Family friendly things to do in Palmerston North
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Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

A New Zealand campervan holiday through the Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki region offers an unforgettable experience. Rich in natural beauty and cultural significance, this special part of New Zealand offers travellers a unique blend of urban charm and rugged wilderness. If you love exploring arts and culture, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this region. You may even like to follow the Coastal Arts Trail which spans 300 km between New Plymouth to Palmerston North. The trail is peppered with galleries, sculptures, studios and more. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the mystical Bridge to Nowhere, accessible through the verdant Whanganui National Park, offering an unforgettable journey into New Zealand's remote backcountry. 

Transitioning westward, the landscape dramatically changes as you enter Taranaki, dominated by the iconic, conical shape of Mount Taranaki. This region is a magnet for adventurers and nature lovers alike, with New Plymouth at its heart – a coastal city known for its sunny climate, thriving arts community, and surf-friendly beaches. The coastal walkway stretching from Bell Block to Port Taranaki offers spectacular sea views, perfectly complementing the city’s dynamic cultural venues and eateries.

 

Why explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki by campervan

Exploring Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki by campervan offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heartland of New Zealand's North Island. It also makes it easy to change your itinerary on the fly. Whether it's spending an extra day enjoying the surf in New Plymouth, exploring the hiking trails around Mount Taranaki, or parking beside the scenic Whanganui River for a spontaneous picnic, the choice is yours. The ability to set your own pace and schedule makes a campervan ideal for discovering the hidden gems of these regions.

Travelling by campervan not only brings the comforts of home on the road, such as your own bed, kitchen, and living space, but also eliminates the hassles of constant packing and unpacking. This is especially valuable in regions like Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki, where attractions are spread out. Having your necessities with you means you're always ready for the next adventure. 

 

Things to do in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki offer activities for all ages, from nature excursions to authentic cultural experiences. Explore Palmerston North's gardens and arts scene, Whanganui's historic riverboat cruise, or brave the surf at New Plymouth's beaches. Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to museums, galleries, and artist studios. Whether it's outdoor excitement or cultural enrichment, this fascinating region provides something for everyone.

 

Alyssa Tresider
/ Categories: NZ blog

Family friendly things to do in Palmerston North

If Palmerston North isn’t already on your campervan road trip list, it might be time to add it. Located around two hours drive north of Wellington, this underrated North Island city quietly delivers when it comes to family-friendly fun. You’ll find interactive museums, wide open parks, and riverside trails all within easy reach, along with playgrounds, picnic spots and plenty of space to stretch out after time on the road. It’s also well set up for campervans, with convenient holiday parks and facilities that make it easy to slow down, recharge and enjoy a few low-fuss days together. 

 

Why Palmerston North is great for families

Palmerston North has that rare mix of convenience and kid-friendly charm that makes travelling with little ones feel a whole lot easier. The city centre is compact and easy to navigate, so whether you’re pushing a pram or herding a crew of energetic kids, getting around is simple. 

There’s a good balance of open green spaces, indoor attractions and places to stop for a bite, all without needing to drive from one end of town to the other. Massey University brings a youthful, community-minded energy to the city, and you’ll find plenty of parks, playgrounds and activities that cater to families. 

For campervan travellers, Palmerston North works well as both a destination and a stopover. It’s a handy place to recharge (literally and figuratively!) with easy parking, good facilities, and space to spread out. And if the weather turns, there’s no shortage of indoor options to keep kids entertained without climbing the walls. 

 

Must-visit attractions for families

Palmerston North is packed with places where kids can explore, learn and burn off some energy. From playful parks to hands-on museums and a splash-friendly pool, these spots are easy to fit into your day and genuinely fun for the whole family. 

 

Victoria Esplanade

A local favourite, Victoria Esplanade is one of those places where hours seem to disappear. With botanical gardens, a duck pond, a miniature train, and several playgrounds, it’s easy to see why. There’s space to run, shady spots for lunch, and a relaxed feel that works well for all ages. 

 

Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History

Te Manawa isn’t your standard museum. This family-focused spot brings together art, science and history in a way that encourages kids to get involved. You’ll find interactive exhibits, hands-on science experiments, and regular school holiday programmes designed for younger visitors. 

