Various around Palmerston North City

One of New Zealand’s largest provincial cities, Palmerston North has a lot to see and do if you are just in town for a few days.  Call in at the three-in-one Te Aweawe complex, which incorporates the Science Centre & Manawatu Museum and the Manawatu Art Gallery.  The Turitea campus of Massey University in Palmerston North is also worth a visit to see the stunning gardens and to take a stroll on one of the many walkways.
Palmerston North has an attractive historic heart which you can explore from the beautiful inner city park – The Square.  Here you’ll discover historic buildings (many of the original stores built in the 1920s and 1930s have been restored and now function as boutiques, bars, cafes and restaurants.  There are all kinds of shops, the city’s library, museums, art galleries and i-site Palmerston North Visitor Centre.  Rose gardens and museums should also be on your list of things to see.
Even in wet weather there are plenty of things to see and do.  Ideas include Te Manawa – science centre, museum and art gallery; The New Zealand Rugby Museum, Daytona Indoor Raceway, Leisureplex, The Lido Aquatic Centre, Bowlarama, and City Rock Indoor Climbing Gym to name a few.

Palmerston North to Wellington

Your journey south first takes you to Shannon – pause here to enjoy the owl sanctuary.
The town of Levin is next, the largest town in the Horowhenua district – it has a thriving clothing industry and is a great place to enjoy some cheap clothes shopping at the large variety of factory shops. Two beautiful dune lakes are an easy detour from here.
Offshore from Waikanae is Kapiti Island, a nature reserve for close encounters with rare birds. The Kapiti Coast offers much for the recreational walker and trampers.  Ride a horse along the beach, white water canoe, take a scenic flight or just relax with a picnic.  A car museum and gourmet cheese factory are other attractions in this area.
The tranquil drive through the Wairarapa prepares you for the fun of Wellington.  Wellington is compact, cultured and full of character. Nestled between the harbour and the hills, the downtown area is ideal for explorations on foot. Enjoy cafes, restaurants, museums and all kinds of shops. Dance, theatre and musical performances are a Wellington specialty.