Celebrating Manawatū
Rooted in community
Three Oaks Organic farm stands as an example of local commitment to sustainable food practices. For the past 17 years, David and Teresa have dedicated themselves to organic farming, creating a haven for fresh, wholesome produce.
David, a Manawatū local grew up on this very farm, and after returning years later, he set out to convert it into an organic operation. This move was a natural progression, aligned with his vision of sustainable farming practices that benefit both the land and the community. Over six years ago, when a major processor stopped collecting their organic milk, David realised that the exceptional quality of their milk deserved to be shared with their local community. What begun as a shift from bulk milk collection to the delivery of whole, pasteurized, and raw milk, along with yoghurt, has blossomed into a thriving local business. Teresa stepped into the business in 2018, bringing her hospitality expertise from Wellington, combined their skills and
passions to create something truly special. They both take pride in having full quality control from paddock to plate.
At the heart of Three Oaks operation is their seasonal milk, produced from cows that graze on fresh grass throughout the summer months. This milk is not only richer in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and betacarotene than conventional milk, but it’s also creamier and more flavorful. The health benefits of their milk go hand in hand with its superior taste, making it a popular and healthy choice.
Being based in Manawatū has proven to be a smart business move for them. The centralised location allows them to easily distribute their products to places like Wellington, Whanganui, regional Manawatū and the Wairarapa. They’ve also seen customers come to their farm as far as Taupō, making this an economical and efficient base for their organic dairy operation.Their decision to farm in Manawatū was not just about personal preference but a savvy business move that aligns perfectly with the duos’ goals. For Teresa, the journey from being a chef to working on the farm has brought her full circle in understanding the entire food production process.
This newfound appreciation for the food value chain has strengthened her connections with local producers, all
“I love Manawatū because the people here have really helped make it feel like my home. It offers everything that larger cities do but at a much more accessible pace.”
dedicated to delivering high- quality products to the broader market.
Their love for Manawatū runs deep. As Teresa puts it, “I love Manawatū because the people here have really helped make it feel like my home. It offers everything that larger cities do but at a much more accessible pace.”
Community is at the core of Three Oaks Organic’s mission. They are deeply committed to building strong relationships within the Manawatū region, recognising the power of collaboration and shared values. Their farm is not just a source of organic milk, it’s a vibrant hub where they actively engage with their neighbours. By prioritising community and adopting sustainable farming practices, they provide nourishing products while also enriching the local economy. Three Oaks Organic’s products are on offer at the Feilding Farmers Market and local businesses like Organic Buzz, along with home deliveries in the Manawatū and to Whanganui via The Egg Project, making them a truly locally connected enterprise.
Three Oaks Organic is not only dedicated to high-quality food production, but also giving back to the community that has embraced them.
To see Three Oaks Organic farm in action visit threeoaksorganic.co.nz
The Feilding Art Centre
The Feilding Art Centre was set up by The Feilding and District Art Society in the 1960s.
The Centre plays host to exhibitions by emerging and established artists, run affordable workshops for artists at all stages of their journey, and has a shop filled with unique art objects by local creators. With an ever-changing programme of exhibitions, events and classes it is worth a visit.
Located on Manchester Street, Feilding, the centre is open Monday to Friday: 10am to 4pm or on Saturday: 10am to 1pm or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @FeildingArt.
Feilding Art Centre | Manawatū Art Expo | Feilding Art Society
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
Motorhoming in Manawatū 101
Travelling Manawatū by motorhome gives you the ultimate freedom to access off-the-beatentrack gems at your own pace, from walking or biking rugged backcountry and ancient forest, to stopping off at country pubs and gardens, plunging into swimming holes, and nipping into town for museums, art, and dining.
It gives you the freedom to stay another night at a particularly epic spot if you so desire – and Manawatū has so many of them! We bring you the 101 on what routes to take, where you can park up for the night, dump your waste – and where to park in town.
Campervan essentials
Dump station locations are another essential – knowing where they are will take the stress out of your motorhome trip. If your motorhome is large, you’ll need to know which parks in town can fit you in – thankfully, in Manawatū there’s no stress with this. Just outside Palmerston North i-SITE in The Square/ Te Marae o Hine there is free all-day parking for motorhome and campervans. In Feilding, there is free daytime parking outside the railway station and the Feilding Information Centre, Makino Pools, Feilding Sale Yards and The Coach House Museum.
Magic places to stay
You’re spoilt for choice for places to stay by motorhome. For selfcontained vehicle freedom campers, there are basic spots in simply spectacular and remote locations, next to native bush, rivers and
mountains – you can really get away from the hustle and bustle. Freedom camping requires no booking (let your spontaneous side shine!) and best of all you can save some money for a fancier stay somewhere else another night, or splash it on that Rangitīkei rafting trip, alpine horse trek or fine dining experience.
Department of Conservation (DOC) and regional campsites are another option as a place to stay – they’re also usually in stunning spots, are low cost and maintained by rangers, and often have powered sites available and long-drop toilets. Otherwise, if you’d rather have facilities such as flush toilets, hot showers, laundry, wifi and a kitchen, head to a holiday park or other private campground.
Epic routes
The routes through the Manawatū are beautiful and easy to navigate by motorhome. In northern Manawatū, you can explore The Country Road scenic routes – three routes that will take you the along back country road where hidden treasures are waiting to be found.
The Stormy Point Route takes in a lookout with incredible views as far as Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu, lush farmland, winding country lanes, boutique country businesses and river terraces. The Peep-oDay Route travels past dramatic limestone cliffs, high class gardens, rural villages and great swimming spots. The Manawatū Scenic Route takes you into the Pohangina Valley, past ancient bush, high-altitude horse trekking, swimming spots, country inns and up close to the magnificent Ruahine Ranges. From Palmerston North, head out to Himatangi Beach, or drive south to Foxton for adventures at the dedicated wakeboard park, kitesurfing, an inflatable aqua course or to Arapuke for mountain biking.
Manawatū really does make for a dreamy motorhome holiday, with off-the-beaten-track experiences combined with easy infrastructure to make your motorhome holiday hassle-free.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
EXPERIENCE MANAWATŪ HAERE MAI
LIVELY FOOD SCENE
Enjoy an incredible diversity of restaurants, pubs and cocktail bars. From lively to intimate to elegant, there’s something for all.
SPECIAL STAYS
Escape the hustle and bustle with unique stays such as Rangitikei Farm Stay, Ridge Top Farm or The Last Church in Āpiti.
ACTION PACKED
Seek your next adrenaline fix in our adventure playground. Killer mountain biking and hiking are just the beginning.
COUNTRY CHARM
Enjoy a slice of authentic rural New Zealand with farmer’s markets, award-winning pubs and other treasures along The Country Road.
Join the story: He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero
Journey along He Ara Kotahi and the Manawatū River Pathways to explore the six sites of special significance, scan the QR code at each marker and, whether you’re local hapori (community) or manuhiri (visitors) to our region, you’ll be provided with an authentic and trusted source of ancestral knowledge through an innovative and interactive storytelling experience. Interact with video interviews, stories, illustrated recreations and animations to discover what life was like as far back as the 1600s.
With 8 kms of river pathways to explore between all six sites, you have the option
to walk, cycle or make use of the nearby Flamingo scooters to visit all the sites. By car you can visit all but one of these sites (Turitea Pā requires a 5km return walk, or cycle from He Ara Kotahi bridge car park. Please note that the scooters’range does not allow you to get all the way to the Turitea Pā site).
Choose a fine morning or afternoon in your weekend, pack a drink bottle, your phone, and a sense of adventure and get exploring!
“With each step, each scan, and each story, He Ara Kotahi becomes not just a pathway, but a living, breathing canvas
of narratives - connecting the past, the present, and the future in a harmonious flow, much like the Manawatū River itself”
He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero can also be accessed completely digitally through heiarakorero.nz. Here you will find video interviews with Rangitāne, maps and graphic novels as well as educational kits for tauira (students) and a private repositary managed and accessible only by Rangitāne o Manawatū where they can store their pūrākau; growing iwi capability to manage and protect their mātauranga on a digital platform.
