WANGANUI-MANAWATU: MANAWATU

The Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve includes some forest walks, and a parking area where self-contained motor caravanners can park overnight.

We had driven up from Masterton and planned to overniight at the DOC parking area for the Manawatu Gorge track. Unfortunately, we didn't notice it as we drove past and came to an alternate entry at Hallblock Rd. Thinking that this was our destination, we started driving up the road, only to discover, to our horror, that it was a narrow, steep metal road that is used as a access road for the wind farm.

With nowhere to turn around, we could only continue and hope that noone was coming in the opposite direction. I was also very concerned that we might not make it to the top with our front wheel drive van. Fortunately we came to an area that was just wiide enough to turn around, and we headed back to the main road.

We then chose to stay overnight in the Bridge Cafe carpark, and it was only on the following morning that I finally discovered the correct parking area for the DOC Reserve.

As it happened, the Bridge Cafe had a larger, and more sheltered parking area, and we were able to enjoy a nice breakfast there the following morning. 

The DOC parking area is a good option if you want to go for either of the 2 forest walks - the Loop Walk which takes around 20 minutes, and the Manawatu Gorge Track, which takes 3 to 5 hours.

There is a small picnic area on the other side of the road, with a basic toilet and play area.