The Mangaharakeikei Falls are a hidden bush waterfall in the foothills near Palmerston North, reached via bush walking tracks through native forest. The falls are one of the less-frequented waterfall destinations in the wider PN area.
The walk to the falls is moderate to demanding depending on conditions; sturdy footwear and tramping experience are sensible. The reward is a relatively unspoiled bush waterfall setting away from busier walking destinations.
Practical Information
| Location | Foothills near Palmerston North |
| Walk | Bush walking track; allow 2-4 hours return depending on chosen route |
| Difficulty | Moderate to demanding; bush walking experience sensible |
| Best for | Bush walkers seeking quieter waterfall destinations |
| Cost | Free |
About the Falls
The Mangaharakeikei Falls are one of the less-known waterfall destinations in the wider PN area. The bush setting and the moderate access walk make them best suited to bush walkers seeking quieter destinations rather than easily-reached tourist waterfalls.
The access walk follows bush tracks through native forest. Conditions vary with weather; after rain the tracks can be muddy and stream crossings may be higher. Sturdy boots are essential. Allow 2-4 hours return depending on the chosen route and conditions.
The falls flow best after rain. Photography is most-rewarding in soft light. Do not swim or stand directly under the falls; standard NZ waterfall safety applies.
Safety
Standard NZ bush-walking precautions apply. Carry food, water, first-aid, weather gear and emergency communication. Tell someone your plans and expected return time. Check current track status with PNCC and DOC before heading out, especially after rain.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe Mangaharakeikei Falls as a quieter waterfall destination than the better-known sites, with the bush setting and the moderate access walk being part of the appeal. The walk is for bush walkers with reasonable fitness and tramping experience.
Practical observations: sturdy boots essential; check track status before heading out; do not stand under the falls; carry full bush-walking gear; tell someone your plans.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: covers wider Manawatu conservation tracks and waterfall destinations.
PNCC walking pages: covers PN-area walks and current track status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Mangaharakeikei Falls?
In the foothills near Palmerston North.
How long is the walk?
2-4 hours return depending on the chosen route and conditions.
Is it suitable for casual walkers?
No. This is a moderate to demanding bush walk for walkers with reasonable fitness.
Can I swim at the falls?
Do not swim or stand directly under the falls. Standard NZ waterfall safety applies.
When is the falls best?
After rain for strongest flow. Soft light best for photography.
What gear do I need?
Sturdy boots, weather gear, food, water, first-aid, emergency communication.
Is it free?
Yes, free public access.
For more walks, see walking tracks in Palmerston North.