The collaboration behind this kapupapa is between Rangitāne o Manawatū and the Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA), and was made possible through funding from Te Urungi: Cultural Sector Regenerations Fund from Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
The vision for He Ara Kotahi, Hei Ara Kōrero: To inspire and connect our whānau, kura and hāpori with the Manawatū River and to bring to life its pūrākau through the people of Rangitāne o Manawatū.
Manawatū Markets
Whether it be the weekly award-winning Feilding Farmers’ market (which takes over the town square every Friday morning), the cute Hokowhitu Village Market (which runs the first and third Sunday of every month), or the amazing annual Cross Hills Gardens Country Fair, each market has its own flavour and all are worth a stop-in if you are visit lines up on the right day.
Weekly Markets
▸ Feilding Farmers’ Market
This award-winning market features stunning artisan products such as locally crafted wines, cheeses, meats and more. Every Friday, 9am – 1.30pm. Manchester Square, Feilding.
▸ Highbury Flea Market
The Highbury market is the go-to place to catch up with fellow locals, and top up on produce, freshly back Māori bread and tasty treats galore. Make sure you visit when hungry, as the freshly cooked food are delish.
Every Sunday, 7am – 1pm. Highbury Shopping Centre Carpark, Highbury Avenue, Palmerston North.
▸ Sanson Flea Market
Get inspired and pick up a vintage gem with the array of antiques and collectables up for sale at this Sunday flea market or check out locally made crafts and goods. Every Sunday, 7:30am – 1.30pm. Corner of State Highway One and Three, Sanson.
Men’s
Monthly Markets
▸ Hokowhitu Village Farmers’ Market
This popular market offers a range of artisan treats and local produce to tempt your taste buds. Bring your family or your flatties and sit and stay for a while, with scrumptious street food and live music making it a complete experience.
Every first and third Sunday of the month, 9am – 1pm. Hokowhitu Village, Albert Street, Palmerston North.
▸ Mish Mash Market
A curated collection of bespoke and boutique, Mish Mash is the ultimate maker’s market. A treasure trove of local businesses, one off treasures, and local arts are brought together for a vibrant market each month.
The last Sunday of the month (during the warmer months!), 10am-3pm.
397 Church Street, Palmerston North.
& Women’s Fashion shoes, Sports shoes &
Kid’s shoes
roof
Annual and Biannual Markets
▸ Feilding Craft Market
NZ largest indoor craft and vintage market with over 200 stalls. Bi-annually and offers a mix of craft, vintage and retro finds. Held twice a year in June and October. Manfeild Stadium, Feilding.
▸ Cross Hills Garden Country Fair
Set amongst 18 acres of Rhododendron gardens and with over 215 stalls, live music and delicious food trucks.
Held annually, with the next event on Saturday 16 November 2024, 9am-4pm. 339 Rangiwahia Road, Kimbolton.
▸ A Winter’s Day Out / Magic of Christmas
Both events offer boutique shopping experiences, a festive feasting hall, hands-on workshops with local artists and live local music. Feel the warmth of the Christmas spirit.
A Winter’s Day out is held in July and the Magic of Chirstmas market is held in December. Awapuni Racecourse, Palmerston North.
KELLY’S SMITH’S SUPERMALL
A museum of the people
Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage offers an experience like no other. It is a Museum and Gallery that fuses diverse disciplines in a space that celebrates the pillars of life and community. It is a space where diverse people can mingle, dance and collaborate on bringing new ideas to fruition. Te Manawa is a unique destination, a custodian of important collections of Tāonga Māori, contemporary art, and social and natural history. It takes
pride in fostering ground-breaking science and cultural initiatives.
Here visitors can step into history and participate in its stories, or immerse themselves in the science that makes our everyday world tick. An ever-changing calendar of events and exhibitions explores the past, provides information for the present and asks questions about the future. Art, science and heritage collide in inspiring and surprising ways.
If Te Manawa exhibitions represent the mind, it is people who are its heart. In the spaces between exhibitions, Te Manawa’s community engagement and learning programmes draw people in, connect them with each other and celebrate our collective mana. It could be a weaving demonstration, a model-making workshop, or a lace-making session. It could be children and their caregivers experiencing the tactile, activity-laden space of Tamariki, the Dino Dig or the Biodiversity Garden. Every day, people can join in and have their horizons expanded. All are welcome.
Te Manawa is a great place to visit Tuesday to Sunday: 10am - 5:00pm. Admission is free for general entry.
Te Manawa is a unique destination, a custodian of important collections of Tāonga Māori, contemporary art, and social and natural history.
Tangi Utikere MP for Palmerston North
Kia Orana Koutou Kātoatoa.
Welcome to the place that I’m very proud to call my home.
It is an absolute privilege to represent the people of this community as the local MP for Palmerston North. Our city is vibrant, diverse, and proud – home to around 130 cultures, with more than 90 languages spoken in our local communities.
Central and well-connected, it is home to multiple tertiary institutions, thriving industries and an innovative science, research and technology sector.
For everyone that calls our city home, Palmy offers plenty of business and lifestyle opportunities, and is a great place to raise a family – there is something here for everyone.
Domestic tourism is another great strength of the Manawatū, with visitors coming to our region for business and conferences, to visit friends and relatives, or to attend events and take part in leisure activities.
We are fortunate to live in a place where so many different cultures are woven through our community, all of which bring something special to our city. This diversity
is highlighted by the Festival of Cultures held in Te Marae o Hine, The Square, each year. It is fantastic to see delicious food and fabulous performances on display and being shared with our community. Diwali celebrations also feature on Palmerston North’s calendar,
Tangi Utikere
giving locals of all cultures the opportunity to celebrate the victory of good over evil with a festival of lights in the centre of our city.
On the sporting front, Central Energy Trust Arena is a wonderful venue and hosts many sports teams and events throughout the year. Local sporting facilities have recently been upgraded, making Palmy an attractive destination for sports teams and tournaments.
There are many things that make our city a great place to visit – you might like to take the opportunity to explore one of our many recreational gems, including our award winning He Ara Kotahi bridge across the Manawatū Awa. Check out our public sculptures, or the local art trail. Take time to enjoy the fare and atmosphere of our many cafes, restaurants, eateries and bars.
Whatever you are into, whether it be enjoying a stroll or cycle along our mighty Manawatū River, mountain biking the trails at Arapuke Forest Park, or sampling our cafes and restaurants, I hope you can take some time to enjoy what Palmerston North has to offer during your time here.
Kia manuia, Tangi Utikere MP for Palmerston North
Tee Up!
Have your brunch with a side of golf balls at Orlando Country’s world-class driving range! Book a bay for an hour or two and get food-service directly to your bay while you practice your swing.
The outlook over the 9-hole course is stunning so even if you’re not a keen golfer, you can admire the views and enjoy the atmosphere with an excellent meal.
If you like your golf on a smaller scale, try Feilding Lions Mini Golf or Lions Mini Golf in Victoria Esplanade, Palmerston North.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
Gardens Galore
Explore Manawatū through the many special gardens in the region.
From gardens of national significance, through to swathes of rhododendrons and some that will transport you across the globe, Renaissance Italy anyone? Manawatū’s gardens will surprise and delight you at every turn!
Many gardens have nurseries attached so you can return home with your own plant babies to go with all your new back yard ideas! Keep a look out for the annual Manawatū Gardens Festival for extended opening hours on most gardens.
Heritage Park.
Caroline’s Gardens and Store.
Caccia Birch Gardens.
Aotearoa Jazz Festival
Aotearoa New Zealand music royalty hit town for what was a special edition of the annual Blues, Roots and Grooves Festival, held in September this year.
King Kapisi and Che Fu - powerhouse frontmen in their own right - joined forces as Hedlock to headline a festival that was founded three years ago by well-known Palmerston North musician Rodger Fox CNZM. Fox died in May this year, aged 71.
For Kapisi, who toured New Zealand with the 25-piece Rodger Fox Big Band last year on the Brotherman Project, there was no question he was coming to perform at the festival.
Such was the respect he had for Fox and his musicianship.
“He was a great man, and I was just happy to have known him for the short time that I did. I loved the guy... it took me a while to figure out he was gone,” he said.
