City to Sea Rail Trail Manawatū

Connecting Longburn to Himatangi and Foxton villages

Rail trail Map showing the route from Longburn Palmerston North to Foxton Beach to Himatangi Beach and along the coast. The shared pathway will be suitable for push bikes, horses and people

The proposed Trail

This trail will be a grade one, off-road trail that will connect Longburn, Himatangi and Foxton. Creating a new way for people to explore the region by bike, on foot and through other active recreation.

The trail will be 28 - 34 kilometres in length with loop options between Himatangi and Foxton. One of these loops is along the area’s oldest highway - the beach.

The trail has a unique Māori and European heritage. The trail’s story will be told via flora, sculptures and information boards.

Vision & Progression
Vision & Progression
State Highway 56 Railway photo

The History of the Rail Trail

Originally built as a tramway in 1872 and converted to steel in 1876, the railway played a vital role in connecting Lower Manawatū communities with Foxton and Palmerston North.

The railway provided essential access to supplies, services and markets, while supporting the movement of people and local produce including flax, timber and agricultural goods. Connections at Himatangi corner also linked the network to Sanson and Rongotea, making travel safer and more reliable.

Following the opening of the Wellington to Longburn railway in 1886, Foxton’s role as a railway hub declined. Passenger services ended in 1932, with freight continuing until the line closed on 21 July 1959.

Two men are cutting and clearing overgrown bushes and plants in a grassy area near a line of large, leafy trees. A car is parked in the background on a dirt road with clouds and blue sky overhead.
People working outdoors in grassy, overgrown area with dense bushes and a pickup truck parked nearby under cloudy sky.

This is a community project, and it will take many hands to bring it to life. There are lots of ways you can get involved.

Volunteer - From helping at a working bee to sharing your skills or joining the Trust, every contribution makes a difference.

Working bees shave thousands off construction.

Donate - Help us turn our vision into reality. Your donation will support the work needed to develop the Rail Trail and create a lasting legacy for our communities.

Sponsors