Hapuawhenua Viaduct — Attraction in North Island

Fantastic. Allow lots of time for photos. The forest is stunning. I'm 66 and not fit or good on bikes. I started at the start of the trail at Horopito and it took me 2.5 hrs to get to the end of the trail = 11.5 km. I walked some uphill as it can get steep. I walked some downhill as I'm not good on bikes and some of the gravel is slippery. I would need more time to read the information boards and enjoy the forest. Cyclists would do this MUCH faster. Although I did some walking I would not descibe it as a difficult ride but if you are not good just take time and caution. I recommend...

Nice easy walk with a reward at the end, architectural works of art.

Well graded trail with some gradual inclines. Very popular with cyclists but good for walkers and even runners too, very few tree roots to trip you up.

Several benches and tables sprinkled along the trail for rest breaks or a picnic. We also liked the historical markers throughout to learn about the coach road.

FYI there is a porta-loo at the far end of the viaduct, no services at the trail head though.

Out and back was 5.3 miles and...

This is a great walk from Ohakune or you can bike from same or the Horopito end following the old coach road (there are shuttle services at the bike hire places in Ohakune). The ride is reasonably tame for the most part although the cobblestone parts are quite jarring on a hard tail bike. We did the ride one way from Horopito slowly with lots of stops to read signs, take photos and explore the side trails and tunnel. Total of 3 hours at a leisurely pace but 2 would be plenty if you...