25/05/2026
If you’re riding at Arapuke on Thursday morning, please be aware there will be horses be on Back Track starting at roughly 10.30am.
Palmerston North City Council has advised MMBC that horses will now be permitted on Back Track. They will not be allowed on mountain bike-specific trails.
To help introduce this change safely, a small trial ride will take place on Thursday 28 May. Around four horses and riders will travel up Kahuterawa Road from the reserve at approximately 10am before riding Back Track with a couple of mountain bikers accompanying the group.
If you’re riding at Arapuke on Thursday morning, please be aware that horses may be present. Please be particularly careful around intersections and blind corners such as the Lower Twister junction. Please mind your speed.
We have successfully shared Back Track with walkers, runners, families, dogs and Te Araroa users; horses will now be part of our community. As with any shared-use trail, everyone will need to take extra care. Slowing down, communicating clearly and giving horses space will help keep everyone safe.
PNCC will be adding signage and access modifications before regular horse access begins. Following Thursday’s trial, we’ll report back on how it went, what was learned, and what the next steps will be.
We know members may have questions or concerns about the change, and we encourage respectful discussion and constructive feedback as everyone adapts to the new arrangement.
Feedback can be sent to [email protected]
Manawatū Mountain Bike Club Palmerston North City Council
