consultation: Background on 2022-2023 consultation and council decision to retain most of the reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Adderstone Reserve?
Aokautere Drive, Fitzherbert / Aokautere, Palmerston North, approximately 6 km south-east of the city centre across the Manawatū River.
How big is the reserve?
6.8 hectares of mixed open grassy fields and gully with native vegetation and stream.
Can I take my dog?
Yes, but dogs must be kept on lead at all times on the reserve and walkways.
Is there a playground?
No formal playground, but a nature play space with logs and concrete pipes was added in summer 2025 for climbing and exploration.
How hard is the Turitea Adderstone Walkway?
Rated 3 out of 5 difficulty. The 2.3 km route includes flat to steep sections with rewarding views; not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
Is parking available?
On-street parking along Aokautere Drive provides the main access.
Is it free?
Yes, the reserve is free to access as a public council facility.
Are there toilets?
No toilet facilities on site. Nearest conveniences are at nearby Summerhill shops after completing the walkway.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.