Whanganui District Library — known locally as Davis Library — sits at the edge of Pukenamu Queen’s Park in the heart of Whanganui city. It’s the main branch of the Whanganui District Library network and the most fully featured public library in the region, open seven days a week. The building houses more than 100,000 titles alongside dedicated spaces for children, teens, and adults, and a café for anyone who wants to settle in for the morning.
Practical Information
| Address | 1 Pukenamu Drive, Pukenamu Queen’s Park, Whanganui |
| Hours | Monday–Friday 9:30am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–3pm |
| Cost | Free entry; library membership required to borrow items |
| Wi-Fi | Free public wi-fi available |
| Computer access | Public internet terminals available |
| Café | On-site café |
| Phone | 06 349 1000 |
| in**@**************ry.com | |
| Parking | Street parking on Pukenamu Drive; Queen’s Park carpark nearby |
About Davis Library
Davis Library is the central hub for the Whanganui District Library network, which spans six locations across the city and district. It holds the largest collection in the network — more than 100,000 books, audiovisual items, magazines, and digital resources — covering everything from local history to fiction, children’s titles, and reference material.
The library runs a regular programme of community events including author talks, children’s storytimes, and reading groups. Free wi-fi and public computer terminals make it a practical place to work or browse, and the on-site café means there’s no need to rush. The building is wheelchair accessible and centrally located beside Queens Park, making it easy to combine with a walk through the gardens or a visit to the nearby Whanganui Regional Museum.
Membership is free for Whanganui District residents and gives access to the full network, including the ability to pick up and return items at any branch. Non-residents can also join for a fee. The library also provides access to a range of online resources and digital lending platforms for members.
The Alexander Heritage and Research Library is a separate building within the same Queens Park precinct, specialising in local history and genealogy collections — worth visiting separately if you have a research interest in the region.
Where to Learn More
Whanganui District Library — Official Website — full catalogue, membership details, event listings, digital resources, and branch information across all six locations.
Whanganui District Council — Libraries — overview of the council-funded library network and its community services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Davis Library free to visit?
Yes — entry is free. A free library card is needed to borrow items; you can sign up in person with ID and proof of address.
What are Davis Library’s opening hours?
Monday to Friday 9:30am–5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am–3pm.
Is there parking near Davis Library?
Street parking is available on Pukenamu Drive. The Queens Park carpark nearby also provides additional off-street parking.
Does Davis Library have wi-fi?
Yes — free public wi-fi is available throughout the library.
Can I access computers at Davis Library?
Yes — public internet terminals are available for use in the library.
Is there a café at Davis Library?
Yes — an on-site café operates within the building during library hours.
What other libraries are in the Whanganui District Library network?
The network includes Davis Library (city centre), the Alexander Heritage & Research Library (Queens Park), Aramoho, Castlecliff, Gonville, and Hakeke Street Community Centre & Library.
For more cultural and heritage sites in Whanganui, see the guide to Historical and Cultural Sites in Whanganui. The Alexander Heritage & Research Library, just steps away in Queens Park, is worth a visit for anyone with an interest in local history or genealogy.