Top 5 Things to Do in Whanganui

Whanganui is a city that blends history, creativity and adventure. Sitting proudly on the banks of the Whanganui River, this riverside hub has long been a meeting place for trade, culture and connection. Today it continues to welcome travellers with open arms, offering everything from heritage experiences to contemporary art and outdoor escapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more deeply, these Top 5 Things to Do in Whanganui will give you a true sense of the city’s character.

Quick Facts About Whanganui

• Location: West Coast of Aotearoa’s North Island
• Known for: Whanganui River, art scene, heritage architecture
• Population: ~48,000
• Vibe: Historic, creative, riverside charm

🚤 Cruise the Waimarie Paddle Steamer

The Waimarie Paddle Steamer is more than just a boat ride – it’s a step back in time. This lovingly restored vessel is the last coal-fired paddle steamer in Aotearoa – New Zealand, and it once carried mail, supplies and passengers along the Whanganui River. Today, you can climb aboard, listen to the hiss of steam and the splash of the paddles, and imagine life on the river more than a century ago. As you cruise, you’ll hear stories that bring the river’s history to life while enjoying views of rolling farmland and bush-clad banks. It’s one of the most iconic experiences in Whanganui.

🌿 Walk Around Virginia Lake

At the heart of Whanganui’s green spaces lies Virginia Lake, a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. The gentle loop walk takes about 30 minutes, winding past ornamental gardens, fountains and sculptures. You’ll spot native and exotic birds, colourful flower displays, and tranquil corners that invite you to sit and reflect. Families love the playground and picnic areas, while walkers and joggers enjoy the fresh air and lakeside scenery. No matter the season, Virginia Lake captures the relaxed outdoor spirit of Whanganui.

🔥 Try Your Hand at Glass Blowing

Whanganui has earned a reputation as one of Aotearoa’s leading glass art centres. The city is dotted with studios and galleries where you can watch artists transform glowing molten glass into shimmering vessels, jewellery and art pieces. For those seeking a hands-on adventure, some studios let you try the process yourself – feeling the heat of the furnace, shaping the glass and creating your own small masterpiece to take home. It’s a chance to connect with Whanganui’s thriving creative community and to experience a craft that defines the city’s modern identity.

🗼 Durie Hill Elevator and Memorial Tower – Whanganui From Above

The Durie Hill Elevator is a quirky piece of engineering history and still one of the best ways to reach sweeping views of the city. Built in 1919, it remains the only public underground elevator in the Southern Hemisphere. Step inside the wooden carriage, ride up through the hillside, and emerge at the top to find the Memorial Tower. A short climb takes you above the treetops, where Whanganui stretches out below and Mount Ruapehu sits on the horizon. This experience combines heritage charm with unbeatable panoramas – the perfect way to see Whanganui from a new perspective.

🎨 Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua – A Hub for Art Lovers

Perched on Pukenamu Queen’s Park, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is one of Aotearoa’s most significant art institutions. Its striking heritage architecture houses a collection of over 8,000 works, spanning centuries of art history. Alongside the classics, the gallery is known for bold contemporary exhibitions that celebrate Māori and Pacific artists, as well as international shows that broaden horizons. Walking through its halls, you’ll find inspiration, reflection and a deep sense of how art shapes identity. For anyone with a love of creativity, the Sarjeant Gallery is an essential stop in Whanganui.

Final Thoughts

These Top 5 Things to Do in Whanganui only scratch the surface of what this riverside city has to offer. Beyond its art, heritage and river adventures, Whanganui is known for its wild West Coast beaches – perfect for windswept walks and dramatic sunsets. On Saturdays, the Whanganui River Markets come alive with stalls selling fresh produce, local crafts and tasty kai, making them one of the best weekend markets in Aotearoa – New Zealand.

Whanganui also has a strong calendar of events that draw visitors year after year. The Annual Cemetery Circuit is a world-famous motorcycle street race held every Boxing Day, where riders from across the globe race through Whanganui’s central streets in a thrilling display of speed and skill. Another highlight is the Vintage Weekend, a celebration of retro style that takes over the city each January with parades, music, markets and classic cars.

Whether you’re exploring the river, climbing towers, wandering through galleries or joining the buzz of a festival, Whanganui blends heritage, creativity and adventure in a way that leaves lasting memories.