Top Nature Spots in Manawatu-Wanganui

4.8
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Manawatu-Wanganui Region | New Zealand - Rated 4.8
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1

Tawhai Falls rating icon 5.3

Manawatū-Whanganui 3989, New Zealand copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 209 of 491
Popularity in Category: 149 of 314
Popularity Worldwide: 13541 of 29088
Waterfalls
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Margaret March 26, 2025

My advice is to wear good walking shoes. The trail can get a bit slippery, especially if it's been wet, and you don’t wanna ruin your day by slipping around.

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Paul December 9, 2024

I think it’s smart to check the weather before you go. I got caught in a surprise shower and it made the walk a bit tricky. A light raincoat could save you!

2

Ruapehu rating icon 5.1

Mount Ruapehu, Ruapehu District, Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 219 of 491
Popularity in Category: 73 of 148
Popularity Worldwide: 14170 of 29088
Volcanos
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Thomas March 12, 2025

I suggest arriving at the park entrance by 9 AM. You’ll beat the crowd and have more time to explore the trails without feeling rushed. Plus you can enjoy the quiet beauty of early morning!

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Andrew February 13, 2025

My advice is to pack a lunch. The on-site food options can be pricey and limited. I brought some snacks, which saved me a good chunk of change!

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Lisa December 29, 2024

I recommend checking the weather forecast before you go; it can change rapidly. A sunny morning turned into a snowy afternoon on my trip, so be prepared for anything!

3

Virginia Lake rating icon 3.1

Virginia Lake, Saint Johns Hill, Whanganui, Whanganui District, Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 332 of 491
Popularity in Category: 860 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 20064 of 29088
Parks
Lakes
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Charles March 15, 2025

I recommend bringing a picnic. The park is so beautiful, and you can save a bit of cash while enjoying a meal with a view. Just avoid the busy lunch hours to snag a good spot.

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Margaret January 24, 2025

I think you should definitely check out the bird life early in the morning, around 8 AM. That's when I saw the most activity, and it’s really peaceful then too!

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James November 20, 2024

My advice is to wear comfy shoes. There's a lot of walking trails, and some of them can be steeper than you might expect. I wish I had known that beforehand!

4

Nathional Park Whanganui rating icon 1.4

Whanganui, New Zealand copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 444 of 491
Popularity in Category: 1055 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 25237 of 29088
Parks
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Maria November 24, 2024

If you're planning to hike, I suggest doing the Whanganui River Road walk. It's stunning, but don't forget your sturdy shoes. I wore flip-flops and regretted it halfway through the trail. Trust me, comfort is key

5

Kowhai Park rating icon 1

Kowhai Park 140a Anzac Parade, Whanganui East, Whanganui 4500, New Zealand copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 459 of 491
Popularity in Category: 1102 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 26435 of 29088
Parks
Playgrounds
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Brian April 2, 2025

My advice is to check out the playground early in the morning, around 9 AM. It gets busy as the day goes on and it's way more fun when there's not a ton of kids around.

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Brandon December 1, 2024

I think you should definitely pack a picnic. There are plenty of spots to chill out, and it save you some cash instead of grabbing food on the go. I wish I'd done this