Last updated July 2026
Gordon Park Scenic Reserve is a 14.5-hectare Department of Conservation reserve located at the corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line in Whanganui East, roughly a 10-minute drive from central Whanganui. The reserve protects a remnant of lowland native forest once typical of the Whanganui district. A short, flat loop track winds through podocarp-hardwood forest with kahikatea, mataī, tōtara, tītoki, tawa and kōwhai. The track is wheelchair and buggy accessible, making it suitable for families and visitors of all abilities.
Practical Information
| Location | Corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line, Whanganui East (car park off Kaimatira Road) |
| Walk distance / time | Short flat loop (approx. 15 minutes) |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat, well-formed track |
| Cost | Free |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Facilities | Car park and picnic table at the track start |
| Dogs | Dogs on a leash only |
| Access | Wheelchair and buggy accessible |
| Size | 14.5 hectares |
About Gordon Park Scenic Reserve
Gordon Park Scenic Reserve is managed by the Department of Conservation and protects a sample of the lowland forest that once covered much of the Whanganui River plains. The canopy includes kahikatea, mataī, tōtara, tītoki, tawa and kōwhai, with boardwalks and formed paths keeping the route passable year-round.
The short loop provides an easy introduction to native bush for children and visitors with limited mobility. The dense forest supports a variety of birds including tūī, kererū, bellbird/korimako, fantail/pīwakawaka, grey warbler/riroriro, shining cuckoo/pīpīwharauroa, pūkeko, fernbird/mātātā, bittern/matuku-hūrepo and grey duck/pārera.
Camping and lighting fires are not permitted. The reserve is small and self-contained, with most visitors completing the loop and returning to the car park within 30 minutes. It offers a quiet contrast to more open parks closer to the city centre.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the short, flat loop as an easy way to experience native bush with young children or mobility aids. Many note the peaceful atmosphere and good birdlife close to town.
Reviewers describe the track as well-maintained and accessible, with a picnic table making it convenient for a quick family outing. The variety of trees and birds is frequently highlighted as a pleasant surprise.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation — Gordon Park Loop Track: Official track description, access details, rules and bird list.
Whanganui District Council — Gordon Park Scenic Reserve: Council page with location, facilities and reserve overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Gordon Park loop track?
The flat loop takes approximately 15 minutes at an easy pace.
Where is Gordon Park Scenic Reserve?
It is located at the corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line in Whanganui East, with the car park accessible off Kaimatira Road.
Is Gordon Park free to visit?
Yes, entry is free and the reserve is open dawn to dusk.
Is the track wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the short loop is flat, well-formed and suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
Can I take dogs to Gordon Park?
Dogs are permitted on a leash only.
What trees and birds can I see?
The reserve features kahikatea, mataī, tōtara, tītoki, tawa and kōwhai. Common birds include tūī, kererū, bellbird, fantail, grey warbler and others.
Are camping or fires allowed?
No, camping and lighting fires are not permitted in the reserve.
What facilities are available?
There is a car park and picnic table at the start of the track.
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