Is there much shade at Almadale Reserve on a hot day?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, established trees shade the site well. It sits alongside a stream, so it suits a picnic or a rest stop.
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Do you get any phone reception at Almadale Reserve?
What beer tasting options does Tui HQ have?
PalmyCity guide
You can order a 3 or 6 beer tasting tray. There's also a self-guided Tuiversity beer masterclass, so you can learn about craft beer at your own pace.
Is there much for young kids to do at Tui HQ, or is it mostly for adults?
Is there a picnic area and parking at Bartletts Ford?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there is parking and there are picnic areas right beside the Pohangina River. Day use is free.
How many campervans fit at Bartletts Ford and does it fill up on summer weekends?
Is there somewhere for little kids to play at the Palmerston North library?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the first floor has a parenting area where Pop Up Open Play sessions run, using an interactive play kit. Sessions are listed on the library's activities calendar.
How busy do the study areas get after school, and is it easy to find a quiet seat?
Can I have a campfire at Woodville Ferry Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
No, fires are prohibited at the reserve. The ground can also be slippery after wet weather, so take care on the grass.
How is the phone coverage down at the reserve? Does it hold up overnight?
Who do I contact to stay longer than three nights at Kahuterawa Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
Ring the council parks team on 06 356 8199 or email info@pncc.govt.nz. Approval is needed before you start camping if you want to stay longer than three nights.
Does anyone get phone reception down at the camping area by the stream?
What days and hours is the Youth Space open in Palmy?
PalmyCity guide
Youth Space is open Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 5pm. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Is there a printer teens can use for homework, and does it cost much?
Do the vans at Victoria Park get moved on, or is it fine to stay the night?
Can I print or scan at the Massey library?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, you can print, copy and scan at the library, and it's free for students. Visitors aren't covered by that, so ask at the service point about charges.
Is it easy to find a car park near the library on a weekday during semester?
What time does the Rugby Museum at Te Manawa open and close?
PalmyCity guide
The Rugby Museum is open daily 10am to 4pm. It closes on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day and Good Friday, and opens at 1pm on Anzac Day.
Has anyone done a guided tour at Te Manawa? Are they offered to general visitors or just school groups?
What year did Zimmerman Art Gallery open in Palmerston North?
PalmyCity guide
Zimmerman opened in 2010. It shows paintings, drawings and sculpture by established and emerging New Zealand artists.
Is it easy to find a park near the gallery on a Saturday?
Is there a cafe on site for a coffee after the Rugby Museum?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there's a cafe on site at Te Manawa, and it's a convenient stop while you're visiting the museum.
Is the museum easy to get around in a wheelchair, or are the galleries a bit tight?
Does the Central Library have old local newspapers on microfilm?
PalmyCity guide
Yes. On the second floor of the Central Library you can find local newspapers dating back to 1877 on microfilm and microfiche. Some are also online on Papers Past.
Is it worth dropping in on a wet day just to browse old photos, or is it only for researchers?
Can I book a guided tour at the Coach House Museum in Feilding?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, group tours and guided options can be arranged in advance, so sort it out before you go rather than turning up and hoping.
Is the Coach House Museum much quieter on weekdays, or do tour groups turn up?
Does the library have computers students can use for research?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the library has computers for research, along with tables for study and quieter corners for reading.
Is there parking close by if you're dropping something off at the school library?
How many seats are in the main theatre at Centrepoint?
PalmyCity guide
The main theatre at Centrepoint seats 136 people.
Is street parking easy near Centrepoint on a show night or do you need to walk?
What are the parish office hours at 338 Church Street?
PalmyCity guide
The parish office at 338 Church Street is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 2.30pm. You can phone them on 06 358 2203.
Is the Community Centre at 338 Church Street easy to get into with a wheelchair?
Does the Manawatū Multicultural Centre run cultural events, or just classes?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, it hosts cultural events and celebrations throughout the year as well as the free classes. Event details are on the Manawatū Multicultural Council website.
Is it easy to find a park near Hancock Community House on King Street?
Is there anything to see inside the Coach House at Caccia Birch?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the Coach House has a permanent historical display with stories about the house. It's worth a stop while you're wandering the grounds.
Do kids get much out of an open day here, or is it mostly for adults?
