Thinking of things to do on the Whanganui River?
Thinking of things to do on the Whanganui River?
One of the most visited features in Wanganui is the Whanganui River. The best way to explore the Whanganui River is by experiencing it first hand.
Whanganui Regional Museum
An essential stop - see extraordinary art created by the ancestors of Whanganui River Maori, exhibits on early life in the region, and information on the natural history and environment of the area.
So rich in our district's history, the exhibits include taonga (treasures) belonging to Brent's family (who hail back to the first settlers in the region in 1350) - Maori artefacts passed down through the generations, and now generously entrusted to the museum, so that we may all witness and share in some part of our precious history.
Chronicle Glass Studio
Wanganui is home to a thriving, active glass community, with over 30 practising glass artists, many of whom exhibit nationally and are known on the international scene. The flourishing glass movement in the region has developed through it's strong association with the Wanganui Glass School, the only place in New Zealand where full-time study of glass is an option. The Chronicle Glass Studio is a working/teaching studio, where you can view the glass blowing process, and see the glass artists in action. At the studio shop you can view, and purchase, the stunning pieces on display.
Sarjeant Gallery
Highly renowned, one of New Zealand's most beautiful heritage buildings. The Sarjeant Gallery is built in a distinctive Greek cross shape with a 13m high central dome, and is widely recognised for the quality of its natural lighting. Home to 6000 artworks including historic, international and New Zealand art, with a strong focus on New Zealand photography- a diverse range of exhibitions in this architectural gem.
The River Traders Whanganui Market
Every Saturday (9am - 1pm), aside the home of the P/S Waimarie, the banks of the Whanganui River come alive with the sounds and smell of the traditional farmer market. On offer are art, crafts, fresh garden plants and products, mouthwatering home baking and preserves, organic fruit and vegetables, and much more. This is where the Maori traditionally traded their produce, some having carried their wares for trading, in waka down the winding Whanganui River, all eagerly awaited by the coastal people. Spirit of the River Jet have a tour timed to perfection for allowing you to enjoy "the Market" in the morning, and then touring the Whanganui River by jetboat, to the organic B&B, The Flying Fox, home of Annette Main and John Blythe. Annette is the creator and overseer of The River Traders Whanganui Market.
The Bridge to Nowhere
Built in 1936, the Bridge to Nowhere stands as a poignant memorial to the abandoned hopes and dreams of the Returned Servicemen and their families, who settled in the Mangapurua Valley as part of a Government rehabilitation programme. Initially prosperous, the areas difficult access and heavy rainfall, and the onset of the Great Depression, eventually saw every family walk off the land - and as the native bush steadily regenerated, and reclaimed the road, only this one relic remained - the concrete structure which was later named - The Bridge to Nowhere. Visit the Bridge to Nowhere for morning tea, with Spirit of the River Jet, and proud tangata whenua hosts, Brent and Claire Firmin. You will have a lovely day out, lots of fun, and gain valuable insight into life on the Whanganui River, past and present, whilst enjoying the unspoilt nature around you. There is so much of the Whanganui River that is only accessible by boat, and our jet boat "Te Wairua o te Awa" is the way to see it. Have a great day out in a small group!
The Whanganui River
The jewel in the region's crown, this majestic icon weaves it's way through the lives of us all. Enjoy it from the comfort of the Spirit of the River jet boat, new and breathtaking scenery around every bend, or you may choose to take the slower pace, and let Spirit of the River Jet's waka tour take you back to a time when these traditional vessels dominated the waterways. Imagine the rhythmic chanting rising from the gorges, filling the valley as the warrior laden waka went their way. We have the perfect tour to immerse yourself in. Happy hosts, great food, and peaceful surroundings - just enjoy it.
Parks and Gardens
Whanganui city and surrounds features some outstanding public and privately owned gardens, of particular note - Queens Park/Pukenamu, Bason Botanical Gardens, Virginia Lake and Park, Kowhai Park, Paloma, Moutoa Gardens/Pakaitore, Glen Logie Rose Gardens. Or, take a jet boat ride with Spirit of the River Jet and enjoy Whanganui National Park with us, and perhaps a picnic hamper - Aotearoa's native nature at it's absolute best. Whatever your choice, it will be a wonderful way to lose yourself - take a stroll, have a barbeque, and enjoy!
Local Activities and Events Centres
Multi-Sports Venue - Springvale'; Athletics - Cooks Gardens; Golf - Belmont, Castlecliff Links, Tawhero Public Golf Complex; Skiing and snowboarding - Mt Ruapehu; Surfing - Whanganui River mouth, South Beach, Castlecliff Beach, Kai-Iwi Beach, Waitotara Beach; Mountain Biking - Hylton Park, Lismore Forest, Mangapurua Track with Spirit of the River Jet; Skate parks - Castlecliff, Kowhai Park; Canoeing and jetboating - Whanganui River and Spirit of the River Jet, Rowing - Whanganui River, Fishing and Hunting - Whanganui River and surrounds.
Whanganui Riverboat Centre
This unique Maritime Heritage Museum celebrates the Whanganui River and the riverboat era, and houses the paddle steamer Ongarue (under restoration). Travel aboard P/S Waimarie (est. 1900), New Zealand's last coal-fired paddle steamer. Spirit of the River Jet, the Anndion Lodge, and Heritage Bus tours offer an outstanding weekend package with the Waimarie - to allow you to enjoy a sample of our hospitality - either mix and match activities, or make a whole weekend partaking in the complete offer.
Dining Out
For a small city, Whanganui offers a diverse range of dining experiences to suit most tastes and pockets. Several restaurants are known for their signature dishes, using the best local produce and New Zealand/s top quality meat and game. Enjoy traditional Kiwi fare, wild game, Celtic, Thai, Chinese, Indian, Mongolian, or Stone Grill delicacies. A thriving cafe and bar scene provides for those seeking a more casual style of dining.
It's your choice, you decide which style is perfect for winding down after a day on the Whanganui River with Spirit of the River Jet.
