 For those who enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of
parks and gardens - this is the place to be. The Manawatu
Riverside Walkway and Bridle Track extends for 10km along the
banks of the Manawatu River and the picturesque Esplanade is a
superb park stretching along its shores only a few blocks south
of the Square. Cross Hill Gardens is a 45-minute drive north of
the city, but well worth the trip if your passion is
rhododendrons and azaleas! Being in bloom from September through
to April, these gardens represent the country’s largest and
most varied collection and also includes lillies, hostas, dahlias
and hydrangeas. Herb farms abound, with several offering tours
and hands-on demonstrations of harvesting and the distilling of
essential oils. These are unique attractions where you can enjoy
a sensory experience, see and walk around natural themed gardens,
taste delicious food and relax in delightfully scented
sanctuaries.
 As with other great New Zealand adventure
destinations, this region hosts exciting jet boat tours in the
shallow waters and rapids of the scenic Ruamahanga and
spectacular Manawatu rivers. Horse trekking, bridge swinging,
abseiling, drift and white water rafting, and kayaking are
available in this incredibly scenic area that still remains
relatively unspoilt by over-commercialism. Stockcar and Formula
Ford racing features as an alternative thrill seeking adventure,
and greyhound racing provides something a little different to the
trots! For a complete contrast and breakaway from the norm, one
could try their hand at indoor rock-climbing, aerobatic flying,
scenic helicopter flights, mountain biking, 4WD safaris, or view
the largest wind farm in the Southern Hemisphere up close on 4x4
quad bikes! For a more relaxed outdoor experience, the Manawatu
also offers superb tramping country - or take the time to enjoy
the solitude of fly-fishing for some of the world's fattest trout
that reside in its rivers.
 Being a university town there is a great
selection of cafes, bars and restaurants catering for both the
student pallet (and purse) and that of business travellers who
visit the city in droves. Theatre and live music performances are
staged in various venues around town, and popular student pubs
come to life during the year providing raucous entertainment.
Most visitors to Palmerston North call for business reasons and
there are several very good hotels catering for their needs. With
the diversity of experience it has to offer, Manawatu is the
destination of choice for a wide range of national and
international conferences. Budget accommodation exists in the
form of camping grounds and hostels, and very pleasant Bed and
Breakfast guesthouses abound, including quaint farm stays in the
rural surrounds. All in all, Palmerston North is a very beautiful
city blessed with its campus culture and unpretentious lifestyle
- why not check it out!
|
