Crunchy nectarines plucked right off the trees, fluffy spring lambs, and fresh country air… If you want a dose of wholesome country life, Taihape is the place to be. This small town in the North Island is close to some amazing activities in the Rangtīkei (rangi: sky, tīkei: wide step) and Manawatū (manawa: heart, tū: to stand) regions. Read on to discover the best budget-friendly things to do near Taihape and plan your next visit.

1. Whitecliffs Boulders

Unlike the Moeraki boulders, this hidden gem attracts fewer tourists and is equally (if not more) impressive. Explore the giant, marble-like boulders made of mudstone amongst magical bushland on a private farm just south of Mangaweka and Taihape. Access to the boulders is usually closed from August to the end of September due to lambing. For more directions and info click here.

2. The Rangitīkei River

The imposing white paapa cliffs of the Rangitīkei Gorge are one of the most jaw-dropping spectacles of the North Island. Visit Awastone Café overlooking the river, or one of the access points around Mangaweka township. Try trout fishing, skipping stones, or kayaking if you are experienced. Take care – the river can be treacherous, especially after heavy rain.

Taihape is conveniently placed in the centre of the north island and makes an excellent base for travelling. Fancy a comfortable stay near Taihape? Compare your options over at expedia.

3. The Kawhatau Range Road

If you want to see a slice of rural New Zealand, take the scenic drive along the Kawhatau Range Road. The turn-off is on Highway 1 near Mangaweka. This route twists through stunning countryside with rolling green fields inhabited by cotton-ball sheep and wild pheasants. I absolutely loved driving along here on the way to work every morning when I was fruit-thinning (learn about my seasonal job advice).

Be aware that the road has a number of hazards; namely rockfalls, escapee stock, tractors, cliffs, tight turns, and farmers whizzing along in Utes at the speed of light. Want to chat with the locals? Learn these rural New Zealand slang words for added fun!

4. Hunterville Huntaway Festival

For festival fun, don’t miss the annual Hunterway Festival in Hunterville. Sip a refreshing drink at the bar while you enjoy the live band, sample food stalls, or stock up local produce and seedlings. It’s a great day of entertainment for the family, with activities like shearing and gumboot throwing competitions. Cheer on the shepherds who compete in the challenging shepherds’ shemozzle where they race across the hillside accompanied by their faithful Huntaway dogs.

The festival is held each year on the first weekend after labour weekend, usually between the end of October and the start of November. Admission is free for spectators. Click here for more info.

5. The Taihape Gumboot Statue

The Taihape Gumboot statue fashioned from corrugated iron is not much more than its description, but it still offers a neat photo opportunity. Find it on the side of Highway 1 on the outskirts of Taihape.

6. Mount Stewart Reserve

With amazing views where the hills touch the sky, this reserve offers a number of easy hillside walks that can be accessed from the Gumboot statue. Walk up the path for expansive views of the countryside.

7. Explore Historic Mangaweka

Mangaweka (manga: stream, weka: a native woodhen) was once a bustling township. Today most locals travel to Taihape to access amenities like supermarkets and shops, but Mangaweka’s stately old buildings remain.

In the past, these streets have been used as movie sets and locals enjoyed being film extras. A stroll along Broadway will only take you a few minutes, leading past the old general store and hotel.

8. Other Taihape & Mangaweka attractions

Fresh asparagus for sale: can be purchased from the Dukes Roadhouse, a café offering home-made tucker in Mangaweka beside Highway 1. The asparagus is locally grown (Mangaweka Asparagus) and the season is around October-December.

Mangaweka Gallery: an art gallery with unique gifts and curios in the distinctive bright yellow church beside Highway 1, Mangaweka.

Taihape Museum: is open on Sundays between 11am-2pm at 14 Huia street in Taihape township.

Mangaweka Scenic Reserve: a pleasant nature walk offering views of the township. Can be accessed from Te Kapua Road.

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