The Manawatu Region covers a large area including National Park walks and Palmerston North walks.

If you’re looking for a hike that’ll take you through some stunning New Zealand scenery, you’ll want to check out the walks in Manawatu Region. Covering an area of nearly 5,000 square kilometres, the region includes parts of both the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges and offers everything from easy nature walks to challenging hikes through rugged National Parks. And if Palmerston North is your starting point, you’re spoiled for choice with walking trails right on your doorstep! So whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, get outdoors and explore the beauty of Manawatu Region.

Tararua Ranges

Unfortunately, we don’t have any walks in Tararua Ranges yet, but there is a very good local tramping club called Tararua Tramping Club that has many walks on their website.
Looking at Taranaki Falls with the track in front at Mt Ruapehu

Taranaki Falls Walk, Mt Ruapehu

8 October 2023 Manawatu Region North Island Tongariro National Park
5.30 km • 2 Hours • Easy • The Taranaki Falls is pretty spectacular and makes for a great day out in National Park on ...
Walk details →
Tongariro Northern Circuit - walk by Olly from Freewalks - National Park

Tongariro Northern Circuit – Great Walk

11 February 2023 Manawatu Region North Island Tongariro National Park
The Tongariro Nothern Circuit great walk starts and ends at the historic Chateau Tongariro where you can stay before or after your walk.
Walk details →
Blyth Hut with views over Tongariro National Park.

Blyth Hut via Waitonga Falls Walk in Tongariro National Park

26 September 2022 Manawatu Region North Island Tongariro National Park
3.7 km • 1hr 30 minutes one way, 3 hours return • It's an easy walk in the Tongariro National Park.
Walk details →
Opunake Loop Trail walk|Map of Opunake Loop Trail Walk|Opunake Loop Trail walk|Opunake Loop Trail walk|Opunake Loop Trail walk

Opunake Loop Trail

1 April 2021 New Plymouth North Island Taranaki Region
8.3 km • 1 hour 30 mins • Easy
Walk details →
National Park » Tawhai Falls Walk Mt Ruapehu - Copyright Freewalks.nz

Tawhai Falls Walk Mt Ruapehu

1 April 2021 Manawatu Region North Island Tongariro National Park
0.50 kms • 20 minutes • Easy
Walk details →
Upper Tama Lakes||||||Tama Lakes Walk

Tama Lakes Walk, Ruapehu

1 April 2021 Manawatu Region North Island Tongariro National Park
17 kms • 2 hours 30 minutes to Upper Tama Lake • Medium
Walk details →