 

New Zealand Rugby Museum

Right next door to Te Manawa is the New Zealand Rugby Museum, and it’s more fun than you might expect. Alongside classic jerseys and historic memorabilia, there are interactive games that let kids test their passing, kicking and tackling skills. 

 

Lido Aquatic Centre

Got kids who love the water? They’ll want to stay all day at The Lido. There are indoor and outdoor pools, splash zones for little ones and water slides for bigger kids (and adults too, if you're brave enough). It’s a great option when the weather’s warm, or when you need a reliable indoor fallback. 

 

Esplanade Scenic Railway

This mini train is a bit of a classic. The Esplanade Scenic Railway runs right through Victoria Esplanade and is a fun way to wrap up a visit to the park. It’s short, sweet and especially popular with younger kids. 

 

Outdoor fun & nature spots

Palmerston North has plenty of outdoor spaces where kids can let off steam and parents can take a breather.  

 

Manawatu River Pathway

The Manawatū River Pathway is perfect if you’ve brought scooters or bikes along for the trip. The wide, well-maintained path runs alongside the river with plenty of space for kids to ride safely. There are spots to stop and play, plus great views along the way. It’s a simple option that works for all ages. 

 

Memorial Park

Memorial Park is a great all-rounder. The playground is well equipped, there’s a paddling pool for warmer days, and plenty of room to spread out for lunch or a quick snack break. It’s central, easy to get to, and ideal for a low-key stop that still ticks a lot of boxes. 

 

Owlcatraz Native Bird & Wildlife Park 

If you’re up for a short drive, Owlcatraz in nearby Shannon is well worth the detour. This quirky wildlife park is home to native birds, farm animals, and a few surprises, including a miniature train. It’s a bit different from your standard zoo and offers a fun mix of nature and novelty. 

 

Family friendly eateries & treat stops

Palmerston North has a few easygoing spots that welcome families, serve decent food, and don’t mind a bit of extra noise.  

 

Café Esplanade

You can’t beat the location of Café Esplanade. Right on the edge of Victoria Esplanade, it’s ideal for grabbing lunch or a quick snack without needing to move the van. The menu has plenty of family-friendly options, and it’s an easy place to unwind after a run around the park. 

 

Barista Café 

Barista is one of those spots that does a bit of everything well – good coffee, solid food, and a relaxed atmosphere that works for families. It’s central, reliable, and a great option if you’re looking for a sit-down meal before heading back on the road. 

 

Sugar Babes Dessert Shop

Sugar Babes is all about the fun stuff. Loaded shakes, over-the-top desserts, and bright, colourful treats make it a hit with kids. It’s a popular pick for a weekend treat or a post-dinner stop if you’re still in town. 

 

Making the most of an Auckland to Palmerston North road trip

Driving from Auckland to Palmerston North takes around seven hours, so it’s best tackled over a couple of days, especially with kids in tow. Breaking up the trip with a few well-timed stopovers not only keeps everyone happy, it also adds some memorable highlights along the way. 

  • Hamilton is an easy first stop, with the Hamilton Gardens offering loads of space for kids to explore and themed areas that feel more like a storybook than a city park. 

  • A few hours further on, Taupō is a great overnight option. You’ve got Huka Falls for a quick photo-worthy stop, plus lakefront playgrounds and walking paths that make it easy to stretch your legs. 

  • Closer to Palmerston North, Taihape adds a bit of fun to the mix with its famous gumboot-throwing spot and a handful of quirky cafés where you can grab lunch and break up the final stretch. 

 

Top campervan-friendly holiday parks 

Palmerston North makes it easy to find a good spot to park up, with well-equipped holiday parks that suit families travelling by campervan.  

 

Palmerston North Holiday Park

Palmerston North Holiday Park is a great in-town option for families. It’s close to the Manawatū River Pathway, Victoria Esplanade, and other kid-friendly attractions, so there’s plenty to do without needing to drive anywhere. The park is known for being well looked after, with friendly staff and spacious sites that make life easy when you’re travelling with kids. 

 

Hīmatangi Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

If you’re after a beach stop within easy reach of the city, Hīmatangi Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park is about half an hour from Palmerston North. It’s a peaceful coastal spot with playgrounds, beach access, and space to unwind. It also works well as a stop between Palmerston North and Wellington if you’re continuing your road trip south. 

