Last updated October 2026
The Manawatū Cycleway is a New Zealand Cycle Trail Heartland Ride from Mangaweka in the north to Palmerston North, about 120 km through the hill country and river valleys of inland Manawatū. It passes through Apiti and Ashhurst, with the Rangiwahia Reserve and the Pohangina Valley along the way, and most riders take two to three days.
About 80% of the ride is on quiet backcountry roads, so it suits riders who are comfortable sharing rural roads with the odd vehicle.
Practical Information
- Route
- Mangaweka to Palmerston North, via Apiti and Ashhurst
- Length
- About 120 km (NZ Cycle Trail lists 120 km; its description says 126 km)
- Grade
- Grade 3 (intermediate)
- Time
- 2 to 3 days
- Surface
- Mainly on-road; about 80% quiet backcountry roads
- Bike type
- Hybrid, gravel or touring bike
- Cost
- Free public access throughout
About the Manawatū Cycleway
The ride starts at Mangaweka, beside the papa cliffs of the Rangitīkei River, and heads through farming country to Apiti, close to the Rangiwahia Reserve on the edge of the Ruahine Range. From there it follows the Pohangina Valley down to Ashhurst and finishes in the city of Palmerston North.
Because most of the route is on rural roads, plan food, water and overnight stops ahead: services are limited between the towns, and the hill country in the north brings some climbing.
Key Sections of the Route
Mangaweka to Apiti: quieter farming country in the north, with papa cliffs and rolling terrain.
Apiti, Rangiwahia and the Pohangina Valley: backcountry roads along the foothills of the Ruahine Range and down the Pohangina Valley.
Ashhurst to Palmerston North: the run into the city at the trail’s end.
In Palmerston North: the city’s sealed shared paths make an easy finish or an extra day ride, including the Manawatū River Pathway (more than 10 km along both banks) and He Ara Kotahi (7.1 km to Linton, with a suspension bridge over the river). These are city paths rather than part of the Heartland Ride itself.
The Āpiti Loop Ride
Closer to Palmerston North, the Āpiti Loop Ride starts at the Ashhurst end of the Manawatū Scenic Route. The Manawatū walking and cycling guide lists it as a 120 km loop, all sealed, climbing from 37 m to 568 m, and grades it Intermediate. It suggests treating it as a multi-day ride and booking accommodation ahead, and says the few hilly sections make it best for riders of moderate to advanced fitness.
The guide’s must-stops are Hansen’s Café and Store and the Āpiti Tavern and Eatery, and Raumai Reserve for a dip in the Pohangina River on the way round. It is a road ride on public roads, so check council road notices before you set out.
Where to Learn More
New Zealand Cycle Trail: official Heartland Ride listing with the route, grade and planning information.
Manawatū NZ: regional tourism information with route descriptions, maps and visitor guides.
Palmerston North City Council: details and maps for the Manawatū River Pathway at the Palmerston North end.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Manawatū Cycleway?
About 120 km from Mangaweka to Palmerston North. NZ Cycle Trail gives 120 km in its heading and 126 km in its description.
Where does it start and finish?
It starts at Mangaweka and finishes in Palmerston North, passing through Apiti and Ashhurst.
Is the Manawatū Cycleway off-road?
No. It is mainly on-road, with about 80% on quiet backcountry roads.
Can I do the whole Manawatū Cycleway in one day?
Strong riders can, but most take two to three days with overnight stops.
What bike do I need for the Manawatū Cycleway?
A hybrid, gravel or touring bike suits the backcountry roads.
When’s the best time to ride?
Spring through autumn (October to April). Summer is warm but can be windy; autumn offers cooler temperatures and good light.
Is the cycleway free?
Yes, free public access throughout. No permits required.
How long is the Āpiti Loop Ride?
The CEDA guide lists it as a 120 km sealed loop from the Ashhurst end of the Manawatū Scenic Route, best done over more than one day.
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