3 minute read
Whanganui Must Do's
Durie Hill Tunnel and 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.
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St Paul’s Anglican Memorial Church
Bursting with intricate Māori carvings, lattice panelling and tukutuku (wall panels), book a $10 tour via the Whanganui i-SITE.
The Great Whanganui Play Trail
Download the map and head off on the short or long version of this hilarious family activity. Parade down the ‘Silly Walk Zone’, pick up the phone to see who answers and have a nibble in the herb garden.
Whanganui River Market
Every Saturday morning, come rain or shine, the Whanganui River is the backdrop to more than 100 stalls.From local food producers to aneclectic mix of collectors of vintage and retro, traditional crafts, plants and street food, there’s something for everyone.
Falling Creek Ranch
This working farm share their love of the land with horse treks for the whole family.
Two Historic Boat Cruises
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. Check online for run times.
Castlecliff and Kai Iwi Beach
Shimmering black sand beaches are firm favourites with families for their swimming, facilities and playgrounds.
Bason Botanic Gardens
Free entry and complimentary barbecues. Pack your snags and have a sizzle in between the glasshouses, terraced succulents and frisbee golf course.
Paloma Gardens
A perfect slice of paradise governed by nature, albeit upkept by two passionate owners, take a picnic and relax amidst the greenery. $10pp entry.
Bushy Park
This forest sanctuary, north of the city, hosts native wildlife, the world’s largest rata tree and a grand Edwardian homestead with excellent Devonshire teas.
Virginia Lake
Five minutes north of the city centre, enjoy a woodland walk by the lake, passing gazebos, rotunda and bronze statues. Stop by
Rotokawau/Virginia Lake Reserve, Whanganui © Discover Whanganui
City of DESIGN
In recognition as a creative hot spot, Whanganui just received the international designation of UNESCO CITY OF DESIGN.
THE SARJEANT GALLERY 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.
NEW ZEALAND GLASSWORKS Located within the award-winning Drews Avenue precinct, with the chance to see glassblowing in action almost any day of the week. With vibrant shop and glass paperweight making workshops.
SPACE STUDIO & GALLERY Buzzing with fortnightly exhibitions featuring both local and in-house studio artists.
QUARTZ, MUSEUM OF STUDIO CERAMICS Got a passion for pottery? Then you mustn’t miss the only museum in the country dedicated to ceramics, with the largest and most diverse range on display.
ARTISTS OPEN STUDIOS Annually, during the last two weekends in March, is the chance to visit the studios of talented creatives throughout the region.
STREET ART Try to spot the bold and beautiful creations throughout the city: Wāhine by @jacob_chrisohoou_artist, Hangar’s Home by @swiftmantis, Kārearea by @janine_divatmd and @charles_phat1tmd and the Community Fridge on Hill Street by @swiftmantis.
COASTAL ARTS TRAIL This self-drive trail continues down from Taranaki and Manawatū to Whanganui, giving insight into the lives and inspiration of these creatives. Map available from coastalartstrail.nz/map.
Credit New Zealand Glassworks