 

Best time to visit Palmerston North

Palmerston North is easy to enjoy at any time of year, with each season offering its own drawcards. Here’s a look at what to expect throughout the year, so you can plan your visit around the kind of travel experience that suits your family. 

Spring (September to November) 
Spring is a great time to visit if you prefer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Gardens across the city, including Victoria Esplanade, come to life with colour, and it's a comfortable season for getting outside. The weather can still be a little changeable, but there’s usually plenty of daylight for exploring. 

Summer (December to February) 
Summer is the most popular time for campervan travel, with warm days and settled weather making it ideal for outdoor activities. Families can make the most of playgrounds, river paths and the Lido Aquatic Centre, and there’s often something on around town. Holiday parks can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is recommended. 

Autumn (March to May) 
Autumn brings cooler mornings and evenings, but the days are often calm and dry. It’s a good time for visiting parks, walking tracks and smaller towns nearby, with fewer visitors around. The slower pace makes it a relaxed season for families who like to keep things flexible. 

Winter (June to August) 
While winter in Palmerston North means colder weather, it’s still a practical stop on a campervan itinerary. Attractions like Te Manawa and the New Zealand Rugby Museum offer plenty of indoor fun, and the city is generally quieter. With the right layers packed, it can be a calm and comfortable time to visit. 

 

Ready to explore Palmerston North?

Palmerston North is the kind of place that fits easily into a family road trip – laid-back, accessible and full of simple ways to keep kids entertained. Whether you're stopping in for a night or staying a little longer, it's well worth adding to your travel plans. 

Before you hit the road, download the thl Roadtrip App. It’s packed with useful tools like campsite maps, driving tips and quick how-to videos to make life on the road easier. 

If you’re ready to start exploring, take the next step and book your Apollo campervan today

 

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Popular Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki road trips & itineraries

Stretching down the lower west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki are prime destinations for road trippers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Easily accessible from major urban centres like Wellington and Auckland, the drive itself showcases the dramatic shift from urban landscapes to the lush, green countryside of Manawatu and the striking volcanic features of Taranaki. These routes not only offer breathtaking views but are dotted with a variety of attractions, making every stop an opportunity for discovery. 

 

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Great savings on your New Zealand road trip

Apollo offers a fantastic selection of deals and specials for those looking to explore Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki by campervan. From hot deals and last-minute discounts to long-term hire benefits, you’re sure to find a deal designed to help you make the most of your campervan road trip. 

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Apollo Campervan branches

Christchurch

The drive from Apollo Christchurch to the Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki region sets you up for a scenic journey across the South Island, including the picturesque ferry crossing at the Cook Strait, and onto the North Island. 

Queenstown

Keen to make the most of your road trip and explore the South Island before heading north? Book your camper with our Queenstown branch and spend a few days taking in some of the great southern highlights before crossing the Cook Strait by ferry.

Auckland

Set off from Apollo Auckland and kick off your exploration of this region in New Plymouth – just a few hours drive away. Make your way down the west coast taking in the charming townships, rolling rural landscapes, and rugged coastline as you venture south.  

Auckland City Skyline

Auckland

New Zealand’s multi-cultural hub of food, music, arts and culture.

 

Christchurch City, New Zealand

Christchurch

 One of the world’s most unique destinations.

 

Queenstown

Breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities.

 

Helpful tips for visiting Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

 

Climate and seasons in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Stretching hundreds of kilometres, this expansive region offers distinct seasonal experiences, making it an attractive destination year-round for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of landscapes and activities.

Manawatu-Whanganui enjoys a mild, temperate climate with moderate rainfall, making it pleasant for travel most of the year.

  • Summers (December to February) are warm with temperatures averaging around 22°C, ideal for exploring the great outdoors and the region's rivers and parks.
  • Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures and a beautiful change in foliage, particularly in the bush-clad hills, providing perfect conditions for hiking and photography.
  • Winter (June to August) can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C, but it is generally mild compared to other regions, with occasional frost in sheltered areas.
  • Spring (September to November) sees the landscape rejuvenate with bursts of flowers and greenery, making it a lovely time for visiting the many gardens and reserves.

Taranaki is known for its more dynamic weather patterns, due to the presence of Mount Taranaki, which can attract clouds and cause quick changes in weather.

