Track Grade: Tramping Track
Duration of Event: 1.5 to 2 hours
Bookings close 5pm March 7 2025.
The walk starts from the Ballance end of the Manawatu Gorge along the gorge track to the Klein Track.

The Klein Track is incorporated into a pleasant loop walk of one and a half to two hours through some of the most attractive bush in the Gorge reserve. It involves a climb of about 200 meters so demands a reasonable level of fitness but we will take it slowly to enjoy the bush!
Starting from the Ballance end of the Manawatu Gorge we will follow the Gorge track through mature bush to cross the stream and then start the assent into the Gorge.
This involves quite a steep climb on a bush track with many runs of steps to link with a section of track originally introduced as a detour after a major slip. There are some rewarding views at the top of the climb making it a suitable stop for rehydration.
After peaking the track descends to a junction with descent via the Klein Track as an alternative to progressing through the Gorge.
After an initial steep descent the track levels to meander through an attractive section of mature trees. On a a recent day time visit a morepork was heard part way through the track. The track then makes a spiral descent to the Ballance Bridge at the end of the abandoned Gorge Road. We will cross the bridge and then walk into the Ferry Reserve as it makes a good place for lunch and also incorporates a rarely visted wetlands reserve.
If time allows we will walk the loop track in the small reserve opposite the Gorge car park, the start of our excursion.
You then board the bus and go to the start of the Gorge Track at the Ashhurst end and if time may be able to do part of the Tawa Track while waiting for the full gorge walkers to reach the Ashuurst end.
Please ensure you have good fitness, wear appropriate walking footwear, bring warm clothing, and pack plenty of adequate drink and food.
Date: Sunday 9 March 2025, 8.00am
Distance: 5km
Walking Time: 1.5 to 2hours
Cost: $39
Depart: Bus departs Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History, 326 Main Street, Palmerston North at 8.00am and returns to the city later in the afternoon.
Limited to 25 people, book now to avoid disappointment.
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL - no ticket sales on the day.
Bookings close 5pm March 7 2025.
Book your ticket online now!