History, art and intrepid river journeys

The region is rich in Maori and European history, and the past is proudly remembered and respected by the people of today. This is physically apparent in the beautifully preserved heritage buildings, riverboats and marae (traditional Maori community meeting places).

Travel along the Whanganui River Valley and absorb the tranquil beauty of the landscapes. The spiritual feel of this special place is almost tangible. Time loses importance here, swept from its throne by deep levels of relaxation and close connections with the natural world. This rejuvenating atmosphere is created by a wonderful combination of a mystical presence, stunning scenery and very limited human intervention.

River adventures
The Whanganui River dominates the region as it flows through the Whanganui National Park to lowland farms and the historic city of Whanganui on the west coast. Enjoy cultural and historical experiences as well as paddle-steamer, canoe, kayak, jetboat and hiking adventures.

Historic architecture

Wanganui city offers an abundance of well-preserved historic buildings and the main street is recognised as one of New Zealand's most attractive. Gaslights, wrought iron garden seats, palm and plane trees, and wide paved footpaths all contribute to a very elegant heritage atmosphere.

A community of artists
Wanganui has a strong and talented artist community. Unique works of art, in a range of media, are exhibited in numerous galleries and studios. The city is New Zealand's 'Centre of Glass Excellence' and visitors can enjoy live glass blowing as artists create their exquisite works.

From surf to summit

According to Maori legend, Mount Taranaki once resided in the middle of the North Island alongside Ruapehu, Ngaurahoe and Tongariro, but lost a battle for the heart of pretty Mount Pihanga and was banished to the coast.

Today, the Taranaki region offers a huge range of outdoor activities, from stroll through native forests and multi-day hikes, to river rafting, ocean surfing and winter snow sports.

When it's time for something a little less energetic, you'll discover fascinating art trails and festivals, award-winning museums and galleries, a thriving café culture and some great local shopping.

Mount Taranaki
A magnificent outdoor playground and a magnet for photographers, Mount Taranaki is a powerful reminder of the area's volcanic past. Although it erupted at least eight times over the last 6000 years, the mountain has chosen to remain dormant since 1755.

Gardens, lakes and fountains
Pukekura Park in the city of New Plymouth is a beautiful haven at any time of the year. Established in 1876, it includes 52 hectares of formal and informal flowering gardens, towering trees and peaceful lakes with waterlilies, waterfalls and row boats.

Treasures, stories and culture
At Puke Ariki - New Plymouth's interactive library, museum and visitor centre - you'll discover more than 6,000 significant Maori taonga (treasures). This beautifully designed complex looks out to Len Lye's Wind Wand sculpture on the award-winning coastal walkway.

Hawera is only 20 minutes drive from Mount Taranaki in the Egmont National Park. Hawera is also home to Tawhiti Museum, well-known for its hand-crafted life-sized wax sculptures depicting scenes of local heritage and history, its scale-models of local Maori Pa (fotresses) and a restored bush railway.

Nearby is Ohawe beach,Te Ngutu golf course and the historic Turuturu Mokai pa. Visit during the day (when the gates are open) and the killing fields aura of the site will jangle your nerves.

If you're feeling energetic, climb the water tower, which was completed in 1914 and has a colourful history. While dam dropping and Mount Taranaki Adventures both provide adrenalin rush activities.

Located on the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, Wanganui is a beautiful river city, famous for its heritage and the arts. The Whanganui River runs through Whanganui and forms the core of this gorgeous district. The Whanganui District has a strong background of both Maori and European history and culture. The town has many historic buildings, preserved from the early days of European settlement, along with beautiful parks and gardens. The wider region also abounds with the history of of Iwi and settlers and how the two have grown along side each other. The Whanganui National Park features a step back in time to beautiful, untouched bush, magnificent views and exotic wildlife.

Waimarie paddle steamer cruise the river to Upokongaro and visit the river boat centre and the tram shed to site the restoration of our tram.

Visit the splash centre and hydro slide indoor pool. Shop the wonderful Saturday market with local organic produce and entertainment.

Its a must for children to visit the kowhai park with beautiful established trees and walking tracks set on the banks of the Whanganui river.

Visit the Sarjeant Art Gallery.  Wanganui is full of artists and we have our own glass blowing studio which can be viewed by public.

Walk the tunnel to the durie hill elevator and climb to the top of the 33.5 metre tower and view the city.

New Plymouth is the major city of the Taranaki region on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is named after Plymouth, Devon, England, from where the first English settlers came.

A Mecca for trampers, climbers and surfers alike, New Plymouth is set in an environment that offers the best of the natural wonders these enthusiasts seek. With the extremes of surf and snow, Taranaki is certainly blessed with an unusual beauty rarely found in other parts of the world. The majestic volcanic cone of Mt Taranaki provides an incredible backdrop to the stunning coastline famous for it≠s scenic splendour, and the consistent surf crashing in from the Tasman Sea.

The natural attractions in the region have boosted the international profile of tourism in recent years. Like other pockets lying off the beaten track the area has become home to a plethora of potters, craftspeople and other artists providing a large range of galleries and studios to explore. A microcosm of the best, discover the magnificent contrasts of mountains, rivers bush, surf, sea, sand, walkways, paths and gardens.

Hawera is only 20 minutes drive from Mount Taranaki in the Egmont National Park. Hawera is also home to Tawhiti Museum, well-known for its hand-crafted life-sized wax sculptures depicting scenes of local heritage and history, its scale-models of local Maori Pa (fotresses) and a restored bush railway.

Nearby is Ohawe beach,Te Ngutu golf course and the historic Turuturu Mokai pa.

If you're feeling energetic, climb the water tower, which was completed in 1914 and has a colourful history. While dam dropping and Mount Taranaki Adventures both provide adrenalin rush activities.