Round the Bridges Walk is Whanganui’s most flexible riverside walk, using three of the city’s bridges to create interchangeable circuits along both banks of the Whanganui River. Four routes are available — from a 3.3 km one-hour stroll to a full 10.5 km three-hour loop — all flat, paved, and free.
Practical Information
| Location | Whanganui city riverfront |
|---|---|
| Shortest circuit | 3.3 km (Dublin St & Railway Bridge loop) — approx. 1 hour |
| Middle circuit | 4.2 km (City & Dublin St Bridge) — approx. 1¼ hours |
| Longest circuit | 10.5 km (full three-bridge loop) — approx. 3 hours |
| Terrain | Flat, paved throughout — suitable for prams and wheelchairs |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Cafés and toilets in the city centre near starting points |
About the Walk
The walk takes its name from the three bridges that span the river here: Cobham Bridge (SH3), Whanganui City Bridge, and Dublin Street Bridge. By choosing different combinations of bridges to cross, you create loops of varying lengths — all on flat, well-maintained riverside paths. The route is popular with early-morning joggers, families, and visitors wanting an easy walk that still delivers genuine river scenery.
The Whanganui River is broad and unhurried at this point in the city, and the views across the water toward the wooded hills on the far bank give the walk a spacious feel. Along the west bank section, the route passes close to the Durie Hill Elevator — a historic underground funicular built in 1919, worth a detour for the hilltop views it opens up across the city and river valley.
Because all paths are paved and virtually flat, this is one of the most accessible walking routes in Whanganui, suitable for all ages.
Circuit Options
Dublin St & Railway Bridge loop — 3.3 km, 1 hour. The shortest circuit using the upper town bridges.
Cobham & City Bridge circuit — 3.6 km, 1 hour. Crosses SH3 and the city centre bridge.
City & Dublin St Bridge circuit — 4.2 km, 1¼ hours. The most popular loop, with consistent river views throughout.
Full three-bridge loop (Cobham + City + Dublin St) — 10.5 km, 3 hours. The complete circuit for a longer half-day outing.
What Visitors Say
Walkers on AllTrails (59 reviews) consistently rate this as one of Whanganui’s best easy walks — praising the flat terrain, river views, and the ability to pick a distance that suits the day. Most do the 4.2 km City and Dublin St loop as their go-to circuit.
Where to Learn More
AllTrails — Whanganui Round the Bridges Track has maps, GPS routes, trail conditions, and user reviews for all four circuits.
Discover Whanganui’s walking and cycling guide lists additional riverside paths and city walks across the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Round the Bridges Walk take?
Between 1 hour (3.3 km shortest loop) and 3 hours (10.5 km full three-bridge circuit), depending on which route you choose.
Is the walk suitable for prams or wheelchairs?
Yes — all paths are paved and flat throughout, making this one of Whanganui’s most accessible walking routes.
Where should I start?
Most walkers begin near the Whanganui City Bridge in the town centre, which gives easy access to multiple circuits from the one starting point.
Is there a cost to walk?
No — the walk is completely free.
Can you walk it year-round?
Yes, paved riverside paths are accessible in all seasons.
What else is nearby?
The Durie Hill Elevator on the west bank is a short detour — a historic underground lift to the hilltop and views across the city.
The Round the Bridges Walk is part of Whanganui’s wider walking network. See the Whanganui Walking Tracks hub for the full range of city and regional options, including the Durie Hill Tower Walk nearby.