Are the exhibitions at Snails held upstairs?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the monthly rotating exhibitions are on an upstairs mezzanine in the central-city building.
Where do you usually park when you visit Snails, and is it easy to find a spot?
Do shows at The Dark Room sell out, should I book ahead?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, book ahead. With only 50 seats, popular shows sell out quickly.
Are there toilets at The Dark Room, or do you use the ones at Centrepoint across the road?
Are trail bikes allowed on the Poutoa Walkway?
PalmyCity guide
No. Motorised trail bikes and other motorised vehicles are not permitted on the Poutoa Walkway, or on any of the city's walkways.
Is it easy to find a park near the Summerhill Drive entrance, say on a weekend?
Is there parking at the Globe Theatre on Main Street?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the Globe has off-street parking at the venue on Main Street.
Does the Globe ever do backstage tours, or can you only get in for a show?
Can you camp at Kahuterawa Reserve, and for how long?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, you can camp for up to three nights in a row. If you want to stay longer than three nights, get approval from Palmerston North City Council before you start camping.
Anyone taken an e-bike around Arapuke? Are they fine on the trails or are some off limits?
How big is the Hoffman Kiln in Palmerston North?
PalmyCity guide
It is 34.32 metres long and 12.98 metres wide. It is a rectangular building with rounded corners.
Is it worth stopping to look at with kids, or is there not much to see from the street?
Who actually runs Square Edge Community Arts?
PalmyCity guide
A community board governs Square Edge, and a team of four part-time staff manages the arts centre building, galleries, gallery shop, tenancies and the programmes and events.
Where do you usually park when visiting Square Edge, and is it easy to find a spot?
Does the Feilding Art Centre run any art classes for kids?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, affordable art classes for children aged 5 to 14 are held upstairs at the Art Centre.
Are there info panels or labels beside the artworks, or do you need to ask someone?
Are all the trees at the Ian McKean Pinetum labelled?
PalmyCity guide
No, not every tree has a name label, so don't expect to identify every species from signs. It helps to bring your own tree guide if you want to know what you're looking at.
Is there much shade among the trees on a hot afternoon?
Why was the clock taken out of the old Chief Post Office?
PalmyCity guide
The tower and clock came off the Post Office after the 1942 Wairarapa earthquake because of safety concerns. The clock was then put into storage.
Does anyone run guided walks around The Square, or is it all self guided?
Is there somewhere to park at Tutukiwi Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the reserve has parking, along with picnic tables and stream access. It makes an easy, low-key stop.
Can you take a bike along the walkway, or do people keep to walking only?
Are there toilets at Ongley Park?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets and changing rooms on site. There's also a drinking fountain, picnic tables and seating.
Is there much shade around the fields if you're watching a game on a hot day?
Who was the architect of the Regent on Broadway?
PalmyCity guide
A Melbourne architect named Charles Hollinshed designed it. He was employed by J.C. Williamson Ltd, the Australian company that built the Regent theatre chain in New Zealand.
Is the Regent worth a visit on a wet day if there's no show on, or is it only open for events?
Where can I enter Edwards Pit Park from?
PalmyCity guide
You can get in from Featherston Street, Tweed Street, the Kauri Healthcare Medical Centre, or through Skoglund Park. There's also a carpark.
Are there toilets at Edwards Pit Park, or only over at Skoglund Park?
Are there any toilets at Titoki Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
No, there are no toilets at Titoki Reserve, so plan to go before you head out on the walkway.
Has anyone done Titoki Walkway with a pram? Are the steep bits manageable?
Where else does the Turitea Adderstone Walkway come out besides Aokautere Drive?
PalmyCity guide
Besides Aokautere Drive, you can join or leave the walkway at Turitea Road, Pacific Drive and Old West Road. The Old West Road end is the far end of the 2.3 km route.
Is the nature play space worth a stop with young kids, and how long do they stay interested?
How long should I wait after rain before going in the river?
PalmyCity guide
Wait 72 hours after rainfall before going in. Rivers are unpredictable after heavy rain and the banks can become unstable, so always enter feet first.
Is the walkway through the reserve okay for a pram, or is it rough underfoot?
Where are the picnic tables at Milverton Park?
PalmyCity guide
The picnic tables sit right in the middle of the park, so parents can join in the play rather than watch from the sidelines.
