Wellington Regional Trails
A drone shot of two adults and two kids standing on a bridge over a river in Tararua Forest Park.

An easy walk for the whole family among mature podocarp and broadleaf native trees in the Tararua Range.

Walking time
1 hr
Length
3.6km
Uses
Walking/Running
Type
Single track
Walking difficulty
Easy: Walking track
Profile

20m climb

-20m descent

348m highest point

Dogs
Yes (on lead)

About the trail

This short flat trail is suitable for the whole family. It passes through some of the best mixed podocarp and broadleaf forests in the Tararua Range. You’ll see rimu, miro and northern rata, along with kamahi, red beech, and silver beech.

There’s access to the Atiwhakatu Stream along the way, as well as a picnic area and campsite. From the campsite, the track continues to Atiwhakatu Track junction. You can loop back to the car park via Gentle Annie Track.

The native bush surrounding the path in the Donnelly FLat loop walk.

Getting there

The trail begins at the entrance to Tararua Forest Park on Mount Holdsworth Road, near the camp area. Turn off State Highway 2 into Norfolk Road and follow the signs to Tararua Forest Park. Once you arrive, cross the Atiwhakatu footbridge and follow the track to Donnelly Flat.

What to expect

Donnelly Flat Loop Walk has three bridge crossings, including a swing bridge and occasional sections of exposed rock. It passes through some of the best mixed podocarp and broadleaf forests in the Tararua Range, and the area is abundant with bird life.

A child stands on rocks by the Te Whakatūrākau Stream on the Donnelly flat loop walk.

Know before you go

  • Plan your route before you leave, and let someone know where you’re going.
  • Visit Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews, and a packing list.
  • Check the track status on the Department of Conservation website.
  • Get an up-to-date weather report from the MetService website before setting off.
  • Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, sun protection, food and water.

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A person walking along a swing bridge on the Atiwhakatu track in Tararua Forest Park.

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