From Brunch to Bush in Palmerston North

Palmerston North is in the middle of the farming region of Manawatu. Rolling green pastures and lush native bushland blanket the area and outdoor activities abound. The rivers, dams and beachside communities around Palmerston North provide an adventure playground that is rugged and untouched. Tramping, bushwalking and mountain biking are just some of the Palmerston North activities on offer. Palmerston North attractions include the Manawatu Gorge walking track, theatre productions, Te Manawa Museum and the New Zealand Rugby Museum.

Palmerston North is located a short bus drive north from Wellington, alongside the Manawatu River and the tree-lined streets and leafy town square make the City a pleasant place to spend some time.  Hire a bus from Wellington for a weekend of adventure in the Manawatu.  Or hire a bus in Palmerston North for you University trip.  The University injects a population of young vibrant residents which add to Palmerston North’s lively atmosphere. The restaurants, cafes and bars blend together with wall to wall shopping to satisfy the needs of the most ardent retail shopaholic. There are two live theatres and cinemas which feature the latest in stage and screen productions.

Museums, art galleries and cottage craft dominate the region along with a host of outlet shops on the outskirts of Palmerston North City. Many of the art and craft studios are dotted throughout the beautiful valleys and scenic landscape the Manawatu is famous for. The laid back West Coast beaches close to Palmerston North include Himatangi, Akito and Foxton Beach. Surfing, fishing, blo karting and beach walking are popular activities and the wide-open spaces mean you’ll never feel crowded.

It is not unusual to see the locals exercising their horses on the beach and through the surf. Head down to the International Speedway in Palmerston North for thrills and spills on the track or experience the rush of indoor paintball and go-kart track. The rivers, lakes and gorges of the Manawatu offer white water rafting, bungy jumping, jet boating, jet skiing, a canyon swing and flying fox.