Explore Manawatū through the many special gardens in the region. From gardens of national significance, through to swathes of rhododendrons and some that will transport you across the globe, Renaissance Italy anyone? Manawatū's gardens will surprise and delight you at every turn!

Many gardens have nurseries attached so you can return home with your own plant babies to go with all your new back yard ideas! Keep a look out for the annual Manawatū Gardens Festival for extended opening hours on most gardens.

Palmy and Manawatū Gardens

Enjoy a local favourite in the spring-time: a market!

Whether it be the weekly award-winning Feilding Farmers' market (which takes over the town square every Friday morning), the cute Hokowhitu Village Market (which runs the first and third Sunday of every month), or the amazing annual Cross Hills Gardens Country Fair, each market has its own flavour and all are worth a stop-in if you are visit lines up on the right day.

Palmy and Manawatū Markets

Have your brunch with a side of golf balls at Orlando Country's world-class driving range! Book a bay for an hour or two and get food-service directly to your bay while you practice your swing.

The outlook over the 9-hole course is stunning so even if you're not a keen golfer, you can admire the views and enjoy the atmosphere with an excellent meal.

If you like your golf on a smaller scale, try Feilding Lions Mini Golf or Lions Mini Golf in Victoria Esplanade, Palmerston North.

After completing your spring clean, it's time to fill the gaps you made in your closet! Enjoy a spot of shopping on Palmy's blossom-lined George street and, when it's time for a breather, pick from the many cafes for a drink (and a little treat!). Explore Coleman Mall, do a loop around The Square and continue up Broadway Ave for even more shopping, eating and drinking!

For something more quaint, visit the charming town of Feilding, the 16-time winner of 'New Zealand's Most Beautiful Town' award. Walk the paved footpaths, visit some little boutique gems and enjoy the smiles from the friendly Feilding locals.

Palmy and Manawatū Boutiques

Picnic under the blossoms at Victoria Esplanade, explore the maze of little bush walks and spend some time at the kids' favourite; the impressive playground!.

Next up visit the native wildlife residents and patients currently staying at Wildbase Recovery Centre, it's the only place you can see wild New Zealand native animals up close. A place of recovery for wild birds and animals that have come into some strife; this is where patients from the Massey Wildbase Hospital come to rest up after receiving medical attention.

Clear your head on The Country Road, spot the bouncing new lambs and enjoy the extra fresh air in the open countryside.

Whether you choose the Stormy Point Route, the Manawatū Scenic Route, Peep-o-Day or Iron Gates, these four touring routes are perfect off-the-beaten-track excursions which allow you to discover hidden places and tucked away treasures of Manawatū. Stop in at a convivial country cafe or pub; explore heritage sites, galleries and gardens, a scenic reserve, a picnic spot, and more! Meet the locals, enjoy world-class scenery and find your own journey of discovery! 

The Country Road