While Whanganui East may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Whanganui Museum and Durie Hill Elevator.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Whanganui
Durie Hill Elevator
9.0/10 (173 reviews)
New Zealand's only public underground lift takes you through a 213-meter tunnel before ascending 66 metres to Durie Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Whanganui and Mount Taranaki from the adjacent Memorial Tower.
Virginia Lake
9.4/10 (172 reviews)
This tranquil lake features a scenic woodland walk, vibrant Winter Gardens, and a collection of sculptures. Enjoy the illuminated Higginbottom Fountain display at dusk or watch colourful birds in the free-flight aviary.
Whanganui Museum
9.0/10 (85 reviews)
This museum houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of moa bones alongside treasured Māori artefacts. Explore the Māori Court and Lindauer Gallery for insights into the region's cultural heritage.
Sarjeant Gallery
8.2/10 (69 reviews)
The Sarjeant Gallery showcases European and New Zealand artworks across four centuries. Explore historical and contemporary exhibitions in this neoclassical treasure with beautiful natural lighting.
Moutoa Gardens
8.0/10 (47 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Moutoa Gardens, a lovely green space in Whanganui. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.
Durie Hill Memorial Tower
8.6/10 (134 reviews)
This 1925 memorial tower honours 513 local WWI casualties with its distinctive shell rock construction. Climb 176 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Whanganui River and distant mountains.
Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum
8.8/10 (69 reviews)
Step aboard New Zealand's only coal-fired paddle steamer at this riverboat museum showcasing the Whanganui's maritime heritage. Experience history during a scenic cruise on the restored P.S. Waimarie.
Watt Fountain
8.4/10 (60 reviews)
This Victorian-era fountain honours Whanganui's first mayor, William Hogg Watt, and stands as a symbol of local heritage. Admire its historic craftsmanship while exploring the surrounding district of heritage buildings.
"Very clean room although small it was comfortable. Great warm lounge with TV and the kitchen very clean and tidy, plenty of cupboard space and fridge space. A choice of bathrooms all very clean. Have no hesitation to stay here again."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Why should I book my Whanganui holiday with Expedia?
Choose Expedia to plan your next break easily and all in the same place. Our top tip for landing a fabulous deal on a Whanganui retreat? Bundle your hotel, flights and/or car hire into a package holiday. Then add a couple of awesome tours and activities. Most bookings also have flexible cancellation policies, so there's no need to stress if you have to switch up your travel itinerary. Round-the-clock assistance with changing and cancelling your trip is on-hand via our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Whanganui?
If you love the excitement that comes with peak season, travel to Whanganui in July, September and October. Travelling during the quieter months of February, May and November will help you avoid the crowds. To get an idea of the type of weather to expect, the average temperature during the day in July, the coolest time of year in Whanganui, is 9ºC. The warmest time here is January, when temperatures average 17ºC.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Whanganui?
If you love amazing deals, bundle your bookings into a Whanganui holiday. Whether you need flights, hotels, hire cars or activities, you can browse and book everything in one place. You'll have endless choice at your fingertips as well. Expedia has more than 400 air carriers and 321,000 properties worldwide to select from. Fly with who you prefer, stay anywhere you like and save precious pounds — now that's the ideal escape! Learn more about how you can save money on your next holiday when you combine your flight and hotel bookings with Expedia.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Whanganui?
There's so much to see in Whanganui, so stay close to its best sights and allow yourself more time sightseeing. Castlecliff Beach is one place to add to your itinerary.
Do I need a visa for my Whanganui holiday?
Official government websites have all the information you need on visa requirements, application procedures and any necessary documentation. Your nationality and the reason for your visit, whether it be for holidays or business, will determine if you'll need a visa for Whanganui. Be sure that your passport is up to date and has at least six months validity remaining after your return date. Do all your travel planning well ahead of time to avoid any nasty last-minute surprises.
What should I wear on my Whanganui holiday?
Do some research into the types of clothing people in Whanganui wear, and consider browsing fashion pages on social media for inspiration. Whatever your look, try to create a versatile wardrobe with pieces that work for your destination and showcase your unique style. Have a look at the weather forecast so you can pack appropriately. The warmest month in Whanganui is January, with average daytime temperatures of 17ºC. If you're visiting in the coolest month of July, the mercury averages 9ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Whanganui holiday include?
Hotels, flights and a cool set of wheels for all your road trip adventures. Simply select your preferred bundle and get access to incredible deals. Once you've made your booking, add on a few tours and activities and watch your savings pile up. When it comes to crafting your Whanganui holiday, the choice is all yours! Expedia features different types of properties, with the most popular in Whanganui being private holiday homes and bed & breakfasts. With Expedia, you'll always have the freedom and flexibility to personalise your holiday however you want.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Whanganui holidays?
Your bank balance shouldn't prevent you from going on holiday, so Expedia has worked out a solution to help. Now that we've formed a partnership with online lender Klarna, it's easier than ever to book a dream getaway without hurting your hip pocket. Klarna offers flexible payment options at checkout that take the worry out of budgeting for your break. Check out these flexible payment options:
Pay monthly holidays: Escape on that dream holiday sooner with Klarna's easy payment plans. If paying in multiple instalments works for you, choose this option at checkout.
No-deposit holidays: Clicking on the "book now" button is much easier with this payment plan. With no deposit required for your escape, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.
Can I choose my airline with a Whanganui Expedia holiday?
With a holiday package, you're always in charge. Whether you want to fly to Whanganui in coach or business class, simply pick from the available airline options. Expedia has access to more than 400 airline partners across the world.