Blog – Around the Island in 30 days!

WHANGANUI RIVER ROAD

The road from Whanganui to Pipiriki snakes through gorgeous scenery as it closely follows the flow of the Whanganui River. There are only a scattering of settlements en route with no shops or petrol stations so it is advisable to stock up before you start the journey.

From Whanganui, the first settlement you’ll come across is the village of Upokongaro, with it’s pretty St Mary’s Church, built in 1877 – the oldest church in the Whanganui District on its original site. Just north of Upokongaro, off State Highway 4, is the start of the Whanganui River Road.

A short distance up the road is the Aramoana Viewpoint, with incredible views of the river as it cuts through the Wanganui Valley.

Just past the settlement of Atene is the Atene Skyline Track, a 2-hour return walk to a viewpoint with splendid vistas across the valleys.

Along the route a number of operators offer jet boat adventures and scenic river experiences on the Whanganui River, and further north, at Koriniti guests can take a stroll around the pretty Koriniti Marae (+64-6-342 8198) and Church. It is polite to ring up and be invited to enter the marae instead of simply turning up. Shortly after the settlement of Matahiwi is the historic Kawana Flour Mill, the only surviving mill of its kind, dating back to the 1850’s. It is an excellent example of 19^th century industrial technology, and a photographic display tells of the history of the site. The mill and its waterwheel have been beautifully restored and is worth a quick visit. The small two-roomed Miller’s Cottage next to the mill dates from the same period. Both the mill and cottage are open daily and is free to visit, but donations are appreciated.

About 12km/7.5miles north of Matahiwi is one of the most picturesque villages along this road. The small, quiet settlement of Jerusalem/Hiruhārama is a peaceful haven. Situated 64km/40miles from Whanganui in a remote location on the banks of the Whanganui River, Jerusalem seems almost cut off from civilization. Once there, you are surrounded by absolute tranquility. The small village is most famous for the charity work that was done here by Mother Mary Aubert, known as the Sisters of Compassion, at the pretty St Joseph’s Church. The historic convent from 1892 still remains, and now offers affordable accommodation (+64-6-342 8190) in open dormitories ($$). However, the closest shops and petrol stations are in Whanganui and Raetihi (40km/25miles north east).

A further 12km/7.5km north of Jerusalem, you finally reach Pipiriki – gateway to the stunning Whanganui National Park. This small settlement on the banks of the river used to be a major stop during the riverboat era of the late 19^th to early 20^th century. These days it is the main access point for trips to Bridge to Nowhere. Although Pipiriki is small, it has accommodation and a camping ground ($).

SOUTHWARD CAR MUSEUM

Otaihanga Road, Paraparaumu. +64-4-297 1221. Entry fee. $$. Open 7 days. 9am-4.30pm. Closed 25 Dec & Good Friday.

With over 400 cars, the museum contains the largest private car collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Some of the beautifully restored vintage cars include Marlene Dietrich’s 1934 Cadillac Town Cabriolet, a Benz Velo from 1895, a 1950 Cadillac “Gangster Special”, and an 1895 Benz Velo, considered to be the oldest car in New Zealand. In addition to automobiles, the collection also features aircraft, bicycles, a fire engine, and other vintage tools and memorabilia. This is a fascinating collection that will appeal to more than just car lovers. It’s simply wonderful to walk around and imagine the history behind each of the vehicles.

LOCO MINIATURE RAILWAY AND GARDENS

200 State Highway 1, Otaki. +64-6-364 6506. Entry fee. $$. Open 1 Oct-30 Apr Sun, School & Public Holidays 11am-4pm. Closed May-Sep, 25 & 26 Dec.

Set on large grounds, the miniature railway is a pure delight! The miniature landscape includes not only beautiful steam locomotives, but also villages, complete with vintage cars, horse-drawn carriages and wooden buildings – all with incredible detail that recreate the elegance of the 1920’s. The gardens feature a trampoline, pentaque, hammocks amongst the trees, and plenty of farm animals that are just too happy to be fed and cuddled.

PALMERSTON NORTH

Situated 38km/24miles from Foxton along a scenic rural road, Palmerston North is the most populous centre (84,300) in the Manawatu-Wanganui region, and is worth the detour, if time allows. The city is commonly referred to as ‘Palmy’ by the locals and it has a large student community due to the number of universities. At the centre of the city is The Square, a pleasant park with mature trees, lakes, fountains and gardens, surrounded by shops and cafés. It is a favourite meeting place for locals and tourists alike. The popular Festival of Cultures is a free event that takes place every March at The Square.

he city has a number of green spaces, most notably Rhododendron Gardens Heritage Park (Haggerty Street), Caccia Birch House & Gardens (130 Te Awe Awe Street. +64-6-357 5362. Free. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm), and Victoria Esplanade with its rose gardens, bush walks, miniature railway and conservatory. It is situated at the west end of town on the banks of the Manawatu River.

