The Durie Hill Elevator is one of Whanganui’s most distinctive experiences — a staffed underground lift running since 1919, cutting through the hill from Anzac Parade to Durie Hill via a 213-metre tunnel. At the top, the War Memorial Tower offers a further 176-step climb to a viewing deck with sweeping views over the city, the Whanganui River and, on clear days, to Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu on the horizon.
Practical Information
| Tunnel entrance | 42 Anzac Parade, Whanganui |
|---|---|
| Top landing | 2 Blyth Street, Durie Hill |
| Cost | $2 per person each way (adults), $1 children — eftpos available |
| Weekday hours | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
| Weekend & public holiday hours | 10:00am – 5:00pm |
| Closed | Christmas Day only |
| Elevator | 66m vertical rise, staffed operator |
| Tunnel length | 213 metres (on foot to elevator base) |
| Memorial Tower | 33.5m high, 176 steps to viewing deck |
| Viewing deck altitude | 113m above sea level |
About the Durie Hill Elevator
The elevator opened in 1919 to serve the developing Durie Hill Garden Suburb, giving residents a quick route between the riverside city and the hilltop neighbourhood. More than a century later, it still runs on the same route — staffed by an operator, still costing just $2 each way.
The experience begins at the Anzac Parade entrance, where a 213-metre tunnel leads on foot to the elevator base. The 66-metre lift then carries passengers up through solid rock to the Durie Hill top landing. The elevator handles both walkers and cyclists.
From the top landing, the War Memorial Tower is a short walk. The tower stands 33.5 metres tall — 176 steps to the lookout deck at 113 metres above sea level. From here you get the best panoramic view in Whanganui: the river below, the layout of the city, and on a clear day the volcanic silhouettes of Mt Taranaki to the north-west and Mt Ruapehu to the north-east.
What Visitors Say
“Genuinely one of the best $2 you’ll spend in New Zealand. The tunnel and elevator feel like stepping back in time, and the views from the tower are well worth the 176 steps.” — TripAdvisor visitor
“The operator was friendly and clearly loved the history of the place. On a clear day you can see Taranaki from the tower — absolutely worth it.” — TripAdvisor visitor
Where to Learn More
Durie Hill Elevator — Visit has current hours, fares and practical visitor information direct from the operators.
Wikipedia — Durie Hill Elevator covers the history and technical details of the elevator and tunnel.
Discover Whanganui — Durie Hill Memorial Tower and Elevator is the official tourism guide to the attraction.
TripAdvisor — Durie Hill Elevator has recent visitor reviews and photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Durie Hill Elevator cost?
$2 each way for adults, $1 for children. Eftpos is available. A return journey costs $4 per adult.
What are the opening hours?
Weekdays 8:00am–6:00pm; weekends and public holidays 10:00am–5:00pm. Closed on Christmas Day only.
How old is the Durie Hill Elevator?
The elevator opened in 1919 — over 100 years ago. It is staffed by an operator and has been in continuous use since opening.
How many steps is the Memorial Tower?
The War Memorial Tower has 176 steps to the viewing deck. The tower is 33.5 metres high and the deck sits 113 metres above sea level.
Can I see Mt Taranaki from the tower?
Yes — on clear days both Mt Taranaki to the north-west and Mt Ruapehu to the north-east are visible from the viewing deck.
Where is the tunnel entrance?
The tunnel entrance is at 42 Anzac Parade, Whanganui. The top landing is at 2 Blyth Street on Durie Hill.
Can I walk up to Durie Hill instead of taking the elevator?
Yes — roads and tracks also reach Durie Hill. But the tunnel and elevator are the main attraction and well worth the $2.
Durie Hill gives you the best view over the city. See Whanganui Parks and Reserves for more parks and open spaces across Whanganui. Down in the city, Cooks Gardens is where Peter Snell set his world record mile in 1962.