“He was off the richter. He was one of the most amazing people I have ever met - so much energy. In jazz terms, he was what you would call a ‘super cool cat’.
“I’ve met a lot of musicians, but never anyone quite like him. He was a unicorn.”
Fox was a jazz legend who founded the Rodger Fox Big Band in 1973 and toured extensively here and overseas, and played international jazz festivals including Montreux, Monterey and New Orleans.
The trombonist influenced generations of musicians and taught at the New Zealand School of Music in Wellington. He was honoured in 2022 for his services to music.
On tour, Kapisi said he would joke with Fox that he was like Austin Powers, a mythical figure from a different era that would always be cool - and because he kept saying “yeah baby”.
He loved hearing stories of the different musicians Fox had jammed with, like James Brown, and couldn’t believe that he was once married to Mary Yandall, one of the famous Yandall sisters from Samoa.
“I’d always ask him about the 60s and 70s, music and jazz and the people he’d met... I told him ‘I used to watch the Yandall sisters on TV’,” he said.
“He was a goldmine of New Zealand and South Pacific music history.”
Kapisi and Fu are multi-talented musicians who, like Fox, boast New Zealand Order of Merit awards from Queen Elizabeth II for services to music.
Fox had a philosophy that music brought people together, and it’s that connection that saw long-time friends Fu and Kapisi unite again at the festival.
Kapisi said he and Fu were best friends who know each other’s music by heart after doing it for 25 years, so performing together came easy.
The Globe Theatre manager Gerry Keating, who helped “dream up” the Blues, Roots and Grooves idea with Fox over a glass of red wine, said it was a chance for all music - not just jazz - to shine.
There was no question of continuing with the festival, although Fox was dearly missed. He had been heavily involved in the planning before he died.
“Replacing Rodger is impossible. Even with dozens of people at the ready, and all in service to him, in honour of his remarkable energy, his complete commitment, his force of nature,” he said.
“His joy in music that so many of us felt when we watched him perform... continuing this mahi means working with existing projects and frameworks, ensuring their continuation with support from audiences, from community, from musicians.
“At the core of all this was the idea of connection - taking music to the people, making music for people.
“So going forward with this was a happy choice, and the reward is there in the music.”
Editorial credit: Manawatu Guardian
Rodger Fox. Photo credit: Rene Huemer.
King Kapisi.
Che Fu.
Blossoms and boutiques
After completing your spring clean, it’s time to fill the gaps you made in your closet! Enjoy a spot of shopping on Palmy’s blossom-lined George street and, when it’s time for a breather, pick from the many cafes for a drink (and a little treat!).
Explore Coleman Mall, do a loop around The Square and continue up Broadway Ave for even more shopping, eating and drinking! For something more quaint, visit the charming town of Feilding, the 16-time winner of ‘New Zealand’s Most Beautiful
Town’ award. Walk the paved footpaths, visit some little boutique gems and enjoy the smiles from the friendly Feilding locals.
Editorial and image credit:
SHELLEY GRIEVE
work Her hard work, commitment, and ability to navigate through o bstacles are qualities that make her a true professional in her field Her clients can rest assured that they are in capable hands with Shelley by their side
Horizons Regional Council
Tō tātou whenua ora – mauri wai, mauri whenua, mauri ora Our region – a healthy environment where people are thriving
Horizons Regional Council – what we do
The Horizons Region extends over 22,200 km² - from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. It’s a landscape as vast and varied as the nearly 250,000 people who call it home.
At Horizons Regional Council, our vision is to create a healthy environment where people are thriving. While your city or district council is responsible for local services, such as road maintenance, libraries, and land use decisions, Horizons’ responsibilities include, but are not limited to: ensuring the sustainable use of our region’s natural resources, leading regional land transport planning, contracting passenger transport services, and coordinating our region’s responses to natural disasters.
Activities in the Manawatū and surrounding areas include the management of our only regional park, Tōtara Reserve. Nestled in the Pohangina Valley, Tōtara Reserve is one of the best and most accessible examples of the diverse lowland forest that was once widespread in the Horizons Region. It is also a popular camping ground and swimming spot for locals and visitors alike.
Recently, Horizons hosted a familyfriendly open day at Tōtara Reserve, where people could learn more about this special
recreational space, as well as our flora and fauna. Over 400 attended, taking part in guided bush walks, fungi and bug hunts, and learning about freshwater monitoring. It was a fantastic opportunity for our staff to connect with the wider public, and for our community to connect with nature.
The Manawatū is also home to Horizons’ largest flood protection scheme. Located on the Foxton-Shannon Road, south of Ōpiki, the impressive Moutoa Flood Gates are able to divert water from the main river into a specially designed 10 km floodway, which re-joins the river at Whirokino. This diversion helps protect land in the Manawatū Plain, a flat expanse of land that is particularly vulnerable to flooding. The Moutoa Flood Gates are more than 60 years old and will receive an upgrade over the next 12 months to future-proof these vital assets, and keep our communities safe.
If you visit one of our region’s popular swim spots this summer, you may see Horizons freshwater monitoring staff out on the job. From Waitarere Beach to the Pohangina and Rangitikei Rivers, we monitor over 80 swim spots across the region for water quality throughout the summer months. The results are then shared online, so our community is informed about potential health risks in our waterways. So, next time you head out for a swim, check out lawa.org.nz for water quality information at your favourite swim spot.
The activities listed here only scratch the surface of Horizons’ roles and responsibilities in our region. To find out more about what we do, visit horizons.govt.nz for up-to-date news and information.
Ridge Top Farm glamping
When sheep and beef farmers Angus and Sarah Gilbertson first opened glamping six years ago neither could predict how wildly successful sharing their piece of paradise would be.
Sarah Gilberston had three children under three, her youngest just six months old, when her and husband Angus were throwing around ideas for their future. While he was the third generation running his family’s 1500 acre sheep and beef farm in Waituna West, Manawatū, they were exploring business ideas for Sarah.
“Life was already pretty hectic,” laughs Sarah who had been working in publishing in Feilding before they started a family. Commuting 30 minutes to town to work while juggling the farm and three children was not going to be an option, so the pair were discussing what could work for their lifestyle when a Canopy Camping advert asking for landowners caught their eye. “I wanted something that would utilise my skills and interests and work for us as a family.”
Glamping was a relatively new concept when the couple began investigating in 2012 and while Angus took a little more convincing, Sarah knew her background in tourism and hospitality would be the perfect skillset for a venture like this. “I’m a big believer in knowing when something
131 Rangitikei Street
Palmerston North
Phone: 06 952 3495
Unrivalled in our unique character as a furniture & giftware store
We’ve been in Palmerston North for over 40 years... We’re proud of our reputation and quality
feels right and it did, so we just went for it.” Canopy Camping is a carefully curated collection of boutique glamping sites in secret hideaway spots on privately owned land. The term glamping derives from camping, but guests are treated to a few more luxuries like beds, lush linen, heating and bathroom facilities.
Today, the Gilberston’s off-the-grid glamping site is a kilometre from their house, sheltered by the top of a ridge, hence the name Ridge Top Farm. The views stretch for miles across dramatic hill country farm land and Mt Ruapehu and Mt Taranaki dominate the landscape on a fine day. Their country-themed campsite can sleep up to 10 and boasts a luxury safari tent with a wood burner, a rustic stylish hut, camp kitchen and bathroom, and two cast-iron baths that are tucked away in a private nook. From the rustic furniture to the crockery, the finishing details are a nod to Gilbertson’s impeccable style.
Running two businesses – the farm and glamping – is a family affair and the couple’s three children Tom, George and Pippa, aged seven to 10, are keen helpers. From stacking wood to mowing lawns and cleaning the glamping site, the kids love being involved and playing host to visitors. The kids also lend a helping hand on the farm. With 4,000 sheep, 300 cattle, free range chickens, farm dogs, and pet sheep and goats, there is no shortage of jobs. “They see us working really hard and by having them involved it gives them an appreciation and understanding of how a business works.”
