Get close to the experience.

Explore the Whanganui River, immerse yourself in museums and art galleries, take a leisurely cycle or walk in our natural parks and reserves.

UNESCO City of Design

Creativity, innovative spirit, cultural integrity and strength of artistic tradition have secured Whanganui’s recognition as a UNESCO City of Design, and its place in the international Creative Cities Network.

Arts

Whanganui is a UNESCO City of Design and this designation is evident throughout the city’s arts offerings. Photography, mosaics, jewellery, paintings, pastel, pottery, re-invented art, sculptures, fashion, textiles, glass, performing artists and musicians are to be found everywhere.

Heritage

Marae, homesteads, memorials and civic buildings provide a strong sense of place and identity and the concentration of significant heritage buildings found in Whanganui is rare in New Zealand. This UNESCO City of Design boasts centuries of creativity.

Outdoors

Whanganui has an abundance of outdoor areas and facilities for all kinds of activities. Our beaches have plenty of room to play on land and in the sea and are favourite places for families, fishing, beachcombers and wide open walks.

Whanganui River

A visit to the Whanganui River and the road that winds alongside it into the heart of the Whanganui National Park is a special journey with great scenery, beautiful marae and historical places of interest.

Explore

I'm looking for...

Sort By

Latest

Oldest

Name A-Z

Name Z-A

Where to stay in Whanganui

For a quick overview of what’s available and to book online, use our Booking.com accommodation widget.

For expert local advice or further help on your stay, contact our Whanganui isite visitor centre or browse our guides on Where to stay.

  • Log in
  • Register

Forgot Password

Register to gain access to the Discover Whanganui resource hub.