But this city isn’t just for foodies, it’s also the perfect base for adventure. Explore the iconic Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge, with its deep cultural stories and breathtaking views, or ride the adrenaline-fuelled trails of Arapuke Mountain Bike Park. For those who love to roam, the nearby Ruahine Ranges offer rugged beauty, alpine air, and endless tramping opportunities.
For petrol-fuelled adrenaline, don’t forget Robertson Holden International Speedway, which holds an exciting calendar of national and internationals competitions from October through to May.
Right in the city, Victoria Esplanade is a favourite for families and nature-lovers alike - home to lush gardens, walking tracks, a miniature railway, and Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery, a world-class native wildlife recovery centre where you can get up close to some of Aotearoa’s native species. Just beyond stretches the expansive network of riverside paths along the Manawatū River, a mecca for walkers, cyclists and runners looking to connect with nature and cultural history right in the heart of the city.
Palmerston North is also a city that celebrates creativity. It’s home to a dynamic arts scene, with public art tucked around every corner and a full calendar of live performance, theatre, and exhibitions. Te Manawa - the city’s Museum of Art, Science and Heritage - brings culture and curiosity together with exhibitions that inspire, educate and challenge. And for sports fans and history buffs, the New Zealand Rugby Museum, housed within Te Manawa, offers a unique window into the nation’s game - and its connection to our collective identity.
So, whether you’re here to refuel, recharge, or roam - Palmerston North delivers the best of city and country, all in one unforgettable place.