Manawatu and Whanganui Region
Get off the tourist-beaten track and discover your own adventure in the Manawatu and Whanganui region. A rich riverside history envelopes this region of green hills, sandy beaches and remote native forests. Maori culture whispers throughout the deeply spiritual Whanganui River and into Whanganui National Park. Outdoor adventure blends with city allure in the blossoming university town of Palmerston North. Manawatu and Wanganui region may have the Bridge to Nowhere, but with such varied activities, rich history, full-spectrum landscapes and towns of all shapes and sizes, this is certainly a region that bridges a little bit of everywhere.
Climate
Relatively sunny, temperate climate.
Summer: 14 - 22°C
Winter: 6 - 14°C
Average rainfall: 295mm/year
Cool Facts
• The Bridge to Nowhere, in Ramanui Landing, was originally built to access a planned settlement in Whanganui National Park, but the location proved so remote, the venture was abandoned and the forest closed in.
• The Sarjeant Art Gallery’s architecture is so beautiful, it has the highest possible listing under the
New Zealand Historic Places Trust Act that protects the building.
• Taihape hosts an annual gumboot-throwing competition and has a permanent gumboot-throwing lane for the occasion!
• The Whanganui River is New Zealand’s longest navigable river.
• According to the District Council, Whanganui Region, River and National Park are all spelled with an “h” but Wanganui city is not.
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