Last updated May 2026
Tōtara Reserve Regional Park is the standout native-forest reserve within easy reach of Palmerston North: 340 hectares of native bush in the Pohangina Valley about 40 minutes drive north-east of the city, with walking tracks, swimming holes in the Pohangina River, camping, barbecues and picnic spots. Managed by Horizons Regional Council, the reserve is free public-access and suits day trips, overnight camping and longer multi-day stays.
The reserve sits at the foot of the Ruahine Range, with the Pohangina River flowing through. Walking tracks range from the easy 30-minute Kahikatea loop suitable for families, to the 5 km / 2 to 2.5 hour Fern Walk for more committed walkers. The combination of native bush, river swimming and camping facilities makes Tōtara Reserve one of the most-used outdoor destinations in the wider Manawatū.
Practical Information
| Location | Pohangina Valley East Road, ~40 min north-east of Palmerston North |
| Size | 340 hectares of native forest |
| Managed by | Horizons Regional Council |
| Walks | Kahikatea Walk (30 min loop), Fern Walk (5 km / 2-2.5 hr), shorter nature trails |
| Camping | Yes, camping areas available; check Horizons site for booking |
| Swimming | Pohangina River swimming holes (summer) |
| Facilities | Toilets, barbecues, picnic tables, drinking water |
| Cost | Free day-use access; camping fees apply |
About Tōtara Reserve
Tōtara Reserve is one of the larger remnants of native forest in the wider Manawatū region, preserving 340 hectares of bush at the foot of the Ruahine Range in the Pohangina Valley. The reserve is named for the large tōtara trees that grow alongside kahikatea, rimu, mataī and other native species. The Pohangina River flows through the reserve, providing swimming holes in summer and forming the natural focal point for visitors.
Walking tracks suit a range of fitness levels. The Kahikatea Walk is a 30-minute family-friendly loop through towering kahikatea trees. The Fern Walk covers 5 km in 2 to 2.5 hours, with native bush, river crossings and the option to extend onto longer tracks. Shorter nature trails behind the camping areas offer 10 to 60 minute walks with views toward the Ruahine Range.
Camping facilities are well-developed, with bookings handled through Horizons Regional Council. Day-use is free; camping fees apply per night per site.
Walks and Activities
- Kahikatea Walk: 30-minute easy loop through tall kahikatea trees; suits families
- Fern Walk: 5 km / 2-2.5 hour native-bush walk with river crossings
- Short nature trails: 10 to 60 minutes behind the camping areas with Ruahine views
- Swimming: Pohangina River swimming holes in summer (check LAWA water quality first)
- Camping: developed camping areas with toilets and water; book through Horizons
- Picnics and barbecues: picnic tables, gas barbecues, drinking water
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers consistently rate Tōtara Reserve as one of the best free outdoor destinations near Palmerston North. The native-forest setting, the Pohangina River swimming holes, the family-friendly Kahikatea Walk, and the well-developed camping all get specific mentions. Locals camp here regularly; visitors typically do a day trip with a short walk and a swim.
Common practical tips: do the Kahikatea Walk first if you have young kids; the Fern Walk needs sturdy shoes for the river crossings; check LAWA water quality before swimming; bring insect repellent in summer; book camping early for peak summer weekends; and consider combining with a Pohangina Village cafe stop on the drive back to Palmerston North.
Where to Learn More
Tōtara Reserve Regional Park: official reserve site with bookings, maps and current notices.
Horizons Regional Council, Tōtara Reserve: official regional council page with management context.
LAWA, Pohangina River at Tōtara Reserve: water quality monitoring for the swimming sites. Check before swimming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tōtara Reserve?
In the Pohangina Valley, about 40 minutes drive north-east of Palmerston North via Pohangina Valley East Road.
How big is Tōtara Reserve?
340 hectares of native forest.
What walks are at Tōtara Reserve?
The Kahikatea Walk (30 min easy loop), the Fern Walk (5 km / 2-2.5 hr), and shorter nature trails behind the camping areas.
Can I swim in the Pohangina River?
Yes, in summer at the river swimming holes within the reserve. Check LAWA water quality before swimming, particularly after rain.
Can I camp at Tōtara Reserve?
Yes, developed camping areas with toilets and water. Book through Horizons Regional Council.
Is Tōtara Reserve free?
Day-use is free. Camping fees apply per night per site.
Are there facilities?
Yes, toilets, gas barbecues, picnic tables and drinking water at the main areas.
For more day trips, see the day trips hub. Combine with the Pohangina Valley day trip for the wider valley context.
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