Wanganui
Situated on the North Island of New Zealand, Wanganui is a pretty heritage city which rests beside the Whanganui river. It is halfway between Hamilton and Wellington. The streets are beautifully presented with gardens and archways reflecting the Edwardian and Victorian era. Paved walkways and flowered baskets adorn the main street in the town’s centre which contains a melting pot of boutiques, antique and craft shops. Trafalgar Square a short walk away has food outlets and the larger chain stores for the shopaholic at heart. Wanganui has a wide range of dining options including restaurants which specialise in New Zealand cuisine. The café scene is set within the character filled cobbled footpaths and gardens which overlook the river. The River Traders meet every Saturday morning on the banks of the river to display their art and present fresh local produce and home made goodies. Visit the underground elevator, built in 1919 through the Durie Hill tunnel or climb to the top of the Memorial Tower for an exceptional view overlooking the City and out to Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki. Wanganui has a comprehensive tram museum with exhibits dating back to the 20th Century. The Whanganui River Boat Centre and Museum is the starting point for lunch and dinner cruises aboard the 1889 paddle steamer, Waimarie. Lovingly restored to her former beauty this beautiful boat cruise the river on a regular basis and is an icon of the City. The Opera House is the performing arts centre for Wanganui and hosts many events and shows within its historic walls.
The acoustics are said to be superb and the architecture is stunning. Drive along the Whanganui River Road through some of New Zealand’s oldest settlements and stop off at some of the more interesting points of interest along the way which provide an insight into New Zealand’s colonial history. Jet boat rides run from Pipiriki up to the renowned Bridge to Nowhere. Wanganui is home to the largest multi-sports events centre in New Zealand which includes a complex swimming centre with pools and spas of all shapes and sizes. Popular activities in and around Wanganui include canoeing, cycling, golf, fishing, mountain biking and rowing. Wanganui has a good choice of galleries and museums which hold regular exhibitions. Places to stay include motor lodges, apartments and motels and there are some lovely home stay choices in the surrounding countryside to savour the Wanganui atmosphere a little more.