1. Enjoy a Performance at the Whanganui Opera House
The Whanganui Opera House is a beautiful historic building located in the heart of the city of Whanganui, New Zealand. Built in 1912, the building is a stunning example of Edwardian architecture, with its ornate plasterwork, marble staircase, and stained glass windows. The Opera House hosts a wide variety of performances, from musicals and plays to classical music and dance. It’s a great place to enjoy a night of entertainment and culture.
2. Take a Tour of the Building
The Whanganui Opera House offers guided tours of the building, giving visitors the chance to explore the grand interior and learn more about its history. During the tour, you can take in the beautiful interiors, learn about the architecture, and discover the stories of the people who have worked and performed here.
3. Visit the Whanganui Regional Museum
The Whanganui Regional Museum is located next to the Opera House, and it’s a great place to explore the history and culture of the region. The museum has a range of exhibits and displays, including the history of the Maori people, the history of the Whanganui River, and the history of the city.
4. Take a River Cruise
The Whanganui River is one of the longest navigable rivers in New Zealand, and it’s a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. There are a number of river cruises available, ranging from short trips around the city to longer trips up the river. The cruises offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings, and you can learn more about the history and culture of the area from the onboard guides.
5. Explore the City’s Parks and Gardens
Whanganui is home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, and they’re a great place to spend an afternoon. Queen’s Park is one of the most popular parks in the city, and it’s home to a range of attractions, including a lake, a children’s playground, and a rose garden. There are also a number of smaller parks located around the city, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
6. Visit the Sarjeant Gallery
The Sarjeant Gallery is a stunning art gallery located in the city centre. The gallery houses a range of artworks, from traditional Maori art to modern and contemporary pieces. It’s a great place to explore the city’s art and culture, and there are also regular exhibitions and events held at the gallery.
7. Take a Trip to the Beach
Whanganui is located on the North Island’s west coast, and there are a number of beautiful beaches located nearby. Castlecliff Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, and there are also a few cafes and restaurants located nearby.
8. Visit the Whanganui National Park
The Whanganui National Park is located just outside of the city, and it’s a great place to explore the region’s natural beauty. The park is home to a range of wildlife, including birds, lizards, and bats, as well as a number of walking trails. You can also take a boat trip up the Whanganui River, and there are a number of camping and picnic areas located throughout the park.
9. Enjoy a Day at the Races
The Whanganui Racecourse is located just outside of the city, and it’s a great place to enjoy a day at the races. The course hosts a range of events throughout the year, from horse racing and greyhound racing to trotting and harness racing. It’s a great place to enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and excitement.
10. Experience the Local Cuisine
Whanganui is home to a range of great restaurants, cafes, and bars, and they’re a great place to sample the local cuisine. There are a number of traditional dishes to try, including fish and chips, steak and kidney pie, and the famous ‘Whanganui Burger’. There are also a number of international restaurants located in the city, offering everything from Italian to Japanese cuisine.