2. Manawatu Gorge TrackAshhurst The Manawatu Gorge runs for 6-9 km between the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges in the south part of the North Island of New Zealand, linking the Manawatu and Hawke's Bay regions. It lies to the northeast of Palmerston North. Its western end is near the small town of Ashhurst and its eastern end is close to the town of Woodville. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.