Things to Do in Whanganui

Everything to see and do in Whanganui.

Whanganui sits at the mouth of the Whanganui River, one of the country’s great rivers, on the lower North Island’s west coast. It blends heritage architecture, a thriving arts scene and a strong Māori history with easy access to river journeys and the coast. From the Durie Hill lookout to the riverfront, there is plenty to explore.

Browse all things to do below:

This Weekend Parks and Reserves Walking Tracks Kids Playgrounds Swimming Spots Fishing Spots Waterfalls Cycle & BMX Tracks Skate Parks Sunrise and Sunset Historical & Cultural Sites Day Trips from Whanganui

Frequently asked questions

What are the best things to do in Whanganui?

The best things to do in Whanganui span parks and gardens, coastal and bush walks, beaches, museums and galleries, and family days out. Each has a full write-up covering what to expect, how to get there and what’s nearby.

What are the top attractions in Whanganui?

Whanganui’s standout attractions include its major parks and lookouts, waterfront and heritage sites, and its best-known museums and galleries. The guides rank and describe each so you can build a day around them.

Are there free things to do in Whanganui?

Plenty. Many of Whanganui’s parks, walks, beaches and lookouts are free, and a good number of museums and galleries have free entry too. The guides note what’s free as you browse.

What are the best indoor things to do in Whanganui?

For indoor days in Whanganui, the museums, galleries, libraries and covered attractions are the pick. Most open around 10am to 5pm and many are free to enter.

What can I do in Whanganui with kids?

Playgrounds, easy walks, beaches and hands-on museums all make for good family days out in Whanganui. The parks, playgrounds and family-attraction guides cover age-appropriate ideas.

What are some of Whanganui’s hidden gems?

Beyond the headline sights, Whanganui has quieter reserves, lesser-known lookouts, local walks and small galleries worth seeking out. The guides flag these alongside the big-name spots.

Can I book things to do in Whanganui through this page?

No, bookings are made with the operator direct. Each business under Things to Book in Whanganui has its own page here with contact details, opening hours and a link to their own website, so you can check availability and book with them.

Are the businesses under Things to Book in Whanganui paid placements?

Yes. Those operators pay to appear on Explore Whanganui. The parks, walks, playgrounds and attraction guides linked on this page are chosen by us, and nobody pays to be included in them.

How do I get my Whanganui business listed on Explore Whanganui?

If you run a tour, activity, attraction or anything else visitors book in Whanganui, you can be listed under Things to Book. See how it works and get in touch.