Its sheer vertical "paapa" (clay) cliffs (unique to this part of New Zealand) and deep canyons provide the perfect setting for adventure activities such as bungy jumps and flying fox rides.

The cliffs, which display oxygen isotope stages, have been incised into the soft Quaternary,[15] 2.6 to 1.7 million year old, marine sediments as the land has risen since the last ice age.

[18] The Springvale Suspension Bridge crosses the Rangitīkei River on the Taihape–Napier Road (known as the Gentle Annie).

[19][20] It was built to support farming which increased in the inland Patea region after World War I and the need to transport stock and wool to the port at Napier.

[19][21] The bridge was designed by Rangitīkei County engineer Sydney Mair and built by William Salt.