Gilbertson’s childhood was similar to that of what she is providing her children. She grew up on a lifestyle block in Wairarapa before shifting to Wellington when she was 12. Following a degree in tourism her career took her to Auckland but the idea of living in the country was never far from her mind. “Country life has always been in my roots and I often wondered if I would end up living rurally.” Little did she know meeting Angus while visiting her sister in Feilding one weekend would be what turned her dream of living rurally into a reality. After a two-year stint of long distance between Manawatū and
Auckland, she made the move and they were married in 2008.
A self-proclaimed lover of good food, coffee and wine, she has not let living away from a city hinder her passion. Instead, she is now sharing it with guests, offering a fully-catered package to those who want to arrive, switch off and relax. “I am a real foodie which is why I introduced the food element to the business. I love reading and researching different recipes and having a business hosting visitors means I get my fix of being connected to people.”
“We have definitely become more savyy,” she says of balancing family and business life. Over the past six years they have fine-tuned the business to make it work for them and have learnt a lot about the different kinds of experiences visitors are after. Gilbertson says domestic guests are happy to be left alone, while international visitors are after a completely different experience. “They [international guests] love interacting with the family and learning about farming life and how we raise the animals.” This led them to expand their offerings to walking tours across the farm, sheep shearing demonstrations, clay bird shooting and they
now also host corporate packages too. And while the farming operation is year-round, they only run glamping between November and the end of May to ensure they can get away too.
Ridge Top Farm is just one of a growing network of glamping sites and farm stays in Manawatū, a region known for its understated beauty, genuine locals and offthe-beaten track experiences. Here, visitors do not just observe locals’ way of life, they become immersed in it. “People absolutely love our surroundings and it makes them realise how good it feels to tap out of the crazy hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
For anyone toying with the idea of glamping as a secondary income for their farm, Gilbertson says just go for it. “It is a fantastic way to earn money and showcase your farm. You can easily take for granted what you have on your own backdoor step. People come here and are always just blown away. We love being able to share our piece of paradise with people from all over the world.”
Words by Manawatū local Jemma Brackebush for Shepherdess Magazine. Photography by Toni Larsen Toni Larsen Photography.
Ngā Tohu Whakaora e 3
3 Steps for Life
What is a 3 Steps for Life awareness session?
A 3 Steps for Life awareness session is for members of the community to introduce them to life saving skills for people in cardiac arrest. The awareness session will cover basic CPR and AED skills, and runs for approximately 45 minutes.
Who can participate and is there a cost?
Anyone can attend a 3 Steps for Life awareness session. 3 Steps for Life awareness sessions are free to attend. These sessions are delivered in a voluntary capacity by your local St John staff.
About 3 Steps for Life
3 Steps for Life is designed to give all New Zealanders the confidence and awareness to take action when somebody suffers a cardiac arrest by:
Applying CPR and rapid defibrillation can increase a patient’s chances of survival by up to 40%. But for every minute without CPR or defibrillation, a patient’s chance of survival falls by 10–15%.
Why you should get involved in 3 Steps for Life?
Nearly 2000 New Zealanders suffer from a cardiac arrest (heart stoppage) outside of hospital each year and most of these happen in their home.This is four times the national road toll and yet it remains a silent disease in terms of public awareness. Performing CPR and using an AED is easy. By performing CPR and using an AED, you can help save a life.
How to book a 3 Steps for Life Awareness Session
To book a free 3 Steps for Life awareness session please make sure you've got a group of 10 or more and register your interest with full name and contact information by emailing 3stepsforlife@stjohn.org.nz
If you can secure a venue such as a school, community hall or other public space in advance that would be an advantage in ensuring timely course delivery.
GoodSAM
Post awareness session we also encourage participants to become a GoodSAM. GoodSAM is a smartphone app that alerts nearby people to a cardiac arrest, allowing members of the public to respond and perform CPR and to attach an AED prior to ambulance arrival. For more information visit stjohn.org.nz/goodsam
Contact Information
Cody Booth
National 3 Steps for Life Lead E Cody.Booth@stjohn.org.nz, 3stepsforlife@stjohn.org.nz W stjohn.org.nz/3stepsforlife
A Family Favourite
Picnic under the blossoms at Victoria Esplanade, explore the maze of little bush walks and spend some time at the kids’ favourite; the impressive playground!.
Next up visit the native wildlife residents and patients currently staying at Wildbase Recovery Centre, it’s the only place you can see wild New Zealand native animals up close. A place of recovery for wild birds and animals that have come into some strife; this is where patients from the Massey Wildbase Hospital come to rest up after receiving medical attention.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
Canopy Imaging
The leading private provider of diagnostic imaging in the Manawatu and Horowhenua regions
At the beginning of November, Broadway Radiology rebranded to Canopy Imaging. This has been an exciting development for all, and parent company Canopy Healthcare are proud to have the expertise of the Broadway team under their imaging umbrella. This is part of a broader strategy to unify all diagnostic imaging clinics under the Canopy Imaging brand. The rebranding marks an exciting new chapter, combining Broadway Radiology’s commitment to excellence with Canopy Imaging’s national network.
Broadway Radiology, a leading private provider of diagnostic imaging in the Manawatu and Horowhenua regions, announced its integration into Canopy Healthcare in March 2023.
Dr Peter Dixon, a local and well respected Radiologist established Broadway Radiology with colleagues 25-years ago and the strategic move to join Canopy Healthcare marked a significant milestone for the region, by bringing enhanced patient services.
Canopy Healthcare has built a reputation for delivering world-class, patient-centric healthcare services across Aotearoa. Its diverse portfolio includes diagnostic imaging clinics (Canopy Imaging);
oncology services (Canopy Cancer Care); a private breast surgical and diagnostic centre (Auckland Breast Centre), plus a drug compounding business. The integration of Broadway Radiology into this group signifies an ongoing commitment to expanding quality healthcare services to people living in Manawatu and Horowhenua regions
The integration brings several benefits. Patients now have access to a broader range of services and the latest imaging technologies, supported by a larger network of expert radiologists and healthcare professionals across the country.
Benefits include:
▸ Advanced breast imaging technology.
▸ Cardiac imaging for predicting risk of heart disease and guiding treatment options.
▸ Enhancements to imaging equipment (reducing appointment time).
▸ Access to a wider range of sub-specialised Radiologists with expertise in specific areas, such as: Prostate imaging, Cardiac scanning, obstretic & breast imaging.
Recently, Canopy Imaging proudly opened their first Molecular Imaging clinic in the Hawkes Bay. This provides PET-CT and
SPECT-CT for all New Zealanders, but significantly it is very accessible for those located in the central North Island, and easy travel distance from Manawatu.
For the staff of the former Broadway Radiology, this transition is exciting and offers expanded professional development opportunities within the wider group. Access to Canopy Healthcare’s extensive resources enables the team to enhance skills and knowledge, ultimately benefiting patient care. The integration also facilitates collaboration with a wider network of healthcare professionals, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to patient management.
As Canopy Imaging we continue to bring an excellent level of service to our local community. We are proud to offer the same expert people, services and quality patient care at our rebranded Canopy Imaging clinics in the Manawatu and Horowhenua. This initiative underscores Canopy Healthcare’s dedication to innovation and excellence in patient-centered healthcare delivery.
For questions about our Canopy Imaging services please view www.canopyimaging.co.nz for details •
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Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge Track
Intro Home of native flora, birdlife, and captures the beauty of the awe-inspiring Te ĀpitiManawatū Gorge.
Amust-do walk on your New Zealand journey, Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge is an icon and the divider of the Manawatū and Hawke’s Bay regions. Nestled between two mountain ranges, there are few places in New Zealand where within 12 minutes from a major city you can enjoy one of our country’s most iconic natural playgrounds. Covered in ancient bush and home to a variety of wildlife, Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge is steeped in legend and has many stories to tell. Explore the walking tracks and you’ll come face to face with the sculpture of Whātonga, an ancient warrior who stands guard over the forest.
The main walking track is 11.2km in length and takes you high above the river and Gorge below. Winding your way through native bush, the birdsong of Tui’s, Bellbird’s and more give a beautiful soundtrack to enjoy. Along the route there are five viewpoints that allow you to tower above the trees and glimpse the beauty of
the gorge from above. From the river to the railway, the reserves, and Manawatū’s iconic wind farms, you will be able to see all Te Āpiti has to offer.
