Following the Waingongoro River at Cardiff, approximately 6km from Stratford, this is a pleasant 3km walkway through farmland and natural bush which gives access to points of local historical significance.

The walkway is an attractive and tranquil riverbank walk. Changes of direction and elevation are provided via steep slopes and river flats. There is a well-maintained path through bush and farmland with some steep gradients following the natural contour.

Key points of interest include:

  • The sites of two weirs built to run a double ram system that pumped water to the Cardiff Co-Operative Dairy Factory during operation from 1891 to 1951.
  • A recently constructed swing-bridge (which indicates the halfway point of the walk).
  • A short side-track that ends at a cliff-top look-out platform above the river giving views of the mountain, the surrounding farmland and a 55m natural gas pipeline bridge. 
  • The beautiful views of the river and its stony banks from a picnic area, located a short stroll from the carpark. Seats and a table are provided but we recommend enjoying your picnic on the riverbank to the sound of the water and native bird song.

This walkway is ideally suited for combining with a day’s outing to Dawson Falls in Egmont National Park or Hollard Gardens near Kaponga.

For further information contact New Plymouth, Stratford or South Taranaki i-SITE Visitor centres, or view the downloadable brochures from our website.

Details

    • Physical Address
      622 Opunake Road, Stratford