Launched on the 31st of May 2024, He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero is an experience two years in the making. Both a digital tool, and an opportunity to connect with our physical place, He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero brings to life pūrākau (stories), oral histories and historical recreations of life on and around Te Awa o Manawatū – the Manawatū River - through the people of Rangitāne o Manawatū.

Journey along He Ara Kotahi and the Manawatū River Pathways to explore the six sites of special significance, scan the QR code at each marker and, whether you’re local hapori (community) or manuhiri (visitors) to our region, you’ll be provided with an authentic and trusted source of ancestral knowledge through an innovative and interactive storytelling experience. Interact with video interviews, stories, illustrated recreations and animations to discover what life was like as far back as the 1600s.

With 8 kms of river pathways to explore between all six sites, you have the option to walk, cycle or make use of the nearby Flamingo scooters to visit all the sites. By car you can visit all but one of these sites (Turitea Pā requires a 5km return walk, or cycle from He Ara Kotahi bridge car park. Please note that the scooters' range does not allow you to get all the way to the Turitea Pā site).

Choose a fine morning or afternoon in your weekend, pack a drink bottle, your phone, and a sense of adventure and get exploring!