6 Best Things to Do in Apiti

1. Explore Limestone Creek and the Glowworm Caves

Limestone Creek is an amazing natural feature to explore both by day and by night. Just 20 minutes northeast of Āpiti, this hidden limestone gorge offers a magical short walk into a shadowy canyon lined with moss, ferns, orchids and sparkling glowworms.

The 600 m (656-yard) track descends steeply toward the creek, watch your step on exposed clay, slippery logs and boulders.

Once at the stream, turn right and follow yellow markers, cross a bridge and enter the glowworm cave.

At night, you’ll be able to see clusters of glowworms. For the best viewing, keep your torchlight use to a minimum or use a red torch to preserve the glow-worms’ mystique.

Check out more places to see glowworms in 10 Free Glowworm Caves in New Zealand.

Location: Limestone Road End, 20 minutes northeast of Āpiti, Manawatu-Whanganui Region, North Island.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz

2. Do the Alice Nash Heritage Lodge Walk

For a scenic and accessible tramp into the Ruahine Forest Park, take the Alice Nash Track along the stunning Oroua River. This rustic 2.4 km (1.5 mi) one-way walk takes about 30 minutes to reach the heritage lodge, offering sweeping river views.

Cross a graceful arched bridge over Umutoi Creek and weave beneath beech canopies along a former logging road.

For those seeking more adventure, continue hiking from the lodge to the Iron Gate Hut (4 hours) or tackle the steep ascent to the Tunupo high point (3-4 hours).

Location: Head north from Apiti up Table Flat Road via forested farmland, Manawatu-Whanganui Region, North Island.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz

3. Hike the Deerford Track

A couple of hiking options are available on the Deerford Track, which is great for any level of fitness.

From the car park, follow the fenceline to Makiekie/Coal Creek then it’s a short climb to the plateau meeting the Deerford Track. You can then loop back to Coal Creek again taking 2-3 hours total.

Alternatively, just prior to the creek is a fork in the track where the left becomes the Knights Track (up to the summit) and the right is the steep Diagonal meeting Shorts Track. The Deerford-Diagonal-Shorts Tracks loop would take 4-5 hours.

Location: Limestone Road End.

© max_wax1973 on Flickr

4. Horse Trek or Take a 4×4 Tour at Makoura Lodge

Tucked into the rolling backcountry just outside Āpiti, Makoura Lodge offers authentic rural adventures.

Their scenic horse treks take you across farmland, rivers, and native bush, with sweeping views of the Ruahine Ranges. Even beginners can enjoy the ride, thanks to gentle horses and experienced guides.

If you prefer four wheels, the thrilling 4×4 tours tackle rugged tracks, creek crossings and hill climbs.

Along the way, you’ll hear local stories about the land and farming heritage. The lodge also offers hearty meals and warm country hospitality, making it a great stop for groups or families.

Location: 8 km (5 mi) from Apiti. 736 Makoura Road, Manawatū-Whanganui, North Island.

© NZPocketGuide.com

5. Enjoy the Views from the Oroua Valley Lookout

The Oroua Valley Road drive between Apiti and Kimbolton offers breathtaking views of the rural countryside with the majestic Ruahine Ranges in the background.

A highlight of this scenic journey is the Oroua Valley Lookout, which provides sweeping panoramas without the need for a long hike.

Located just off Table Flat Road, this easily accessible vantage point offers an incredible perspective over the Oroua River valley as it carves through the rugged foothills.

On clear days, you’ll be treated to layers of forested ridges rolling into the distance, with the river sparkling far below. It’s a popular spot for photographers and picnickers alike.

The lookout is especially striking in the late afternoon when the golden light sets the hills aglow. As it’s roadside accessible, you don’t need hiking gear, just pull over, step out, and soak up the landscape.

Location: Table Flat Road, off Oroua Valley Road, between Apiti and Kimbolton, Manawatu-Whanganui, North Island.

© NZPocketGuide.com

6. Go Horse Trekking at Table Flat

For a more immersive backcountry experience, join Table Flat Trekking for rides deep in the Ruahine foothills. Here, wide-open flats meet steep bush-covered slopes, offering dramatic views toward the Oroua Valley and Ruahine Ranges.

Guided treks follow farm tracks, river crossings, and tussocky clearings, catering to different abilities from beginners to experienced riders.

Tours are in small groups of four or less, allowing for a more individual and unique experience. Horse riding here also connects you to the area’s farming heritage, as it remains a traditional way of navigating the high country.

For more places to experience horse riding in New Zealand, see our 10 Awesome Horse Treks in New Zealand.

Location: Limestone Road End.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz