Palmerston North Activities & Attractions
Driving Further Afield:
Te Apiti Windfarm Lookout:
Feel the power of the wind as you stand under the turbine’s huge 35-metre-long blades as they whoosh by at Te Apiti Windfarm Lookout. There are great views of the surrounding region.
Manawatu Gorge Walk:
Step out on the Manawatu Gorge Walk, which stretches the full length of the spectacular Manawatu Gorge, one of the few places in the world where a river passes through a mountain range, not beside it. It will take anywhere between three and five hours to tramp it one way, but if you’re pressed for time, try the short Totara Loop Track at the Woodville end of the Manawatu Gorge Track, around 15km east of Palmy. If you’re a runner, this is a must-do, it will take approx 2.5-3.5 hours return.
The Herb Farm:
Immerse yourself in the heavenly scents of this country herb garden that is full of fragrant (and useful) plants. A self-guided tour is free, but you may blow the budget in the shop, full of all the Herb Farm's famous natural and organic skincare range. You’ll find them at Grove Road, Palmerston North, and more information at: http://www.herbfarm.co.nz
Tui HQ:
Well, you’ll have to pay for the beer you drink, but the Histui Museum is free at Tui HQ at Tui Brewery. Tui Brewery was established at Mangatainoka in 1889, and as the slogan says, has been distracting the boys from the task at hand ever since. If you get the taste for more, brewery tours are available, but they cost $12.50. Visit www.tui.co.nz to book.
Easy walk or drive
Te Manawa:
A museum, art gallery and interactive science centre all in one, so there’s something fascinating here for everyone, including great collections of Maori taonga (treasures) and New Zealand contemporary art, social and natural history. Art gallery and museum sections are free. Te Manawa $8.
Situated at 326 Main Street and open daily 10am-5pm. www.temanawa.co.nz
New Zealand Rugby Museum:
Situated at the above address and dedicated to recording and displaying the passing parade of Rugby Union from all countries where the game is played. The most comprehensive collection of rugby momentos anywhere and covering the years since the commencement of the national game in 1870 to present day.
Victoria Esplanade Gardens and Rose Garden:
These lovely gardens were opened in 1897 to celebrate the 60th jubilee of Queen Victoria and feature a large duck pond, a cherry drive and an avenue of phoenix palms as well as a miniature railway through native bush, amazing bird aviaries, a children’s playground, paddling pool and free electric barbecues. You’ll find the gardens at Manawaroa Street, Fitzherbert Avenue and Park Road.
Voted one of the top five rose gardens in the world, this extensive rose garden is home to more than 5000 roses and includes the Rose Breeding and Trialling Centre. It’s part of the Victoria Esplanade Gardens and the best time to visit is during the summer months of December to March when all the roses are in bloom.
Centennial Lagoon Walk:
There’s a lovely1km walk around the Hokowhitu Lagoon where you can enjoy all the bird life that abounds in this area. Feed the ducks or watch the water sport on the lagoon.