(M) Arapuke Forest Park Loop (Palmerston North Short Tramp)

Schedule

Sat, 20 Jun, 2026 at 08:00 am

UTC+12:00
Location

Car Park For Church On Ingestre (meeting location) | Wanganui, MW

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Arapuke Forest Park Loop
Date: Saturday 20th June
Time: 8am
Meeting Location: Church On Ingestre Car Park
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance/Time: 11km / 3.5-4.5hrs
Elevation Gain: 380m
Leaders: Willem & Carl
Cost: $23 (for transport, $18 for 17 & under)
Dogs Allowed: Yes (Must provide own transport)
We're heading back to the Arapuke Forest Mountain Bike Park near Palmerston North! This time, we'll do a loop through the park's tracks and come down Back Track. This walk through both native and pine forests offers sweeping views of the Kahuterawa Valley and the Turitea wind farm, plus a small waterfall
Fitness Requirements: You need to be capable of walking 10km+, including approximately 5km of uphill terrain. Be prepared for uneven, slippery, and possibly muddy conditions, as well as a few easy stream crossings on the final leg.
*Route: Starting from the Kahuterawa Valley Car Park, we head across Back Bridge and initially up Back Track before turning off and climbing up through Arapuke Forest Park via Pūpū Rahi and Checkpoint Charlie, before joining Arapuke Road to walk back across the top. We will then descend Back Track, which will lead us back to the car park.
*Fitness Requirements: You need to be capable of walking 10km+, including approximately 5km of uphill terrain. Be prepared for uneven, slippery, and possibly muddy conditions, as well as a few easy stream crossings on the final leg.
What To Bring (*essential items)
*Day pack
*Sturdy walking shoes or tramping boots with good grip
*Drink Bottle - 1-2 litres
*Rain Jacket
*Warm Clothing - wear or pack (can still get cold in summer)
Sun hat or warm beanie – pack one and wear the other
Sunglasses – wear or pack
*Packed lunch and snacks – pack more than you think you'll need
First Aid Kit (if you have one, otherwise leaders will have some)
Money for Ice Cream and/ or a hot drink afterwards (optional)
Spare shoes & a change of clothes to leave in cars
*Links
Google Maps (Meeting location & location of tramp): https://maps.app.goo.gl/i49o849WGcT548RJ9
Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/map-june-7-2025-7221e5c
(You will need to set up a FREE account with AllTrails to see the interactive map)
Topo Map: https://www.topomap.co.nz/NZTopoMap?v=2&ll=-40.478276,175.61182&z=15
More info on Arapuke: https://www.pncc.govt.nz/Parks-recreation/Parks-and-reserves/Arapuke-Forest-Park
Weather: https://www.metservice.com/rural/regions/manawatu/@-40.331,175.690,10.00z

*Transport
We use private vehicles for transport. Event organisers select the vehicles and drivers before each event. If you would like to bring your vehicle, please email the organiser as soon as possible to let them know it is available. We prefer our drivers to have attended a few of our events previously and to have held a full NZ driver's licence for at least two years.
*Safety Disclaimer
By joining this tramp, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. You confirm that you have the physical fitness required to complete the tramp, or the specific portion you intend to undertake. While organisers and leaders will do their best to keep everyone safe, they accept no liability for any injuries, accidents, or damages that may occur.
Whanganui Walking Group
(River City Walking Group)
Website: whanganuiwalking.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/WhanganuiWalking
Contract: Willem Doodeman-Beamsley 027 899 2458
Email: [email protected]
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Where is it happening?

Car Park For Church On Ingestre (meeting location), 19 Campbell St, Wanganui, Whanganui 4500, New Zealand

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

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Whanganui Walking Group
Host or PublisherWhanganui Walking Group

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