Cyclists and Walkers Protest Barriers at Manawatū Gorge

Recreational users of the historic road through the Manawatū Gorge are expressing their frustration over recent efforts by the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to restrict access. The old state highway has been closed since 2017 due to a series of landslips, with a new highway, Te Ahu a Turanga, constructed to replace it. Despite the closure, cyclists and walkers assert their right to use the old road.

Recently, a two-metre high barrier was erected approximately 300 metres from the Ferry Reserve at Woodville. Within days, the barrier was vandalised, with a significant hole cut through the railings. A second fence was also installed about two kilometres from the Ashhurst end of the gorge. According to Rua Pani, the agency’s regional manager for maintenance and operations, the barriers and updated safety signage are part of the agency’s “duty to actively deter public access.”

The barriers were upgraded in response to ongoing vandalism, which the agency claims is necessary to secure an area filled with potential hazards. Pani highlighted the risks associated with the old route, including unstable slopes, falling rocks, and over 100 structures, such as damaged or partially supported bridges, that pose safety concerns. Since the route is no longer part of the transport system, Pani clarified that the agency lacks both the mandate and budget for remediation work.

Despite these safety concerns, advocates for outdoor recreation argue that the agency lacks the legal authority to prevent access. Emma Gregg, a member of the executive council for Federated Mountain Clubs, stated that the road remains a legal thoroughfare. She contended that the agency cannot restrict access unless the road is formally “stopped.” Gregg acknowledged the safety issues but insisted that users should be allowed to make their own decisions about accessing the area.

Describing the gorge as a beautiful location, she noted that since the opening of the new highway, many have discovered the opportunity to cycle a loop over the highway and back through the gorge. This route offers an easier alternative for those who prefer not to tackle the 11.2-kilometre Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge Track, which is situated higher up the slope.

Adding to the debate, David Barnes, a field adviser with the Herenga ā Nuku Outdoor Access Commission, stated that roads being unformed or unsuitable for vehicles does not justify banning other users. Barnes believes that the agency can only close off public access during repairs or when removing obstructions, which he claims is not applicable in this situation.

Outdoor enthusiast Anthony Behrens, who has extensively explored the gorge and its surroundings, voiced skepticism towards the agency’s concerns about geological instability. He argued that New Zealand is inherently geologically unstable, which is part of the country’s appeal for tourists. Behrens expressed disappointment that the agency has not taken steps to enhance or protect the route over the past eight years, aside from erecting barriers that invite vandalism.

Pani mentioned that the agency is currently evaluating the future of the gorge, with plans to potentially revoke sections that could function as local roads at either end. This would involve transferring control to the Palmerston North City Council and the Tararua District Council. If the central part of the road is formally closed, it may be sold through a process managed by Land Information NZ. This disposal process could extend over two to three years, with new use of the area left to the discretion of the new owner.

Behrens criticized the agency for seemingly lacking plans to ensure the area’s safety before transferring responsibility. He remarked, “It looks to me like we’re going to be left with nothing but a wasteland in a place that NZTA describe on their website and signs as a ‘national taonga’.” He expressed that the current state of the gorge reflects poorly on the agency, calling it a “national shame” and an insult to those who cherish the Te Āpiti region. Despite his concerns, Behrens confirmed that he would continue to use the route, asserting that others should be free to make their own choices regarding access.