The Manawatu New Zealand region sits on the lower North Island's western coast, and has all the charm of rural New Zealand.

The diverse Manawatu New Zealand landscape ranges from the rocky Tararua and Ruahine ranges, to sweeping hills and river valleys, and to sandy beaches.

New Zealand Country life in Manawatu New Zealand

Palmerston North is the economic and social hub of the region and has diverse culture. Palmerston North houses more than 70 educational and research facilities, including Massey University. And it is also home to an international rugby academy and the national rugby museum (new Zealand's national sport).

Outdoor activities are many in the Manawatu, with a range as diverse as an extreme flying fox (over the Rangitikei river) to tours of the Southern hemisphere's largest livestock saleyards.


Accommodation in The Manawatu

Click on the following link to view a full range of Palmerston North accommodation.

A Region Rich In Maori Culture and History - Manawatu New Zealand

Local Maori people trace their heritage back to the Aotea and Kurahaupo migratory canoes, and proudly recount the history of their people, legends, and places.

Legend tells how the mighty Manawatu river was named after the explorer Hau who travelled southwards from the Taranaki region in search of his wife Wairaka, and her lover. Hau had crossed several rivers in his journey, however he was so in awe of the mighty Manawatu that he named it "heart standing still".

The Maori people made regular use of the Manawatu gorge as it was the only way through the mountains, and to the lands beyond.

Around 1840, European traders and missionaries began arriving in the region, and settled along the banks and near the mouth of the Manawatu. The town of Foxton was one of the first settlements, and quickly became a European stronghold in the region. Within a quarter of a century, the number of European settlers in the region had grown to around 14,000.

A Strong Connection With Nature - Manawatu New Zealand

The Manawatu's rich plains and pastures have proven ideal for farming and agricultural endeavours, which has provided a solid economic base for the region. And in a sign of the region's committment to sustainable energy, wind farms have been developed to harness nature's power.

The busy farming centre of Fielding is home to the Southern Hemisphere's largest working livestock saleyards. For an authentic kiwi country experience, visitors can take a guided tour of the saleyards, where local farmers share insights of New Zealand farming and livestock auction history.

At Te Apiti, a large wind farm makes use of the strong wind speeds around the Manawatu gorge. The farm develops sufficient energy to power around 45,000 homes. The wind farm attracts tourists to the area to view the huge turbines and the stunning landscape.

Along the coast from Patea to Paekakariki, New Zealand's largest sand dune field extends for 200 kilometres, and up to 18 kilometres inland.

Adventure / Outdoors - Manawatu New Zealand

Wide plains and fast moving rivers are the perfect setting for a wide range of adventure activities. The Manawatu is home to the North Island's highest bungy, the highest tandem bridge swing, thrilling white water rafting, and hiking.

The Mokai Gravity Canyon , on the Rangitikei river, has a range of thrilling activities for adrenalin junkies, including New Zealand's most extreme flying fox, which takes you 175 metres above the river, for 1 kilometre, at speeds up to 160 kilometres per hour! The centre is also home to the North Island's highest bungy, and a 50m free-falling bridge swing.

The Rangitikei river is also a popular white water rafting destination for both experienced and novice rafters. Grade four and five runs will satisfy the well seasoned rafters, but for those looking for a more leisurely experience, half day scenic trips (including a picnic lunch) are also available.

Horse treks are also available which will take you through the region's beautiful native bush. Peaceful trails with nothing but you, your trusty horse, and the sounds of native birdlife. Ah, the serenity!

Seasonal Highlights in Manawatu New Zealand

The Manawatu, recognised for its many wonderful gardens, is home to one of the world's top five rose gardens.

For garden buffs, the annual Manawatu Garden Festival (held every May), attracts thousands of garden lovers to the region.

North of Palmerston North, the town of Taihape proudly claims the title of "Gumboot capital". The annual Gumboot Festival features a gumboot (rubber boot) throwing competition that attracts international attention. And if you can't get there for the annual festival, you can still try your hand at gumboot throwing at Taihape's "Gumboot throwing lane".

Each March, the week long Festival of Cultures, in Palmerston North, pays tribute to the Manawatu's lifestyle with a wide range of events, including music, arts and crafts, dance, sport and food.

There Is Lots To Do In The Manawatu

Here are a few ideas:

* Visit the De Molen Windmill in Foxton, a full scale receration of a Dutch windmill.

* While in Foxton, visit Foxton beach and the Manawatu estuary, home to a wide variety of bird life.

* Golfers will love the Paraparaumu Beach Golf Course . Regarded as one of the best links in the Southern Hemisphere, the course has been ranked in the world's top 100.

* The New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North is filled with all sorts of rugby memorabilia and is a must if you are even remotely interested in "the game they play in heaven".

Some Interesting Manawatu Facts

* The pretty town of Feilding has been named 14 times as "New Zealand's Most Beautiful Town".

* Taihape, The "Gumboot capital of New Zealand", even has a giant metal gumboot.

* Palmerston North is home to New Zealand's largest tertiary educational institution, the prestigous Massey University.

To find out more about the Manawatu New Zealand region click here to go to the Tourism New Zealand web site.