Te Henui Walkway
A scenic river walkway in New Plymouth, perfect for leisurely strolls, bike rides, and connecting with nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Te Henui Walkway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic river walkway in New Plymouth, perfect for leisurely strolls, bike rides, and connecting with nature.
"The Te Henui is one of the most beautiful walkways in New Plymouth."
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk?
Perfect for both biking and walking. Enjoy the scenic route at your own pace!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on the full 5.9km circular walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Te Henui Riverbanks
Along the walkway
Meander alongside the picturesque Te Henui River, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquil waters.
Coastal Walkway Connection
Northern end of the walkway
Seamlessly links to the popular Coastal Walkway for extended exploration of New Plymouth's scenic coastline.
Pukekura Park Access
Southern end of the walkway
Starts or ends near the stunning Pukekura Park, offering a gateway to its botanical gardens and attractions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River's Path
Connectivity and Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk?
Perfect for both biking and walking. Enjoy the scenic route at your own pace! 
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on the full 5.9km circular walk.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
A great spot for family outings and quality time with kids.
🐶 Dog Walking Spot
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a fantastic place for a dog walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚴♀️ Bike or Walk?
Perfect for both biking and walking. Enjoy the scenic route at your own pace!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on the full 5.9km circular walk.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
A great spot for family outings and quality time with kids.
🐶 Dog Walking Spot
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a fantastic place for a dog walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Te Henui Walkway's natural beauty and its role as a peaceful escape within New Plymouth. Its connectivity to other trails and suitability for various activities like walking, biking, and dog walking are frequently praised. Some minor points of improvement could include more frequent restroom facilities along the entire stretch.
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Bronwen Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Te Henui Walkway is accessible from multiple points, including connections to the Coastal Walkway and near Pukekura Park. You can also access it from suburban entrances in Merrilands and Welbourn.
Yes, the walkway is well-suited for cycling, offering a pleasant ride along the river.
While New Plymouth is becoming more walkable, having a car can be beneficial for exploring further. However, the walkway itself is accessible and can be a good option for car-free living if your accommodation is nearby.
Parking is available at various access points, particularly near Pukekura Park and along the Coastal Walkway. Check local signage for specific parking areas.
The walkway is generally well-signposted, guiding you along the river and towards key connections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Te Henui Walkway is a public park and is free to access for everyone.
The walkway is open 24/7, allowing you to enjoy it at any time of day or night.
There is no entrance fee; the Te Henui Walkway is a free public amenity.
Guided tours are not typically offered for the Te Henui Walkway, as it's designed for self-guided exploration.
The main restriction is to keep dogs on a leash and to respect the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is described as beautiful and mostly flat, making it a medium-grade walk suitable for most fitness levels.
A circular walk is approximately 5.9km and takes about two hours. Some visitors have completed longer distances like 15km.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly on the walkway itself, but are generally available at connected points like Pukekura Park.
The mostly flat and well-maintained path makes it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections might be more challenging.
Expect to see the stunning Te Henui River, lush greenery, and a peaceful natural environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the river's glisten, the lush foliage, and the bridges crossing the water for beautiful shots.
Late afternoons offer pleasant light, and the tranquil river setting can be beautiful during golden hours.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the landscape.
The interplay of light on the water and the natural textures of the riverbanks provide unique photo opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in public parks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider starting your adventure near Pukekura Park, which offers additional attractions for children. The walkway provides a safe and engaging environment for family walks, bike rides, and quality time together. Remember to pack snacks and water, and make a day of it by combining your walk with a visit to nearby playgrounds or picnic spots.
+1🐶 Dog Owners
The walkway's length and varied scenery offer a stimulating walk for dogs of all sizes and energy levels. It's a great way to get both you and your pet some exercise while enjoying the beautiful Taranaki landscape. Remember to bring waste bags to keep the walkway clean for everyone.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
+1Many cyclists use the walkway as part of longer routes, linking different parts of the city. The relatively low traffic on the walkway itself ensures a safer and more pleasant cycling experience compared to busy roads. It's a great way to experience the local environment and get some exercise in a beautiful setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Te Henui River
Many find the Te Henui River itself to be the star of the show. Its gentle flow, the way light glints off the water, and the surrounding native flora create a picturesque setting. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the simple beauty of the natural world. The sounds of the river and the rustling leaves contribute to a peaceful ambiance, making it a popular spot for relaxation and gentle exercise.
Whether you're looking for a short, invigorating walk or a longer, more immersive experience, the Te Henui Walkway delivers. It's a testament to how urban planning can successfully integrate natural beauty, offering residents and visitors alike a valuable green space to enjoy. The connection to other popular trails, like the Coastal Walkway, further enhances its appeal for those wanting to explore more of New Plymouth's outdoor offerings.
+1Connectivity and Accessibility
For those considering a car-free lifestyle in New Plymouth, the Te Henui Walkway is a significant asset. While public transport and ride-sharing options exist, living near a well-connected walkway like this can greatly enhance your mobility and reduce reliance on a car. It provides a direct and pleasant route to amenities and other recreational areas, making daily commutes or leisure activities more enjoyable.
The walkway's accessibility is further enhanced by its relatively flat terrain, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including families with strollers and individuals with mobility aids. Multiple access points mean you can hop on or off the walkway at various locations, tailoring your experience to your needs and time constraints. This thoughtful design ensures that the Te Henui Walkway is a truly inclusive and functional part of the New Plymouth urban fabric.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit