6 Luxury Activities in Palmerston North

1. Experience Sublime Scenery on a Horse Trek at Makoura Lodge

Palmerston North is surrounded by rolling farmland and backcountry stations making it an ideal place to experience Kiwi country life. One of the most premium ways to immerse in it all is with Makoura Lodge.

Not only does the luxury lodge offer accommodation and a wedding venue on the edge of the Ruahine Ranges, but they are renowned locally for their horse treks. Ride to the views of the Ruahine valleys, across working farmland and discover varied landscapes, from native bush to waterfalls.

You’ll have the opportunity to do a river crossing, as well as ride alongside small-yet-picturesque lakes. Treks are suitable for all riding abilities, even beginners.

See how the ride compares in the 10 Awesome Horse Treks in New Zealand.

Location: 736 Makoura Road, Feilding, approximately 69 km (43 mi) from Palmerston North city centre.

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2. Tee Off at Palmerston North’s Premium Golf Courses

Experience the country’s most popular sport in the place where it all began in New Zealand. The Manawatu Golf Club is the oldest golf course in New Zealand, making it a great place to start when experiencing Palmerston North’s golf courses.

The Orlando Country Golf Club is Palmerston North’s premier golf course. You’ll also find the picturesque Feilding Golf Club alongside the Manawatu River just outside of the city, while the Palmerston North Golf Club offers a more casual experience close to the city centre.

See how the courses compare in the 20 Best Golf Courses in New Zealand.

Location: Manawatu Golf Club – 19 Centennial Drive. Orlando Country Golf Club – 748 Rangitikei Line. Feilding Golf Club – 1487 Waughs Road, Aorangi. Palmerston North Golf Club – 100 Brightwater Terrace.

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3. Do Some Boutique Shopping

Palmerston North is, after all, one of New Zealand’s main cities. With that, it’s a top destination for some retail therapy offering a large shopping mall, as well as an array of boutique stores hidden in and around the city.

If you’re in town, don’t miss George Street and Coleman Mall boasting eateries and boutiques, such as Urban Charm, Trumps, KILT and Posh – just to name a few.

Outside of the city, seek out the hidden gems like Design and Desire at Caroline’s Garden with home decorating pieces to sweep you off your feet, and Hansen’s Cafe & Store in Kimbolton stocking local handmade products, from soaps to upcycled collectables.

Location: George Street, Palmerston North city centre. Design and Desire – 613 Fitzherbert East Road, approximately 13 km (8 mi) from Palmerston North city centre. Hansen’s Cafe & Store – 2900 Kimbolton Road, approximately 45 km (28 mi) from Palmerston North city centre.

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4. Tackle Unique Beach Sports at Foxton Beach

Palmerston North is a city also just 30 minutes drive from the sea, with stunning beaches to check out and premium beach activities to be experienced.

Foxton Jet Ski (or Wake.X) offers jet ski hire and tours at Foxton Beach, their most popular being the “Tour de River”. Hop on one of their “Sea-Doo SPARK” jet skis and join your guide for a thrilling journey of discovery where the Manawatu River meets the Tasman Sea.

Location: Foxton Jet Ski – Manawatu Marine Boating Club, 50 Hartley Street, approximately 45 km (28 mi) from Palmerston North city.

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5. Indulge in a Luxury Spa Day

Your time in Palmerston North doesn’t have to be all go, go, go. Enjoy some downtime at one of the city’s luxury spas.

One of your most premium options is the day spa at the Hiwinui Country Estate, a short drive from the city. The spa offers an extensive menu, including facials, massages, body treatments, hand and foot care, as well as men’s treatments. All of these can be enjoyed in treatment rooms which open up onto a deck with commanding views of the countryside.

Other spas in Palmerston North include Pania Ryan Beauty Retreat, Bella Vita Day Spa, Juno Beauty Day Spa and Skin Therapy Day Spa.

Location: Hiwinui Country Estate – 465 Ashhurst Road, 12 km (7 mi) from Palmerston North. Pania Ryan Beauty Retreat – 50 Grey Street. Bella Vita Day Spa – 508 Ferguson Street. Juno Beauty Day Spa – 194 Ruapehu Drive, 5 km (3 mi) from Palmerston North. Skin Therapy Day Spa – 625 Main Street.

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6. Treat Yourself at One of Palmerston North’s Fine Dining Restaurants

Nothing completes a day of exploring an exciting new destination quite like an exquisite local dining experience. Palmerston North is a real foodie hub – just take a look at our The Foodie Guide to Palmerston North!

For a dine-in experience for a special occasion, or just to experience something more premium, book a table at restaurants such as Nero Restaurant for their contemporary New Zealand cuisine.

Another must is Amayjen, the flagship of award-winning Chef Andrew May. It’s known for its artfully seasonal menu, impeccable European-inspired presentations, and a wine list designed to elevate each course

Palmerston North also features a premium Japanese eateries for fine dining, including Haru Japanese Restaurant.

Location: Nero Restaurant – 36 Amesbury Street. Haru Japanese Restaurant – 19 Broadway Avenue. Amayjen – 17 Victoria Avenue. 

© ManawatuNZ.co.nz