Introduction
An adventure thousands of years in the making! Manawatu Gorge was made when the river carved out a route through a mountain range. Now it's a great place to spot kārearea, glow worms at night, and kōura in the stream. You might even find a perfect hiding spot in a hollow totara!On the Tawa Loop Track:
- Experience the beauty and wilderness of our native forest.
- Look out for the nikau and the crazy tree!
- Listen out for the native bellbirds and falcons as you walk along.
- Come face to face with the sculpture of Whatonga −an ancient warrior who stands guard over the forest.
Get ready
Download the adventure map (PDF, 2,190K) and check out what you can do.
Go and explore
Look out for the Guardian Post when you get there. On it you'll find a special code word - write it down.
Getting there: The Tawa Loop Track starts at the western end of the Manawatu Gorge Track, which is 12 km east of Palmerston North on SH 3.
Claim your reward
Tell us the Te Apiti - Manawatu Gorge code word to receive a Kiwi Guardians certificate and medal for this adventure.
Put the medal on your back pack or pencil case to show everyone the adventure you've had.
Each Kiwi Guardians place has a different medal - see how many you can collect.
