Palmerston North Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Palmerston North with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover things to do, places to stay, and more.


Introduction to Palmerston North

Palmerston North is a vibrant city located in Manawatu, in the North Island of New Zealand. With a population of 90,000 people, it is home to a diverse range of cultures and communities. Known for its excellent educational opportunities, Palmerston North is also a hub for science and technology, making it a popular destination for both students and professionals. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, such as the Tararua Mountains and the Manawatu River, providing visitors with plenty of opportunities for outdoor excursions.

List of Places to Visit in Palmerston North

Palmerston North offers visitors an excellent selection of attractions, including museums, historical landmarks, natural wonders, and cultural experiences.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Palmerston North has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums and historic sites to explore. The following are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Te Manawa Museum: A fascinating museum that showcases the cultural and natural history of the region.
  • New Zealand Rugby Museum: Home to an impressive collection of rugby memorabilia, including the history of the All Blacks rugby team.
  • Palmerston North Esplanade Scenic Railway: Take a ride on an antique steam train that follows the Manawatu River.
  • Manawatu Gorge Track: A scenic walking track that takes you through the stunning Manawatu Gorge.

Natural Attractions of Palmerston North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palmerston North is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in New Zealand. The following are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Tararua Mountains: A spectacular mountain range that offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities.
  • Manawatu River: A beautiful river that runs through the heart of Palmerston North, providing visitors with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking.
  • Victoria Esplanade: A park that offers a wide range of recreational activities, including walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palmerston North

Palmerston North has an extensive network of walking and biking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the city’s natural beauty. The following are some of the top hiking and biking trails:

  • Manawatu River Pathway: A scenic walking and cycling track that follows the Manawatu River, with excellent views of the city.
  • Te Apiti – Manawatu Gorge Track: A challenging hiking trail that takes you through the stunning Manawatu Gorge.
  • Fitzherbert Park: A beautiful park that offers a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Bridle Track.

Best Things to Do in Palmerston North: Activities and Tours

Palmerston North offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours to choose from, including the following:

  • Victoria Esplanade Miniature Railway: Take a ride on a miniature train that travels around the beautiful Victoria Esplanade.
  • Urban Explorer Tour: Discover the city’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions on a walking tour.
  • Gourmet Food Tour: Sample some of the city’s best food and drink on a guided tour of local restaurants and cafes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palmerston North

Palmerston North has plenty to offer visitors for a week-long trip. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the city center, including Te Manawa museum and the Palmerston North clock tower. Day 2: Take a hike in the Tararua Mountains. Day 3: Explore the Manawatu River Pathway on a bike ride or walk. Day 4: Take a guided food tour of the city’s best restaurants and cafes. Day 5: Visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum and take a ride on the Palmerston North Esplanade Scenic Railway. Day 6: Visit the Manawatu Gorge and take a hike on the Te Apiti Trail. Day 7: Relax in Victoria Esplanade and enjoy a picnic before departing Palmerston North.

Food and Drink Scene of Palmerston North

Palmerston North has a thriving food and drink scene, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Roast lamb: A New Zealand classic, served with kumara (sweet potato) and vegetables.
  • Fish and chips: A staple of Kiwi cuisine, served with a side of tartare sauce.
  • Hokey Pokey ice cream: A New Zealand favorite, made with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb toffee.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: Palmerston North is home to several craft breweries that offer excellent beer, such as the Brew Union Brewing Company and the Palmerston North Breweries.
  • Manawatu wine: The region is home to several boutique wineries that produce excellent wines, such as the Ohau Wines and the Ashhurst Domain Wines.

Where to Stay in Palmerston North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Palmerston North offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Distinction Palmerston North Hotel: A four-star hotel located in the heart of the city, offering modern amenities and excellent service.
  • Aubyn Court Spa Motel: A stylish motel that offers spa suites and self-contained apartments.
  • The Railway Hotel: A historic hotel that has been lovingly restored to its former glory, with charming decor and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Palmerston North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palmerston North offers visitors plenty of options for souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the must-buy items include:

  • New Zealand wool: Palmerston North is known for its wool industry, and visitors can find high-quality wool products such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
  • Manawatu honey: The region produces delicious honey, which makes for a sweet and tasty souvenir.
  • Local art and crafts: Palmerston North is home to several local artists and craftspeople, who create beautiful pottery, glassware, and woodcarvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Palmerston North

Palmerston North is a multicultural and diverse city, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as the Maori culture, and should be mindful of environmental conservation efforts.

Best Time to Visit Palmerston North

The best time to visit Palmerston North is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and dry, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, the city is worth a visit all year round, with each season offering unique experiences and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palmerston North

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be open to trying new foods and experiences.
  • Take care of the environment and follow local conservation efforts.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to local people and customs.
  • Leave litter or damage natural environments.
  • Ignore weather warnings and advisories during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Palmerston North

Palmerston North is a safe city for visitors, with low rates of crime and a friendly community. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions such as locking their valuables in their accommodation and being aware of their surroundings when out at night.

Health in Palmerston North

Palmerston North has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical centers. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance to cover the cost of any medical treatment needed during their visit.

Getting to Palmerston North: Transportation Options and Logistics

Palmerston North is well-connected to the rest of the North Island, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Palmerston North

Palmerston North Airport is the main airport serving the city, with several daily flights to Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Bus Stations Near Palmerston North

The city has several bus stations, with regular services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

Palmerston North is also accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the city to other parts of the North Island.

How to Get Around in Palmerston North

Palmerston North is a compact city that is easy to explore on foot. Visitors can also use local buses, taxis, and rental cars to get around the city and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Palmerston North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Palmerston North is an excellent base for exploring the North Island, with several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Wellington: The vibrant capital city of New Zealand, located just two hours’ drive from Palmerston North.
  • Napier: A beautiful coastal town famous for its art deco architecture, located three hours’ drive from Palmerston North.
  • Tongariro National Park: A stunning national park that is home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, located just three hours’ drive from Palmerston North.

Conclusion

Palmerston North is a vibrant and exciting city that offers visitors a wide range of attractions and experiences. Whether you are interested in hiking, history, or food, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Plan your trip today and discover all that Palmerston North has to offer!

Art Deco building in the square Art Deco building in the square Information centre Information centre Memorial Park Memorial Park