Whanganui people helping Whanganui people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Are there any steep climbs on the Whanganui River Road ride?
Yes, there are two tough climbs, one in the first 10 km and one in the last 10 km. The road is gently undulating otherwise, but it adds up to about 600 m of climbing over the 67 km.
Is it safe to leave a car at Pīpīriki for the day while riding?
Will the pathway route change once the port redevelopment is sorted out?
It might, because the final route can't be set until port redevelopment details are known. The preference is to keep the pathway along the riverbank rather than taking it inland.
Is it easy to find parking near the City Bridge end to start the ride?
What days does the miniature train run at Kowhai Park?
The Tot Town Railway runs on weekends. It goes through a tunnel and past moa statues.
Are the paths around Kowhai Park easy enough with a pram?
Where do I park for Araheke MTB Park?
Use the Lake Wiritoa Reserve carpark, about 3km along Kaitoke Road from the State Highway 3 turnoff. It's right by the lake.
How steep are the climbs on the Wiritoa side for someone fairly new to riding?
How do you get back up to the top of the downhill trails at Lismore?
You ride up the forest road. It is a steepish 3.2km climb from the locked gate, then left up the steeper Airstrip Road, which flattens out and is where all the downhill trails start.
Do you often meet walkers on the trails or forest roads at Lismore?
Where does the Shredder flow trail start and finish at Hylton's Pit?
Shredder is a 900m professionally built flow trail. It starts at the top back corner of the park and runs down to the Brunswick Road gate.
How do younger kids go on the trails at Hylton's Pit? Any good bits for them?
Can I buy food at Foxton Beach or should I bring my own?
Bring your own. The settlement only has a dairy and basic amenities and isn't a dining destination, so most people pack food or eat in Foxton town.
Is there anywhere to get changed after a swim, or do people just use the toilets?
Who paid for the London Street shared pathway?
It was funded by the Urban Cycleways Fund and the National Land Transport Fund, with Whanganui District Council covering the balance.
Is it easy to find a park near the Splash Centre end when you're unloading bikes?
Are there toilets on the Ohakune Old Coach Road?
Yes, there are toilets at the Hapuawhenua Viaduct, near the picnic area. There are no bins on the track, so take all your rubbish out with you.
Is there a good spot around Ohakune to watch the sunset over Ruapehu?
What time does Bushy Park close in the evening?
There's no fixed evening closing time. The sanctuary is open during daylight hours, so plan to be out of the forest before dusk.
Can you get a pram around the Wetlands Loop okay, or is it too rough?
Are there toilets along the Whanganui River Road?
Yes, there are toilets at Pīpīriki, the convent at Jerusalem, Rānana, Matahiwi Gallery and Otumaire campsite. Plan your stops around those.
Is it easy to find parking at the stops like the flour mill and Hiruharama?
What time does the Bridge to Nowhere jet boat leave Pipiriki?
The Whanganui River Adventures tour leaves Pipiriki at 10am all year round. Get there about 30 minutes before to check in.
Is the Pipiriki river landing area manageable in a wheelchair, or is it steep and rough?
Does Davis Library run storytimes for kids?
Yes, Davis Library runs children's storytimes as part of its regular events, alongside author talks and reading groups.
Can you print or photocopy at Davis Library, and what does it cost?
How much does a powered campsite at Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park cost?
Powered sites start from $45 a night, which covers two people. Extra adults are $18 and kids $15 each, and under-2s are free.
Is it easy to find parking close to the beach on a summer weekend?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Ōhawe Beach?
Yes, there are toilets and changing rooms at the end of the boat ramp. That is also the only safe spot to swim, as there is a strong undercurrent along the rest of the beach.
How rough does the surf get at Ōhawe and is it ever safe for kids to paddle?
What's the fine for breaking the freedom camping rules in Whanganui?
The fine is $400 under the Freedom Camping Act if you break the rules at a Whanganui freedom camping site.
Is it quiet overnight at Moutoa Quay or do you get traffic and people noise from town?
What's the phone number for Aramoho Library?
The number for Aramoho Library is 06 222 8102. The branch is open Tuesday to Friday, 11am to 3pm, and closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Is there a quiet spot to sit and study at Aramoho Library, or is it mostly just shelves?
Can I get Gonville Library to bring in a book from another branch?
Yes. If a book isn't on the shelf at Gonville, it can be requested and transferred from another branch in the Whanganui library network.
Is there a quiet spot to sit and study at Gonville Library, or is it mostly just shelves?
How do I contact the Alexander Library to ask a research question?