  • Summers here are pleasant with temperatures similar to Manawatu-Whanganui but expect more frequent rain showers that keep the surroundings lush.
  • Autumn sees stable weather, ideal for outdoor activities as the forests display a vivid array of autumn colours.
  • Winter in Taranaki can be wet, with more pronounced rainfall, and the mountain often receives snowfall, offering spectacular views and winter sports.
  • Spring brings a rapid growth of new foliage and is particularly spectacular as rhododendrons and other blooms erupt around the mountain's base.

 

 

 

What to pack?

Preparing for your campervan journey through Manawatu-Whanganui and Taranaki requires thoughtful packing to make the most of the diverse climates and activities available in these regions. Here’s what you should consider bringing along:

  • Outdoor gear: given the varied terrain from river valleys to volcanic mountains, pack versatile outdoor gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing will serve you well during warmer months, while waterproof and windproof layers are essential for the unpredictable weather near Mount Taranaki. Sturdy hiking boots are a must for exploring the rugged landscapes and numerous walking trails. With the stunning natural beauty and wildlife in both regions, a good camera can help you capture memorable landscapes and native birds. Binoculars will also enhance your experience, especially when visiting coastal areas and bird sanctuaries.
  • Campervan add-ons: Enhancing your campervan experience can significantly improve your comfort during the trip. Consider including a portable heater for the cooler evenings, especially during winter months in Taranaki. A reliable GPS and physical maps can help navigate the more remote areas. Additional camping chairs and a table can also be handy for scenic stops along the coast or in forest parks.
  • Sun protection and rain gear: The regions' varying weather conditions call for both sun protection and rain gear. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen, UV-protection sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield against the strong New Zealand sun. Also, include a durable rain jacket and waterproof trousers to stay dry during sudden rain showers, particularly prevalent in Taranaki. For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

For more helpful ideas, check out our guide to what to pack for your campervan road trip.

 

 

Nearby attractions and day trips from Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki

Manawatu-Whanganui

Whanganui River cruise or kayak

Experience the tranquil beauty of the Whanganui River by taking a leisurely cruise or paddling a kayak. This historic river offers stunning views of lush landscapes and provides a quiet escape into nature, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Whanganui National Park

Home to native forests and scenic waterways, Whanganui National Park is popular with hikers and walkers. The park is also home to the Bridge to Nowhere Walk, a 3 km return (around 1.5 hours) easy walk popular with visitors to the area.

Forgotten World Highway

The Forgotten World Highway, running through remote, mystic landscapes, offers a journey back in time. This historic route passes through rugged terrain, dense forests, and small forgotten towns, making it a unique adventure for road-trippers.

Bushy Park

Bushy Park Ecological Sanctuary, near Whanganui, is known for its rich biodiversity and protected native forest. The 100-hectare reserve is home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the region, including a 500-year-old rata. The park's predator-free status allows visitors to encounter rare and endangered birds such as the hihi and saddleback in their natural habitat.

Nearby attractions and day trips from Taranaki

Mount Taranaki

Dominating the landscape, Mount Taranaki offers challenging hikes and spectacular views from its summit. The symmetrical volcano is a striking feature of Egmont National Park, drawing climbers and photographers alike.

New Plymouth Coastal Walk

The New Plymouth Coastal Walkway is a spectacular 13-kilometre path that stretches from Ngamotu Beach to Bell Block, offering panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. This award-winning walkway is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling featuring iconic landmarks like the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, which resembles a breaking wave or whale skeleton.

Pukekura Park

New Plymouth’s Pukekura Park is a beautifully landscaped garden featuring lakes, waterfalls, and exotic plants. It hosts the famous Festival of Lights, transforming into an enchanted evening wonderland.

Dawson Falls in Egmont National Park

Dawson Falls is a spectacular 18-metre waterfall located within Egmont National Park. The area around the falls offers picturesque walking tracks that wind through lush native bush, ideal for a short, scenic hike.

 

Where to stay in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki with a campervan

When it comes to finding the perfect spot to park and rest in Manawatu-Whanganui & Taranaki, there's no shortage of picturesque, comfy campgrounds. Here are a few worth checking out:

Manawatu-Whanganui

Taranaki

 

 

 

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