Embark on a journey of discovery. Wanganui offers relaxation and a haven from the pressures of modern living. It's a great place to rediscover inner peace and reconnect with who you really are. Visitors can immerse themselves in local art, culture, history and the legendary spirit of the majestic Whanganui River.
Visitors to Whanganui in spring will discover the banks of the Whanganui River coming to life with new growth. Take a thrilling jetboat or paddle steamer ride up this historic river. Throughout the region daffodils add splashes of sunny yellow to lawns, flower beds and to rural paddocks, where they often grow wild.
Embark on a journey of discovery. Wanganui offers relaxation and a haven from the pressures of modern living. It's a great place to rediscover inner peace and reconnect with who you really are. Visitors can immerse themselves in local art, culture, history and the legendary spirit of the majestic Whanganui River.
Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
History, art and intrepid river journeys
The region is rich in Maori and European history, and the past is proudly remembered and respected by the people of today. This is physically apparent in the beautifully preserved heritage buildings, riverboats and marae (traditional Maori community meeting places).
Travel along the Whanganui River Valley and absorb the tranquil beauty of the landscapes. The spiritual feel of this special place is almost tangible. Time loses importance here, swept from its throne by deep levels of relaxation and close connections with the natural world. This rejuvenating atmosphere is created by a wonderful combination of a mystical presence, stunning scenery and very limited human intervention.
Key Features
River adventures
The Whanganui River dominates the region as it flows through the Whanganui National Park to lowland farms and the historic city of Wanganui on the west coast. Enjoy cultural and historical experiences as well as paddle-steamer, canoe, kayak, jetboat and hiking adventures.
Historic architecture
Wanganui city offers an abundance of well-preserved historic buildings and the main street is recognised as one of New Zealand's most attractive. Gaslights, wrought iron garden seats, palm and plane trees, and wide paved footpaths all contribute to a very elegant heritage atmosphere.
A community of artists
Wanganui has a strong and talented artist community. Unique works of art, in a range of media, are exhibited in numerous galleries and studios. The city is New Zealand's ‘Centre of Glass Excellence’ and visitors can enjoy live glass blowing as artists create their exquisite works.
Key Tips
Wanganui airport has daily flights to Auckland and Wellington. Private and charter aircraft also use the facility.
Kayak and canoe river journeys, through the Whanganui National Park, range from one to five days.
Public hiking trails lead through lush native forests to spectacular scenic highlights. Options range from five minute strolls to multi-day hikes.
The people of Wanganui are warm and welcoming. They love to engage with visitors to their region.
Related Links
www.newzealand.com Pages
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Whanganui National Park The Whanganui National Park has a very distinctive landscape of river valley systems with steep slopes, razor-sharp ridges and an almost complete cover of native lowland forest.
FAST FACT:
Wanganui city does not have an "H". The region, river and national park all include an "H". eg, Whanganui region, Whanganui River and Whanganui National Park.
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
While you can expect cooler conditions in the morning and evening, daytime temperatures can get quite warm. Trees are full of autumn colours, while roadsides and fields are decorated with fallen leaves. The changing colours provide a striking backdrop to enjoyable strolls around public gardens and reserves. Autumn is a great time for canoeing on the Whanganui River as it flows gently past the fern-clad river banks of this lush, mystical landscape.
