7 Best Things to Do in Woodville

1. Walk the Manawatu Gorge Track

Woodville is one of the entrances to the stunning Manawatu Gorge!

For an awesome adventure in Manawatu Gorge, take the 11.2 km (7 mi) Manawatu Gorge Track. This 4-hour one-way hike incorporating an amazing array of trees from species of ferns and vines to tall podocarp trees and tropical-looking nikau palms.

The track is not a loop so you will either need to return the same way or organise transport at the other end of the track.

Location: State Highway 3. Access is from Ballance Gorge Road at the Ballance Gorge Bridge. Alternatively, start from the Ashurst end of Manawatu Gorge in the car park right next to the entrance of the gorge.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz

2. Take On the Te Ara o Mahurangi Mountain Bike Track

For some epic downhill thrills in the Manawatu Gorge, grab a bike and do the Te Ara o Mahurangi Track. This Grade 3 downhill ride is a fast 2 km (1.2 mi) singletrack through native bush, not for beginners.

The adrenaline-pumping trail offers stunning views along the way. It’s best to avoid riding after heavy rain due to the track getting muddy and slippery.

Riders often get dropped off at the top of Hall Block Road for a thrilling descent.

Alternatively, you can pedal up 1.6 km (1 mi) from Bridge Café before racing back down.

Location: Start from the Bridge Cafe and ride 1.6 km (1 mi) up Hall Block Road, or begin at the turning bay on Hall Block Road where vehicles can drop off riders. Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve, Manawatu-Whanganui Region, North Island.

© Pexels

3. Relax at the Ferry Reserve

Enjoy a picnic, swim in the river or kayak at the Ferry Reserve. Just a short drive from Woodville’s town centre, this laid-back riverside spot is ideal for a quiet breather between adventures.

Set on the banks of the Manawatū River, the reserve offers picture-perfect views of the flowing water and steep forested-gorge walls. The scenic spot features open grassy areas shaded by mature trees, perfect for spreading out a blanket or firing up a portable BBQ.

It’s a favourite with locals in summer for its natural swimming holes and river access. Basic facilities include picnic tables, toilets, and easy parking. You can also freedom camp in the reserve overnight!

Location: State Highway 3, at the entrance to the Manawatu Gorge.

© www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz

4. Check Out the Woodville Sign

Woodville is definitely a town with a sense of humour. A fun example of this is the “Woodville” sign pointing to all the other “Woodvilles” in the world!

Location: Town centre.

© NZPocketGuide.com

5. Go Horse Trekking

From gentle trail rides that are perfect for beginners to multi-day adventures, horse trekking in Woodville is a fantastic way to explore the surrounding countryside.

Rolling farmland, bush tracks, and open views of the Tararua Ranges make the backdrop especially memorable when experienced from the saddle.

For a truly unique New Zealand experience, check out Timeless Horse Treks, which offers Clydesdale horse-drawn wagon rides. These gentle giants are a rare sight, and riding in a traditional wagon pulled by them feels like stepping back in time.

Whether you’re after a short, family-friendly outing or something more adventurous, there’s an option here to suit.

For more horse treks, check out 10 Awesome Horse Treks in New Zealand.

Location: Balance Gorge Road, Woodville, Manawatu-Whanganui, North Island.

© Pixabay

6. Grab a Coffee

For a small town, Woodville has a surprisingly lively café scene, perfect for a mid-journey caffeine fix.

Many cafés here lean into the town’s creative, community spirit, offering friendly service, local art on the walls, and homemade baking that feels like a warm welcome.

A couple of favourites sit right on the main street, making it easy to park up and refuel before hitting the road again.

Stop by Café 88, Bridge Café or Wind Farm Café to soak up the small-town vibe and chat with locals, who are always keen to share a story or recommendation.

Location: Town centre.

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7. Do a Brewery Tour

The iconic Tui Brewery, a name that’s been part of Kiwi culture for over a century, offers a unique experience for visitors. Take a guided tour through the brewing process, from grain to glass, while learning about the brand’s colourful history and cheeky marketing campaigns.

No tour is complete without a tasting session, where you can sample a range of fresh beers straight from the source.

The brewery site also features a bar and restaurant, perfect for lingering over a meal and enjoying a pint in the laid-back beer garden.

Location: State Highway 2, Mangatainoka.

© NZPocketGuide.com