10 Best Things to Do in Levin

1. Relax by Lake Horowhenua

Lake Horowhenua (Punahau) is a peaceful aeolian lake nestled in Muaūpoko Park, just a short 5-minute drive from Levin.

This 3.9 km² (1.5 mi²) lake offers a serene escape where you can unwind along its edge, soak up some sun, or enjoy a picnic with the nearby playground and facilities.

It’s a great spot for birdwatching too; keep your eyes peeled for waterfowl and native species. The gentle ripples of water and rustle of reeds create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

Historically, the lake’s wetlands were much more extensive. There’s ongoing work with the Muaūpoko iwi and the Horowhenua Lake Trust to restore its natural health and cultural vitality.

Location: End of Queen St West.

© Rudolph89 on Wikipedia

2. Walk at Lake Waiwiri/Lake Papaitonga

Lake Waiwiri (otherwise known as Lake Papaitonga) is an important wetland habitat for native wildlife. The best way to experience the reserve is along the two walking tracks.

There’s a 10-minute one-way track taking you to a picnic area and lookout, as well as 20-minute loop track (a side track of the first one) giving you more perspectives of the lake.

Location: 5 km (3 mi) southwest of Levin. The track starts at the end of Buller Road.

© Pseudopanax at English Wikipedia

3. Taste Wines at the Ohau Winery

In New Zealand’s newest wine region, Ohau Wines is a great place to experience the unique characteristics of the wines in the Levin area.

As one of the country’s southernmost vineyards, it’s nestled near the Ōhau River, where sandy soils and coastal breezes create a perfect microclimate for vibrant wines.

The cellar door is open for tastings from Monday to Friday and also on weekends from September to March.

We personally love sampling their Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris, often guided by friendly staff who are passionate about sharing their winemaking knowledge. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon, pairing crisp, aromatic wines with good company and a slice of Horowhenua’s rural charm.

Location: 6 Bishops Road, Ohau. 6 km (3.7 mi) south of Levin.

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4. Watch a Movie at a Boutique Cinema

Enjoy a cosy night out at the Focal Point Cinema! This boutique theatre combines the charm of a classic movie experience with the warmth of a local café-bar.

Sink into plush seating in intimate screening rooms as you watch the latest blockbusters, indie gems, or special event screenings. But it’s not just about the films, indulge in tasty meals, share platters, coffee, craft beer or even cocktails from their menu.

Many locals stop by just for the café’s relaxed vibe and friendly service. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back evening in Levin, whether you’re catching a flick or just enjoying the atmosphere.

Location: 14-16 Salisbury Street.

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5. Hike to the Waiopehu Hut

The majestic landscape of the Tararua Forest Park is right on Levin’s doorstep, so if you love the outdoors, don’t miss this area!

A great hike to do is the 4-5 hour one-way hike to the Waiopehu Hut for some amazing views at 800 m (2,625 ft) high!

On clear days, you’ll get panoramic views of the Kapiti Coast, Mt Taranaki and even toward Mt Ruapehu.

For more awesome walks in the area, take a look at 30 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North.

Location: Start the walk at the end of Gladstone Road.

© Michal Klajban on Wikipedia

6. Walk or Bike the Kohitere Trig

This is the best downhill mountain biking spot in Levin so isn’t to be missed if you want to get some downhill thrills!

Enjoy several intermediate to advanced mountain bike tracks through exotic forest.

Alternatively, walk from the car park for about 30 minutes to the top of the trig where you’ll be rewarded with views of the Kapiti Coast, Central North Island volcanoes and more!

Find out more about mountain biking in New Zealand in our guide.

Location: Denton Road.

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7. Visit the Murrayfield Museum & Cafe

One venue with so much to offer is the Murrayfield Museum & Café. Step back in time at this beautifully restored building showcasing rural heritage with collections of antiques, farming tools and memorabilia from the Horowhenua district.

After exploring the exhibits, settle in at the café for homemade baking, hearty meals and good coffee. The gorgeous setting overlooking rolling farmland beneath the Tararua Ranges provides great photo opportunities.

We can’t get enough of the cosy country vibe and welcoming atmosphere, often with farm animals grazing nearby. It’s a delightful taste of local history that gives you a sense of how the region’s early settlers lived and worked.

Location: Corner of Potts Road & State Highway 7.

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8. Take a Trip to Waitarere Beach

Just a 15-minute drive from Levin is Waitarere Beach, the ultimate coastal escape. This wide sandy beach stretches for miles, perfect for swimming, fishing, leisurely strolls or simply relaxing with a picnic.

Pick up an ice cream from the local Four Square or have some fish and chips from the Sail On Inn for a classic Kiwi day at the beach.

It’s also a popular spot for four-wheel driving along the sand, and you’ll often see locals on horseback or families enjoying beach cricket.

According to our very own editor-in-chief, Laura, the sunsets here are particularly stunning, with the silhouette of Kapiti Island in the distance.

Location: Waitarere Beach Road, just off State Highway 1, 15 km (9 mi) northwest of Levin.

© Kylie & Rob (and Helen) on Flickr

9. Do a Tasting at the Celtic Organic Winery

It’s wine but not as you would expect it in New Zealand! Just a short drive from Levin, nestled on the shores of Lake Horowhenua, the Celtic Organic Winery offers a delightfully different wine-tasting experience.

What sets it apart? They craft handmade fruit wines using traditional Celtic methods that rely on natural maturation, gravity bottling, and zero preservatives or additives.

Try their unique offerings like black doris plum wine, feijoa wine, green ginger wine and even mead! It’s best to call ahead for tastings at their cellar door.

Location: 324 Hokio Beach Road.

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10. Visit the Thompson House & Gardens

Levin’s answer to the town’s botanical gardens is the historic Thompson House and Gardens. This gracious 1920s homestead sits amid Green Flag–awarded gardens that flourish year-round.

While it’s not a walk-in attraction, the house and grounds can be enjoyed during public events like art exhibits, market days, workshops, and community gatherings.

We personally love the seasonal displays and find it’s a nice place for a stroll, to take some great photos, or relax with a book.

You can continue your garden exploration to the Remembrance Park right next door.

Location: 4 Kent Street.

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