A shorter 4.1km loop option is available at the Ashhurst end of the track. See the Manawatū Gorge Tawa Loop Walk for more information.
Please note that car parking at the Upper Gorge Bridge is limited. People should also be made aware that the car park is on the opposite side of the road to the track
entrance, but an underpass allows people to get across safely.
Please note this is a one way track and you will need to: Place a car at the starting entrance and another at the end exit before heading out, in order to drive back to the entrance upon completion. Or arrange to be dropped off and picked up from the other side. Editorial
HERE COMES THE SUN
Discover the secrets of the Sun
With temperatures reaching millions of degrees, the Sun would certainly leave solar travellers with a few scorch marks. Now back by popular demand, the science exhibition Sunlight – Ihi Kōmaru at Te Manawa museum will give visitors the chance to get hands-on with Earth’s star at room temperature – no sunscreen required!
From the origins of light in the Sun’s heart to its e ects on Earth’s life and cultures, Sunlight - Ihi Kōmaru presents a full and fascinating spectrum of interactive exhibits and activities.
The journey begins in the gas and dust of the Sun’s formation - take the role of a photon on its trip through space and test your speed against a beam of light by racing to the Moon.
326 MAIN ST, PALMERSTON NORTH 0800-4-A-MUSEUM | www.temanawa.nz Tues - Sun | 10am - 5pm Open every day during school holidays
Next, witness how humankind harnesses the Sun’s power in everyday devices and get the chance to create shapes with RGB colour-mixing lights.
Aglow with a galaxy of exciting science, Sunlight - Ihi Kōmaru will enable the whole family to understand the forces that sustain life on Earth – and indeed drive the entire universe.
Sunlight - Ihi Kōmaru was developed by Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage, Palmerston North.
General admission is free. For more info on planning your visit, head to: www.temanawa.co.nz
Over 90 years of racing, cars, competitions, and hotdogs!
Close to The Square in Palmerston North, is Robertson Prestige international Speedway. People travel from all corners of New Zealand to be part of the action at this speedway. To this day I am still amazed that over the years of visiting Palmerston North, I have never heard the noise of engines in the air.
The first race took place on December 26, 1930, and it was a motorbike race and can you believe it, there also was a pushbike race. Back then the track was lit by 57 lights each of 2000 candlepower.
Along the way a few natural disasters intervened abandoning any racing. One such disaster was the 1931 Napier earthquake as the grandstand had to be used to house refugees. In 1937 a tornado blew the roof off the grandstand.
Come the mid-1930s, non-contact midget car racing was introduced and then 1963 saw stockcar racing where you win by fair or foul means.
Demolition Derbies proved to be popular when they were introduced and are still a crowd pleaser as the cars battle for that last standing place to be the winner. Action,
Action all the way with nothing to stop those cars crashing into each other.
In 1982 the Super Stock Teams’ Champs started. This competition now sees competitors travelling from all over New Zealand and Great Britain, as they aim to get as many of their team members across the line in this exhilarating competition.
Palmerston North Speedway is well-known as one of the best in New Zealand. A great track, well designed grandstand with plenty of seating, graded and rolled weekly with plenty of water to keep the track damp and the dust down. With the track being watered after every race, spectators can relax and enjoy.
Today when you go along expect also to see, mini stocks, mini sprints, midgets, sprint cars and saloon cars, such as Corvettes, Mustangs and Camaros.
Mini stocks cater for 12–16-year-olds and they get to drive cars with Corolla or Nissan Sunny engines. This is a great grounding for them and helps improve their driving skills. In fact, in the last ten years nearly every NZ Championship winner has come from learning to drive mini stockcars.
A huge support for Palmerston North
While Palmerston North has always supported the speedway track, the speedway is a large business that brings in over 25 million dollars annually into the city. The Team Champs competition brings in 5.2 million dollars from visitors alone.
With the speedway open from October to April, on any one night there can be between 3000-5000 people watching the races and when the team champs are on, it is not unusual for there to be up to 16,000 spectators each night watching the races. The racing starts at 6.30 and is usually finished by 10.30 and on selected Saturday nights. So popular, some attendees have been booking the same motel for 20 years so they can attend the speedway.
Where do all these cars come from?
All these cars are hand built and someone who has a big hand in this is Peter Rees, from Palmerston North. It is nothing for him to build up to 15 chassis a year. Not only does he do that, but he also repairs the end results
from many competitions as well as building complete turnkey vehicles.
Palmerston North is lucky to have four full time engine rebuilders available, as well as two large speed equipment shops stocking such parts as brakes, wheels, diffs, seats, helmets, etc.
And if you have ever wondered, like I have, what is in those big, covered trailers that you see being towed around the country. You will find a high spec stockcar being safely transported to its next race.
Unique to New Zealand
The stockcar class and super stockcar class are unique races to New Zealand with some of the stockcars being worth between 20-40 thousand dollars and superstock cars being up to 140 thousand dollars.
Superstock teams travel down from as far as Auckland and up from as far as Dunedin to race in this prestigious two-day event in early February-The ENZED Superstock Teams Champs.
Come early Feb, both men and women, will be racing to ensure their team makes it onto the podium! With Christchurch the current winners, the other 14 teams from around the country will be hungry for a win!
Safety
Speedway NZ is the governing body for all speedways in New Zealand, and each year at their conference, safety regulations are updated which includes clothing, helmets,
Mark your calendar for February 7 and 8 and go along to the speedway and enjoy the spectacle of the ENZED SuperStock Teams Championship, with 16,000 other fans from around the world watching two nights of incredible race action.
and safety barriers. In 1982 a large concrete wall protector was built at the Palmerston North track and since then a lot of mesh fencing has been erected for public safety. Over the years the things that haven’t changed are the hotdogs, chips, and the smell of the cars. Mark your calendar for February 7 and 8 and go along to the speedway and enjoy the spectacle of the ENZED SuperStock Teams Championship, with 16,000 other fans from around the world watching two nights of incredible race action. Plus the super saloons will be an attraction in February, even some Americans coming over to race ...
A fun night out!
Writes Kem Ormond
Here for the vibe
There’s no doubt mouthwatering food and a banging cocktail will take you far, but if you want to feed your soul as well as your stomach, you might be looking for a spot with a little more “somethin’, somethin’”... Well, we’ve done the vibe check for you and rounded up our top spots that will have you wanting to linger over a second coffee… or margarita!
Coffee on Ascot
Tucked away in Hokowhitu, the friendly Coffee on Ascot is full of light, plants and self-proclaimed “good vibes”, as touted in the neon lights above the counter. Sink into the worn leather couch or sit at the window bar with a great coffee (made using locally roasted beans) and a tasty slice from the cabinet – note the charming, mismatched tableware. If you’re a remote worker, this tastefully decorated coffee shop might just be your new favourite “office”… Coffee on Ascot is also passionate about sustainability, with eco-friendly practices implemented at every turn so you can leave feeling light of heart and conscience.
Boho Cafe
It’s all in the name at Boho café. Velvet armchairs overflowing with cushions and a sign that reads “Gypsies & Cowboys Welcome” greet you before you get to the front entrance and the bohemian décor keeps on giving as you walk through the door. The food cabinets are a work of art in themselves with every tasty offering thoughtfully arranged and decorated - you really do eat with your eyes first! What sets this spot apart, however, are the happy dogs laying under every second table. Doggy treats and Puppachinos are advertised alongside the human fare and every furry friend is happy to be at Boho. Happy dogs = the best vibes. Alexander’s Patisserie Compromise on a trip to the city of love with a skip across Te Marae o Hine - The Square to Coleman Place instead. Take in the splendour of Alexander Patisserie’s’s sweets cabinet – is there anything prettier than rows of brightly coloured macarons? - before finding a table outside under the cherry blossoms and enjoying a leisurely tea or double espresso, perfectly paired with an almond croissant.
