Things to do in Whanganui
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Top 10 attractions in Whanganui
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is adjacent to the urban area of Rotorua and is one of the early forest areas in New Zealand for exotic tree species introduction trials. From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, over 170 tree species were experimentally planted here to determine which could adapt to New Zealand, particularly Rotorua's volcanic soil. Today, only a handful of these species remain, with the California coast redwoods planted in 1901 becoming the experiment's surprise success — they grow faster here than in their native California. Over a century later, they now tower skyward, forming a magnificent forest. The redwood memorial grove is the essence of the entire forest: the trail is covered with soft redwood bark chips, making each step springy; giant trees stand closely on both sides, their tops barely visible even when looking up. Among them, one particularly massive tree stands approx. 70 m tall with a trunk diameter exceeding 1.5 m, requiring several people to encircle it with outstretched arms. Native New Zealand ferns thrive beneath the trees, creating a striking scene where towering redwoods and sprawling fern fronds share the frame—a highly recognizable sight in Rotorua. The memorial grove loop takes less than 1 hr to complete, with boardwalks on some sections, making it suitable for all ages. Those with good stamina can extend their hike to the outer forest trails. This forest is also a popular destination for walking, running, and mountain cycling, with its crisscrossing trails clearly graded by difficulty. It holds considerable fame in the cycling community, attracting many who come specifically to ride the trails. Just a few minutes' drive from the city, the slanting morning or evening light filtering through the trees creates beautiful shadows and fern patterns, making these the most comfortable times for a stroll.New Zealand · Rotorua
North Island
From a geographical point of view, the North Island has a rich and varied terrain that is amazing. With charming beaches and dense forests, islands and harbors have witnessed the changes of time. In terms of cities, the North Island has many vibrant and charming cities, with modern high-rise buildings and beautiful harbors complementing each other. Here, tourists can feel the earth's vigorous productivity, marvel at the magical creativity of nature, and immerse themselves in the magnificent culture and artistic imagination of mankind. This land, with its unique charm, invites every visitor to write his or her own New Zealand story. Whether it is a natural landscape lover, a cultural explorer, or a pursuer of food and urban life, New Zealand's North Island can meet the expectations of tourists. It is like a colorful treasure land, waiting for people to discover, explore, and feel its unique charm.Desert Road · 90.5km from Whanganui
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a loop trail that extends along the peninsula's coastline. Completing the full route takes about three hours, though you can also choose to walk just a section depending on your time and energy levels. This route is distinguished by its "mountains and sea in one frame" scenery, with reefs and waves on one side and mountains on the other. In winter, the peaks are snow-capped, and you can often capture the snow-capped mountains and the sea in a single view. Numerous information boards are set up along the route, detailing the peninsula's geological formation, Māori history, and early whaling past. The trail is divided into multiple sections, allowing visitors to choose different routes based on their time and energy levels.The trail circles the entire peninsula, offering opportunities to enjoy magnificent sea views and abundant wildlife. Along the way, visitors can spot seals, seabirds, and the occasional dolphin, experiencing a close encounter with nature.New Zealand · Kaikoura
Government Gardens
Government Gardens is a park that combines geothermal landscapes with English-style gardens. This land originally belonged to the local Māori tribe and was formerly known as Paepaekumana. It was once a geothermal area covered in scrub and also holds memories of tribal conflicts. In the late 19th century, the Māori people gifted the land to the government with the intention of "the well-being of all people," after which the scrub was cleared and replaced with neatly trimmed flowers and lawns, gradually transforming into the elegant garden by the lake that it is today. The park has many highlights: the Tudor-style old bathhouse has a magnificent exterior and is one of the most recognizable historical buildings in Rotorua, later converted into the Rotorua Museum; the lakeside is adjacent to the Polynesian Spa; the open lawns feature croquet and lawn bowls, and the rose garden blooms from late spring until early winter. What sets this place apart from other city parks is that geothermal activity is still active within the park—bubbling hot springs and rising white steam are often seen between the lawns and flower beds, where orderly European-style gardening appears alongside the raw geothermal wilderness. Enter the park through the Prince's Gate, which is decorated with Māori wood carvings, and along the way, you can see a monument commemorating the soldiers of the local Te Arawa tribe and various sculptures. Even if you don't go into the museum or soak in the hot springs, just taking a walk along the lake in the garden, watching the blue sky, green grass, and lake scenery is relaxing and enjoyable; if you visit during the blooming season, the rose garden is a perfect backdrop for photos.New Zealand · Rotorua
Point Kean Viewpoint