Phone 06 349 1000 or email heritage@whanganuilibrary.com. That reaches the heritage, whakapapa and research team at the Alexander Library.
Is there anything for kids at the Alexander library, or is it all quiet research space?
Is there a phone number I can call to check details before visiting the museum?
Yes, you can ring the museum on 06 349 1110 to check details before you go.
Is it worth taking primary school age kids, or is it mostly for adults?
Is there a basketball court at Hakeke Street Community Centre?
Yes, there's a basketball court at the centre. There's also a community garden, so there are outdoor things to do as well as the library.
Is the entrance step-free for wheelchairs and prams, and is there room to move around inside?
Is there parking near Castlecliff Library?
Yes, there is street parking on Rangiora Street, which is the street the library is on.
Is it possible to print or photocopy at Castlecliff Library, and what does it cost?
How much of the collection is actually on display at Quartz?
Over 1,100 works are on show at any time, out of a collection of more than 4,600. The rest can be browsed in the online collection.
Is it easy to get around Quartz with a wheelchair or pram? Any steps or tight spots?
Does it cost anything to get into the Sarjeant Gallery?
No, entry to the gallery is free. Koha or donations are very welcome and much appreciated.
Do kids enjoy the Sarjeant, or is it mostly for adults?
Is there a disc golf course at Bason Botanic Gardens?
Yes, there's a disc golf course in the gardens, and an orienteering course around the property too.
Is the lakeside walk shady, or pretty exposed on a hot afternoon?
How many gallery spaces does Whanganui Arts @ the Centre have?
There are two gallery spaces. The building also has a meeting and function room, and the Whanganui Potters' Studio is based there too.
Is it easy to get a wheelchair or pram inside from Taupo Quay?
Are there toilets at Virginia Lake Reserve?
Yes, there are toilets on site. You'll also find picnic tables, barbecues and drinking fountains.
How is the lake loop path with a pram? Any rough or muddy bits after rain?
Is there parking near the Opera House for a show?
Yes, there's street parking on Saint Hill Street, and more car parks nearby in central Whanganui.
How easy is it to get around the Opera House in a wheelchair, including to the seats?
How do I find out who's working in the hot shop on the day I visit?
Check the calendar on the New Zealand Glassworks website. It shows who might be working on the day of your visit, and when the next scheduled workshop is.
Do they do guided tours of the gallery or hot shop, or is it all self-guided?
Does Paige's Book Gallery have a children's section?
Yes, Paige's stocks children's books, including classics like Asterix and Giant Jam Sandwich.
Is it easy to find a street park on Guyton Street on a Saturday morning?
Is there a car park where the Waitahinga walks start?
Yes, park at the well-signed Quarry Carpark, about a kilometre along Junction Road. The big trail map signboard is a short walk up Quarry Road from there.
How muddy does the Chicken Run loop get after a few days of rain?
Does the Rep only put on its own shows, or do touring acts play there too?
Touring acts play there too. Michael Hurst and Katie Boyle have both performed at the Rep, so it's not only the local company's own productions.
How are the toilets at the Rep, and is there a long queue at interval?
How far is Gordon Park from central Whanganui?
It's roughly a 10-minute drive from central Whanganui. The reserve sits at the corner of Kaimatira Road and No. 3 Line in Whanganui East.
Does the loop track get muddy or slippery after a few days of rain?
Is there somewhere to sit at Otamatea Reserve while the dog runs around?
Yes, there is seating at Otamatea Reserve. Reviewers also mention waste disposal there, so you can bag and bin after your dog.
Is there much shade at Otamatea Reserve on a hot afternoon for the dogs?
Do kids need closed shoes for the go karts and bungy trampoline?
Yes, closed shoes are needed for the new club karts and the bungy trampoline. Sandals and jandals won't do for those two.
Is there anywhere near Kowhai Park and Riverland where dogs can go off lead, or is it leash only?
Is the Sarjeant Gallery open again after its rebuild?
Yes, the Sarjeant Gallery reopened in November 2024 after a decade closed for an extensive redevelopment. It first opened in 1919, so it is one of the oldest galleries in the country.
Can you ride a bike through Queens Park or is it best to walk it?
Are the walking tracks at Westmere Lake paved or unpaved?
The walking tracks are unpaved, so expect a natural surface rather than sealed paths. The reserve has a lake, native bush and wildlife along the way.
How much shade is there around the loop on a sunny afternoon?
How long should I allow for a visit to Paloma Gardens?
An hour or two is plenty for a relaxed wander around the garden. It's a peaceful spot that suits taking your time rather than rushing.