Gingerbird Café
This hidden gem is absolutely worth a detour if it doesn’t feature on your daily commute. The the cosiest country coffee spot around, Gingerbird Café began its life as two shipping containers but is now a unique hot spot for locals to catch up and soak in the warm friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a freshly baked cake, cheesy scroll, or decadent gourmet pie on the patio area or cuddle up inside with the homey décor as you savour one of their amazing coffees to warm your soul.
Artisan Kitchen Café
Take a drive through Aokautere to the beautiful property at Caroline’s Design and Desire and enjoy the opulence in the luxuriously furnished barn, turned cafe. Surrounded by a whimsical English-style garden, this café is perfect for a Sunday brunch when you have time to linger over your food before exploring the gardens and well-stocked boutique store to find that special something or pick up a gift.
Barista
Tucked in on the coolest street in Palmerston North, Barista is a café by day and bistro by night with their coffee machine running till late. Choose a table on the street and people watch or enjoy the sights and sounds of the café and those that frequent it. Most notably, an entire wall at Barista is completely covered by an incredibly detailed handpainted mural – try spot all of your favourite literary characters as you sit and enjoy your coffee or wine (they can pick a good one!).
Freddie Clere
Set up in the old Baptist Church, Freddie Clere gets a head start on vibe with its exposed brick walls, high beam ceilings and stained-glass windows, and you can’t help but feel a bit saintly as you walk up the steps to head inside. In a bit of a contrast to the building’s history, Freddie Clere feels fun and youthful once you are inside, with quirky names for each bagel option and always-cheery staff. Iced lattes are a popular beverage here, along with their smoothie selection. Indoor seating is limited but cosy – or on a nice day nab a table (or beanbag) outside and enjoy the sun.
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Welcome to Canopy Imaging
Beaver and Bear
If you’re looking for something extra unique – check out Canadian restaurant, Beaver and Bear. They’ve committed to the theme, with Buffalo check cushions, travel posters from Toronto to Nova Scotia decorating the walls and bear motifs throughout. Visit on a Saturday morning for a hearty breakfast in their tucked away patio area or book the booth for dinner and chilli margaritas all round. Choose from their legendary poutine, pierogies, and fried chicken or tuck into the chicken and waffles, burger selection and more.
Tony’s Pizza
Step into Tony’s Pizza, walk past the vintage PlayStation set-up and past a group of friends in their second hour of playing Catan. At the end of the room, you’ll find pizza by the (giant) slice, craft beer on tap and a friendly face behind the counter. Once you’ve ordered, head to the shelves filled with every game you can think of (from Connect Four through to Cards Against Humanity) and take your choice back to your table for some fun and good food. Tony’s Pizza vibrant décor and fun, energetic atmosphere is definitely a vibe! Craft beer, gin and the best pizza this side of New York – what more could you want?
Libre
Blue velvet, Frida Kahlo and a bar that looks straight from Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo and Juliet, Libre is exactly the kind of place you want to hide away in for a couple margaritas with the girls. Libre delivers on great Mexican fare and smashing cocktails, from classic tacos and chimichangas, through to patatas gravas and Jalapeño poppers, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the traditional cuisine offerings on offer. So, if you’re looking for a night out with a vibe – make sure to head to Libre!
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
E Tipu The New Zealand Future Food and Fibre Summit 2025, powered by FoodHQ.
If you’re part of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector, mark your calendar for E Tipu: The New Zealand Future Food and Fibre Summit 2025, happening on May 27-28, 2025, at the Fly Palmy Arena in Palmerston North. Hosted by FoodHQ and with Dr Michelle Dickinson (Nanogirl) as the Master of Ceremonies, this summit promises to be a landmark event for
anyone involved in agriculture, food, and fibre innovation
E Tipu will bring together a wide range of stakeholders—from industry leaders and farmers to researchers and innovators—to tackle the sector ’s biggest challenges and explore future opportunities. The summit is designed to equip attendees with valuable insights, actionable tools, and strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of food and fibre production in New Zealand. With a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, interactive panel discussions, and plenty of networking opportunities, E Tipu is more than just an event—it’s a platform for innovation and collaboration It’s a chance to ignite new ideas, foster partnerships, and drive meaningful
FoodHQ – shaping the future of food.
Dr Victoria Hatton, Chief Executive Officer of FoodHQ believes she has the best job in the world and her socials are often peppered with the hashtag #lovemyjob. She explains that “FoodHQ is the leading hub of food and food production scientists, and my job is to advocate on their behalf for greater collaboration, food innovation and investment among researchers, industry, and polic ymakers to tackle challenges to advance the food industry”. Essentially, she says her job “is to help shape the future of food in New Zealand, building a more resilient food industry – what’s not to love about that.”
A public-private partnership established in 2013 to nurture innovation and collaboration it made sense to be sited alongside its partners in Palmerston North on the largest ‘food innovation’ campus in New Zealand Its partners are Fonterra, Plant and Food Research, AgResearch, Palmerston North City Council, Massey University, AGMARDT and the Riddet Institute
Focused on developing pioneering solutions to meet the evolving challenges of the food industry, FoodHQ remains at the forefront of research, science, and innovation Dr. Hatton highlights that the partnership is well-positioned to deliver critical outcomes needed to adapt to changing societal demands and ensure a sustainable future for food production The core mission of FoodHQ is simple: to be New Zealand’s best-networked food innovation community, leveraging its collective expertise to accelerate
change across the sector.
Tickets are available now, with early bird offers for farmers and start-ups. There are also sponsorship opportunities for businesses looking to align their brand with a leading event in the food and fibre space By sponsoring E Tipu, your organization will gain visibility among key decision-makers and influencers, while demonstrating your commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the future of food production
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for the food and fibre industry. Join us at E Tipu 2025 and help lead the conversation on the future of food and fibre in New Zealand https://etipu.co.nz/
innovation and drive progress in the food sector
Since taking on the role almost two years ago, Dr Hatton has made it her goal to raise the visibility of FoodHQ in the local area. “Despite being here since 2013, very few people know about FoodHQ or understand what we do” she says “So, we now have a physical space on the food innovation campus and have recently opened a café - CoffeeHQ, to bring more people into our world.” Everyone is welcome to call in and meet Ray the Barista https://foodhq.com/
Big beautiful beaches
Manawatū is landlocked, it hasn’t got any sand or sea… kidding! We may have been keeping it quiet so we can selfishly savour our big rugged west coast beaches and salty sea air for ourselves, but now, we think it’s time to share!
Himatangi Beach
Only 30 minutes away from the city centre, Himatangi Beach, located on the west coast beach is ideal for fishing, walking and kayaking.
The local fishing club runs restaurant nights, while the local store offers coffee, takeaways, fresh baking and everything else a good Kiwi dairy has. The kids will love the adventure playground, concrete skating rink and the mini golf area, and the award winning Himatangi Holiday Park is only 200 metres from the beach itself.
Himatangi Beach is great all year round, even in winter when you can rug up, have some fish and chips on the beach and watch the waves roll in. The beach can be driven on if you have a fourwheel-drive vehicle.
Foxton Beach
Located less than 40 minutes from Palmerston North, Foxton Beach is a small west coast beach settlement with a lot to offer.
Foxton Beach is the outdoor enthusiasts dream and a popular destination, due to the large number of activities which include swimming, kiteboarding, surfing and fishing.
For those wishing to brunch the day away, there are a number of great food options on offer; including the Little White Rabbit cafe and Ocean Beach Eatery.
Foxton Beach is a perfect weekend getaway option for families, couples or groups of friends as it offers a number of accommodation options catering to all types.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
Kym Bowater Design Studio in Coleman Mall specialises in creating spaces that perfectly blend style and function.
We work closely with each client, listening to your ideas and ensuring that we bring a clear vision and refreshing designs to your project.
Offering a comprehensive range of services, we begin with nuanced consultations to create the perfect mood, atmosphere, and aesthetics into your home.
Our Services Include:
• Kitchen & Bathroom & Joinery Design
• New Build & Renovation Projects
• Curtains, Blinds, Shutters & Soft Furnishings
• Sourcing Furniture, Lighting, & Accessories
• Spatial Layout
• Project Co-ordination
Our bespoke services ensure that each space is crafted to fit seamlessly into your vision. Whether you’re revamping a single room, undertaking a full-scale transformation, or starting a new build, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Every project receives meticulous attention to detail.
