Wellington
- Wanganui
188 km (118 miles)
Approximately 2.5 hours
Road Conditions: Motorway/State Highway
Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty.
The Kapiti Coast route to Wanganui has a lot going for it. Offshore from Waikanae is Kapiti Island, a nature reserve for close encounters with rare birds. A car museum and gourmet cheese factory are other local attractions. Further north is Levin, which has a thriving clothing industry and many factory shops. Two beautiful dune lakes are an easy detour from here. In Foxton you can spy on wading birds in the estuary. The town of Bulls is known for its antique shops.
The picturesque river city of Wanganui has a long history. Take time to explore the restored heritage areas, then check out the various options for an expedition on the river. You can also take the tunnel and elevator to the top of Durie Hill.
Scenic Highlights
Archives New Zealand
At Archives New Zealand, you can view fascinating displays based on historic documents, maps, paintings, photos and films.
Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
Enjoy sweeping views from hiking and riding trails in this historic forest park. Learn about Maori history while you relish the farm-fresh air.
Wellington Walkways
Views, forests, parks and gardens keep things interesting along these signposted Wellington walkways.
Wrights Hill Fortress and Recreation Reserve
Wrights Hill offers 360 degree views of Wellington and the surrounding area, as well as walking tracks and picnic areas.
Bason Botanic Gardens and Bushy Park Forest Reserve
Find a host of golden daffodils, a sea of pink camellias or the oldest rata tree in New Zealand. Wanganui's gardens and reserves are picture perfect.
Wanganui City Heritage Walks
Stroll around the streets of Wanganui and discover a wealth of impressive heritage buildings. The city's special character has been beautifully preserved.
Zealandia - The Karori Sanctuary Experience
This significant conservation attraction is located in a secluded suburban valley - just 2.5 kilometres from Wellington's central business district.
Makara Track
Makara Walking Track combines spectacular long-range views with a walk along a wild, west coast beach.
Matiu/Somes Island
Maori history, early European history, war stories and wildlife - this island, in the middle of Wellington Harbour, has it all.
National War Memorial and Carillon
In a beautiful art deco setting, learn about defining times in New Zealand's history and discover a huge musical bell instrument.
Mount Victoria
Breathtaking views and great walking tracks reward those who venture to the top of Mount Victoria.
Wellington Central Waterfront
Explore Wellington's waterfront on foot and visit Queens Wharf, Te Papa, Chaffers Marina and Oriental Bay.
Old Government Buildings
Feel the grace and elegance of the 1800s at Government Buildings, the largest wooden building in the southern hemisphere.
Wellington Botanic Garden
From ancient forests to colourful flower beds, the Wellington Botanic Garden is a delightful experience, completed by great views of the city and harbour.
Red Rocks Reserve
Put half a day aside for this easy coastal walk to Red Rocks and a fur seal colony on the south side of Wellington.
Activities
Manawatu
Gardens (3),
Heritage Attractions (4)
Wellington
Diving (1),
Galleries (2)
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