Enjoy Manawatu on a Budget
Fancy a healthy mix of forests, farms and small Kiwi towns? Then Manawatu is your place! The North Island region has many features well worth exploring. Better yet, we can think of many which are free (or cheap) things to do in Manawatu!
Inland, adventure can be found among the many hiking trails of the Ruahine Forest Park. Alternatively, find somewhere to chill out and be one with nature in the Totara Reserve campsites, Raumai Reserve and anywhere in the scenic Pohangina Valley.
You’ll also find a few novelties along the way like getting up close to the giant wind turbines of Te Apiti or exploring the glowworm cave near Apiti village.
Speaking of villages, make sure you spend some time in the classic Kiwi settlements from the quirky town of Bulls, where many of the buildings contain a witty bull pun, to the town that has been voted New Zealand’s most beautiful town more than 10 times!
By the way, if you are looking for things to do inside the city of Manawatu, take a look at 15 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Palmerston North.
Table of Contents
1. Hike the Manawatu Gorge – FREE
Lace up your boots for an iconic natural adventure along the Manawatu Gorge Track (also known as Te Āpiti). This dramatic 10-11 km (6-7 mi) trek winds through lush native bush, offering impressive views of the iconic windfarm, meandering river and tranquil valley below.
The journey takes 3-5 hours, rewarding hikers with five scenic viewpoints along the way.
Keep an eye out for the striking 6 m (19 ft 8 in) steel sculpture of Māori explorer Whātonga standing sentinel in the forest, an unexpected cultural gem amidst the greenery.
We have a whole section dedicated to the Manawatu Gorge, so check it out in Tararua – Guide for Backpackers.
Location: Access from either Ashhurst (west) or Woodville (east). Note it’s not a loop track, so arrange transport at both ends.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Swim at Himatangi Beach – FREE
Just a 30-minute drive west of Palmerston North, Himatangi Beach offers a wild-and-beautiful West Coast vibe that’s perfect for a free day by the sea.
With under 500 inhabitants, this small settlement is truly off the beaten track. The rugged shoreline, equipped with driftwood huts you and the family can sandwich into for a picnic, and the sprawling sand dune field, New Zealand’s largest at over 20 km (12 mi) long, make this more than just a beach visit.
This peaceful beach is a local surfer mecca with its very own surf club. The Palmerston North Surf Lifesaving Club patrols on peak summer weekends and school holidays, adding an extra layer of peace-of-mind for water lovers.
Stunning sunsets are an evening treat for the campers in the nearby holiday park.
For more beaches, check out the 20 Stunning Beaches in New Zealand.
Location: Himatangi is west of Palmerston North, just off State Highway 1. At Himatangi, turn off onto Himatangi Road.
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz3. Spend Some Time in the Ruahine Forest Park – FREE
The popular forest park in the area features tens of hikes ranging from an hour’s hike to a 4-day adventure. The Rangiwahia Hut Track pictured below is the most popular one, taking trampers through the lush golden grasses of the Whanahuia Range.
We guarantee an afternoon well spent! For walks in the Ruahine Forest, check out 30 Awesome Hikes Around Palmerston North.
Location: Ruahine Forest Park stretches almost 100km (60 miles) between Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay.
© Michal Klajban on Wikipedia4. Walk in Beehive Creek – FREE
If you’re craving a taste of wilderness without venturing too far, Beehive Creek offers a delightful escape.
This hidden gem, nestled in the Ruahine Forest Park, feels like a world away from the typical Manawatū landscape. The track winds through a lush native forest, showcasing exotic ferns and diverse birdlife.
It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike. We personally love how this easy 2-hour walk offers a serene retreat, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that has been largely untouched by human presence.
Location: 33 km (20.5 mi) north of Palmerston North. Head towards Ashhurst from Palmerston North and turn onto Pohangina Road. Drive through Pohangina and follow the Beehive Creek signposts from there.
© QFSE Media on Wikipedia5. Check Out the Stunning Views of the Te Apiti Windfarm – FREE
The Te Āpiti Wind Farm is such a symbol of pride in the Manawatū region that windmills are now featured on the official logo of the Manawatū district.
This impressive landmark boasts 55 towering turbines, each standing on a 70 m (230 ft) tower with 35 m (115 ft) blades. Together, they generate enough electricity to power around 39,000 to 45,000 Kiwi homes annually.
While the public viewing area beneath the turbines is currently closed, there’s still a great vantage point from the car park. Drive or hike up Saddle Road – that beautiful ribbon of road skirting the Manawatū Gorge – and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the wind farm and sweeping landscapes beyond.
Location: Saddle Road, just outside Ashhurst.
© NZPocketGuide.com6. Spot Some Glowworms – FREE
For a bit of nocturnal magic, head to Limestone Creek Reserve north of Āpiti. A short 600 m (656 yards) loop trail leads you into a mossy limestone gorge adorned with ferns and orchids.
After dusk, you might be treated to a mesmerising display of delicate New Zealand glowworms illuminating the cave ceilings above you. It’s a hidden gem for glowworm spotting in Manawatu, offering a free and enchanting experience.
For more glowworm viewing locations, check out the 5 Places to See the Famous Glowworms in New Zealand.
Location: North of Āpiti. Take Table Flat Road and follow the signs to Sixtus Lodge and the glowworm caves. There is a signpost directing you to the caves.
© NZPocketGuide.com7. Visit the Totara Reserve Regional Park – FREE
The Totara Reserve offers a wealth of outdoor activities in its 340 ha (840 acres) of native bush.
We personally love the diverse walking options available from the Pohangina Valley East Road access. The gently winding Fern Walk (about 5 km, 2 hours) is perfect for those seeking a longer trek, while the shorter Pettifar & Gilchrist Loop (2.3 km) offers a quicker nature fix.
As we discovered first-hand, the reserve boasts impressive native birdlife and inviting natural swimming holes. Don’t forget to pack your togs! (That’s Kiwi for a bathing suit).
The reserve features two campsites, but we recommend booking early for summer visits as they’re popular on a first-come-first-served basis.
Location: North of Pohagina on the Manawatu Scenic Route.
© NZPocketGuide.com8. Take a Plunge in the Raumai Reserve – FREE
Raumai Reserve is a summer paradise where adventures unfold naturally. Ancient grey cliffs stand sentinel above smooth, stony riverbanks, perfect for lounging, dipping, or wading in the gentle Pohangina River.
This family-friendly spot boasts picnic areas, public toilets and shady nooks ideal for gathering with friends or little ones.
For the more adventurous, Raumai is also a popular free overnight camping spot, with room for tents and campervans (typically a maximum stay of around three nights).
Keep in mind it’s a rustic experience: gravel-access roads, basic facilities, and a no-frills vibe that’s all part of its charm.
Location: North of Ashhurst. Take Pohangina Road north to Pohangina Valley East Road, where the Raumai Reserve is signposted.
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz9. Explore the Pohangina Valley – FREE
Just north of Ashhurst, the Pohangina Valley is a scenic haven blending farmland, river terraces and pockets of native bush. It’s perfect for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers seeking free adventures close to Palmerston North.
Dotted with reserves like Kahuterawa, Raumai and Totara, each offers trails, picnic spots and river access.
The Pohangina River itself is a summer hotspot for swimming, kayaking and trout fishing. We admire the valley’s tranquil balance of outdoor fun and conservation efforts, protecting native forest and bird habitats.
Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, walking a bush track or cooling off in the river, Pohangina Valley delivers free outdoor thrills.
Location: Pohangina
© NZPocketGuide.com10. Shop at the Feilding Farmer’s Market – CHEAP
Voted as New Zealand’s most beautiful town (more than 10 times!), Feilding is a Kiwi heaven where locals are friendly and time seemingly flows at a slower pace.
Every Friday, the award-winning Feilding Farmers’ Market transforms Manchester Square into a bustling hub of local flavours. With its friendly, small-town atmosphere, this market is a great way to explore Manawatū’s food scene without breaking the bank.
