Last updated July 2026
Arapuke Forest Park is a popular mountain bike and walking destination in the Kahuterawa Valley, south of Palmerston North. It forms part of the wider Kahuterawa outdoor recreation area and was formally named in 2012. The park offers an extensive network of trails maintained largely by volunteers from the Manawatū Mountain Bike Club in partnership with Palmerston North City Council. It is recognised as one of the premier free-to-ride mountain bike parks in the lower North Island.
Practical Information
| Location | Kahuterawa Road, Linton (end of the road), south of Palmerston North |
| Access | Via SH57 (Old West Road), then Scotts Road or Kahuterawa Road; final sections gravel and winding |
| Mountain bike trails | More than 50 km; Grades 2 to 6 |
| Walking trails | Shared paths and dedicated walks including connections to Sledge Track and loops in Harding’s Park |
| Facilities | Car parking, toilets, picnic tables, bike wash, trail information at main entrance |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead |
| Cost | Free |
| Management | Palmerston North City Council; trails built and maintained by Manawatū Mountain Bike Club volunteers |
About Arapuke Forest Park
Arapuke Forest Park lies within the Kahuterawa Valley and is part of a larger recreation hub that also includes Kahuterawa Reserve, Sledge Track, Harding’s Park and Gordon Kear Forest. The area is managed under the Kahuterawa Outdoor Recreation Plan. It transitioned from a working forestry block to a dedicated recreation park and received its formal name in 2012.
The park is best known for mountain biking, with trails ranging from family-friendly Grade 2 flow trails to expert Grade 6 technical and jump lines. The Manawatū Mountain Bike Club funds, builds and maintains the network, which continues to expand. Walkers are also welcome on shared tracks and former logging roads, including sections of the Te Araroa Trail.
Two vehicle entrances serve the park. The main entrance at the end of Kahuterawa Road provides parking, toilets and facilities. A second entrance via Scotts Road offers access to the Grade 2 trails. Cellphone coverage can be limited in the valley, and visitors should drive to conditions on the gravel roads, especially after rain.
Mountain Bike Trails
The trail network exceeds 50 km and spans Grades 2 through 6. Popular beginner options include flowing Grade 2 trails such as Icebreaker. Intermediate riders enjoy Grade 3 descents with berms, while advanced and expert riders can tackle technical Grade 5 and 6 lines. The club regularly adds new trails and maintains existing ones. Current conditions and detailed maps are available on the Manawatū Mountain Bike Club website and Trailforks.
Walking Tracks
Walking options include shared paths with mountain bikers and dedicated routes. The Sledge Track begins near the Kahuterawa car park and offers an easy initial section suitable for families, passing a popular swimming hole before reaching Argyle Rocks and a swing bridge that connects directly into Arapuke Forest Park. Beyond the bridge, longer loops such as the Toe Toe Loop, Otangane Loop and Aruwaru Loop extend into Harding’s Park and toward Tararua Forest Park, with some sections recommended only for fit and prepared walkers.
Walking times from the Black Bridge area range from 10–15 minutes to the swimming hole up to 5–7 hours for full loops. The Te Araroa Trail follows the Back Track through the park. Dogs must be kept on a lead. Visitors should check weather and river conditions, as streams can rise quickly after rain.
Access and Practical Tips
From Palmerston North, take SH57 south and turn onto Scotts Road (between Linton and Tokomaru) or continue to Kahuterawa Road. The final sections are steep, winding gravel roads. Allow extra time in wet weather. Facilities at the main car park include toilets, parking and a bike wash. Bring water, snacks and appropriate gear. No food or drink is available on site. Events for more than 50 people require prior booking with the council.
What Visitors Often Say
Mountain bikers praise the volume and variety of trails, the quality of volunteer-built flow and technical lines, and the free access. Many describe it as one of the best parks in the lower North Island. Walkers highlight the Sledge Track for its accessible start, waterfalls, swimming spots and scenic loops, noting the connection to Arapuke via the swing bridge.
Practical feedback emphasises driving carefully on the gravel access roads, especially after rain, checking trail conditions via the club or Trailforks before visiting, respecting shared trail etiquette, and preparing for limited cellphone coverage and changeable weather in the valley.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council – Arapuke Forest Park: official page with facilities, location and park notices.
Manawatū Mountain Bike Club – Where to Ride: club information on Arapuke trails, access and current projects.
Palmerston North City Council – Sledge Track and Harding’s Park loops: detailed walking information, times and safety notes for the connected tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Arapuke Forest Park?
At the end of Kahuterawa Road in the Kahuterawa Valley, south of Palmerston North. Access is via SH57 then Scotts Road or Kahuterawa Road; the final sections are gravel.
How many mountain bike trails are there?
More than 50 km of trails ranging from Grade 2 beginner flow trails to Grade 6 expert technical lines.
Is the park suitable for beginners?
Yes. Grade 2 trails such as Icebreaker provide mostly flat, flowing options suitable for beginners and families.
What walking options are available?
Shared paths plus the Sledge Track and loops in Harding’s Park. The Sledge Track starts easily and connects via swing bridge into Arapuke; longer loops require fitness and preparation.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Is access free?
Yes. The park is free to enter. Maintenance is supported by the council and volunteer work by the Manawatū Mountain Bike Club.
What facilities are available?
Car parking, toilets, picnic tables and a bike wash at the main entrance. No food or drink is sold on site.
When was the park formally named Arapuke Forest Park?
2012. It was previously part of the wider Kahuterawa recreational area.
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