Last updated June 2026
The He Ara Kotahi pathway is the 7.1 km sealed shared-path that links central Palmerston North, Massey University and the Linton Military Camp via the iconic suspension bridge over the Manawatū River. The name translates as “the pathway that unites,” reflecting the connection between the city, the university, the army base and the local Rangitāne iwi. Officially opened in June 2019, the pathway is now the city’s signature walking and cycling route, flat and sealed throughout, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Practical Information
| Location | Central Palmerston North across the Manawatū River to Massey University and Linton |
| Length | 7.1 km one way (some sources cite 7.6 km with extensions) |
| Surface | Sealed shared-path throughout |
| Difficulty | Easy; flat, suitable for walking, cycling, prams, wheelchairs |
| Bridges | 5 bridges including the 194 m main suspension bridge over the Manawatū River |
| Opened | June 2019 |
| Access | City end at Fitzherbert Avenue / Riverside; Massey end at Tennent Drive |
| Cost | Free public access |
About He Ara Kotahi
The He Ara Kotahi pathway opened in June 2019 as a partnership project between Palmerston North City Council, Massey University, the NZ Defence Force and Rangitāne o Manawatū. The pathway addressed a long-standing connectivity gap between the central city and Massey University, providing the first dedicated walking and cycling link across the Manawatū River. The name was gifted by Rangitāne and translates as “the pathway that unites,” reflecting the connection between the four major stakeholders.
The pathway runs 7.1 km along the south bank of the Manawatū River from a city-end entry near Fitzherbert Avenue, across the central suspension bridge, onward through the river terraces and farmland toward Massey University, and then to the Linton Military Camp at the far end. Five bridges punctuate the route, with the main 194 m suspension bridge over the Manawatū River as the iconic feature, and the smaller Kahutarawa suspension bridge at the Linton end.
The pathway is flat and sealed throughout. Most walkers complete the full one-way in about 90 minutes; cyclists in 25 to 30 minutes. Many users walk or ride a section and return, with the city end to the suspension bridge being the most-popular short out-and-back.
Combining With Massey and Central City
- Massey University: walk through to the campus, food court, and Tennent Drive cafes at the far end
- FoodHQ: AgResearch / food technology cluster near the Massey end
- Manawatū River Pathway: 10 km sealed loop that connects on the city side for a longer ride
- Central Square and Cuba Street: short walk or cycle from the city end of the pathway
- Linton Military Camp: the far end of the pathway (no public access into the base itself)
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers consistently describe He Ara Kotahi as the standout walking and cycling experience in Palmerston North. The 194 m suspension bridge gets the most specific mentions, alongside the smooth sealed surface, the river setting, and the cultural significance reflected in the name. Locals walk or cycle it daily; visitors typically do a city-end-to-bridge out-and-back as their first introduction to the route.
Common practical tips: do the city-end-to-bridge section first (the iconic suspension bridge is the highlight); cycle the full 7.1 km if you want to reach Massey or the FoodHQ campus; expect wind on the bridge itself (the river corridor channels gusts); and combine with the Manawatū River Pathway for a 17 km combined loop if you want a longer outing.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council, He Ara Kotahi: official council page with map, access points and current notices.
Manawatū Heritage, He Ara Kotahi bridge: archive item on the bridge design and opening.
Manawatū NZ, He Ara Kotahi Shared Pathway: regional tourism page with photos and access detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the He Ara Kotahi pathway?
7.1 km one way (some sources cite 7.6 km including extensions), from central Palmerston North across the suspension bridge to the Linton Military Camp area.
When did He Ara Kotahi open?
June 2019, opened by Associate Transport Minister Julie-Anne Genter and Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith.
What does He Ara Kotahi mean?
“The pathway that unites.” The name was gifted by Rangitāne o Manawatū and reflects the connection between the city, Massey University, Linton Military Camp and the iwi.
How long is the suspension bridge?
The main bridge across the Manawatū River is 194 m long. A smaller suspension bridge at the Linton end (Kahutarawa) is 45 m.
Is the pathway suitable for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is sealed and flat throughout, suitable for walking, cycling, prams, wheelchairs and e-bikes.
How long does the full pathway take?
About 90 minutes one-way walking, or 25 to 30 minutes by bike at a relaxed pace.
Where does the pathway start?
The city end is accessed near Fitzherbert Avenue, with the Massey end at Tennent Drive (near the university campus).
For more cycling routes, see the cycling tracks hub. Combine with the Manawatū River Pathway for a longer loop.
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