Whanganui

Parks and Nature in Whanganui District

Whanganui's natural landscape spans from the historic Pākaitore (Moutoa Gardens) in the city center to the rugged waterfalls of the interior. The district features the Bason Botanic Gardens’ diverse plant collections and the coastal recreation areas of Castlecliff Beach. Inland, State Highway 4 and the Whanganui River Road provide access to the broad Raukawa Falls and the quiet dune lakes of Wiritoa and Pauri, offering a mix of manicured gardens and wild river-fed scenery.

Frank J Denton / pd

Moutoa Gardens

Moutoa Gardens, also known as Pākaitore, is a park in the city of Whanganui, New Zealand.

Bason Botanic Gardens

A 25-hectare garden featuring six distinct areas, including a Mediterranean garden, orchid and begonia conservatories, and a significant camellia collection.

Cooks Gardens

Cooks Gardens is a multi-purpose stadium in Wanganui, New Zealand. It is currently used mostly for rugby union matches, athletics and…

Raukawa Falls

A wide, curtain-style waterfall on the Mangawhero River, visible from a dedicated lookout point along State Highway 4.

Lake Wiritoa

A large dune lake south of the city used for swimming, kayaking, and water skiing. It is part of a larger wetland system including nearby Lake Pauri.

Castlecliff Beach Domain

A coastal recreation area featuring a playground, skate park, and access to the Tasman Sea's black sand coastline near the Whanganui River mouth.

Kourariki Falls

A multi-tiered waterfall located near the Whanganui River Road, accessible via a short walking track through native bush.

Rereaheihei Falls

A waterfall located in the Whanganui River valley, accessible via the same trail network as the nearby Kourariki Falls.

Lake Pauri

A tranquil dune lake located adjacent to Lake Wiritoa, primarily used for rowing and nature walks within the regional lake complex.

Otamatea Reserve

An urban green space featuring established walking tracks, a dedicated dog exercise area, and native tree plantings.

Other Lists

Whanganui District Essentials Heritage and Viewpoints