Is it easy to get a pram around the playground and over to the toilets?
Are the paths at Rangitāne Park okay for a pram?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the park has wide, smooth concrete paths that make it easier for everyone to get around, so a pram should manage fine.
Are there proper picnic tables, or is it just grass to sit on?
How much is mini golf at Victoria Esplanade and when is it open?
PalmyCity guide
Mini golf is open 10am to 5pm on weekends, public holidays and school holidays, with last tee-off at 4pm. It costs $8 for adults, $4 for children and $20 for a family pass.
Is the big playground fenced at all, or is it open to the paths?
When did the Te Apiti wind farm start, and how many turbines does it have?
PalmyCity guide
It was commissioned in 2004 and has 55 turbines on the ridge above the gorge, generating about 90 MW. It was one of New Zealand's earliest large wind farms.
Is any of the track doable with a pram, or is it too steep and rough?
What is the walkway between Skoglund Park and Edwards Pit Park like underfoot?
PalmyCity guide
It's an easy lime and gravel surface. The walkway is a 2.0 km network, with good views into Edwards Pit from the Skoglund Park sportsfields.
Is there much shade around the playground and sideline in the afternoon?
Can I grab coffee or food near Himatangi Beach?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the local store sells coffee, takeaways and fresh baking, plus the usual dairy items. It's handy for a beach day.
Is there any natural shade on the beach, or should I bring my own umbrella?
Is there a separate play area for toddlers at Memorial Park?
PalmyCity guide
Yes. The toddler playground has a slide, bridge and tunnel. At the splash pad, under-fives have their own area, separated from the older kids by the main footpath and a fenced barrier.
Is there a drinking tap or water fountain near the playground and splash pad?
Do I need to book a campsite at Ashhurst Domain beforehand?
PalmyCity guide
No, you don't need to book. Just find an available spot when you arrive and check in at the office. Large groups should give a courtesy heads up first, on 06 356 8199.
Do you need a self-contained van to camp at Ashhurst Domain, or do most people use the toilets?
Is there an accessible car park at the Albert Street river entrance?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the new public toilet at the Albert Street entrance was planned with an accessible car park, plus a drinking fountain and a single accessible cubicle.
How does the pump track suit beginners or little kids on balance bikes?
Can I bring a horse to Ahimate Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, horses are welcome at Ahimate Reserve. Dogs can also go off leash throughout the park.
Is there much shade around the tracks and play area in the afternoon?
Are there toilets at Fitzherbert Park?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at the park. You'll also find changing rooms, a drinking fountain, parking, seating and shade areas.
Is it easy to get a pram around the grounds, or is it mostly grass?
Are there toilets at Vautier Park?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets on site. You'll also find a drinking fountain, parking and seating.
Is it okay to bring a scooter here, or is it mainly for the sports?
Is there a carpark at Anzac Park in Palmerston North?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there is a carpark at Anzac Park, along with a picnic area. Both were created in the early 1960s when the site was cleared.
Are there toilets near the start of the walk at Anzac Park?
Is there a shorter loop walk on the Manawatū River Shared Pathway instead of the full 10km?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there's a 3.8km loop walk across He Ara Kotahi and Fitzherbert Bridges. Dittmer Drive is a great place to start, and it's also handy for Urban Eels and the Turitea Pā lookout.
Are there any drinking water taps along the path, or is it bring your own?
Are there shared tools at the Awapuni Community Gardens?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the gardens have shared tools, along with allotment beds, shared community beds and raised beds.
Are there any picnic tables near the gardens or in the park, or is it just bring a rug?
Can I ride a trail bike on the Turitea and Adderstone walkways?
PalmyCity guide
No. Motorised trail bikes and other motor vehicles are not permitted on any of the Turitea and Adderstone walkways.
Are there toilets at the Old West Road car park?
Can you camp at Kahuterawa Reserve, and for how long?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, you can camp for up to three continuous nights. Staying longer needs approval from Palmerston North City Council before you start camping.
Is the track to the swimming hole okay for a pram?
Are there lifeguards at Foxton Beach in summer?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, surf life-savers patrol the beach during the summer months. Swim between the flags.
Are there proper changing rooms near the beach, or do people just use the toilets?
Who looks after Peren Park, the council or a private group?
