![Cruise through the Pohangina Valley terraces on the Manawatū Cycleway. Photo / ManatwatuNZ](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/V4THHRSBO7JZD42EKT6VBVQGYA.jpg?auth=94643fa69b6d2ac377191c5884947dea931a88f14f0e1157cdb286731be7f176&width=16&height=11&quality=70&smart=true)
1. Manawatū Cycleway Transfers, Mangaweka
The Manawatū Cycleway is one of the NZ Cycle Trails' Heartland Rides, a 115km, grade 2-3 route over sealed roads between Mangaweka and Palmerston North. It's a ripper: some of our best scenery from Mangaweka's soaring white mudstone cliffs, the dramatic Ruahine Ranges and the lush green farmland along the Pohangina Valley terraces, from rural Manawatū into the city. More than 80 per cent is on quiet, back-country roads, with quirky and quaint country cafes and pubs, galleries, gardens, swimming holes, glow-worm caves, picnic areas and camping spots. To make bike life easier, Awastone now offers a shuttle to take riders and bikes from Palmerston North to Mangaweka.
mangaweka.co.nz
2. Manawatū Blokart Club, Sanson
What's a blokart? Basically a few bits of pipe with three wheels, a mast and a sail, about 2m long and 1.5m wide, you could call it a land yacht or a wind-powered go-kart that can be "sailed" by anyone from 8 to 80. Be aware they can reach 95km/h on a sandy beach or – in the case of Manawatū's club, a purpose-built track at Sanson Domain on State Highway 1 south of Palmerston North. It's an easy, fun, adrenalin-filled activity for all ages and abilities, the club will hire blokarts by the half-hour or hour and provide lessons. Fun for the whole whānau.
manawatublokartclub.nz