DISCOVER THE BEST OF MANAWATU-WANGANUI
Manawatu-Wanganui is one of the most important agricultural and pastoral regions in New Zealand. The land is rich and fertile and is occupied by thousands of farm-steads. This status was recognised when the government opened the Massey Agricultural College in the 1920s. The Wanganui District, one of New Zealand’s oldest settled lands, is fairly rugged, with canyon valleys and gorges carved out of the soft rock by rivers and ocean waves, whereas the Manawatu District has a much gentler topography, consisting mainly of the flat, tree covered Manawatu Plains that run between the ranges and the sea.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE REGION
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City life does not dominate here, given that half of the population lives outside Wanganui and Palmerston North, the two main urban areas, mostly in small rural towns and settlements. This makes this region all the better to delve deep into the wilderness and absorb the spectacular views on offer, with its many outstanding national parks and mountain ranges. However, in the vibrant student city of Palmerston North you can explore the world’s first museum devoted to rugby as well as beautiful public gardens including one of the world’s top rose gardens, for example, alongside all the usual excellent amenities of urban life that New Zealand has to offer. Wanganui is also renowned for its passionate arts community.