Point Kean Viewpoint is a coastal rocky area where you can observe wild fur seals without going out to sea. It is home to colonies of New Zealand fur seals, which can be seen lounging on the nearshore rocks year-round, sunbathing, sleeping, or rolling and playing in the tide pools. Visitors can often encounter these adorable marine animals as soon as they step out of their vehicles. The viewpoint is roughly divided into two parts: the side near the trail is where you'll often see large male fur seals, while the rocky platform facing the open sea is the breeding area. Walking up the trail to higher ground offers a panoramic view of the seal colonies and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.New Zealand · Kaikoura
Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is New Zealand's largest lake, located on a volcanic plateau in the central North Island. The upper reaches of the Waikato River (known as the Tongariro (Tongariro) River) enters from the south, and the lake flows from the northeast of the lake through the Waikato River. The lake water covers several craters. There are many geothermal hot springs around the lake, which are either used for recuperation or used to generate electricity. Built the Waikato River Hydroelectric Power Plant.New Zealand · Turangi
Lake Rotorua
There are 16 lakes in the Rotorua area. Lake Rotorua is the largest lake in the area. The city name is also derived from it. The south side of the lake is the urban area. Lake Rotorua is also the third largest lake in New Zealand. About 200,000 years ago, a huge volcanic eruption occurred here. The ground collapsed to form a circular crater with a width of 16 kilometers, which was formed after the rainwater filled the crater. Lake Rotorua. There are countless hot springs in Rotorua. If you take two steps, you will see a mass of heat floating in the air. Sometimes three or two springs are gathered together, and the water mist is like a fairyland. The geothermal city lives up to its name. There is a faint smell of sulfur everywhere. There are geothermal hot springs everywhere, and there are spa pools in the hotel rooms. In this area, the lake is gleaming, seagulls flock together, and the gray-yellow mud of the hot spring is boiling, which has become a tourist attraction. Geothermal activity has continued under and around the lake. Geothermal steam is constantly lingering around the lake, and the water is so high in sulphur that it creates a wonderful greenish-blue color. Walking along the lake shore, you can see the calm lake surrounded by rolling hills, with gentle curves that meet the sky. You can see large groups of black swans swimming gracefully in the lake everywhere, and countless rainbow trout swimming under the vast lake. If you can get up early and go to the lake to watch the sunrise, it is really beautiful. Facing the morning light, blue, red and gold are intertwined and sprinkled on the lake, which is very gorgeous. Accompanied by the shimmering light, various birds such as swans, wild ducks, and seagulls roamed the lake, and the quiet lake swayed in circles of ripples. If you go in winter, you will see a different scene. The grass is covered with frost, and the flowers are white, but the plants near the hot springs are smoky and green, as if a city has two seasons, one is winter and the other is spring. Stepping on the stone steps of the hot spring, holding a cup of water, it is warm and slippery. Rotorua's active volcanoes are very worth seeing. Active volcanic eruptions are staged every morning, which is a spectacle, and you have to be amazed by the power of nature. The volcanic mud is a major feature here. The black mud is bubbling and you can feel the heat just by looking at it. Lake cruises, sailing boats, kayaks, seaplanes, helicopters, jet boats... so many items. You can go on a sightseeing boat trip, or participate in various activities such as fishing trips and water cruises. In the middle of the lake is Mokoia Island, where countless water birds are parked. Once a Maori fortress, there is a great love story in New Zealand. There is a service desk in the park in front of the Novotel, where you can sign up to visit Mocuia. Take a dip in the hot springs at Waikemiah (now known as Heinemoa Springs) while looking out over the still-yet-old beauty of the lake. If you have enough time, a trip to the nearby Maori Cultural Village is also a good choice, just a 5-minute drive from downtown Rotorua. Besides enjoying Maori song and dance performances, Puhutu Geyser is also a spectacle not to be missed.New Zealand · Rotorua
Blue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway
Blue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway is located near Putaruru on the North Island of New Zealand. The spring water here comes from the underground aquifer of the Mamaku Plateau and emerges exceptionally pure after being slowly filtered through volcanic rock layers for decades or even centuries. It is this purity that gives the spring water its almost unreal blue-green color. The pools are over 10 m deep, yet underwater visibility still reaches tens of meters. On sunny days, the water plants, pebbles, and swimming trout are clearly visible, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers. When visiting, you can choose your route based on your fitness level. Starting from the Leslie Road entrance near the spring source, it is an approx. 1 km walk along a flat trail to reach the viewing platform. If you want to walk the entire trail, it is approx. 4.7 km one way, winding along the stream through native bush, wetlands, and pastures, accompanied by birdsong.New Zealand · Putaruru
Huka Falls
Huka Falls is situated on the upper reaches of the Waikato River where it flows out of Lake Taupo. The river, originally wide, is suddenly narrowed by a canyon here, causing the water to build up immense pressure and speed as it surges through the gorge and plunges over the cliff at the end. The rushing water displays a rare light sapphire blue color, contrasting sharply with the churning white foam. Its name means "foam" in Māori. Walking trails and viewing platforms are available on both banks, allowing you to admire this blue-and-white water curtain from different angles. The pedestrian bridge above the water faces the main current directly, making it an ideal spot for a panoramic view and photos. For a closer experience, you can also take a jet boat or sightseeing cruise to the edge of the pool and feel the power of the mist. You can easily access it from the center of Taupo, or walk along the riverbank trail to watch the Waikato River transform from calm to raging, offering visitors a visually striking natural experience.New Zealand · Taupo
