Urban fringe
Combo
Totally/mostly flat
Dog Friendly
Native bush
Riverside
Open farmlands
Open ridges/tops
Farm Road / 4WD Track
Easy Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +0.6%
Average Downhill Gradient: -0.5%
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0:50
Slow
0:40
Moderate
0:25
Fast
Follow the trail south through Kowhai Park, cross over Rata Street and the trail continues on next to the Bridge. Its a lovely lime and gravel path that meanders along next to the stream, past Manfield racing track, with lovely views of farmland for a few km until you reach Kitchener park (Awahuri forest). Do the Board walk loop first (yellow trail on the sign), then the dirt trail loop (white trail) that goes next to the stream. When you arrive at the carpark turn left and head up the gravel road next to the Marae style Shelter and this takes you back to the dirt stream path. Turn right when you arrive back at the stream to follow the trail back again to the start.
The Kitchener Park loop is an absolute gem in the Manawatu that takes you past the tallest kowhai tree in New Zealand, 800-year-old kahikatea and an abundance of other natives. Its a hidden treasure.
If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.
Plenty of off-street parking and toilets
1 km
3 minutes
Yes
No
Easy.
Perfect throughout.
Long-sleeved thermal top, Beanie/thermal headwear, First aid kit, Cellphone, Crampons / microspikes (for winter conditions)
There is water available at Kowhai Park and Kitchener Park
After a lot of rain the white trail at kitchener park will be very muddy so the boardwalk would be good in these condtions
Trail Legend
Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
You and Awahuri Forest Kitchener Park
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ZM
I really enjoyed this busy little trail. Great for the whole family with lots to see along the way. Stopped and watched cars racing around Mansfield, chatted to dog walkers, checked out the impressive old trees in the reserve.
July 26, 2020