Palmerston North is the artistic and cultural hub of the region and there are a number of galleries, museums and performing arts centres, the largest being the historic Regent on Broadway Theatre (53 Broadway Avenue) with a capacity of nearly 1,400. Te Manawa (326 Main Street. +64-6-355 5000. Free. Open 7 days) comprises a museum, art gallery and science centre with around 300 interactive exhibits. The complex is also home to the New Zealand Rugby Museum (+64-6-358 6947. Entry fee. $$. Open 7 days) which explores the rich history of the sport.

Budding historians should also take note of two superb heritage buildings; the impressive Gothic Revival Cathedral of the Holy Spirit (197 Broadway Avenue), and the interesting Hoffman Oblong Continuous Kiln (615 Featherston Street), which was built around 1904 and is a rare example of its kind.

OWLCATRAZ

44 Margaret Street, Shannon. +64-6-362 7872. Entry fee. $$-$$$. Open 7 days. 9am-3pm. Closed Public Holidays.

This native bird and wildlife park is a 15-minute drive southeast of Foxton in the small town of Shannon. In addition to owls, there are a number of other animals, including alpacas, pigs, ostriches, deer and rabbits. The path meanders through lovely native bush with wooden bridges, a water wheel, a scenic lake, miniature train rides, and the original Shannon Jailhouse full of owl figurines and collectibles. One of the most popular attractions is the man-made Wairuru Caves where you can see amazing glow worms.

This native bird and wildlife park is a 15-minute drive southeast of Foxton in the small town of Shannon. In addition to owls, there are a number of other animals, including alpacas, pigs, ostriches, deer and rabbits. The path meanders through lovely native bush with wooden bridges, a water wheel, a scenic lake, miniature train rides, and the original Shannon Jailhouse full of owl figurines and collectibles. One of the most popular attractions is the man-made Wairuru Caves where you can see amazing glow worms.

FEILDING

The pretty Edwardian themed town with its red-bricked pavements and abundance of flower beds have won ‘New Zealand’s Most Beautiful Town’ an incredible 15 times. At a distance of 20km/12miles from Bulls, it’s a worthwhile detour.

The town has a relatively large population of 16,250 and it is interesting to note that there are no traffic lights or parking meters in Feilding. The heart of town is Manchester Square with its iconic Clock Tower, where the Information Centre is located. Stroll around the streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings that surround the square, relax at a café, or visit one of the museums, including Feilding & District Steam Rail Museum (28 Gladstone Street. +64-6-323 5444. Entry by donation. Open Sat 9am-3pm). The Coach House Museum (121 South Street. +64-6-323 6401. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. 10am-4pm. Closed 25 Dec & Easter Monday) is one of the best museums in the area and has an outstanding collection of historic vehicles, farm implements, and superb displays from the horse drawn era. The iconic Eric Clarke’s Private Cinema(+64-6-323 4552) has free movie screenings in its quaint 38-seat cinema.

WELLINGTON MUSEUM

3 Jervois Quay, Queens Wharf, Wellington. +64-4-472 8904. Free. Open 7 days. 10am-5pm. Closed 25 Dec.

Housed in the beautiful historic Bond Store Building and set over four floors the museum’s collection includes a quirky and random collection of artifacts and memorabilia of Wellington’s 150 year history as the capital city of New Zealand. There’s Rusty the Lion, Frederick de Jersey Clere room, the Captain’s Cabin from the 1879 ship “Te Anau”, a time travel machine, ancient Maori artifacts, the telling of the Wahine disaster, and so much more, all in visually striking displays. Aided by stunning timber flooring, walls, and ceilings, the museum is one of the finest in the country, and was ranked as one of the 50 best museums in the world by Britain’s The Times magazine.

QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK

The main attraction at Paekakariki is the stunning 650ha /1,606 acres Queen Elizabeth Park – the last area of natural sand dunes along the Kapiti Coast. The park is situated 5km/3miles north of the town and offers tram rides in a historic restored tram, picnic spots, sandy beach, walking tracks and horse rides ($$$-$$$$). The US Marines Memorial in the park commemorates the loss of ten men after the USS American Legion capsized off the Paekakariki coast on 20 June 1943 during stormy weather. It’s hard to believe now that, during World War II, Paekakariki served as a major base for around 15,000 United States marines.

NGA MANU NATURE RESERVE

74 Ngā Manu Reserve Road, Waikanae. +64-4-293 4131. Entry fee. $$. Open 7 days. 10am-5pm. Closed 25 Dec.

Set aside at least a couple of hours, if not half a day, to fully explore everything this reserve has to offer. Well laid out tracks lead through 13ha/32acres of bushwalk with a variety of native bird and plant life, including 400 year old Kahikatea trees. An abundance of bird life has made the bush and lowland swamp forest their home. Other points of interest include the Nocturnal House, where you can see the elusive kiwi, a lookout tower with marvelous views over the reserve, several ponds, Butterfly Garden, and a chance to feed the rare Longfin eels (2pm daily). Accommodation is available within the reserve for an unforgettable tranquil experience.

