Welcome to Te Āpiti
Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge is a national taonga. Its unique geography and rich cultural history make it a must do for any trip to the Manawatū-Whanganui Region.
Car parks at the Ashhurst end to the west and Ferry Reserve to the east provide ease of access to a number of tracks and trails, as well as river reserves, and camping and BBQ facilities to help you explore and enjoy this unique landscape.
Tawa Loop partially opens 9 August 2025:
From 9 August 2025, Tawa Loop Walk can be walked as a there and back from Ashhurst car park to Whatonga (statue), via the southern loop
The track between Tom’s Lookout and Whatonga is open but hasn’t been upgraded yet. It is extremely muddy and slippery, especially in wet weather. If you aren’t confident walking this section of track, we recommend turning around at Tom’s Lookout.
The open southern side of Tawa Loop Walk joins the Manawatu Gorge Track, restoring the DOC track connection from Ashhurst to Ballance.
The estimated completion date for the entire track upgrade is the end of 2025
Please keep an eye on Te Apiti Facebook page for further updates.
WESTERN GATEWAY CARPARK OPENING HOURS:
Summer (October to April) – from 5 am to 9 pm.
Winter hours (May to September) from 6 am to 7 pm.
Please ensure you vacate the area before carpark closing times.
Ngā kōrero tuku iho mō Te Āpiti
The cultural history of Te Āpiti
Māori kōrero is filled with legends that show Aotearoa through spirits, magic and mysticism. The legend of Te Āpiti is no exception. Its story is filled with supernatural beings, curiosities of nature, and a connection to the land that goes far beyond what can be explained.