Wander among the stalls, chat with growers and soak up the vibe as you peruse artisan bread, cheeses, meats and fresh seasonal produce.
Musicians often add a lively soundtrack, while the backdrop of Feilding’s Edwardian architecture gives it a charming, old-world feel.
Location: North of Palmerston North along State Highway 54.
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz11. Explore Palmerston North by Bike – FREE
Palmerston North is one of New Zealand’s most bike-friendly cities, with its flat layout and network of scenic trails making cycling both easy and enjoyable. The city practically begs to be explored on two wheels!
The highlight is the Manawatū River Pathway, stretching over 9 km (5.6 mi) along the riverbank and connecting parks, reserves and bridges.
Beyond the river, cycle routes link suburban green spaces like the Esplanade and extend towards the Linton area, offering plenty of options for short or long rides.
What’s more, the New Zealand Cycle Trail passes right through Palmerston North, connecting the city with Mangaweka.
Find out more in our Mountain Biking in Palmerston North guide.
Location: Bikes can be hired all over the city, starting with the i-SITE.
© NZPocketGuide.com12. Discover the Art of Palmerston North – FREE
Palmerston North has something artsy around every corner: sculptures, murals, street art, statues… With all of this among historic buildings, there are lots to discover in Palmerston North’s city centre. The Square holds statues of public figures, Maori carvings, and even a little duck pond.
You can discover vibrant arts scene without spending a dime at Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage. The art gallery, with free entry, showcases rotating exhibitions from local, national, and international artists.
For a self-guided experience, wander down George Street and Coleman Mall, where galleries, studios, and outdoor works highlight the city’s creative energy.
Location: Palmerston North
© NZPocketGuide.com13. Wander Through Victoria Esplanade Gardens – FREE
Victoria Esplanade Gardens offers a delightful escape right in the heart of Palmerston North. This 26 ha (64 acres) green oasis is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly day out.
We love the Dugald MacKenzie Rose Garden, home to over 5,000 roses that put on a spectacular show in summer. Nature lovers will appreciate the native bush walks where tui and fantails flit among the trees.
Families will appreciate the playgrounds and paddling pool (open in summer), while everyone can enjoy spotting ducks along the lagoon. For a small splurge, hop aboard the miniature railway for a couple of dollars.
Location: Victoria Esplanade, Palmerston North. Located on the edge of the Manawatu River, about 2 km (1.2 mi) from the city centre.
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz14. Visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum – CHEAP
Rugby fans, this one’s for you! The New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North is a must-visit attraction that won’t break the bank.
Explore the rich history of New Zealand’s national sport through an impressive collection of memorabilia, from vintage jerseys to rare photographs.
Interactive displays let you test your rugby skills, while curated exhibitions share stories of the legendary All Blacks. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the museum’s storytelling offers a fascinating glimpse into Kiwi culture.
Location: Te Manawa Museum, 326 Main Street, Palmerston North.
© ManawatuNZ.co.nz15. Walk or Cycle He Ara Kotahi – FREE
Discover one of Palmerston North’s most stunning attractions, He Ara Kotahi. This 7.1 km (4.4 mi) riverside walk and cycleway connects the city with Massey University and Linton Military Camp, offering a delightful journey through farmland, bush, and wetlands along the Manawatū River.
The highlight is the striking 190 m (208 yards) long bridge, designed with gentle curves inspired by a tuna (eel) and illuminated with LED lights at night. As you explore, you’ll find cultural markers and interpretation panels sharing local history and mana whenua stories.
For an extra special experience, visit at dusk when parts of the track come alive with glowworms.
Location: Palmerston North. Accessible from various points in the city.
© www.pncc.govt.nz - ManawatuNZ.co.nzMore Things to Do in Manawatu
Check out these articles to add more great stuff to that itinerary of yours.
- 10 Super Things to Do in Palmerston North
- 5 Fun Things to Do in Feilding
- The Complete Guide to Palmerston North
That’s it for our list of cheap and free things to do in Manawatu. For more free stuff, check out the 50 Best Free Things to Do in New Zealand.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
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