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The Whanganui River - set within breathtaking scenery - is New Zealand ’s longest navigable river and can be canoed or kayaked relatively easily for over 200km - but with 239 listed rapids, you’ll still get an adrenalin buzz. From the lower reaches at Pipiriki, the Whanganui winds its way through the settlements of Huruharama (Jerusalem), Koriniti (Corinth), Atene (Athens) and Ranana (London) providing the only scenic, driving route alongside a New Zealand river which is rich in both cultural and natural heritage.
The area also offers top quality outdoor adventure for mountain biking, fishing and hunting, and our beaches provide conditions to challenge surf enthusiasts of all abilities – many within minutes of the city centre. Of course, a trip on New Zealand ’s last coal-fired paddle steamer – PS Waimarie – is not to be missed.
If you’re seeking a more leisurely break, then prepare yourself to be astonished by our hugely vibrant and talented community with the highest number of artists and performers per head of the population. Visit the magnificent Sarjeant Gallery or the numerous galleries and artists studios featuring painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, textiles and indigenous arts and crafts. Watch the glassblowing process at Chronicle Glass or view the heavens at Ward Observatory with the largest unmodified refractor telescope still in use in New Zealand . And if you just want to relax, enjoy the weekly Whanganui River Traders Market followed by brunch in one of our many awesome cafes, followed by an afternoon of boutique shopping. Wanganui Tourism |
Local Knowledge
Wanganui is a tranquil destination rich with cultural expressions. It is centrally located being only a 3 hour drive from Wellington, New Plymouth and Taupo or is also reachable by air with Air New Zealand. Much of the city is situated on the Whanganui River providing a very picturesque setting.
It is home to the Royal Wanganui Opera House, Sarjeant Art Gallery and Cooks Gardens, which provide a major sporting venue for athletics, cricket and cycling. It enjoys a temperate climate and population of around 3,900 people.
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