The Manawatū River has its headwaters northwest of Norsewood, on the eastern slopes of the Ruahine Range on the North Island of New Zealand. It flows initially eastward before turning south-west near Ormondville, flowing before turning north-west near Woodville. At this point it enters the Manawatu Gorge, between the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges. Beyond the gorge it joins with the Pohangina River at Ashhurst and turns south-west, flowing through the city of Palmerston North. At this stage the river is still flowing swiftly and carrying gravel from the mountains.