Ready to bring your interior vision to life? Experience a design consultation that will help you create a space that
truly reflects your lifestyle. Let’s start with your free 30-minute consultation to understand your project.
Visit Our Studio in Coleman Mall Step into a world of exquisite design at Kym Bowater’s Design Studio. Discover our Kitchen and Bathroom design displays, alongside beautiful soft furnishings, and furniture. We’ll guide you through various design options, helping you make confident choices that suit your style. With our curated selection of products and materials, these will seamlessly blend artistry and functionality in your space. To complete your project, we have a unique collection of homewares and stunning decorative accessories, where each item will be thoughtfully selected to elevate your living spaces. Or if you’re just in need of new cushions, lamps or a special piece to curate your home, you’ll find it here.
Our studio is a source of inspiration, showcasing designs that reflect contemporary elegance and relaxed timeless interior design. Let our knowledge guide and inspire you, to help you envision and enrich your lifestyle and spaces at home.
Whitehead Chiropractor
Ahorrific back injury as a young man changed the course of Les Whitehead’s life.
It still astounds the well-known Palmerston North chiropractor that seeking help to walk again all those years ago would open doors to a life-long and rewarding career.
Whitehead, who was recently named New Zealand Chiropractor of the Year, was born and grew up in Whangārei and was an accomplished weightlifter as a young man, boasting a national power-lifting title in the 1950s.
But an accident at the gymnasium one day saw him fall heavily from some of the equipment, badly injuring his tailbone and spine.
“It was a silly thing to do,” he said.
The trained builder at the time was left “black and blue” and after six months of treatment was still unable to work or walk unaided. Frustrated by his slow recovery, it was suggested he try something different, and he was given the name of Wellington chiropractor Cyril Phelps.
He said Phelps changed his life.
“He was an amazing guy and a wonderful physician. He took me in. I said ‘I haven’t got much’, but he said ‘let’s not worry about the money. Let’s worry about getting you better’, and I’ve never forgotten that,” he said.
“The most important thing is to know what you know, and know it to be right. When there is doubt, it’s not the same as when you are strong in your belief.”
“I finally got feeling back and got going again.”
It was Phelps’ suggestion that Whitehead train to be a chiropractor himself. So the 23-year-old packed up his young family and moved to the United States to attend college there.
It was a brave move. At that time it was a different health climate and there was
WHITEHEAD CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC
scepticism about the practice, but he believed in what he was doing.
“It was looked upon as a new thing. They were putting people in jail in the US for not having a licence. But that was good in a way. It made me even more focused and determined,” he said.
Whitehead had worked night and day to save the £1200 needed to sail to the US. He played guitar and sang in a band at weekends to earn extra money. At the time, he said, you could buy a house for £700 and a new car for £300, so to spend that money and uproot a young family was a leap of faith.
He continued to play music in jazz and rock bands – even a polka band – on the weekends in New York, often at packed venues in places like Long Island and venues like Hell’s Inferno, as a way of providing for his young family while studying.
“It was great money. We could make $1200 a week. It was crazy, really,” he said.
In 1962, young Dr Whitehead graduated from the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Iowa, to be followed up later with postgraduate studies at the Thompson Chiropractic Clinic, the Gonstead Chiropractic Clinic, and the Parker Chiropractic Research Foundation.
Arriving back in New Zealand four years later fully qualified, the family were driving through Palmerston North in a Ford Fairlane they brought back from the US on a fine spring day and were drawn to the city.
“The sun was out, the trees were in bloom. It just looked so good.”
So he started asking about a suitable house to set up his new practice and ended up with a house in Featherston St.
The Ford was sold and the money was used to help set up the clinic. It didn’t take long for word to spread and any doubts about whether it would take time to build up a clientele were soon put to bed.
There were often rows of gumboots outside the door. Soon a stand-alone clinic was built next to their home.
But despite a book full of glowing testimonials, scepticism about the profession remained. Whitehead travelled back to the US and joined other professionals in a protest march to the White House to bring about change, such was his conviction and belief in the practice.
New Zealand held its own Royal Commission of Inquiry into the practice in 1978 – which, he said, ironically served to credit the profession in its findings. The outcome was that chiropractic gained a greater standing and became more embedded in the established medical and state institutions.
“It’s all water under the bridge now,” he said.
“The most important thing is to know what you know, and know it to be right. When there is doubt, it’s not the same as when you are strong in your belief.”
Whitehead was named Chiropractor of the Year in 1978 by the Parker Chiropractic Research Foundation in the US for his outstanding contributions and dedicated service to chiropractic. He was the first New Zealander and only Australasian to be awarded a post-graduate certificate by the Gonstead Clinic of Chiropractic in 1971.
He has always embraced technology, buying one of the first computers on the market to help with administration. The clinic was able to perform x-rays and purchased a motion x-ray machine in the 1980s. These days the entire building operates as a dedicated clinic. Today, at age 89, he is still involved in case management and remains as passionate about the profession as he was when he first started. He has been able to pass on his love for the profession, working in tandem with daughter Jodie Whitehead-Wilson for the past 30 years, with son-in-law Mark Wilson and grandson Carson Taare due to complete their qualifications from NZ College of Chiropractic in Auckland.
In addition to being named NZ Chiropractor of the Year, he has been awarded the New Zealand Order of Chiropractic. Looking back, it amazes him that it all started with that serious back injury and a chance meeting with Dr Phelps.
“It’s been an exciting journey. I keep smiling about it. How did it all happen? he said.
BOWEL SCREENING
E-bikes at River Valley Lodge
River Valley Lodge sits within a beautiful part of New Zealand. While many guests prefer to explore the, often dramatic scenery, by raft or horse, there is also another way, and that is by E-bike.
The network of backcountry roads in the area surrounding River Valley, combined with the ease of travel offered by an E-bike, makes exploring fun and doable. We offer half or full day freedom hires, so you can explore our local back roads at your leisure. Or shuttle assisted rides, starting in the high country, with spectacular views of Mt. Ruapehu and the Otupae and Ruahine Ranges, including a gourmet picnic lunch. We also have multi-day bike rides exploring spectacular Central North Island high country and the Gentle Annie Road. Accommodation and meals are available at River Valley Lodge.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
MUNCH
Inclusive eating in the heart of Palmerston North City
Order a coconut milk cappuccino and a vegan banana muffin at Munch on Broadway Avenue and the staff won’t bat an eyelid.
At Munch, their niche is catering for people with food allergies and intolerances. A 100% gluten free and nut free premises, they offer keto, vegan, low fodmap and vegetarian options. Their inclusive and unique concept is proving popular with a wide range of diners and thanks to social media and word of mouth, Munch has become a destination eatery for people from the Manawatū and beyond.
“We even had a busload of people with coeliac come down from Hawke’s Bay to eat here recently,” says Munch owner Veronica James.
Originally in Downtown shopping mall, Munch made the shift to being entirely glutenfree when it moved into a bigger premises on Broadway Avenue in September 2020.
James has Coeliac Disease and a serious nut allergy so she knows first-hand the anxiety people can face when dining out. She wanted to create a space where everyone could eat, chill out and feel normal – that vision is now
Munch’s tagline and ethos is “Inclusive Eating”. They do their best to cater to the dietary needs of every customer, even if it means specially preparing a safe meal for them.
“We get coeliacs come in here and they can choose anything from our menu and cabinet. Suddenly they’re overwhelmed with being able to dine out ‘normally’. Something changes in them and they realise they’re just like everyone else.”
“People’s gratitude is amazing,” says James.
Being inclusive isn’t limited to the food – it’s about welcoming diversity to the cafe. A sticker on the front door welcomes the rainbow community and the toilets are gender neutral. The staff are a mixture of nationalities. Everyone is welcome.
People are often surprised by the “big city feel” when they walk into Munch, with its two-story layout. James teamed up with her son Brodie to do the fitout. They’ve created a unique décor James describes as “eclectic bordering on eccentric”, creating a strong sense of place – something which James believes is essential for a successful eatery.
“People like a base. They like somewhere they can call their own.”
