Last updated July 2026
The Durie Hill Tower Walk combines Whanganui’s historic underground elevator with a climb to panoramic views from the War Memorial Tower. Visitors reach the hilltop suburb either by the 1919 elevator or on foot, then ascend 176 steps inside the 33.5-metre tower for sweeping sights over the Whanganui River and city. The site also forms part of Whanganui’s extensive network of parks and reserves, with green spaces at the hilltop and across the district offering additional recreation options.
Practical Information
| Location | Durie Hill, Whanganui — elevator tunnel entrance at 42 Anzac Parade |
| Elevator details | 213-metre tunnel and 66-metre lift, operating since 1919; $2 each way |
| Alternative access | Walk up approximately 350 steps from Putiki Drive or use road access |
| Memorial Tower | 176 steps to viewing deck at 113 metres above sea level; tower height 33.5 metres |
| Views | Whanganui River, city grid, Mt Taranaki (north-west) and Mt Ruapehu (north-east) on clear days |
| Elevator hours | Weekdays 7.30am–6pm; weekends and public holidays 9.30am–5pm; closed Christmas Day (note: temporary closures or shuttle replacement may apply) |
| Parking | Street parking near 42 Anzac Parade or at 2 Blyth Street (top); limited spaces available |
| Time required | Allow 1–2 hours return including tower climb |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate; stairs throughout |
About the Durie Hill Tower Walk
Durie Hill rises steeply above the western bank of the Whanganui River, directly across the City Bridge from the central business district. The hill’s standout feature is the Durie Hill Elevator, a Category 1 historic place that functions as public transport through a lit tunnel before rising vertically. The experience includes the staffed ride and the option to return via stairs or elevator.
At the top, the War Memorial Tower provides the main viewpoint. The 33.5-metre structure requires a spiral climb of 176 steps to reach the open deck. Heritage records confirm the deck sits at approximately 113 metres above sea level, delivering clear sightlines across the river to the sea, the urban layout below, and distant volcanoes when conditions allow.
Those who prefer to avoid the elevator can ascend via the Durie Hill Steps Track from Putiki Drive. The route gains modest elevation over a short distance and connects directly to the tower area. Bikes and dogs on leads are permitted on the elevator and pathways.
Whanganui Parks and Reserves
Whanganui District Council manages dozens of parks and reserves ranging from small neighbourhood green spaces to premier destinations. Blyth Street Reserve sits at the top of Durie Hill, offering a simple grassed area with seating near the Memorial Tower. Larger sites include Bason Botanic Gardens, a 15-minute drive from the city centre and recognised as a Garden of Significance, and Bushy Park Tarapuruhi, a conservation reserve with native forest and rare birds such as hihi and saddleback.
Coastal options feature Castlecliff Coastal Reserve, stretching 3.1 kilometres along the Tasman Sea, and Castlecliff Domain with playgrounds and a skate park. Central reserves such as Cooks Gardens provide sports facilities including an athletic track and velodrome. Many reserves support walking, picnicking and community events, with native plantings and wetland restoration at sites like Balgownie Reserve.
These spaces complement the Durie Hill experience by offering flat riverside paths, botanic displays and ecological sanctuaries within easy reach of the city. The council maintains an online directory for locating specific reserves by suburb or activity.
What Visitors Often Say
The elevator ride feels like a genuine step back in time and pairs perfectly with the tower climb for expansive views across the river and city. Clear days reward visitors with distant mountain vistas, while the short walk option provides a satisfying workout before the final ascent.
Local parks add variety, with the hilltop reserve offering a quiet spot to rest and larger gardens or coastal areas providing longer outings. Families appreciate playgrounds and open spaces, while nature enthusiasts value the native forest reserves and birdlife.
Where to Learn More
Durie Hill Elevator official site: current hours, fares, access details and tour information.
Whanganui District Council Find a Park: searchable directory of all district parks and reserves with descriptions and locations.
Whanganui District Council: official information on heritage sites, events and reserve management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take the elevator or walk up Durie Hill?
The elevator provides the iconic experience and costs $2 each way. Walking the steps from Putiki Drive offers exercise and connects directly to the tower area.
How many steps are in the Memorial Tower?
The tower requires 176 steps to reach the viewing deck. The climb is manageable for most visitors but may challenge those with limited mobility.
What are the best views from the tower?
The deck overlooks the Whanganui River, city streets and parks, with Mt Taranaki visible to the north-west and Mt Ruapehu to the north-east on clear days.
Are dogs or bikes allowed on the elevator?
Dogs on leads and bikes are welcome on the elevator and associated pathways.
Which parks are near Durie Hill?
Blyth Street Reserve lies at the hilltop. Other notable reserves include Bason Botanic Gardens, Castlecliff Coastal Reserve and Bushy Park Tarapuruhi for native forest and wildlife.
What facilities are available in Whanganui reserves?
Many offer playgrounds, walking paths, picnic areas and sports facilities. Cooks Gardens includes an athletic track and velodrome.
Is the elevator currently operating?
Standard hours apply except during temporary maintenance periods when a shuttle service may operate instead. Check the official site for the latest status.
How long should I allow for the full Durie Hill outing?
Plan 1–2 hours return, including time for the elevator ride or walk, tower climb and views.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.