Do primary school age kids stay interested at Paloma Gardens, or is it more one for adults?
How long does the Trains Track take to walk to Trains Hut?
Allow 4 to 5 hours one way. It's about 15 km along the Waitōtara River to Trains Hut, and it's rated as an advanced tramping track.
Is there a loop you can do from the Taumatatahi Road end, or is it all out and back?
Are dogs allowed in Whanganui National Park?
No, dogs are not allowed in Whanganui National Park. That includes the Whanganui Journey and the Bridge to Nowhere walk.
Are there toilets at Mangapurua Landing before you start the walk to the Bridge to Nowhere?
Are there toilets and drinking water at Peat Park?
Yes, there are toilets and drinking fountains on site at Peat Park, so you can stay a while with the kids without needing to leave.
Is the playground fenced, or can little ones wander off towards the road?
Who manages Cooks Gardens and takes bookings for the track?
Whanganui Venues and Events manages Cooks Gardens. They also handle all track and field and velodrome bookings.
Is there much shade around the track and grandstands on a sunny afternoon?
Does the Splash Centre have a pool for toddlers?
Yes, the Splash Centre has a toddler pool and a learner pool among its eight pools, along with a lazy river, spa pools and two giant hydroslides.
Is there much shade around the playground areas in the afternoon?
Are there public toilets at Lorenzdale Park?
Yes, the park has public toilets, plus shaded picnic tables and BBQ areas, so it works for a longer visit with kids.
Is there a drinking tap or fountain anywhere at Lorenzdale Park, or should I bring water?
Are there toilets and changing rooms at Mowhanau Playground?
Yes, there are toilets and change rooms at the reserve. You'll also find picnic tables, shade areas and barbecues right by the playground and beach.
Is the playground fenced at all, or is it open to the carpark and beach?
Where can I park for the Durie Hill elevator?
There's parking near the elevator at both 42 Anzac Parade (tunnel entrance) and 2 Blyth Street (top). It can fill up, especially on a Saturday or a long weekend.
How steep is the road walk up Durie Hill compared with the steps from Putiki Drive?
Are there drinking fountains at Kowhai Park?
Yes, there are drinking fountains at Kowhai Park. You'll also find barbecues and toilets on site.
Is it easy to find a park close to the train on a weekend afternoon?
Are there toilets and drinking water at Virginia Lake?
Yes, there are toilets and drinking fountains on site at the reserve, along with picnic tables and barbecues.
Is the lake loop flat enough, or are there any steep bits near the Winter Gardens?
Is it safe to swim at Castlecliff Beach after heavy rain?
Best not to. Skip swimming for 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain, even though the water usually tests well, because rain washes contaminants in from surrounding land.
Do many people walk their dogs at Castlecliff Beach, and are there any rules you've seen?
What speed limit applies to boats and jet skis on Lake Wiritoa?
Stay at 5 knots or less, a fast walking pace, within 200 metres of the shore or a boat flying a diver's flag. The same limit applies within 50 metres of any other boat or a swimmer.
Are there actual picnic tables at Wiritoa, or is it just grass and bring your own chairs?
Who paid for the work and tree planting at James McGregor Memorial Park?
The work at the park was funded by the Eleanor Burgess Trust and the Whanganui Beautifying Society, with support from the Rotary Club of Whanganui. Work to extend the range of trees is ongoing.
Is there a drinking tap anywhere in the park, or should I bring water?
Are campfires allowed at the campsite on the Atene Skyline Track?
No, fires are not permitted anywhere in Whanganui National Park, which includes the halfway campsite on the Skyline Track.
How is parking at the upriver entrance, and is there room on a sunny weekend?
Can you kayak or canoe at Mosquito Point?
Yes, canoeing and kayaking are listed activities at Mosquito Point. There is also a picnic area, changing facilities and car parking on site.
Are there any BBQs at Mosquito Point, or do you need to bring your own?
Can I extend the Round the Bridges walk up to Virginia Lake?
Yes. Turn off Somme Parade at Halswell St, walk up the treelined street and St Johns Hill past the Peat Park Deer Sanctuary, then follow Virginia Rd to Rotokawau Virginia Lake.
Has anyone taken an e-bike round the bridges loop? Is it okay with the walkers on the paths?
Is there somewhere to sit and have a snack on the Atene walk?
Yes, there's a picnic table with river views about 20 minutes in. At the viewpoint at the end there's also a seat and viewing area where you can rest and have a bite to eat.
Has anyone taken a dog on the Atene walk? How did it go with the stiles and farmland?
Is there anywhere to sit or shelter at the Restawhile Lookout?