PUKAHA MOUNT BRUCE NATIONAL WILDLIFE CENTRE

85379 State Highway 2. +64-6-375 8004. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. 9am-4.30pm. Closed 25 Dec.

This patch of ancient forest is all that remains of the once magnificent forest that stretched all the way to Central Hawke’s Bay. Set within an area of 942ha/2,328acres, it is a stunning haven for wildlife and many species of birds, including takahē (once thought to be extinct), kākā, kākāriki, and reintroduced kōkako.

The nocturnal kiwi house is home to Manukura, the world’s only white kiwi in captivity, which makes her very easy to spot under the red light. This is one of the best places to see the iconic kiwi, and to watch them scavenge for food and frolic among the leaf litter is simply unforgettable!

A 2-hour loop track takes visitors through a marvelous bushwalk with an abundance of birdsong. There is also an interactive display, a café, a free flight aviary, and tuatara. It’s advisable to check feeding times for an up close experience with longfin eels, takahē, and those cheeky kākās, which are simply delightful to watch. A visit to Pukaha Mount Bruce is highly recommended.

STONEHENGE AOTEAROA

51 Ahiaruhe Road, Carterton District. +64-6-377 1600. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. 10am-4pm. Hours vary throughout the year. Ring in advance.

Stonehenge Aotearoa is a working adaptation of the famous stone circles in Wiltshire, England. This working observatory, set within a magnificent setting of rural Wairarapa, shows how ancient peoples used these type of constructions to understand the universe. The tour is very informative and interesting and makes for a fascinating visit, particularly if you are a budding astronomer. Stonehenge Aotearoa is 12km/7.5miles south east of Carterton.

PUTANGIRUA PINNACLES

Strangely eroded pinnacles tower above the landscape in an ominous looking valley, set within a splendidly remotelocation, near the rugged coastline. No wonder that this strange land was used as location for Paths of the Dead in Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King“, and as opening scene in Peter Jackson’s 1992 film “Braindead“. An easy walking track takes visitors amidst formations that makes man seem small and insignificant. Allow 2-4 hours for the walking track. The Pinnacles are located within the Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve,17.5km/11miles from Lake Ferry, or 54km/33.5miles from Featherson.

NATIONAL AQUARIUM OF NEW ZEALAND

Marine Parade, Napier. +64-6-834 1404. Entrance fee. $$$. Open 7 days. 9am-5pm. Last entry 4.30pm.

The aquarium is located beside the ocean along Marine Parade. It is not a very large aquarium, but it is well laid out and there is a large selection of species. Visitors have the option to get up close with many of them, including penguins, kiwi, tuatara, water dragons, piranha, and sea turtles. And if you’re not content with simply watching or interacting with the animals, you can dive in the main tank ($+), swim with sharks ($+), or even sleep over ($$$$). The Ocean Tunnel is a great way to see all creatures as they swim around you. Crowd favourites include the penguins, Terry the hawk-billed turtle, and the feeding of fish inside the main tank. There are plenty of interactive activities to keep the kids happy, but go early if you want the place to yourself and head straight to the Ocean Tunnel for prime viewing.

NAPIER PRISON

55 Coote Road, Napier. +64-6-835 9933. Entrance fee. $$. Open 7 days. 9am-5pm.

This attraction can be a little bit creepy, or it can be a lot of fun, depending on what you make of it. New Zealand’s oldest prison has a lot of history – and its fair share of ghost stories! Visitors get to see the old hanging yard, the graveyard, earthquake room, and solitary confinement (not for the claustrophobic). Some of the fun activities include to have your mug shot and fingerprints taken, scary Night Tours, and Escape Room. Very interesting in informative.

NORSEWOOD

The town of Norsewood may be small, but it is charming and quirky, to say the least.

The name suggests a clear link to its Nordic heritage, and this is further emphasised by many street names, such as Viking, Odin, Thor and Eriksen. During the late 19^th century a large group of Norwegian immigrants arrived here, and their influence can still be seen today in many of its buildings and culture. Not to mention the wooden trolls that seem to appear everywhere.

Norsewood is disected by the highway in what is known as Upper Norsewood and Lower Norsewood. The best place to start your exploration is at the small Information Centre on Coronation Street in Upper Norsewood. Just look for the Scandinavian flags. Here you can also find out more about the Troll Stroll, where visitors follow clues on a map. Just up the road from the Information Centre is The Bindalsfaering, a traditional fishing boat that was gifted to the town by the Norwegian Government. South along Coronation Street is the local museum, the small Gothic St David’s Church, and Johanna’s World.

The village has a petrol station, café and superette, with limited accommodation.