Located on the West Coast of New Zealand’s North Island and home to approximately 50,000 people, Whanganui is only a two and a half hour drive north from New Zealand’s capital city Wellington, an hour and a half from Mount Ruapehu and Mount Tongariro or an hour’s flight from Auckland.
The city embraces the banks of the historically significant Te Awa o Whanganui – the Whanganui River. The river has shaped the history and culture of the region and its people. Take in a panoramic view from Durie Hill with a vista that encompasses Mt. Ruapehu and Mt. Taranaki and you will experience just a slice of Whanganui’s beauty. Our abundance of walkways, cycleways, peaks and scenic reserves offer the perfect escape. What better place to create the perfect mindset for your event attendees?
Purpose-built venues, a unique location and cost-effective options mean Whanganui is all you need (and then some) for your next conference or meeting. Immerse yourself in an atmosphere like no other in our compact CBD, where everything is within close reach. Our venues, including the Royal Whanganui Opera House, Cooks Gardens and the War Memorial Centre, can cater all the way up to events for 1,200 people and successfully hosted the Labour Party Conference in 2019.
Experienced in hosting visitors from all over the world, accommodation options are plentiful. Charming motels and hotels, B&B’s and shared accommodation alternatives can be arranged to suit the specific needs of any event. Personal assistance and Whanganui’s legendary manaakitanga (hospitality) will ensure an excellent stay.
Whanganui houses an array of eclectic galleries of an international standard, including the renowned Sarjeant Gallery – Te Whare O Rehua, and the country’s only Glass school, New Zealand Glassworks – Te Whare Tūhua o Te Ao. Workshops and glass-blowing workshops can be arranged.
Experiencing the river is a must on a visit to our city. Take a trip on the water with one of our historic riverboats, the Paddle Steamer Waimarie or the M.V Wairua. Those taking in Whanganui over a weekend can also enjoy the colourful River Traders Market.
Experience the amazing street art of Whanganui Walls while enjoying the relaxed cafes and dining experiences that intersperse the CBD.
Whanganui’s legendary manaakitanga (hospitality and kindness) will ensure an excellent stay.