Overview

Whanganui, set on the winding Whanganui River on the west coast of the North Island, weaves together Māori heritage, art, river journeys and coastal charm.

It’s rich in history and culture, with riverside walks, heritage attractions, artisan studios and scenic parks.

  • – The Whanganui River, New Zealand’s longest navigable river, holds deep cultural significance and legal personhood status.
  • – A hub for heritage architecture, including New Zealand’s last Victorian theatre and underground elevator tower.
  • – Outdoor adventures from riverfront strolls and cycle trails to black‑sand surf beaches.

Food & Drink

Whanganui’s food scene features charming cafés, riverside markets, and creative bars and breweries.

  • Saturday Riverside Market – Local produce, vintage stalls and street food beside the River.
  • New Zealand Glassworks café – Enjoy a drink while watching live glass-blowing demonstrations.
  • Quirky cafés and craft breweries in the city centre – a relaxed, artisan vibe.

Adventure & Wilderness

Explore river journeys, black‑sand beaches and forest sanctuaries just out of town.

  • Canoe or jet boat the Whanganui Journey – Paddle or ride sections of this iconic river trail.
  • Surf or swim at Castlecliff & Kai Iwi Beach – Popular black‑sand coastlines close to the city.
  • Visit Bushy Park Sanctuary – A 200‑year‑old forest reserve harbouring rare native birds.
  • Cycle the Mountains to Sea Trail – Iconic multi‑day or shorter rides along river valleys.

Must‑See Highlights

Unmissable cultural, historical and family‑friendly experiences in Whanganui.

  • Durie Hill Elevator & Tower: Ride NZ’s only underground public elevator (built 1919), then climb the War Memorial Tower for sweeping river and sea views.
  • Paddle Steamer Waimarie: Historic coal‑fired riverboat offering vintage 2‑hour cruises on the Whanganui River.
  • Whanganui Regional Museum: Home to moa bones, Māori taonga and regional history.
  • Sarjeant Gallery: Newly reopened regional gallery in a heritage building, a 2024 NatGeo ‘Best of the World’ pick.
  • Moutoa Gardens: Historic riverside park with memorials and Māori meeting-place significance.

Shopping

Browse artisan studios, vintage shops and unique crafts in the riverside precinct.

  • Vintage and antique shops lining Victoria Ave and Taupō Quay.
  • River Traders market – Local makers and food stalls at Saturday market.
  • NZ Glassworks shop – Gallery and workshop sell artisan glass pieces.

Photography

Capture Whanganui from river reflections to historic landmarks and coastal panoramas.

  • View from Durie Hill Tower – Panoramic shots over river, city and Tasman Sea.
  • Riverside walkway at dawn/dusk – Calm waters and moored heritage vessels.
  • Bason Botanic Gardens – Lush garden scenes and native plant collections.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring–Summer (Sept–Mar): River cruises, markets, beach swims and warm evenings.
  • Autumn (Apr–May): Crisp air and colourful foliage in parks and gardens.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Ideal for cosy museum visits, art exhibitions and café exploration.

Explore Nearby

  • Whanganui National Park – Wilderness hikes, cliff-top river views and the legendary Whanganui Journey.
  • Kai Iwi Beach – Popular black‑sand surf beach 14 km west of town.
  • Putiki – Explore St Paul’s Memorial Church, rich in Māori carvings and heritage.