PalmyCity guide
Palmerston North City Council looks after it. Peren Park is a public neighbourhood park on Ruapehu Drive, not a privately run one.
Is there any play equipment a kid who uses a wheelchair or walker can get onto?
Can I buy food or drinks at Raumai Reserve?
PalmyCity guide
No, there are no shops or cafes at the reserve, so bring all your food, drink and other supplies with you.
Is there anywhere to get changed at Raumai, or do you just use the car?
Can I pick vegetables from the community gardens at Awapuni Park?
PalmyCity guide
No, leave the produce alone unless a bed has a sign giving permission. Most beds are looked after by individuals or families, who grow the food for themselves.
Are the paths to the playground easy going with a pram?
Is the Stairway of Tāne doable in a wheelchair?
PalmyCity guide
No. It's close to 600 steps down a steep, challenging cliffside trail to the Manawatū River, so a wheelchair isn't realistic.
Is there much shade on the steps, or is it exposed in the afternoon sun?
How do I get to the Maharahara Peak Track start from Ashhurst?
PalmyCity guide
Head north up the Pohangina Valley and turn onto Pohangina Valley East Road. Opawe Road is on your right just before the Highland Youth Camp, and the track crosses farmland from its end.
Are there any toilets at the Opawe Road end, or is it just farmland and a gate?
How long should I wait after rain before swimming at Bledisloe Park?
PalmyCity guide
Wait 72 hours after rainfall before getting in. Check for hazards upstream, downstream and where you're swimming, and always enter feet first.
Is the swimming hole shallow enough for little kids to paddle safely?
Is the paddling pool at Memorial Park fenced?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the paddling pool is fenced in. It sits right next to the splashpad, so it is easy to get to from there.
Is there much shade right by the pool in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
Do you have to cross busy roads on the Mangaone Stream pathway?
PalmyCity guide
Mostly not, as there are underpasses at most main road crossings. The formed path does switch sides of the stream at Amberley Avenue.
Is it easy to find parking near the Tōtara Road end?
Are there picnic tables at Apollo Park in Milson?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, Apollo Park has picnic tables and seating, plus walkways through the park.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the road?
Is the Manawatū Cycleway suitable for beginner cyclists?
PalmyCity guide
Not really. It's grade 3 (intermediate) and best suited to reasonably fit riders with some cycle touring experience, and the route has a couple of good climbs.
Are the backcountry roads sealed the whole way, or are there gravel stretches?
Is there a shop at Tōtara Reserve for food and supplies?
PalmyCity guide
No, there's no shop on site, so bring all your food and supplies with you.
How busy does the Kererū campground get on summer weekends, and is it noisy at night?
Are dogs allowed on the Alice Nash track?
PalmyCity guide
No, not for a normal walk. Dogs are only allowed with a permit for recreational hunting or management purposes.
Does anyone take bikes down to the lodge, or is the track too steep and narrow for it?
Where do I park for the Maxwells Line river access?
PalmyCity guide
Park in the gravel car park at Paneiri Park. You reach it by going over the stopbank from Maxwells Line, and the river is a walk from there.
Are there any toilets at the river access spots around Palmerston North?
What other bridges are there on He Ara Kotahi besides the main one?
PalmyCity guide
There are four bridges along the path to Linton: Turitea Bridge, Farm Bridge, Greenwoods Bridge and a small suspension bridge.
Is it easy to find parking at the Ruha Street end on a weekend?
Is there a toilet near the Kahuterawa Stream at the end of the road?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there's a public toilet and picnic tables at the swimming hole at the end of Kahuterawa Road, up the Sledge Track.
Is there somewhere decent to park close to the water along Kahuterawa Road?
What time does the Tawa Loop carpark open and close?
PalmyCity guide
The Western Gateway Park carpark is open 5 am to 9 pm from October to April, and 6 am to 7 pm from May to September. Plan your walk to be back before it closes.
Does the carpark at Western Gateway Park fill up on weekends?
How much does a night at Rangiwahia Hut cost?
PalmyCity guide
Adults pay $25 a night from 1 May to 30 September, and $28 or more from October to April. Children aged 5 to 17 pay about half, and under 5s stay free.
Is there a toilet at the Renfrew Road car park before you start the walk?
Where do I park on SH57 to see Mangaharakeikei Falls?