New Zealand Parliament Buildings
New Zealand Parliament Buildings are the center of New Zealand's parliamentary and government operations and one of the city's most recognizable architectural complexes. The complex consists of three buildings from different eras and styles standing side by side: the Parliamentary Library, completed in 1899, is in the Gothic Revival style, with elegant pointed arches and detailing; the Parliament House, completed in 1922, is Edwardian Neoclassical, with symmetrical columns and a stately scale; and the Beehive, located right next to it, began construction in 1969 and was completed in the early 1980s, featuring a conical tower that tapers in tiers, earning its name from its resemblance to a traditional woven beehive.New Zealand · Wellington
Experiences you can't miss in Whanganui
Featured Outdoor experiences in Whanganui
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Featured Day tours in Whanganui
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Free things to do in Whanganui
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
New Zealand · RotoruaNorth Island
Desert Road · 90.5km from WhanganuiKaikoura Peninsula Walkway
New Zealand · KaikouraGovernment Gardens
New Zealand · RotoruaPoint Kean Viewpoint
New Zealand · KaikouraLake Taupo
New Zealand · TurangiImmediate access, Book now for todayLake Rotorua
New Zealand · RotoruaBook now for tomorrowBlue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway
New Zealand · PutaruruHuka Falls
New Zealand · TaupoNew Zealand Parliament Buildings
New Zealand · Wellington
What travellers say about Whanganui
宋有熊19 June 2026
5.0
I highly recommend the nighttime treetop walkway in the Rotorua Redwood Forest! When traveling with seniors and children, safety and a great experience are paramount. The park's nighttime lighting and safety measures are exceptional; the suspension bridge has robust safety barriers on both sides, ensuring you won't slip. The combination of modern light art and the ancient redwood forest is simply stunning, both mysterious and dreamlike. My 5-year-old felt like he was on an adventure, and the seniors found the pace slow and comfortable, not tiring at all. It's not just a visual feast, but also a rare opportunity for family relaxation. If you're bringing elders and children to Rotorua, don't miss this nighttime activity—it's absolutely worth the price!
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Ringfile12 July 2026
5.0
The peninsula trails are beautiful. They're only a ten-minute drive from where you've finished whale watching. One trail runs up the mountain, offering panoramic views of the bay; the other is along the beach, leading to Seal Point where you can get up close to groups of baby seals. If you have time, you should definitely explore both; they offer completely different scenery.
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
旅の径21 November 2020
4.0
Government Gardens, located in the center of Rotorua, is the most eye-catching landmark in Rotorua.
Elegant and majestic buildings. Deep in the garden's large lawn is the Rotorua Museum of History and Art. Built in 1908, the building has a pointed roof, red tiles and yellow walls. It is not high and has a wide format. It combines the Tudor architectural style and the Victorian architectural style. The building is very beautiful in architecture. The close-up and long-distance views, left and right shots are all beautiful photos.
Quiet and beautiful garden. The wide lawn is green and surrounded by benches; the quiet garden is full of flowers, and the depths are hidden with exquisite buildings and sculptures. Citizens and tourists, some stroll, some daze, and some check in, are comfortable and comfortable.
Government Gardens
selma19822 September 2023
5.0
It was the first time I saw sea lions gather so close. There were a lot of sea lions on the trail. Generally, humans and sea lions are required to keep a safe distance of two meters. They were still very lazy, lying on the rocks, a little cute and a little bit charming.
Point Kean Viewpoint
张知珩12 November 2020
5.0
Lake Taupo is so big that it looks like a sea. It is a must-see attraction when traveling to the South Island of New Zealand! If you live in the city, you can walk to the lake. There are many sailboats and yachts, and you can play golf directly in the lake. New Zealanders are really good at playing. It is also very comfortable to lie in the green space by the lake and bask in the sun. All hotels are fully booked during the peak travel season, so you must book in advance. There is also a Huka Falls nearby to check in.
Lake Taupo
石之若璞2 October 2021
5.0
Lake Rotorua ~ the largest lake in New Zealand ~ is a volcanic lake formed after a volcanic eruption ~ there is a small island in the center of the lake ~ at first glance, it is often mistaken for the sea ~ black swans and black ducks are swimming leisurely ~ seaplanes, yachts, kayaks, local people's water leisure activities are indispensable ~
Lake Rotorua
🎀彡🐾12 May 2020
5.0
Motorola's Blue Spring is definitely a breathtakingly beautiful place. There is a winding spring here that is sky blue and very clear. The water plants under the spring float with the flow of the stream, as if you have come to a fairyland. It is really intoxicating.
Blue Spring / Te Waihou Walkway
Bobo06924 December 2023
5.0
This is such a feast to eyes! This is an extremely beautiful waterfall. This stunning beautiful body of water is one of the loveliest spot Taupo has to offer.
Huka Falls
AROUND THAILAND3 June 2021
5.0
The Thai Parliament is in Samsen
Just here, along the river, you can get there
The view is beautiful, the wind is cool, it's worth thinking about
I still miss the Star of the Parliament, what a pity
New Zealand Parliament Buildings
