Shannon

While travelling around New Zealand you might hear our native owls calling “morepork” at night, but in Shannon you can actually see some.

Situated between Levin and Palmerston North, the rural town of Shannon has a history of flaxmilling. Today the largest employer in town is a tannery; the district is also an important producer of onions and potatoes. Local attractions include the historic railway station, a miniature village and the Mangahao Stream, which provides an international grade kayaking course known as the Mangahao Slalem. For many travellers, the owl zoo is the main reason to visit Shannon. You can meet the native owl (morepork or ruru), as well as a variety of other native birds.

Functional facts: Approx. population 1400, limited accommodation, basic shopping.