Yes, there is a little shelter at the Restawhile Lookout where you can sit, rest or stop for a lunch break while you take in the views.
Is there any shade on the way up, or is it open paddock the whole way?
How do I get back to Whanganui from Pipiriki after paddling the river?
Book a car shuttle with one of the companies that run them for canoeists. They also run on-demand shuttles, so sort out your ride back before you set off.
Is it okay to leave a car at Whakahoro for a few days while paddling?
How long is the drive to Ototoka Beach from Whanganui?
It's roughly 30 minutes' drive from Whanganui. The last 7.3 km of the road is unsealed, so allow a bit more time on the gravel.
Is the track down past the falls to the beach muddy or slippery after rain?
Are dogs allowed on the Matemateāonga Track?
No, dogs are not allowed on the Matemateāonga Track, so you'll need to leave your dog at home.
Is there parking at Kohi Saddle, and is it okay to leave a car there for a few days?
Are dogs allowed on the Bridge to Nowhere walk?
No, dogs are not allowed on the Bridge to Nowhere walk, so leave them at home.
Has anyone taken a pram along the track from the landing? Wondering if it copes okay.
Can I get a wheelchair or pram to Waihi Falls?
The viewing platform should be reachable by wheelchair. The track down to the base of the falls has stairs, so it isn't suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
Has anyone taken a dog to Waihi Falls? Are they allowed on the track?
Are there any toilets at Raukawa Falls?
No, there are no toilets at Raukawa Falls, and no picnic tables either. Stop in Whanganui or another town on the way if you need facilities.
Can you take a dog to the lookout, and is there room to give it a quick walk?
Where's the closest tackle and bait shop to the North Mole?
Hunting Fishing Whanganui, at 64 Carlton Avenue in Whanganui, is the tackle and bait shop to try for the North Mole.
How is the walk out along the mole from the car park, easy going or rough underfoot?
Where's the nearest visitor centre to check conditions before heading to Mangawhero Falls?
The Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre in Whakapapa Village on State Highway 48. You can ring them on +64 7 892 3729.
Is the track slippery or muddy after rain?
Are there lifeguards on duty at Castlecliff Beach?
Yes, Castlecliff Beach is patrolled by lifeguards during summer. If you swim, stay between the red and yellow flags, which are visible at patrolled beaches.
Is there any shade at the skatepark on a hot afternoon?
Is there a boat ramp at Lake Rotorangi?
Yes, the Pātea Dam Campground has a boat ramp for getting on the water. The campground is also where the toilets, showers and wood-fire barbecues are.
Does it get deep quickly at the swimming spot, or is it gentle enough for young kids?
What should I take with me on the Waitonga Falls walk?
Pack a windproof and waterproof raincoat and overtrousers, spare warm clothing, sturdy shoes or boots, food and drink, sunglasses, sunscreen and a first aid kit.
How slippery do the boardwalks and steps get after rain or frost?
Is there a car park near the Whanganui River mouth?
Yes, there's a sealed car park at the end of Morgan Street, by the North Mole. It's the closest spot to the river mouth.
Is the Tregenna Street wharf okay for young kids to fish from?
Is there drinking water at Kowhai Park?
Yes, there are drinking fountains on site at Kowhai Park, along with barbecues and toilets.
Do kids on scooters share the skate park okay with the skaters?
Are there toilets at South Beach in Whanganui?
Yes, toilets are listed at South Beach, along with a picnic area and car parking. It's an unpatrolled beach with few other facilities, so bring what you need for the day.
How busy does the car park get at South Beach on a fine summer weekend?
Which side of Lake Kohata is easiest to get down to the water?
The low-lying eastern shoreline is the easiest to get to. The lake is a 10 minute walk along the fence line, and access is easiest on that eastern side.
How is the 10 minute walk in underfoot, is it boggy after rain?
Is there a quieter lake nearby if Wiritoa is busy with boats?
Yes. Lake Kohata is just to the north-west of Wiritoa. It is a quieter walk-in perch lake.
Is it easy to find parking near the lake edge on a fine weekend?
Is Waiinu Beach tidal, and where can I check the tides?
Yes, it's an open sea beach on the South Taranaki Bight, so it is tidal. The nearest tide station is Whanganui River Entrance.
Is there room to park near the sand at Waiinu on a busy summer weekend?
Is the Waitaha Pā Track a loop or do you come back the same way?
It's not a loop. The track is 500 m return and you come back down the same track you walked up.
Are there any toilets at the start of the Waitaha Pā track?
How long is the walk from the car park to the beach at Waverley?
