Annimated Gif of Gorge Quarter's tūi mascot
Annimated Gif of Gorge Quarter's tūi mascot
Annimated Gif of Gorge Quarter's tūi mascot

A new precinct at Te Āpiti Manawatū

Close-up of Gorge Quarter Store
Gorge Quarter Store logo
Kokako organic coffee sign at Gorge Quarter Store.

Wednesday — Sunday
7.30am — 2.30pm

Gorge Quarter Store texture

A wee store at the foot of Te Āpiti Manawatū, just off the new Te Ahu a Turanga highway - a repurposed farm shed turned thoughtfully designed cafe/store space, serving delicious organic Kokako coffee, cabinet treats like salted pistachio cookies or berry custard brioche and scooped Kāpiti ice-cream.


The hut brings fresh energy and fun-loving vibes, filled with cyclists, runners, nature lovers, children, dogs and striking views - come enjoy some of Manawatū's finest wilderness.

TRACKS & TRAILS

Tawa Loop - A beautiful 1.5 hour (4km) walk/hike which starts at our carpark under the new bridge through ancient native bush with access to stunning view points. This track provides all the beauty and wilderness of the Manawatu Gorge walk track, with less than half the distance and half the time.

https://manawatunz.co.nz/listing/te-apiti-manawatu-gorge-tawa-loop/

Manawatu Gorge Walk - High above the river and gorge below, this one-way 11.2km (or two-way for the more adventurous) walking track is saturated in native bush and native birds. Not for Dogs sorry!

https://manawatunz.co.nz/listing/te-apiti-manawatu-gorge-track/

Te Ahu Turanga - Western Tracks - Originally used by construction crews, this network of tracks has been throughfully repurposed into a stunning walking and cycling experience. A 5km loop track from Gorge Quarter Store is a popular choice with dogs welcome too, come chat to us and we’ll show you the way.

https://manawatunz.co.nz/listing/te-ahu-a-turanga-western-tracks/

Te Ahu Turanga Shared Path - The NEW 10.5km Shared User Path alongside Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway offers a breathtaking journey across the Ruahine Ranges, designed for both walkers and cyclists to enjoy - with gorgeous vistas, taking in cultural art and storytelling along the way. Dogs welcome.

https://manawatunz.co.nz/listing/te-ahu-a-turanga-shared-pathway

Where to stay

There are plenty of beautiful places to stay locally. These are a few of our regulars that we recommend.

Kaitahi Lodge

Nestled in the peaceful hills of Aokautere, just outside Palmerston North near Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway, this luxurious lodge offers an idyllic retreat set on three acres of native bush.

kaitahilodge.nz

Ashhurst Domain campground

Packed with features and spanning more than 54 hectares, Ashhurst Domain is a great destination for the whole whānau (including dogs and horses!).

Visit PNCC for details

Ferry Reserve

With easy access to the river, this reserve is perfect for picnics and freedom camping, and even has basic toilet facilities.

Visit ManawatūNZ for details

Orchard Cabin

Escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and treat yourself to a tranquil retreat nestled in the serene foothills of the Tararua Ranges. Great for switching off with little coverage.

View on Airbnb

The Woodshed

Perched 700m above sea level on a hilltop in Rangiwahia on an expansive family farm, this cosy escape offers something truly beautiful — breathtaking panoramic views of Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe to the north, and the Ruahine Ranges to the east.

View on canopycamping.co.nz

RUN CLUB

RUN CLUB

Man jogging on Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway bridge for Gorge Quarter Run Club
Gorge Quarter Run Club
Group of people outdoors, some wearing athletic gear and hats, gathered under umbrellas, talking and smiling.

Because running is better together...

Join us every Sunday at 8:00am for a friendly, inclusive run (or walk) with a crew that loves the trails, hills, and views around Te Āpiti. Whether you’re gearing up for Coast to Coast, coming off a parkrun, or just looking to get moving. 

No planning needed, just show up. The club runs year-round, rain, hail or shine, with routes to suit all levels and a motivating, supportive vibe.

Sundays at 8.00am

Run Club Winter Talk Series

One Sunday of every month - 8am start 
Before you head off for your Run/Walk.

20min informative chats with industry crew who know their stuff. We’ve locked in a few local legends to give you some ins and out to help your running journey. Come join in.

1st Nov - Phoebe - Churchyard Physiotherapy

A person standing on a narrow mountain road with a steep rocky cliff to the left and a forested hillside to the right. A tilted utility pole leans over the road in the distance.
White abstract hand locating icon on black background.

For more details get in touch
amy@gorgequarter.nz