Wanganui Landscape
The picturesque river district of Wanganui is located on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand, just a two and a half hour drive from the capital, Wellington. The city itself is located on the South Taranaki Bite, near the mouth of the Whanganui River, and is famous for its parks and reserves, hiking and biking trails, and its vibrant art and culture.
Wanganui means ‘Great Bay’ or ‘Great Harbour’ and as its name suggests, there is a deep spiritual, cultural and historical relationship between the local people and the river. There is a local saying ‘I am the river, the river is me’, which captures the strong bond between the two.
With a population of 43,000, Wanganui is big enough to be vibrant, yet small enough to provide a quiet, tranquil and intimate getaway for your next vacation. The city’s vibrant urban center makes it an ideal base for those wanting to explore the stunning scenery of the Wanganui district. For those seeking comfortable, centrally located accommodations, the Quality Inn Collegiate offers a spa, mini gym, cafe, restaurant, and bar to refresh after a long day of sightseeing.
Wanganui River
Explore the deep, winding waters of the Whanganui River by kayak, speedboat, or paddle steamer. New Zealand’s longest navigable waterway, the 290-kilometre-long Whanganui River stretches from Mount Tongariro to the sea and is surrounded by stunning, rugged mountain country that is a joy to explore. Take a scenic kayak tour for the best views of the mesmerizing mudstone formations, steep slopes, and jagged cliffs that line the banks of this mystical waterway. Or cruise along the scenic Whanganui River Route to see farming villages, watermills, and beautiful Marae trees.
Wanganui National Park
Explore the native lowland forests of Wanganui National Park, famous for its abundant birdlife. Discover the ‘Bridge to Nowhere’ across the Mangapurua Gorge and take a trip back in time to a pioneering hilltop settlement abandoned in 1942. The park is famous for its canoe and kayak safaris. Why not cruise upriver and visit the local Tieke Marae run by local Maori and see traditional customs in action?
art and culture
Wanganui has a rich cultural heritage centered around the Whanganui River, once an important transportation route for Maori and early settlers alike. The city itself sits right on the banks of the magnificent winding river and is packed with cultural and historical sights to explore.
A trip to Wanganui would not be complete without a tour of the cultural center of Queens Park in the heart of the city. Within the Queens Park precinct you will find the iconic Sarjeant Gallery, the Whanganui Regional Museum and the War Memorial Centre. Why not pack a picnic and enjoy views of the river from one of Queens Park’s green spaces? Or ride the famous Underground Elevator from the War Memorial and enjoy spectacular mountain views from Durie Hill. There are steps to the top for those who like to admire the stunning scenery on foot.
Rich in culture, history and stunning scenery, Wanganui District is the perfect destination for your next New Zealand getaway.