What to do there
The region has a comparatively mild climate, although Chateau Tongariro experienced the lowest temperature recorded in the North Island, falling to -13.6 °C on 7 July 1937. The Rangitikei River supports an excellent trout fishery. You'll also find opportunities for bungy jumping as well as whitewater and scenic rafting. Golf courses abound throughout the area and are a great way to soak up the scenery and all the fresh air you can handle. To the south is the university city of Palmerston North, one of the country's largest provincial cities. The central business district of is centred on a large leafy square.
Many of Palmerston North's original stores built in the 1920's and 1930's have been restored and are now charming boutiques, cafes and great restaurants. The city is a good base for exploring the many large private gardens in the surrounding countryside. There are many ways to explore the Whanganui River — jet boat, kayak, canoe, raft, paddle steamer — or on the end of a fly-fishing rod. You can also follow the trail to the mysterious 'Bridge to Nowhere', built across the Mangapurua Gorge to give access to an isolated settlement that was finally abandoned in 1942. Now only the 'Bridge to Nowhere' remains. The Horowhenua district to the south of the region is a special part of New Zealand's Nature Coast, featuring rivers, beaches, lakes, mountains, parks and golf courses. From the quiet calm of bushwalks and gardens, to the exhilaration of rivers and sea, through to history and culture, the region has something for everyone. Adrenaline enthusiasts can jet boat through the region's most identifiable natural icon, the formidable Manawatu Gorge. Manawatu-Wanganui is a region where you can also throw yourself out of aeroplanes and off bridges, ski, scramble up walls and rocks, or descend into caves, saddle up for an overnight horse trek, or tackle the terrain in a 4WD (four-wheel drive)...the possibilities go on. Occupancy rates are usually fairly low except in the peak ski season.
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