Whanganui - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Whanganui

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Whanganui, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Whanganui and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Whanganui, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Whanganui for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Whanganui

Whanganui is a city located on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island. It sits alongside the Whanganui River, which is the longest navigable river in New Zealand. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural surroundings. It's home to many cultural and recreational activities, including hiking trails, kayaking adventures, art galleries, museums, and cultural festivals. In addition, Whanganui is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the authentic Kiwi way of life. The city is easily accessible by car, train, or bus, and is about a 2.5-hour drive from New Zealand's capital city, Wellington.

What to visit in Whanganui

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Whanganui, New Zealand: 1. Whanganui River: This long river runs through the city and offers many recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and jet boating. You could also take a cruise downstream to discover the beautiful scenery.
2. Virginia Lake: This is a beautiful lake right in the middle of the city. It features walking trails and is home to a wide range of birdlife, including black swans and ducks.
3. Whanganui Regional Museum: This museum displays the cultural and natural history of the region, including Maori artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from early European explorers.
4. Durie Hill Elevator: This is a unique attraction that takes you up a hill to a lookout tower. The elevator was built in 1919 and provides fantastic views of the city and its surroundings.
5. Bason Botanic Gardens: These gardens are a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. They feature a wide range of plants from around the world, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, and a native New Zealand garden.
6. The Sarjeant Gallery: This is an art gallery that displays a wide range of contemporary and historic art. It also has a sculpture garden and is a popular venue for events and exhibitions.
7. The Bridge to Nowhere: This historic bridge was built in the 1930s and is now a popular hiking destination. It is located in the middle of dense forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
8. Whanganui i-SITE Visitor Centre: This is a great place to start your journey in Whanganui. The visitor center provides information on all the local attractions and activities, as well as booking services for tours and accommodation.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Whanganui.

When to go on holiday to Whanganui

The best time to visit Whanganui in New Zealand is during the summer season which runs from December to February. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports along the Whanganui River. However, if you're looking for a quieter holiday with fewer crowds then spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) can also be a good time to visit. During these seasons, temperatures are mild and the scenery is beautiful with the changing colors of the leaves. It's important to note that Whanganui can experience rainfall throughout the year, so be sure to bring appropriate clothing and plan indoor activities just in case.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Whanganui

There are several ways to get to Whanganui, New Zealand: 1. By air: Whanganui Airport is located just 4 km from the city center and is serviced by Air Chathams with daily flights to and from Auckland.
2. By road: Whanganui is approximately 200 km from Wellington and 230 km from Auckland. The State Highway 3 passes through the city, making it easy to drive to and from other parts of the North Island.
3. By bus: Intercity and Mana Bus operate daily bus services to Whanganui from Wellington and other major cities in the North Island.
4. By train: The Northern Explorer, a scenic train service operated by KiwiRail, stops in Whanganui on its journey between Auckland and Wellington. Overall, there are several transportation options available to get to Whanganui, making it easily accessible to travelers.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Whanganui, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Whanganui

Some typical foods of Whanganui (New Zealand) are: 1. Pāua - Pāua is a type of large sea snail that is a delicacy in New Zealand. It is usually served raw in small slices mixed with herbs and spices.
2. Whitebait - Whitebait is a New Zealand specialty that is made with the small, translucent freshwater fish that migrate up the rivers from the sea in spring. They are usually fried into fritters and served with lemon wedges.
3. Hangi - Hangi is a traditional Maori way of cooking food in an earth oven. It is usually made with various meats like chicken, beef, or pork, along with kumara (a type of sweet potato) and other vegetables. 4. Kiwifruit - Kiwifruit is a small, brown fruit with a bright green interior. It is native to New Zealand and is often used in desserts like pavlova, or added to fruit salads.
5. Venison - Venison is a lean type of red meat that comes from deer. It is often used in stews and curries and is a popular dish in New Zealand. 6. Hokey Pokey - Hokey pokey is a type of ice cream that is flavored with honeycomb toffee. It is a popular dessert in Whanganui and throughout New Zealand. 7. Mānuka honey - Mānuka honey is a type of honey that comes from the nectar of the Mānuka tree. It is renowned for its antibacterial properties and is often used as a natural remedy. It is also used as a sweetener in many dishes.
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Whanganui an expensive destination for tourists?

