In between the orienteering and socialising, there are heaps of tourist and cultural activities to enjoy and cool corners of Aotearoa to discover. We’ve split up our recommendations roughly by the areas you’ll be staying or passing through.
And if you’re a local, why not send in your top tips for visitors?
The Oceania 2025 events are all within about an hour’s drive of Palmerston North, making it a good place to base yourself. We’ve got some great suggestions for things to do in Palmy itself, and also in the wider Manawatū area including the Horowhenua.
The Wildbase wildlife recovery centre is free and open to visitors. You might see some interesting native patients such as kākāriki, tuatara, blue duck, kererū or kākā. Wildbase is in Victoria Esplanade, a riverbank park with formal gardens, and for kids (young and old) there are walking tracks, playgrounds and even a miniature railway.
He Ara Kotahi bridge
Food and drink
If you’re looking for somewhere to eat or drink, Brew Union brew their own beer and make great pizza, Arranged Marriage serves excellent Kerala cuisine, and there are loads more options to choose from in the city. Nearer the events, the windmill in Foxton sells Dutch goodies and Cafe de Molen is right next door – you can combine this with a visit to Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom to learn about Māori and Dutch history in the Horowhenua. And if you prefer your liquorice in quantity, the RJ’s factory shop in Levin is a local secret worth knowing.
A little further south, try a glass of wine at the Ōhau winery, or an organic fruit wine from the nearby Celtic Winery on Lake Horowhenua.
Walks and hikes
An hour’s drive north-east of Palmerston North, you can find the Limestone Creek glow worm caves near Āpiti. A short but physical walk (you will get wet feet) leads you into the caves to see colourful rocks and mosses.
If you have more time, the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges offer day walks and multi-day tramps for a wide range of abilities. If you’re planning on overnighting, be aware that many Department of Conservation (DOC) huts are basic: You’ll usually find a long drop toilet, water, mattresses and sometimes a heating source, but you’ll need to carry everything else with you.
Why not try a hike to Waiopehu Hut – it’s around 4-5 hours from the nearest road end, and offers amazing views. Don’t forget your hut tickets before you go!
For something a bit less strenuous, you can walk south from Himatangi to Foxton Beach at low tide. It’s just over 9km and you’ll have the chance to see all sorts of wildlife. Climb a sand dune and most days you’ll be able to see Kāpiti Island and, if you’re lucky, all the way to the South Island and north to Mount Taranaki.
Find more suggestions at Manawatū NZ.
Two wheels
For mountain bikers, the Arapuke Forest Mountain Bike Park comes recommended by our local MTB community, offering easy to advanced downhill trails to tackle.
If you prefer road cycling, check out the Manawatū Scenic Route between Mangaweka (on State Highway 1) and Palmerston North. This also passes through Āpiti, close to the glow-worm caves, and the Āpiti Tavern comes with local recommendations.
To plan more rides, try the Waka Kotahi cycling network map, and maybe stop off for a coffee at the Cyclista Espresso Bar & Roastery in Palmy, with decor inspired by many Kiwis’ passion for cycling.