PalmyCity guide
There's no official car park, so leave your car on the roadside by the small bridge over Mangaharakeikei Stream. Heading south, the falls are on your left and easy to see from the road.
Are there any toilets near the pullout, or is it best to stop in Tokomaru first?
What gear should I take for fishing the Tokomaru?
PalmyCity guide
Take polarised glasses, sturdy boots for the boulders and a light rod. The boulder water in the headwaters is rough going, so good boots matter.
How far is the walk from the car to the water at Horseshoe Bend?
How long should I wait to swim at Ākitio after heavy rain?
PalmyCity guide
Wait two to three days after heavy or prolonged rain, even at beaches that usually test well. Check that the water looks clean and clear before you get in.
Is there anywhere to jump in at Ākitio, like rocks or a wharf, or is it all surf?
Are there toilets and showers at Foxton Beach?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there are toilets and showers at the Foxton Beach foreshore and surf club, off the Ocean Beach Road and Marine Parade roundabout.
Does anyone fly fish near the river mouth, or is it all surfcasting gear?
Is there drinking water at the Palmy skate park?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there's a drinking fountain at Railway Land Reserve, where the skate park is. Toilets, seating and parking are there too.
Does the skate park get any shade in the afternoon, or is it full sun?
How long should I wait to swim at Waikawa Beach after heavy rain?
PalmyCity guide
Leave it 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming. Rain flushes contaminants into the water, even at spots that usually have good water quality.
Is there anywhere to get changed at Waikawa Beach, or is it a towel job?
Is there parking at the Raumai picnic area on the Pohangina?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the Raumai picnic area has plenty of parking. It is beside the Pohangina Valley East Road bridge, about 8.5 km up the valley from Ashhurst.
How easy is the walk from the car to the water at the main access points?
How high are Waihi Falls and what do they look like?
PalmyCity guide
The falls drop about 25 metres in a wide, multi-tier formation. You can see them from a formed viewing area at the end of a short, easy path.
Has anyone taken a pram down to the viewing area? Wondering if the path copes with wheels.
Where on the Rangitīkei can I catch sea-run trout?
PalmyCity guide
Try the estuary near Tangimoana. That is where the sea-run trout are found, down near the river mouth.
Is there anywhere on the Rangitīkei you can get a wheelchair close to the water?
Is there a shop or food near Waitārere Beach for bait and snacks?
PalmyCity guide
There is a well-stocked Four Square Store, takeaways, a café and a restaurant in the Waitārere Beach village. Levin is about 10 minutes away if you need more.
Is Waitārere a good beach for beginners or kids to try surfcasting?
Can I buy bait at Himatangi Beach or do I need to bring it?
PalmyCity guide
No, there is no tackle shop at the beach, so bring your bait from Palmerston North before you head out.
Is it a good spot to take kids fishing for the first time?
Is there a tackle shop in Tangimoana?
PalmyCity guide
No, there's no tackle shop in Tangimoana, so bring everything you need, including bait. Stock up in Palmerston North before you drive out.
Are there any toilets near the beach track or at the end of the road?
Are there toilets and parking at Waitārere Beach?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, Waitārere Beach has toilets, changing facilities and car parking. You can also get food and drinks nearby in the settlement.
Are there picnic tables at Waitārere Domain or near the beach?
Who do I report a water quality problem to at Double Bridges?
PalmyCity guide
Ring 0800 496 734, the Greater Wellington 24-hour environment hotline, at any time. It's worth taking a photo and noting your location first if you've spotted toxic algae.
Is there much shade near the swimming spot in the afternoon?
What am I allowed to do between the flags at Ōtaki Beach?
PalmyCity guide
Only swimming and bodysurfing are allowed between the flags. Lifeguards are on duty at times, and it's safest to follow their directions.
How busy does Ōtaki Beach get on a hot weekend, and is parking a squeeze?
Is Beehive Creek a loop walk or do you come back the same way?
PalmyCity guide
It's out and back, not a loop. Start from the southern end and return the same way once you reach private land, because the northern section is closed for major farm operations. It's 4 km return.
How deep are the creek crossings in summer, and are they okay for small kids?
What's the driving route to the Kahikatea Walk from Ashhurst?
