Those wanting to experience the Manawatu Gorge on foot can now do so with ease.
A new shuttle that will transport passengers direct to Te Apiti from both Palmerston North and Ashhurst began over the weekend in a bid to attract more international users, and make the trail more accessible for those on foot.
The trial will see a 12-seater shuttle run every Saturday and Sunday until March 30.
The idea was sparked by PNCC councillor Chris Teo-Sherrell, who in partnership with Destination Manawatu and Horizons Regional Council, have rebranded the Manawatu Gorge as a destination for both walkers and overseas tourists. The results of this trial will determine if the shuttle is to be retained permanently.
Tom Shannon, chairman of the Manawatu Gorge Biodiversity group, said more than 44,000 people walked the gorge in 2013 and they hoped the shuttle would see an increase in those numbers.