The Durie Hill Tower Walk is one of Whanganui’s best short outings — a climb to the city’s hilltop suburb ending at the War Memorial Tower, where the viewing deck sits 113 metres above sea level with sweeping views over the Whanganui River, the city grid and, on clear days, to Mt Taranaki and Mt Ruapehu. You can get up by taking the underground elevator (the quicker and more iconic option) or walking up the hill on foot — either way, the 176-step tower climb at the top is the reward.
Practical Information
| Location | Durie Hill, Whanganui — elevator entrance at 42 Anzac Parade |
|---|---|
| Getting up the hill | Option 1: Durie Hill Elevator — $2 each way, 213m tunnel + 66m lift; Option 2: Walk up steps from Putiki Drive (approx. 350 steps) |
| Memorial Tower | 176 steps to viewing deck — 33.5m tower, deck at 113m above sea level |
| Views | Whanganui city, river, Mt Taranaki (NW), Mt Ruapehu (NE) on clear days |
| Total time | Allow 1–2 hours including tower |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate (stairs throughout) |
| Elevator hours | Weekdays 8am–6pm; weekends/public holidays 10am–5pm; closed Christmas Day |
| Parking | Putiki Drive (base of hill) or street parking near elevator entrance on Anzac Parade |
About the Walk
Durie Hill rises steeply above the western bank of the Whanganui River, just across the City Bridge from the main street. The hill is most famous for its underground elevator — a staffed lift that has been carrying people through a 213-metre tunnel since 1919. Taking the elevator is both practical and a genuine experience in itself: the lit tunnel, the operator, the 66-metre vertical rise — it all feels like stepping back in time. The elevator costs $2 each way for adults.
Those preferring to walk can reach the top via approximately 350 steps from Putiki Drive, or by road from Durie Hill suburb. Both routes bring you to the top landing and the War Memorial Tower.
The tower stands 33.5 metres tall and requires 176 steps to reach the viewing deck. From the deck at 113 metres above sea level, the city opens up: the Whanganui River winding to the sea, the layout of streets and parks below, and on a clear day the unmistakable profiles of Mt Taranaki to the north-west and Mt Ruapehu to the north-east.
What Visitors Say
“The elevator is an experience on its own — the 1919 tunnel feels genuinely historic. But the tower views are the highlight: clear day when we went and you could see both Taranaki and Ruapehu. Absolutely worth it.” — TripAdvisor visitor
“We walked up the steps from Putiki Drive and it’s a solid climb but very doable. The tower makes it worthwhile — great vantage point to understand the whole layout of the city.” — AllTrails visitor
Where to Learn More
Discover Whanganui — Durie Hill Memorial Tower and Elevator is the official tourism guide.
Durie Hill Elevator — Visit has current elevator hours, fares and practical information.
AllTrails — Whanganui walks lists the Durie Hill route among the city’s best walking options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take the elevator or walk up?
Taking the elevator ($2 each way) is the recommended option — it’s the iconic experience and saves effort for the 176-step tower climb. Walking up from Putiki Drive takes about 350 steps and is a decent workout before the tower.
Is the tower climb difficult?
The 176-step spiral staircase in the Memorial Tower is manageable for most adults and older children. Those with limited mobility may find it challenging.
What can I see from the tower?
On a clear day: the Whanganui River, the city, the harbour, Mt Taranaki to the north-west and Mt Ruapehu to the north-east. The deck sits 113 metres above sea level.
How long does the Durie Hill walk take?
Allow 1–2 hours for the return trip including time at the tower. The elevator ride takes only a few minutes each way; the tower climb adds about 20 minutes.
Where do I park?
For the walk-up option: Putiki Drive at the base. For the elevator: street parking near 42 Anzac Parade on the city side of the river.
The Durie Hill Tower Walk is one of Whanganui’s essential outings. See Whanganui Walking Tracks for more walks across the district. For a riverside flat walk through the city, Round the Bridges is the classic Whanganui walk.