Not sure what to do this Friday? Follow the fairy lights of Broadway and Regent Arcade to Bubbles Champagne and Wine Bar where every Fri-yay night they host a live band. Bust a move on the dance floor and sing along to some classic tunes, then take a seat on their couches and make the most of their drink specials. Or hop across the lane and park up at one of the other bars – how about four beers for $20 from the Celtic Inn? 

The wide open flat spaces of Manawatū River Pathway and He Ara Kotahi beat the treadmill any day. Withsign-posted running and walking loops of every distance imaginable, it doesn’t matter if you are exercising your pup or yourself, there are options for marathon runners and casual joggers alike. Fitness fans can find their happy place amongst the open-air gym equipment available near the Fitzherbert Avenue entrance near the road bridge. Those who prefer the slower approach will find bench seats strategically placed to stop and take in the seasonal views.

Palmerston North’s theatre talent is second-to-none – whether you’re after a laugh or something more gripping, there’s always something on to keep you entertained. Give yourself a night off cooking and book yourself in for dinner in town, followed by a show at Centrepoint Theatre, The Globe or Regent on Broadway.  Our event's calendar is packed all year round with shows to suit everyone, find your next trip to the theatre here. 

For a do-it-yourself dining experience head to GAON Restaurant and ask for a Korean BBQ meat party. Underneath the wise guidance of the staff, embrace your inner Masterchef and cook up a storm on a small charcoal grill, flavouring and finessing your meat to perfection. Entertain your date or your mates, as you come together to share an interactive dining experience from start to finish. 

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, head out to the Kahuterawa Reserve and go night riding on the Arapuke Mountain Bike Trails. The tracks are designed to be used in all seasons (just keep an eye on track closures on the Arapuke Trail’s Facebook page) and cater for riders of all experience levels. Get the heart racing this Friday night and see Manawatū by moonlight (or torchlight). 

In the heart of Broadway Avenue, Brew Union serves the best beer in town. Hands down. Try something new or enjoy the tried-and-true, with an unrivalled selection of freshly brewed house and guest beers on tap. Both beer connoisseurs and novices are welcome – the friendly bar staff love matching patrons with the perfect drinks.  The atmosphere is always busy and vibrant, the food is fantastic and on a Friday night it’s the busiest spot in town. 

With a menu designed to be shared, The Fat Farmer  might just become your new after-work ritual. Their pork belly bao buns have deservedly earned cult status on the Palmerston North dining circuit. With a full service bar, an eclectic wine list and New Zealand-made craft beer offerings – it’s easy to spend a fair few Friday nights at The Fat Farmer. 

Upgrade your plain old after-work drinks at the office and head to Neighbourhood with the team for an awesome atmosphere. There’s always a live band playing on Fridays and the bar snacks menu is loaded full of sharing plates. Their weekly rituals also include two-for-one Tuesdays, a Wednesday night steak special, and an all-you-can eat Sunday lunch buffet. Grab a drink, spin some yarns, and when the beats begin, hit the dance floor. 

Got some spare time? There’s nothing like ten-pin bowling to bring out the inner Olympian in all of us. Bowlarama on Cuba Street, Palmerston North, is a 20 lane, fully automated ten-pin bowling centre, with pool tables, air hockey and arcade games. In between rounds, order a Hell Pizza delivery, or visit the fully licensed bar to rehydrate.