7 Best Things to Do in Rangiwahia

1. Go for a Walk in the Rangiwahia Bush Reserve

Enjoy a walk in the Rangiwahia Bush Reserve, a rare slice of untouched New Zealand bush.

This 130 acre (53 ha) reserve is a remnant of pre-European native forest, offering a real feeling of stepping back in time.

Choose between two well-marked tracks: a one-hour, 2.1 km (1.3 mi) loop, or a more challenging three-hour, 4.5 km (2.8 mi) loop.

The longer route rewards you with varied terrain, cool gullies, ridges and even hand-railed steep spots.

Both trails feature interpretation signs to enhance your experience. We personally love the abundance of birdlife that fills the air with song as you explore this pristine ecosystem.

Location: Reserve Road, Rangiwahia. Note that this is a gravel road.

© NZPocketGuide.com

2. Swim at the Ruahine Dress Circle

This gorgeous and secluded swimming hole and picnic area surrounding by native forest and mighty cliffs is a must for road-tripping in summer! Check out the quaint waterfalls and enjoy being in the great outdoors in this sweet little spot.

Hidden just north of Rangiwahia, the enchanting Ruahine Dress Circle is a long-loved local favourite for swimming and picnicking.

Two lovely swim spots await: one by a permanent waterfall from a side stream, and another deeper, wider pool a little downstream amid sculpted papa rock formations that look Middle-Earth-worthy.

Getting there is an adventure too, turn off Ruahine Road onto Kelpie Road, dip down Lagoon Road, and navigate a short, narrow, often gravel track until you’re greeted by the charm of this secret spot.

Location: Lagoon Road (note that this is a gravel road).

© Henry Burrows on Wikipedia

3. Visit REACT!

Located in an old dairy factory, the Rangiwahia Environment Arts Centre (REACT) is a hub where creativity meets sustainability. From giant puppets to upcycled sculptures, REACT is brimming with fun and eco-friendly art installations that will spark your imagination!

We love how REACT offers hands-on workshops where visitors can try their hand at puppet-making, lantern crafting, and even learn about natural building techniques. It’s a fantastic spot for families, as kids can dive into creative play while adults pick up practical eco-skills.

Don’t miss REACT’s spectacular lantern parades and collaborative projects that showcase local heritage and the natural environment.

Location: 2489 Rangiwahia Road.

© Public Domain Files

4. Drive or Cycle the Te Parapara Road

Many of the roads surrounding Rangiwahia offer amazing views, but a highlight has to be the Te Parapara Road. The views are sure to take your breath away!

If you’re after scenic countryside and quiet roads, Te Parapara Road delivers in spades. This route winds through open farmland, rolling hills and clusters of native bush, giving you a real taste of the northern Manawatū landscape.

For cyclists, it’s a rewarding ride, challenging enough to get the heart rate up, but balanced with peaceful stretches where you can simply enjoy the views.

Drivers will appreciate the wide skies, rural charm and occasional glimpses of the Ruahine Ranges.

Te Parapara Road also connects to the area’s wider network of country backroads, making it easy to link a ride or drive with stops in Apiti or Kimbolton.

Location: Northern end of the Rangiwahia town.

© NZPocketGuide.com

5. Walk Around the Ian McKean Pinetum

Follow the walking tracks around this sprawling 30 ha (74 acre) conifer plantation, recognised as New Zealand’s largest collection of conifers.

Established in the 1970s by local farmer Ian McKean, the Ian McKean Pinetum boasts over 150 different species from around the world.

Wander among towering pines, firs, spruces, and cedars while enjoying breathtaking views of the Rangitīkei and Manawatū districts.

With easy walking tracks and plenty of picnic areas and benches, it’s a pleasant stop for families, photographers and anyone craving a peaceful stroll. Every season offers its own charm, from misty mornings to golden autumn colours.

Location: 200 m (218 yards) down Renfew Road.

© ManawatuNZ.co.nz

6. Hike to the Rangiwahia Hut

Take the 2-3 hour one-way track that climbs steadily through native bush before opening onto tussock-clad ridgelines in the Ruahine Ranges.

The well-graded path rewards hikers with panoramic views across the Manawatū Plains and, on a clear day, as far as Mt Ruapehu. At the top, the Rangiwahia Hut provides a comfortable 13-bunk shelter for overnight stays or as a base for longer explorations.

This track is accessible for reasonably fit trampers and families, offering a taste of New Zealand’s stunning alpine scenery. According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, “It’s a fantastic day hike or overnight adventure that showcases some of the best views in the Ruahines.”

For more walks in the wider Palmerston North/Manawatu area, check out 30 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North.

Location: Renfrew Road.

© ManawatuNZ.co.nz

7. Relax in the Mangahuia Wetlands

This picturesque spot offers a peaceful escape into a rare and fragile ecosystem. Once farmland, the area has been carefully restored into a thriving wetland sanctuary that supports a range of native plants, birds, and aquatic life.

Walking tracks loop gently around the wetlands, making it easy to explore at your own pace while enjoying reflections of the Ruahine Ranges on still water.

Interpretation panels share insights into the area’s history and biodiversity. It’s a popular spot for birdwatchers, look out for pūkeko and paradise shelducks, and for photographers drawn to the shifting light over the reeds and ponds.

Benches are dotted along the paths, perfect for sitting quietly and soaking up the serenity.

Location: Main South Road.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz