Kahuterawa Stream at Kahuterawa Reserve

This popular recreational spot is found nestled in the foothills of the Tararua Ranges about 15 minutes’ drive from Palmerston North. Head south on State Highway 57, turn onto Old West Road and then Kahuterawa Road to get there. The Reserve is about 6 km up the road. Further information can be found here.

Although the Reserve is quite small there are toilets, barbeques and rubbish bins at the site.  

Is it safe for swimming?
Water quality at Kahuterawa Reserve is almost always good. That means most of the time the river looks clean and clear and you are good to go. However take care after after recent rain, because rain washes bacteria and sediment off roads, plants and land into water which increases the health-risk and makes it look murky. Good news is that it clears pretty quickly when the rain stops.

The growth of benthic cyanobacteria has not been a problem at this spot.

What is Horizons doing to improve water quality?
Rivers have a range of things that need to be balanced to keep the water clean so its fish and plant life can survive and we can enjoy these special spots.

Horizons works to improve water quality by:

• Helping to fence off rivers and streams so stock do not get into water and contaminate it
• Helping rural land users to stop soil eroding from hills and into water
• Monitoring water that is taken out of the river so there is enough for everyone, including the fish

River Accord
Industry, councils, iwi and environmentalists have made a promise to look after all the rivers in the Manawatu Catchment. It is called the Manawatu River Leaders' Accord and more information can be found here.