The Manawatu Region is bordered by the Ruahine mountain range, which is blanketed in native forest with many easily accessible, off-road mountain biking and bush tracks, hut accommodation, and lookouts that provide people with up close with nature experiences year-round.  Elsewhere rolling hills, extensive stretches of flat land and the west coast beaches of Himatangi and Tangimoana make a great training ground for road cyclists, and the non-sporty seeking a change of scene and a place for a Sunday drive.

The Manawatu Region is bordered by the Tararua and Ruahine mountain ranges, spectacularly divided by the Manawatu Gorge.  North of Palmerston North City is an ever changing world of dramatic, steep hill country bounded by rivers, sea and ranges with big skies that constantly change.  The diverse landscape and our strong pastoral farming heritage have naturally led the City, and its university, Massey, to develop an equally respected science and research base in agri-foods and food innovation.

The name ‘Manawatu’ is derived from two words, Manawa and tu.  Manawa refers to the heart – tu describes something that has come to a halt.  The ancestor Hau uttered the words “ka tu taku manawa” meaning ‘my heart stands still’ at the sight of the awesome Manawatu River.

10 Great Reasons to Visit 

(in alphabetical order)

1. Coach House Museum - A horse-drawn era museum that gives insights into the life of New Zealand's early pioneers through their stories, photos and the transportation they used.
2. Feilding on a Friday - The best day of the week to visit is Friday when the Feilding Farmers' Market (9am-2pm) is on and Feilding Saleyards Guided Tours are available.
3. the herb farm - A natural, eco and feel-good experience in a rural retreat setting. As well as indulging in a refreshing walk through the gardens, a highlight of the herb farm is being able to purchase healing and chemical-free body products carefully made onsite, or if arranged in advance, you can make your own. Facilities include a beauty retreat and a cafe.
4. Mangaweka Adventure Company - Running through the central lower North Island, the Rangitikei River is NZ's 4th longest river. Its deep impenetrable gorges are unique, and it serves up mild to wild adventures. Mangaweka Adventure Company offers a wide range of river activities, accommodation and facilities.
5. Mokai Gravity Canyon - The ultimate extreme adventure playground set in a spectacular river canyon with an onsite cafe and shop. Choose one or all three thrilling activities - the 80m bungy, the giant swing or the flying fox.
6. New Zealand Rugby Museum - The home of New Zealand rugby heritage and culture - the sport that shaped a nation.  See some of the world's rarest rugby artefacts and test yourself in the 'have a go' area.
7. Owlcatraz - A wildlife park featuring rare and interesting animals set amongst native bush and farmland.
8. River Valley - White-water rafting, hill country horse trekking and hikoi (walks) with a restful stay at the on-site lodge in a beautiful location beside the Rangitikei River.
9. Te Manawa - A cultural museum of art, science and history. It showcases and stores the Manawatu region's nationally significant taonga, contemporary art, science and heritage collections.
10. Tui HQ - The home of everything Tui - brewery, shop, bar, museum and cafe.

Explore the Trails via your iPhone

Explore art, heritage and cultural trails via the free trails iPhone app. Self-guided trails include:

• Palmerston North Central Library Art and Architecture Tour
• Arts Trail Guide
• Palmerston North City Heritage Trail
• Palmerston North City Walks
• Central Feilding Historic Walk
• Eric Brew's Public Art in Feilding