PalmyCity guide
Drive north from Ashhurst along Pohangina Road, then turn right onto Pohangina Valley East Road and stay on it. The track entrance is on the left, about 1 km past Arbon's Road.
Is there a toilet at the track entrance, or should I go before driving out?
Is Wharite Peak Track a loop, or do you walk back the same way?
PalmyCity guide
It isn't a loop. You can walk it out and back from the Wharite Peak road end, or use it as an extension of a walk on the Coppermine tracks from the northern end.
Are there any toilets at the Wharite Peak car park before you head up?
Does the Waiopehu Track start across farmland?
PalmyCity guide
Yes. The first kilometre is across private farmland before you reach the Tararua Forest Park boundary. Just inside the park, take the right-hand track uphill towards Waiopehu Hut.
Is there decent parking at the Poads Road end, and is it OK to leave a car all day?
Do I need to arrange transport between the two ends of Burtton's Track?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, it's 17 km one way, so plan a pickup. The track ends at the car park off Mangahao Road, where you can arrange transport or walk down the road towards Shannon.
Is there anywhere to get drinking water along the track, or should I carry it all?
Is it safe to leave my car at the end of No.1 Line Road?
PalmyCity guide
Vehicles left at road ends in Ruahine Forest Park have sometimes been broken into, so don't leave valuables in your car. Stock can also graze in the car park.
Is there much shade on the ridge track, or is it exposed on a warm afternoon?
How long should I wait after rain before swimming at Piripiri?
PalmyCity guide
Wait 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain before swimming, even at sites that usually have good water quality. Rain flushes contaminants from surrounding land into the river.
Where do you park for a swim at Piripiri, and is there room on a hot weekend?
Is there a loop track option from the Coppermine Road end?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the Coppermine Loop Track starts from the same road end as the Coppermine Track. It is the more strenuous of the two.
Are there steep sections on the way in, or is it fairly gradual?
Is poison used for pest control around the Ballance Loop Track?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the Te Āpiti Manawatu Gorge area has an ongoing pest control programme that includes toxins. Read the signs at the track entrance for current information on toxin use.
Is the track from the car park shady on a hot afternoon?
Do I need to arrange transport for the Opawe Road crossing?
PalmyCity guide
Yes. The Opawe Road crossing needs transport arranged at the far end, because you finish at Opawe Road rather than back at the Kumeti Road start.
Is it okay to leave a car at the Kumeti Road end overnight?
Is Te Arapiki o Tawhaki a proper loop, or do I end up retracing my steps?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, it's a 4 km loop, so you finish back where you started instead of retracing your steps. The track is located within the Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre.
Are there any steep sections on the loop, or is it mostly flat?
Are mountain bikes allowed on the Papaitonga Track?
PalmyCity guide
No. Mountain biking and trail bike riding are not permitted in Papaitonga Scenic Reserve, so keep to the formed tracks and lookout areas on foot.
Are there any steep bits on the loop to the second lookout?
Does the Coppermine Loop link up with any other tracks?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, it links with the Wharite Peak Track. You can reach that from the northern end, where it meets either the Coppermine Track or the Coppermine Loop Track.
Is there much shade on the loop, or is it mostly open once you reach the farmland?
Should I carry a locator beacon on the Burn Hut Track?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, take a distress beacon and an emergency shelter. Pack warm and waterproof clothing too, even if the forecast looks good, because Tararua weather changes fast.
Is there much room to park at the Lower No.2 Reservoir end on a weekend?
Is there parking at the Mangahao Road end of the track?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, there is a small parking area at the start of the track, 400 m past the Tararua Forest Park sign on Mangahao Road.
Are there any toilets at either end of the track?
Is the Cattle Ridge climb okay for beginners?
PalmyCity guide
No, it's an Advanced tramping track. The climb is very steep the whole way, with scrambling up tree roots, and it's easy to slip, so it suits fit, experienced trampers.
Is there much shade on the climb, or is it hot work on a sunny day?
What gear should I carry on the Mangahao Track?
PalmyCity guide
Carry an emergency shelter, spare food, a torch and a distress beacon. Pack warm, waterproof clothing even if the forecast looks good, as Tararua weather is wild and changes fast.
Is there room to park at the dam end, and is it okay to leave a car overnight?
How long is the walk from the Putara Road end to Herepai Hut?
