Donnelly Flat Loop Walk

The 2.5km loop track to Donnelly Flat passes through some of the best mixed podocarp/ broadleaf forest in the Tararua Range. This short, easy walk with a picnic area and stream on route is a great option for kids.

Walk across the Atiwhakatu footbridge and follow the relatively flat track to Donnelly Flat where there is an attractive picnic area and campsite with access to Atiwhakatu Stream.

Stop there for a snack and a paddle and from there you can loop back to the car park via the Gentle Annie

Allow one hour for walking. Dogs are allowed but on a leash. Getting there

The trail starts from the entrance to Tararua Forest Park on Mount Holdsworth Road a few miles south of Masterton in the Wairarapa.. To get there: turn off State Highway 2 into Norfolk Road (which turns into Mount Holdsworth Road) and follow the signs to Tararua Forest Park. Once you arrive, cross the Atiwhakatu footbridge and follow the track all the way to Donnelly Flat.

There are regular train services from Wellington to Masterton. Timetables are available from the Metlink website. However, you will need to drive from Masterton to the Tararua Forest Park.

By Phillip Donnell