A short drive into the country brings you to 90 hectares of pristine native forest, named Bushy Park. Bushy Park includes ‘Ratanui’ – believed to be the largest Rata tree in the Southern Hemisphere. The majestic Edwardian Homestead offers you a real, detailed look into life in the early 1900’s. Enjoy a traditional ‘Devonshire Tea’ on the mansion’s terrace as you marvel at the landscaped gardens and watch for endangered birds soaring overhead. A predator-proof fence has been erected and the reserve will soon become predator-free, a real ‘inland island’ paradise for friendly native birds. Various bushwalks are here to enjoy.

11 kilometres from town you will find this beautiful park. Enjoy the free gas-fired barbeques and extensive plantings of native and exotic trees. Three conservatories feature an outstanding rare orchid collection, begonias and bromeliads. There is no entry charge.

Just a 5 minute drive from Wanganui’s city centre brings you to beautiful Virginia Lake, where you can take a lovely 25 minute woodland walk around the lake, passing the Statue of Tainui (take time to read the inscription), twin bridges and rose and wisteria pergolas. At night, the trees are softly illuminated and the fountain erupts in a spectacular colourful display.

Discover the astonishing winter gardens beside the lake with its variety of colourful flowers and plants.  Walk through the open-flight bird aviary with it's wide selection of beatiful birds.

This magnificent neo-classical building is in a distinctive Greek cross shape with a thirteen metre high central dome and is widely recognised for the quality of its natural lighting. The Gallery houses 6000 artworks ranging from historic international and New Zealand art to dynamic contemporary art including a strong focus on New Zealand photography. Enjoy a diverse range of exhibitions in this unique architectural gem.

For a truly unique maritime heritage experience, take a leisurely cruise aboard New Zealand’s last operating paddle steamer on the wonderful Whanganui River.

Situated in the historic heart of old town Whanganui, Chronicle Glass Studio and Gallery occupies part of a 1912 building that was originally home to the city's newspaper.

The former press pit is the perfect space for this collective of talented glassblowers. The public can view the glassblowing process and wander up to a mezzanine retail gallery area to browse the stunning pieces on display.

Opposite the City Bridge, the Durie Hill pedestrian tunnel leads to the historic elevator built in 1919, the only public underground elevator in New Zealand.

Two great viewpoints are located at the top, one above the elevators machinery room and one from the nearby Memorial Tower. The 33.5 metre tower offers views of the city, Mounts Taranaki and Ruapehu and also the Tasman Sea. On a clear day you can even see the South Island!  

By the river on Anzac Parade is a great favourite with children.  Ride a brontosaurus, swing on an octopus, seesaw with a snake and play in the water maze on a hot day.  On weekends and holidays children can ride on the tot-town railway.  A unique family park for the last 3 generations!