Last updated July 2026
Titoki Reserve runs through one of the main gullies in the Summerhill suburb on the southeastern edge of Palmerston North. The reserve forms part of the city’s walkway system and the Green Corridors network, which links regenerating native bush areas across southern Palmerston North. Community volunteers and corporate sponsors including Ricoh New Zealand have transformed former farmland into a corridor of eco-sourced native vegetation. The Titoki Walkway follows the gully and connects to the Poutoa Walkway, offering residents and visitors an accessible route through native bush with views toward the Tararua Ranges and the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Summerhill suburb, southeastern Palmerston North |
| Walkway route | Follows gully system with access from Cliff Road, Cashmere Drive (x3), Sycamore Crescent and Silkwood Place |
| Distances | 1.5 km from Cliff Road to Silkwood; 1.3 km from Cliff Road to Peren Park |
| Difficulty | Moderate contoured with steep climbs; rated 4 out of 5 |
| Surface | Limestone and some boardwalk |
| Type | Council reserve and walkway, part of the Green Corridors network |
| Plantings | Eco-sourced native species planted with community volunteers and Ricoh New Zealand support |
| Connects to | Poutoa Walkway |
| Dogs | Off-leash but must be under control |
| Facilities | Picnic tables, seating, shade areas, walkway |
| Cost | Free |
About Titoki Reserve
Titoki Reserve protects a key gully system in Summerhill and provides the suburb’s primary native-bush walking link. The reserve sits within the broader Green Corridors programme that aims to connect the Tararua Range to the Manawatū River through continuous native vegetation.
The walkway surface consists of limestone with sections of boardwalk. Access points include multiple entries from Cashmere Drive as well as Cliff Road, Sycamore Crescent and Silkwood Place. Motorised trail bikes and vehicles are not permitted.
The reserve remains open at all times as part of the public walkway network. No conveniences such as toilets are provided on site.
Native Vegetation and Wildlife
The reserve has been revegetated with eco-sourced native species to create habitat for native birds and other taonga species. The plantings encourage native birds to move into the city from the Tararua Ranges and provide feeding, foraging and nesting opportunities along the corridor.
Walkers pass through a scenic valley of regenerating native bush that offers views of the Tararua Ranges and the city skyline. The transformation from former farmland into a functioning ecological corridor is a core feature of the Green Corridors initiative.
Titoki Walkway and Connections
The Titoki Walkway threads through the reserve gully and forms part of the wider Green Corridors network. It links directly to the Poutoa Walkway, allowing walkers to extend their route through connected gully systems.
The track suits a range of fitness levels but includes moderate contours and steep climbs in places. It is suitable for walking and leisurely exploration at any time of day.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe Titoki Reserve as one of the better suburban gully walks in southern Palmerston North, with the regenerating native plantings, the Cliff Road to Aokautere Drive route, and the link through to the Poutoa Walkway all drawing positive specific mentions. The Green Corridors transformation from farmland is regularly cited as the reserve’s standout feature.
Practical observations: gully walking includes ups and downs so it is moderate rather than flat; pick your direction depending on where you parked (Cliff Road or Aokautere Drive); combine with the Poutoa Walkway for a longer Green Corridors loop; the walkway is open at all times; check current dog rules with the council page.
Where to Learn More
PNCC: Titoki Reserve: official Palmerston North City Council reserve page with location and facility details.
PNCC: Titoki Walkway: full walkway page with route, access points and difficulty information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Titoki Reserve?
In the Summerhill suburb of southeastern Palmerston North, running through the main gullies with multiple access points including Cliff Road and Cashmere Drive.
Why is the planting notable?
The gully was former farmland; Green Corridors plantings with eco-sourced native species, supported by community volunteers and Ricoh New Zealand, have created a regenerating native-bush corridor connecting the Tararua Range to the Manawatū River.
Does it connect to other walks?
Yes. The Titoki Walkway connects to the Poutoa Walkway as part of the council’s Green Corridors network.
What is the walkway distance?
The walkway measures 1.5 km from Cliff Road to Silkwood or 1.3 km from Cliff Road to Peren Park.
What is the difficulty level?
Rated 4 out of 5 with moderate contours and some steep climbs; surface is limestone with sections of boardwalk.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs can be off-leash but must remain under control.
Is the walkway accessible at all times?
Yes. It is part of the city walkway system and is open to the public at all times.
Is it free?
Yes. Free public reserve and walkway.
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