Mix a country lifestyle with talented artisans & Kiwi markets and you’ve got Manawatu, a region where you can enjoy a distinctly ‘NZ’ shopping experience.
Encompassing lively Palmerston North City as well as pretty Pohangina Valley and Feilding, the Manawatu offers plenty of variety when it comes to unique shops and souvenirs.
Meet the maker and soak up the region’s rich farming and pioneering history when you visit the artisans of the Pohangina Valley. County Fayre, located in the historic country council building in Pohangina Village, is home to photographic displays, locally made products and fresh tea and scones.
Love boutique cheeses? Don’t miss a visit to the Cartwheel Creamery, run by a passionate local couple. This bespoke micro creamery uses traditional recipes to craft award-winning camembert, halloumi, feta and blue-veined varieties. Pair your handmade cheeses with an award-winning bottle of vegan wine from the boutique Pohangina Valley Estate winery – well worth a visit to sample their unique wines.
Combining the diversity of a major city with the freedom of a provincial centre, Palmerston North offers a good selection of shops, boutiques and cafes. Head to The Plaza for a range of brands all under one roof, or Broadway Avenue, an iconic shopping street, which is home to boutique stores and local favourites.
Shop for unique homewares in the western quarter of The Square, popular with locals and visitors alike. In spring, the cherry trees that line the streets erupt into full blossom – enjoy a coffee outside; this is a special place to spend a few hours.
Find unique gifts or souvenirs in Feilding, a small, boutique town rich in Edwardian architecture. Shop for great accessories, clothing and quality local products before enjoying a coffee or lunch in one of the many cafes. Try to time your Feilding visit to coincide on a Friday, as this is when the town really comes alive. Visit the iconic Feilding Saleyards and watch the fascinating history of livestock sales come to life, before heading to the local Feilding Farmer’s Market in Manchester Square. With its paved streets lined with flower pots and charming architecture, it’s easy to see why Feilding has won the award for ‘New Zealand’s Most Beautiful Town’ 14 times.
Get to know the friendly local farming culture when you visit one of the region’s many markets. Head to a grass roots farmers’ market and sample fresh local produce, peruse craft markets or meet the producers at an artisan market and indulge in the best honeys, meats, cheeses and treats.
