Wellington Regional Trails

Walk alongside the Atiwhakatu River and return the same day, or rest at Atiwhakatu Hut overnight.

Walking time

3 hr

Length

11km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

200m climb

-220m descent

668m highest point

Dogs

No

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About the trail

Meander along the Atiwhakatu River track to Atiwhakatu Hut. It’s perfect place for families and first-time trampers to park up for a night in the stunning Tararua Forest Park.

Pack a picnic and follow the beautiful river on gentle terrain, then either stay the night or return the same day.

The hut sleeps 26 people and is in great condition with modern facilities. Bookings are essential during the busy summer months.

A person walking along a swing bridge on the Atiwhakatu track in Tararua Forest Park.
  • The trail starts from the entrance to Tararua Forest Park on Mount Holdsworth Road.
  • Turn off State Highway 2 onto Norfolk Road which turns into Mount Holdsworth Road. Follow the signs to Tararua Forest Park.
  • There are regular train services from Wellington to Masterton. Timetables are available from Metlink. You will need to drive or pre-book a taxi from Masterton to Tararua Forest Park.
  • Parking is available at the entrance to the park.

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