Whanganui, New Zealand can be a relatively affordable destination for tourists, depending on the types of activities and accommodation options you choose. The cost of living in New Zealand, in general, is higher than some other countries, but Whanganui is considered to be more affordable than some of the larger cities such as Auckland and Wellington.
Accommodation prices range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. You can also find affordable Airbnb accommodations throughout the city. Activities such as hiking, visiting museums, and exploring the river are generally free or low cost. However, if you plan to participate in adventure activities or private tours, these can be more expensive.
Overall, Whanganui can be a budget-friendly option for tourists, but it depends on the choices you make regarding accommodation and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Whanganui

The best areas to find accommodation in Whanganui, New Zealand are: 1. Whanganui City Center: This area offers easy access to the city's main attractions, such as the Whanganui River, Victoria Avenue shopping district, and the Sarjeant Gallery.
2. Castlecliff: This beachside suburb is an excellent place to find accommodation and offers stunning views of the ocean.
3. Wanganui East: This area is close to the city center and has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.
4. Durie Hill: This hilltop suburb offers panoramic views of Whanganui and has several accommodation options.
5. Whanganui North: This area offers a peaceful setting and is close to the city center and the river. It is an excellent place to find bed and breakfasts and boutique accommodations.
You can check hotel prices at Whanganui here:
Booking.com

Is Whanganui a safe destination for tourists?

Whanganui is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other destination, visitors should exercise the usual precautions to ensure their safety, such as: 1. Do not leave valuables in your car or in plain sight.
2. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
3. Stick to well-lit and busy areas when walking around.
4. Do not engage with strangers who appear suspicious or aggressive.
5. Take note of emergency numbers and keep them handy in case of any emergency.
As long as visitors take the usual safety precautions, they are likely to enjoy a safe and pleasant stay in Whanganui, New Zealand.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Whanganui.

What type of travelers will enjoy Whanganui the most?

Whanganui is a great destination for all types of travelers as it offers a diverse range of activities and attractions suitable for everyone's preferences. Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway with bike rides along the stunning river trail and visits to the art galleries and museums. Young people can have fun exploring the vibrant nightlife, cafes, and restaurants in the town center. Families can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the Whanganui National Park, visiting the iconic Bridge to Nowhere, or spending an afternoon at Virginia Lake, which has walking tracks, a playground, and an aviary. Overall, Whanganui is perfect for any traveler who wants to experience a unique blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and relaxation.

How to get around Whanganui

To move around Whanganui, you can use several modes of transportation, including a rental car, taxi, bus, bike or walking. However, the public transportation system in Whanganui is not extensive, so it's recommended to have a private vehicle if you plan to explore all the attractions in the area. If you're planning to visit the city or nearby attractions, you can rent a bike, take a taxi, or walk around the city centre.

What to see around Whanganui

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Whanganui, New Zealand: 1. Mount Taranaki/Egmont National Park - A stunningly beautiful volcano and natural park with amazing hiking trails and scenic views.
2. Tongariro National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage site with some of the North Island's most awe-inspiring landscapes. It is home to several volcanic mountains and offers great hikes.
3. Palmerston North - A vibrant city with plenty to see and do, including the Victoria Esplanade Gardens, Te Manawa Museum, and the New Zealand Rugby Museum.
4. New Plymouth - A coastal city famous for its seaside promenade, arts and culture scene, and excellent restaurants. Visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and the Pukekura Park while you're there.
5. Waitomo Caves - A unique and mesmerizing cave system filled with glowworms. You can take a guided tour to see the caves and experience glowworm caves.
6. Napier - Known for its art deco architecture, Napier is a charming city along the coast with plenty of beaches and landmarks to explore.
7. Feilding - A peaceful and friendly town with excellent cafés, parks, and noteworthy rural vistas. Visit the award-winning Farmers Market held each Friday morning.
Hopefully, these options will give you a good starting point for planning a day trip from Whanganui.
For every travel information about New Zealand you can click here.

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