Palmerston North has prominent heritage collections, art galleries and urban street art which combines well with the colourful array of cafés and dining options.
New Zealand Rugby Museum
The sport that shaped a nation. How did rugby come to play such an important role in the culture and heritage of New Zealand, and why are the All Blacks so good? Explore the rich history and folklore of the nation's game, see some of the world's rarest rugby artefacts, and learn about some of our rugby greats. You can get active by testing your rugby skills in the dedicated "Have A Go" area and measure yourself against the best.
Manawatū River Pathway
Take a leisurely walk or ride along the Manawatū River and experience the ever-changing views that it offers. When biking or walking the Manawatū River Pathway, take the chance to pop into the Victoria Esplanade which runs alongside the middle section of the Manawatū River Pathway. With rose gardens, bird aviaries, BBQ facilities, playgrounds, miniature train rides and duck ponds, there really is something for everyone.
Victoria Esplanade
Victoria Esplanade comprises of 19 hectares of stunning gardens and features, including bird aviaries, nature trails with a number of walks, a junior road safety bike park, a large duck pond, free BBQ facilities and children's paddling pool and playgrounds. The on-site café offers tasty treats, ice-cream and drinks, while an extensive miniature railway offers rides on weekends and holidays for a small fee. Within the esplanade is the Dugald McKenzie rose garden, which is home to over 5,000 varieties and incorporates the International Rose Trial Grounds.
Lido Aquatic Centre
The award-winning Lido Aquatic Centre and Water Park is a quality recreational facility in Palmerston North. Used by over 300,000 people per year this facility is top notch.
Te Manawa
At the cultural heart of our city, Te Manawa draws art, science and heritage together to reflect our past, illuminate the present and inspire a creative and sustainable future for our growing region and its people.
The Clock Tower
Stand beneath Palmerston North Clock Tower and admire the Modernist structure that predominates over the downtown area of Palmerston North. The tower lights up at night in an array of colors, changing in a captivating, orchestrated display.
Te Apiti Wind Farm
Peppered across the Ruahine and nearby Tararua ranges, and visible from many spots throughout the city and region, take the opportunity to see the wind turbines up close at the Meridian Energy Te Apiti Wind Farm Lookout.