Whanganui Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Whanganui with this comprehensive guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Whanganui

Nestled in the Whanganui region on New Zealand’s North Island, Whanganui is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a diverse food and drink scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical attractions, embarking on outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the local culture, Whanganui offers something for every type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Whanganui

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Whanganui Regional Museum: Explore the region’s geological history, Maori culture, and early European settlement at this museum.
  • Sarjeant Gallery: Admire a wide collection of New Zealand art, including paintings, prints, photographs, and sculpture, at this historic gallery.
  • Durie Hill Elevator: Take a ride on the world’s only underground elevator to access stunning panoramic views of Whanganui and its surrounds from the top of Durie Hill.

Natural Attractions of Whanganui: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Whanganui River: Kayak or canoe down this majestic river, which winds its way through lush forests, scenic gorges, and serene pastures.
  • Mount Taranaki: Hike or climb up this dormant volcano to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Waimarie Paddle Steamer: Journey back in time aboard this restored steamboat, which offers scenic cruises along the Whanganui River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Whanganui

  • Mangapurua Track: Take on this challenging hike to reach the historic Bridge to Nowhere, an abandoned bridge built in the 1930s to connect remote farms to civilization.
  • Mount Hikurangi: Hike to the summit of this sacred mountain to see the first sunrise of the world.
  • Whanganui River Road: Biking through the scenic route on Whanganui River Road for gorgeous river views along the way.

Best Things to Do in Whanganui: Activities and Tours

  • Jet boating: Experience an adrenaline rush as you speed through rapids and twists on a jet boat tour.
  • Golfing: Play a round of golf on one of the region’s beautiful courses, such as the Wanganui Golf Club or Castlecliff Golf Club.
  • Garden tours: Visit one of Whanganui’s gorgeous gardens such as the Bason Botanic Gardens or Cross Hills Gardens and learn about their history and design.

Week-Long Itinerary for Whanganui

Day Activity
1 Visit the Whanganui Regional Museum and Sarjeant Gallery
2 Take a scenic cruise along the Whanganui River aboard the Waimarie Paddle Steamer
3 Explore the Bridge to Nowhere on the Mangapurua Track hike
4 Stay in Castlecliff and enjoy the beach and cafes
5 Take a jet boat tour on the Whanganui River
6 Hike up Mount Hikurangi to watch the sunrise
7 Golfing at Wanganui Golf Course followed by a relaxing day on the beaches of Kai Iwi or Castlecliff

Food and Drink Scene of Whanganui

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hāngi: A traditional Maori dish made by steaming food in an underground pit oven, typically consisting of meat, vegetables, and kumara or sweet potato.
  • Seafood: As Whanganui is located near the coast, seafood is a popular and delicious cuisine. Try the local favorite whitebait fritters or fish and chips.
  • Kumara: Whanganui is known for its sweet potatoes locally called kumara, which are often served as a side dish or incorporated into various dishes

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Whanganui is home to several excellent cafes that serve up artisanal coffee, such as Caroline’s Boatshed Cafe or the Yellow House Cafe.
  • Cider and Craft Beer: Enjoy locally produced cider and craft beer at the Red Lion Inn or the Brewers Apprentice.

Where to Stay in Whanganui: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Parkside Motel: A comfortable and convenient option located near the city center and Whanganui’s parks and gardens.
  • Tamara Riverside Lodge: Offering stunning views of the Whanganui River and luxurious accommodations.
  • The Grand Hotel Whanganui: This historic hotel boasts elegant and spacious guest rooms, an onsite restaurant and bar, and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Whanganui: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pounamu: This traditional Maori treasure made from greenstone is often crafted into jewelry and carvings.
  • Hand-crafted pottery: Whanganui is known for its vibrant pottery scene, and there are plenty of local artists creating beautiful ceramics and other pieces.
  • Local honey and jams: Whanganui is home to many orchards and apiaries, and you can find excellent honey, jams, and other tasty treats at markets and shops around the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Whanganui

The Maori culture holds a significant place in the Whanganui region, so it is essential to respect the traditions and customs of the local Maori community. Visitors should also take care to protect the region’s natural beauty and wildlife by following leave no trace principles and obeying posted signs and rules.

Best Time to Visit Whanganui

The best time to visit Whanganui is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when there are fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and beautiful foliage. Summer can be a busy time for the city’s popular attractions and can get uncomfortably hot for some travelers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Whanganui

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Take care of the environment and wildlife
  • Visit the city’s museums and art galleries

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Disrespect cultural sites or customs
  • Forget to try the local cuisine!

Safety and Health

Safety in Whanganui

Whanganui is a safe and welcoming city for tourists, but it’s always wise to take standard safety precautions, such as locking valuables in your accommodation, staying in well-lit areas at night, and keeping an eye on your personal belongings.

Health in Whanganui

Whanganui has several medical facilities that provide excellent healthcare, including the Whanganui Hospital and various clinics and pharmacies. Visitors should also take extra precautions in warm months to protect against sunburn and dehydration.

Getting to Whanganui: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Whanganui

The Whanganui airport is located just outside the city, offering flights to Auckland and Wellington.

Bus Stations Near Whanganui

InterCity and Naked Bus offer daily bus services to Whanganui from several cities in New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, and Palmerston North.

Other Options

Hiring a car or campervan is a fantastic way to explore the Whanganui region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Whanganui

Whanganui is a small and walkable city, but visitors can also use public transportation like buses and taxis. The riverboat cruises and some outdoor adventures offer complementary transportation to and from your desired activity.

Where to Go Next from Whanganui: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tongariro National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts stunning alpine scenery and incredible hiking and skiing opportunities.
  • Ruapehu: This active volcano offers exciting skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
  • Wellington: The vibrant capital city of New Zealand known for its thriving art and music scene, excellent food and drink, and stunning coastal vistas.

Conclusion

Whanganui offers visitors a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and galleries, embarking on a scenic hike, or sampling local cuisine, Whanganui is a must-visit destination for any traveler to New Zealand.