5 Best Things to Do in Shannon

1. Visit the Historic Shannon Railway Station

Step back in time at the Shannon Railway Station, a beautifully preserved Vogel Class 4 timber station nestled in the scenic gardens of Te Marie Park.

Originally constructed in 1886 by the Wellington & Manawatu Railway Company and rebuilt in 1893, it’s one of the few remaining stations of its kind in New Zealand.

Today, this historic gem houses a small but captivating community-run museum and visitor centre, open daily from 10 am to 3 pm.

From vintage memorabilia to stories of bygone eras, the displays bring local history vividly to life. Pop in for a chat, a cuppa, and to experience a slice of New Zealand’s railway heritage.

The station continues to serve as a stop for the Palmerston North – Wellington commuter train, mixing its historic charm with modern functionality.

Location: State Highway 57, Shannon Town Centre.

© Michal Klajban on Wikipedia

2. Walk the Mangahao Makahika Track

Part of the iconic Te Araroa Trail (a trail that goes through the entire length of New Zealand), the Mangahao Makahika Track is a challenging 15 km (9 mi) one-way trail connecting Shannon to Levin.

This advanced tramping trail takes you through the wilderness of the Tararua Forest Park, offering a true dose of New Zealand’s rugged landscape.

The track takes roughly 6-7 hours heading south or 7-8 hours going north, making it a full day’s adventure.

Location: The easiest side to start on is from the Shannon side on Mangahao Road, past the Arapeti Dam.

© Vanderplacenta on Wikipedia

3. Hike the Burtton’s Track

This fascinating 17.5 km (10.9 mi) hiking trail winds through the Tararua Forest Park, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and pioneering history. The track follows an old bridle trail built by James Burtton, a 19th-century settler, and takes about 6-7 hours to complete one way.

As you traverse through regenerating native bush and cross rivers, you’ll stumble upon remnants of Burtton’s homestead and his overgrown grave site, poignant reminders of the region’s past.

Location: Starting from Shannon, the track is at the junction of Mangahao & Tokomaru Valley Roads.

© NZPocketGuide.com

4. Play a Round of Golf

Have a great day out in the outdoors at Shannon Golf Club or Buckley Golf Club!

Shannon Golf Club offers a par-72, 18-hole layout with open fairways framed by farmland and native shelter belts. It’s welcoming for beginners yet challenging enough for seasoned players.

At Buckley Golf Club, enjoy a wonderfully undulating 16-hole course (with two alternate tees) amid meandering creeks and the picturesque backdrop of the Tararua Ranges.It’s a steal at around NZ$10 for nine holes and NZ$15 for eighteen at Buckley, with juniors playing absolutely free!

Both clubs offer a relaxed vibe, affordable green fees, and true country hospitality.

For more golf courses worth playing at, see 20 Best Golf Courses in New Zealand.

Location: Engles Road.

© Pexels

5. Explore Mangaore Reserve and Mangahao Whitewater Park

For a mix of nature and adventure, head to Mangaore Reserve, a scenic parkland just 10 minutes from Shannon.

Set beneath the Mangahao Power Station, the oldest hydroelectric station still operating in New Zealand, it’s a peaceful spot with picnic tables, grassy fields and access to native bush walks.

It’s also the gateway to the Mangahao-Makahika and Burtton’s Tracks, making it a natural starting point for longer adventures.

But what really makes it stand out is the Mangahao Whitewater Park, New Zealand’s first artificial whitewater course. Built in the tailrace of the power station, it attracts kayakers from around the country who come to practice slalom racing or simply enjoy the thrill of paddling through controlled rapids.

Even if you’re not getting in the water, it’s a fascinating place to watch skilled paddlers tackle the course.

Location: Mangahao Road.

© Roya Ann Miller - Unsplash