The walls are decorated with items like old
record covers, bevelled mirrors, and retro art pieces. It’s a visual feast. James bought most of the collection from opportunity shops. Customers have also donated items, each with a story and memories attached. An elderly woman comes in regularly to visit the mirror she donated. A young boy is excited to sit in ‘his’ armchair from home.
Looking around, everyone can spot familiar items.
“People come in and see artwork or something that they had in their childhood. It gives them that connection straight away.”
The counter is made of wood upcycled from the Massey University science labs adding a uniquely Manawatū flavour.
“That’s got scratches on it and there’s some pretty hilarious things etched on there. We didn’t sand any of that out.”
An intriguing mural by Whanganui artist Mike Marsh tells the story of James’ life and is a popular backdrop for customer photos.
Munch will soon open a fully licenced bar inside the premises. They’ll serve a range of gluten free and keto beverages including beer and cocktails.
James believes there are three essential ingredients in building a successful eatery. Great food, great service and great atmosphere. Munch delivers on all three.
Our favourite ingredients for a family day out in Manawatū
Get the kids out of the house and geared up for some fun in the great outdoors!
Spice up your usual weekend routine or add a sprinkle of Manawatū magic to your upcoming holiday – we’ve got just the recipe for a sweet day out with the kids.
Pick and mix your way through our rohe (region) – there’s plenty of playgrounds, pools, trails, and treats to entertain children of all ages.
Play
With over 60 playgrounds across Palmerston North (plus even more in Feilding and our smaller townships), you could explore a new one every weekend and still not get bored. Our top picks? Linklater Reserve’s dual flying fox, the rope bridges at Kōwhai Park, Milverton Park’s giant fort, and the butterfly-themed Apollo Park. Plus if you’ve got a need for speed, you just can’t beat the Rippler slide at Rangitāne Park!
Stroll, scoot or cycle
Hit the pavement or the trails and soak up the sunshine. Whether your tamariki prefer roaming on two feet or two wheels –Manawatū is blessed with a variety of familyfriendly trails. Stay curious and keep your eyes peeled for native birdlife, lush greenery, and secret swimming spots. Victoria Esplanade’s Junior Road Safety Park is a safe spot for young riders to earn their L-plates, complete with miniature-sized traffic lights and roundabouts – it’ll be bumper-to-bumper on a busy day.
Talk to your local money experts at MTF Palmerston North, because if we can see a way to help, we’re all in. Just search MTF Palmerston North, drop in to 60 Grey Street or get in touch below.
Splash
Get set to get wet – there’s a paddling pool or river spot with your name on it. Every summer, Palmy kids flock to the Splashpad at Memorial Park for its bounty of water features – and to queue up underneath the giant supersized bucket!
Lido Aquatic Centre’s outdoor pool never ceases to please, with a SpeedSlide, SuperBowl and aqua play area on offer. Or for a weekend day trip, head to Foxton and leap to Off the Loop’s inflatable aqua course, packed full of obstacles to slip, slide and splash on.
Pinic
Pack up the basket, grab a rug – and don’t forget the tomato sauce! A warm parcel of fish and chips is the perfect way to end your day. Best served alfresco, we love heading to Himatangi Beach to catch the sunset, or cosying up on the banks of the Manawatū River to enjoy our idyllic awa at twilight.
Perhaps your tamariki are keen for a teddy bear’s picnic – wander on down to Heritage Park’s glorious gardens, the riverside Ahimate Reserve, or to Ashhurst Domain’s lawns for a beary special day out.
Induge
A fun-filled day wouldn’t be complete without a little treat, right? Beat the heat with a scoop or two from I Scream for Ice Cream – with 70+ flavours to choose from – or an old-fashioned milkshake. Chocolate junkies are well catered for at Alexandre Patisserie, or satisfy your whānau’s sweet tooth with one of Babco’s delectable Danish pastries.
Heading further afield? Find out what all the buzz is about at Waireka Honey Centre – and walk out with a lip-smackingly good homemade honey ice cream in hand.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
Esplanade Scenic Railway
We operate NZ's premier miniature railway, traveling along a 2.2 km track through the beautiful park, playground, & native bush of Victoria Esplanade, Palmerston North. Fun for all ages. Operating weekends, school & Public holidays.
Operating 3 NZ replica locomotives our track will give you a view of the beautiful Victoria Esplanade. We have 2 stations to board the train.
The railway is operated by a totally volunteer operated society.
Great fun for all the family and a unique way to capture memories that will last a lifetime.
We can also be hired for special excursion trips outside our normal hours, for educational groups, tour groups, weddings etc.
Conditions: 8 trip concession tickets are also available.
Editorial and image credit: ManawatuNZ.co.nz
We work with businesses, investors & home owners who want to maximize their rental investments, protect their assets & minimize the workload associated with Property Management. At Absolute Rentals we spend time understanding what you want to achieve, then we show you how to make it happen.
We love what we do. It’s our
Palmerston North City Libary
Te Ara Whānui o Te Ao – To inspire people to explore the pathways of the world
There’s more than you think at your local Library. Whether you want to tackle a new sport, find out about your favourite hobby, learn a new language or just find a great read – they will help you out.
Send your mind on an exciting journey, as you explore the wonderful world of books and more. Community libraries now offer a huge range of services including browsing and study facilities; Magazines, music and videos; local history collections with reference materials and newspapers for use in the libraries; to word processing facilities and even access to the Internet and other electronic resources.
Your Library card is your passport to the riches! If you haven’t got one, head down to your local library and ask them how to get one. Keep it handy as you will need it to borrow items.
New Zealand’s first public library opened in Wellington in 1841, they can now be found throughout New Zealand and are open to everyone.
We are here to help you explore your pathway. Join us in the Living Room of the City.
Your Library card is your passport to the riches! If you haven’t got one, head down to your local library and ask them how to get one. Keep it handy as you will need it to borrow items.
We are locals who love supporting the Manawatu Community
Where to run like the wind – In Manawatū
From trail runs to inner city pathways, there's a variety of terrain here in Manawatū for all running abilities to enjoy. Whether you've just started up running and keen for a weekly group to join or are an avid runner on the prowl for new spaces to explore, you will feel the spirit and passion of our active communities wherever you go.
Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge
The road State Highway Three through Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge may be closed but the walking and running trails are still wide open. Just a 15 minute drive from Palmerston North city, park at the Ashhurst side entrance and take on the 4km Tawa Loop – an approximately 45 minute run with undulating sections to keep your fitness levels up. You can also head to Windy Point Look out along the main Manawatū Gorge Track via the Tawa Loop, which takes about 2hrs to do return. Flourishing birdsong and evergreen native bush makes this a go-to spot for runners, walkers and families alike.
Parkruns at Manawatū River pathway
Every Saturday morning at 8am, you can join hundreds of Parkrun enthusiasts for a free 5km timed run along the scenic Manawatū River Pathway in the city beginning at Fitzherbert Bridge. Dog friendly (on a leash please), buggy friendly and wheelchair friendly, this is a place where everyone is welcome. Post run coffee at The Elm Café just 500m from the finish line makes this a very active and social way to kick start your weekend.
Palmerston North Parkrun is part of a global phenomenon with two million registered runners and volunteers who organise weekly timed runs around the world.
Kōwhai to Kitchener Park
Enjoy an easy 6km loop run (mostly on trails) starting from the South Street entrance of Kōwhai Park in Feilding towards Kitchener Park. The first 2km follows a trail beside the Makino Stream which then leads to a loop track through Kitchener Park along a scenic boardwalk surrounded by beautiful native bush and wetlands. Keep an eye out for New Zealand’s tallest kōwhai tree as well as an 800 year old kahikatea. Toilets are available at both parks.
Learn more about the track here
North Range Trio
This epic running and walking event offers three distances to tackle across the wind farms of the northern Tararua Ranges: The 12.5km Hall Block Humdinger, the 25km Tilt Renewables North Range Traverse and the 50km Catchment Ultra. Each course with its own triumphs and challenges, discover what it’s like to run amongst the giants with the awe-inspiring wind turbines surrounding you.
Learn more about the tracks here
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