Last updated May 2026
The playground at Mowhanau sits right beside Kai Iwi Beach — 19 kilometres north of Whanganui on a stretch of wild black-sand coast. It’s a proper beach playground with a flying fox over a stream, a pirate climbing ship, BBQs, changing rooms and cold water showers. Free to use and open year-round, it makes Kai Iwi Beach an obvious family stop rather than just a swimming spot.
Practical Information
| Location | Mowhanau, Kai Iwi Beach — 19km north of Whanganui |
|---|---|
| Entry | Free |
| Equipment | Flying fox (over a stream), pirate climbing ship, swings |
| Facilities | Toilets, changing rooms, cold water showers, wood-burning BBQs |
| Beach access | Direct — playground is immediately adjacent to the beach |
| Nearby accommodation | Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park on-site |
| Managed by | Whanganui District Council |
About Mowhanau Playground
Mowhanau is the small coastal settlement at Kai Iwi Beach, accessed via a rural road north of Whanganui. The beach itself is a long stretch of dark sand backed by low cliffs and surf — popular for swimming in the right conditions and used by the local community year-round.
The playground is part of the beach reserve facilities and sits in a sheltered position close to the shore. The flying fox runs over a small stream — a popular feature that gives it a slightly different character to most inland playgrounds. The pirate climbing ship is the other main draw for younger children.
The facilities block includes toilets with changing rooms and cold water showers — practical for families coming off the beach. Wood-burning BBQs make this a natural spot for a longer family outing. The adjacent Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park also has facilities available to day visitors.
What Visitors Say
“The flying fox over the stream is brilliant — kids were on it repeatedly. Great combination of playground and beach in one spot. The BBQs were clean and easy to use.” — WDC parks visitor
“A lovely spot — not many playgrounds have a flying fox right on the coast. We did the beach, then the playground, then a BBQ. Easy drive from Whanganui for a day out.” — Google review
Where to Learn More
Whanganui District Council — Mowhanau Playground has the official facility listing.
Visit Whanganui — Kai Iwi Beach covers the full beach area including the playground and holiday park.
Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park has accommodation and day visitor information for the Mowhanau area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Mowhanau from Whanganui?
Kai Iwi Beach at Mowhanau is 19km north of central Whanganui, about 20 minutes by car via the Parikino–Mowhanau Road.
What equipment does the Mowhanau playground have?
The playground has a flying fox over a stream, a pirate climbing ship and swings. It’s a small playground but the flying fox is a genuine highlight for children.
Are there BBQ facilities at Kai Iwi Beach?
Yes — wood-burning BBQs are available at the playground reserve. Toilets, changing rooms and cold water showers are also on-site.
Is swimming safe at Kai Iwi Beach?
Kai Iwi Beach is a surf beach on an exposed west coast. Conditions vary — check surf forecasts and swim between the flags if lifeguards are present. The beach is unpatrolled most of the year.
Is there a campground at Kai Iwi Beach?
Yes — the Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park is on-site and provides tent and powered sites. Day visitors can also use the BBQ and toilet facilities.
Mowhanau Playground is one of several family-friendly spots along the Whanganui coast. See Playgrounds in Whanganui for other play areas across the district. For the city’s most famous playground, Kowhai Park has themed slides, a pirate ship and an octopus swing along the riverfront.
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