Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
Country life and fresh-air adventures
Expect to spend a lot of time outside, because the geography has inspired an exciting choice of mild, medium and wild adventures. Rafting, kayaking, horse trekking, mountain biking and rock climbing are just some of the things you can do.
For those who want a taste of country life, it's everywhere you look. Experience the excitement and atmosphere of a real stock auction - one of New Zealand's oldest traditions dating back to the 1880s. Or find a farm stay and meet third and fourth generation farmers with a passion for the land.
Real Kiwi culture comes in many forms here. Garden lovers will enjoy visiting some fabulous private and public gardens, including one of the top five rose gardens in the world. In Palmerston North, you can explore the world's first museum devoted to the rugby or see a local drama production. Around Horowhenua you'll find quirky attractions such as an owl park, a farm devoted to Clydesdale horses, and an operational Dutch windmill.
Key Features
River adventures
Every river has its specialities. The Rangitikei provides thrills with bungy jumping and rafting, the Manawatu has kayaking in the gorge, and the smaller waterways have hundreds of picturesque places to flick a fly-fishing rod.
Indulgence
Discover the indulgent side of life in the country. Have a massage at a luxury lodge, relax in a wood-fired bath under the stars, make your own therapeutic body product or shop for picnic goodies at the local farmers’ market.
Farming life
Rural life is a breath of fresh air. With a local farmer as your guide, you can participate in a real stock auction. But don’t scratch your nose or raise your eyebrows, or you’ll end up owning a few sheep or cows.
Key Tips
Palmerston North Airport offers regular daily flights to all main New Zealand ports including well-timed business flights.
State Highway 1 and the Overlander rail service run directly through the Manawatu, Rangitikei and Horowhenua districts.
Time your visit to coincide with a key annual event.
The people of this region are very welcoming and genuinely interested in meeting international visitors.
Rafting through the gorges on the Rangitikei River is an exhilarating experience.
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
The classic summer's day is long and warm with a spectacularly blue sky. This is the season for coastal explorations, swimming in the surf and rivers, horse-riding along the beaches and country tracks, hiking in the forested hills, enjoying local events and fishing on the rivers. For motorsport enthusiasts, Manfeild Park is the place for high performance racing.