It's an easy two-minute stroll from the car park to the sand.
Is there any shade on the beach in the afternoon, or do you need to bring your own?
Is there anywhere safe to pull off and park near the water on Whanganui River Road?
Is Castlecliff Beach patrolled by lifeguards in summer?
Yes, Castlecliff Beach is patrolled by lifeguards during summer. If you're swimming, stay between the red and yellow flags.
Does the Rangiora Street car park fill up on summer weekends?
Which tide times should I use for fishing at Kai Iwi?
Use the Whanganui River Entrance tide times, as that is the tide port for Kai Iwi Beach.
Is Kai Iwi okay for beginners or kids fishing, or is the surf too heavy?
Is there anything to see near the Bruce memorial in Bruce Park?
Yes, a short side track from the memorial leads to the old concrete gates. They were the original entrance to Bruce Park before the highway was realigned.
Has anyone done the loop with a pram? How is the track surface after rain?
Is there a car park at Gordon Park Scenic Reserve?
Yes. There is a car park on Kaimatira Road, a little way down from the stile, right at the start of the short walk.
Is Round the Bridges shady in the afternoon, or mostly open to the sun?
Are there any toilets along the Three Rivers ride?
Public toilets are in Whanganui and Hunterville, at either end of the ride. None are mentioned along the route in between, so use them before you set off.
Is it easy to park near the i-SITE if you leave a car there for a night or two?
What marks the Jewish section of Heads Road Cemetery across the road?
A single memorial listing the names of those known to be buried there. The original headstones were removed and replaced by it.
Is the cemetery a decent stop with kids, or is there not much for them?
Where can I buy bait and tackle before heading out to South Beach?
Hunting Fishing Whanganui at 64 Carlton Avenue in Whanganui is the nearby tackle and bait shop. Sort your gear there before you drive out to the beach.
Does anyone fly fish off South Beach, or is it all surf rods?
What is the Cameron Blockhouse actually made of?
It's a timber blockhouse with double totara walls packed with clay, which made them resistant to bullets and fire. The roof is corrugated iron and the floor is compacted earth.
Are there any guided tours, or do you just turn up and look around by yourself?
How do I check a Friday viewing night is on before I go?
Check the Wanganui Astronomical Society's Facebook page or the notice boards. It opens alternate Fridays from 7pm, near the first and last quarter Moon, weather permitting.
Does a Friday night viewing hold young kids' interest?
Is there space to kick a ball around at Castlecliff Domain?
Yes. The reserve areas on either side of the playground have plenty of space for kicking a ball around.
Is it easy to find a car park near the playground on a sunny weekend?
Is there mobile phone coverage along the trail?
Don't count on it. There is virtually no cellphone coverage on the Mangapurua Track, so carry a personal locator beacon or spot tracker and tell someone your plans before you ride.
Is it okay to leave a car at Ohakune Rail Station for a few days while riding?
Will my phone have reception along the Upokongaro to North Mole trail?
Yes, there is cellphone reception along the whole trail, so you should have coverage from Upokongaro all the way to North Mole.
Is there room to park a car at Upokongaro for the start, or do most people ride out from town?
How much is a day pass at That Place?
A day pass is $28 and a River Loop ride is $15. The van shuttle starts from $125.
How do the trails suit kids who are still learning to ride?
Are dogs allowed at Waiinu Beach campground?
Yes, dogs are allowed at the Nukumaru Parade campground, but they must be on a lead and under control at all times.
Is there parking close to the river mouth, or is it a fair walk with gear?
Is there drinking water on the walk in to Matipo Park?
No, bring your own drinking water for the walk in along the Westmere Walkway from Kelvin Street. There are no toilets on the walkway either.
Are there any picnic tables, or a good spot to sit and have lunch once you get in?
Who looks after Hipango Park on the Whanganui River?
Whanganui District Council manages it. You can only get there by boat, and the park has a jetty, shelter, toilets and barbecues.
Is there much shade at the reserve if you stop for lunch on a sunny day?
Where does the Mangawhero River start and where does it end up?
It rises on Ruapehu, runs past Ohakune and flows south to join the Whangaehu River.
Has anyone taken a dog along the river here? Not sure how it goes with the farmland.
Are there signs or info panels at the memorials explaining what they are?
Does Te Tuaiwi keep you away from busy intersections in town?
Yes. It's a direct route through town that avoids busy intersections, driveways and parking spaces, so it suits people of all ages and is a safer way for students to get to school.
Is there anywhere handy for a toilet stop along the path, or do you have to go into town?
Nothing here right now.
