7 Top Must-Do's in Whanganui-Manawatū

Getting off the beaten track is as easy as stepping into Whanganui National Park. Ditch the daily grind and hike, bike or kayak a route carved by the Whanganui River. When civilisation calls anew, rural towns and homely cities welcome with open arms.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. The Bridge to Nowhere

Built for a remote farming community that eventually diminished to nothing. Part of Whanganui National Park,access is via jet boat,mountain bike, hike or the Whanganui River Great Walk.

Whanganui River © Adobe Stock

2. Whanganui River Cruise

Take a trip up Whanganui River on an historic boat cruise. Originally built in 1899, the Waimarie paddle steamer was salvaged from the bottom of the Whanganui River while the restored MV Wairua first launched in 1904. Learn more at the Waimarie Riverboat Centre.

Steam boat on Whanganui River © Adobe Stock

3. Durie Hill Elevator

Burrowed 213m into hillside, take an antique elevator 66m to the summit. From here, 176 steps lead to the War Memorial Tower and spectacular views across the city and surrounds.St Paul’s Anglican Memorial

4. Sarjeant Gallery

Previously the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui © Adobe Stock

Temporarily housed in the Taupō Quay facility, a diverse collection of contemporary and high-quality exhibits will impress every art lover, while the gift shop is sure to seduce.

5. Te Manawa Museum

Fun and engaging museum that swells with interactive exhibits for all ages.Within this complex is the New Zealand Rugby Museum.

6. Manawatū Gorge Scenic Reserve

With swimming spots, horse trekking and various day walks, the most popular being the three to five-hour (one way) Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge, which offers fantastic views.

7. Tui Brewery

Stop in for a meal, beer or tour in Mangatainoka, north of Pahiatua. Between the tours, tastings and tap room there is also a small museum and a shop packed with Tui gear.

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