Kai Iwi BeachHoliday Park Kai Iwi Beach Holiday Park is about 15 minutes from Whanganui, so it’s easy to mix lazy beach days with a trip into town. Here are some of our favourites.
Must see · Free entry
If you’ve been fossil hunting on our beach, don’t miss this one. The museum holds one of the world’s most important moa bone collections, and its exceptional fossils and moa bones are upstairs at the back. Head straight there, then work your way back through the taonga Māori and local history.
Free admission, and donations are gratefully accepted. Open 10am to 4:30pm every day except Christmas Day and Good Friday, in Pukenamu Queen’s Park.
Whanganui’s much-loved art gallery, beautifully restored and open every day (10am to 5pm). Entry is free, donations appreciated.
Cruise the Whanganui River on a restored 1899 paddle steamer. Check the website for sailing times and bookings.
A 1919 elevator built inside the hill, reached by a long lit tunnel. Well worth a visit, and amazing to look at even from the lower area.
A 25-minute walk around the lake, the Winter Garden, an aviary, a playground and the lit-up fountain in the evening.
Saturday mornings by the river, with over 100 stalls of local food, crafts, plants and vintage finds.
A slow, scenic 64 km drive up the river past marae, viewpoints and the historic Kawana Flour Mill. Narrow and winding, so take your time.
Only about two minutes’ drive from the park. Lovely gardens for a wander or a picnic.
A wildlife refuge on Rapanui Road with bush tracks around the lake. No dogs allowed.
Caught the fossil bug? The Whanganui Rock and Mineral Club is a friendly local group to follow. And see our fossil hunting guide and Kai Iwi Beach guide.
Heading to the sand first? Read our Kai Iwi Beach guide for swimming, walks and staying safe.
There’s no café at the park, so bring supplies or head to Pukeko’s Nest, about 10 minutes’ drive at the corner of State Highway 3 and Rapanui Road. Town has plenty more.