PalmyCity guide
It's about 5 km and takes around 3 hours from the end of Putara Road in the Mangatainoka Valley to Herepai Hut.
Is there room to park at the Putara Road end, and is it ok to leave a car for three days?
Do Stanfield Hut and Cattle Creek Hut have mattresses and heating?
PalmyCity guide
Only Cattle Creek Hut has heating and mattresses. Stanfield Hut has cooking facilities but no heating or mattresses listed.
How well marked is the bush and ridge section, is it easy to lose the track?
Is it a loop, or do you come back the same way?
PalmyCity guide
It's not a loop. The simplest return is back down the same track to the Tamaki West Road end, so plan for the steep descent on the way back.
Does the car park at Tamaki West Road end fill up on weekends?
Are there any huts on the Blue Range to Cow Creek Hut Track?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, Cow Creek Hut is at the end of the track, reached by a swing bridge over the Waingawa River. The track follows the river upstream on the true left to get there.
How high do the side streams get after rain on the way down to the Waingawa?
How long is the drive from Eketāhuna to the Roaring Stag Track?
PalmyCity guide
Putara Road, where the track is accessed, is around 20 minutes' drive from Eketāhuna.
Does the small carpark at the Putara Road end fill up on weekends?
Is the first part of the track okay for kids?
PalmyCity guide
Yes, the first section is on the well-graded, family-friendly Kiriwhakapapa Loop Track. Past the junction to Blue Range Hut the track quickly gets narrower and rougher.
Is there enough parking at the road end on a weekend, or does it fill up?
Which summits do you go over on the way to South Ohau Hut?
PalmyCity guide
You go over Waiopehu (1094 m) and Twin Peak (1097 m), then carry on to Richards Knob (985 m). From there the track follows Dora Ridge.
Is there room to park at Poads Road end, and is it okay to leave a car overnight?
Is Hokowhitu Lagoon safe to swim in, or is the water dodgy?
PalmyCity guide
Be wary. Stormwater from Palmerston North drains into the lagoon, and the birdlife around it can also affect the water quality, so check swim monitoring results before getting in.
Is the path along the lagoon okay for a wheelchair or a pram, and is the bank easy to fish from?
Where is the James Road access to the Mangatainoka and is there parking?
PalmyCity guide
James Road is about 1 km south of the Tui Brewery. Drive to the end and go through the gate to a small parking area by the river, and close the gate behind you.
Is the grassy area by the Tui bridge doable in a wheelchair, or is it rough getting to the water?
What's the driving route from Dannevirke to the Rokaiwhana track start?
PalmyCity guide
Head north, turn left into Ruahine Street (it becomes Umutaoroa Road), then after 5.4 km turn left into Top Grass Road. Tamaki Road is 2.3 km along on the right.
Are there any steep or slippery bits on the Rokaiwhana track, especially after rain?
Any hazards to watch for when walking out on the estuary flats?
PalmyCity guide
Keep an eye on the incoming tide when you're out on the flats. Strong winds also come through at times, as they do on most of the west coast.
Are there any toilets near the boat ramp or the river mouth?
Where can I buy fishing tackle in Palmerston North before heading to the Ōroua?
PalmyCity guide
Hunting Fishing Manawatu at 35 Grey Street in Palmerston North is the tackle shop to try. Ask what is working this season.
Is the lower Ōroua off Awahuri Road a good spot for kids or beginners to fish?
Where can I buy fishing tackle and bait near Hōkio Beach?
PalmyCity guide
Try Hunting Fishing Manawatu at 35 Grey Street, Palmerston North. There is also a Hunting Fishing store in Ōtaki, south of Levin.
Is there room to park near the beach entrance on a busy weekend?
What gear should I carry for the Cow Creek Hut route?
PalmyCity guide
Pack warm and waterproof clothing even if the forecast looks good. Also carry a torch, spare food and a distress beacon, because Tararua weather changes fast.
How steep is the climb up to Cow Saddle, and is the descent bad on the legs?
Where can I buy tackle near the Ōhau River?
PalmyCity guide
Hunting Fishing has stores in Ōtaki and at 35 Grey Street in Palmerston North. Licences are also sold online through Fish Game.
Are there any toilets at Kimberley Scenic Reserve or nearby?
Nothing here right now.