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Welcome to Manawatu - Top Attractions and Local Culture

Manawatu is the heartland of New Zealand. Its landscape stretches from the sea to the Tararua Ranges, offering a variety of exciting adventure activities.

Choose from rafting, kayaking, blokarting, horse riding, mountain biking, rock climbing and a variety of other activities. If you want to experience country life, it's all around you. Go to real livestock auctions. This is where farmers buy and sell their livestock, gathering around stables while auctioneers shout bids. Livestock auctions are one of New Zealand's oldest traditions, dating back to the 1880s.

You can also live on the farm and meet farmers whose families have lived on the land for generations.

In Manawatu there are various tourist attractions. In the lively student town of Palmerston North you can explore the world's first museum dedicated to rugby. If you are a garden lover, many charming public and private gardens can be seen, including one of the most beautiful rose gardens in the world. A little further down the road in Horowhenua you will find unique tourist attractions such as the owl garden, a farm dedicated to the horse of the Clydesdales and a still operating Dutch windmill.

If you like texting antique shops, spend a few hours in Woodville. Hunt for authentic New Zealand ceramics, collectibles and knick-knacks.

With charming country eateries and inner-city cafes, lively local pubs, award-winning Coffeee roasters, vegan and organic dining options and the best Vietnamese food outside of Saigon, the word on the street is that Manawatu is made to be savoured.

The river offers one of the best level 5 half day rafting experiences in the world. Also available are drift adventures through the stunning Rangitikei Gorge, or if you prefer something longer, try overnight or multi-day trips - lots to do throughout the Manawatu region.

Mount Ruapehu is located on the Central Highlands of NZ North Island in the UNESCO Dual Heritage Tongariro National Park, listed for its cultural and geological significance. As well as having Whanganui National Park nearby, the area is one of New Zealand's premium outdoor destinations.