Gordon Park Scenic Reserve is a patch of native bush at the corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line — about 10 minutes’ drive from central Whanganui. A gentle 30-minute loop track winds through kahikatea, matai, and native wetland on boardwalks, suitable for all abilities including wheelchairs and pushchairs. It’s free, quiet, and one of the more accessible pockets of lowland native bush near the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line, Whanganui |
| Walk distance | Short loop (approx. 30 minutes) |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat, formed track with boardwalks |
| Cost | Free |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Facilities | Carpark and picnic table at the track start |
| Dogs | Check DOC signage at the reserve |
| Access | Wheelchair and pushchair accessible |
About Gordon Park Scenic Reserve
Gordon Park is a DOC scenic reserve protecting a remnant of lowland native bush typical of the Whanganui district. The dominant tree species are kahikatea and matai — both characteristic of the swampy lowland forest that once covered much of the lower Whanganui River plains. Boardwalks carry the track over the wetter sections, keeping the route accessible year-round even after rain.
The loop is short enough to be comfortable for young children and older visitors, and the flat terrain means it’s one of the few native bush walks in the area that works well with a pushchair or wheelchair. Tūī and kererū are regularly heard and seen in the canopy, and the dense canopy creates a noticeably different atmosphere from the open parks closer to the city.
Gordon Park is a scenic reserve managed jointly by DOC and Whanganui District Council. No camping, fires, bikes, or motorised vehicles are permitted. The reserve is small and self-contained — most visitors complete the loop and return to the carpark within 45 minutes including time to stop and look around.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Gordon Park Scenic Reserve — Department of Conservation page with track description, access details, and reserve rules for Gordon Park.
Whanganui District Council — Gordon Park Scenic Reserve — council overview of the reserve with location and facilities information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Gordon Park walk?
The loop track takes approximately 30 minutes at an easy pace.
Where is Gordon Park Scenic Reserve?
At the corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line — about 10 minutes’ drive from central Whanganui.
Is Gordon Park Reserve free?
Yes — free to visit, open dawn to dusk.
Is the Gordon Park track wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the track is flat and formed with boardwalks over the wetter sections, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
What trees and birds are at Gordon Park?
The reserve protects lowland native bush dominated by kahikatea and matai. Tūī and kererū are commonly heard and seen in the canopy.
Can I take dogs to Gordon Park?
Check the DOC and WDC signage at the reserve entrance for current dog access rules — these can vary for scenic reserves.
For more parks and walks in Whanganui, see the guide to Parks and Reserves in Whanganui. Westmere Lake Wildlife Reserve on Rapanui Road is another short, accessible native bush and wildlife experience close to the city.