Whanganui Holidays
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Your Whanganui Holiday
Select a Whanganui holiday package and concentrate on what matters — enjoying yourself. This means no more planning nightmares, just a lot more time to experience the charms of this interesting city, such as its cultural experiences and rich history. Like to get out and explore? Castlecliff Beach, Whanganui Museum and Virginia Lake are a few of the best places to visit during your trip to Whanganui. A couple of clicks is all it takes to put together a tailored Whanganui holiday on Expedia.
Where to stay in Whanganui
Find the best Whanganui areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Whanganui
Whanganui Central
6 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
If you're spending some time in Whanganui Central, Whanganui Museum and Sarjeant Gallery are top sights worth seeing.
Castlecliff
Visitors to Castlecliff enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Castlecliff Beach is worth a stop.
Whanganui East
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 Memorial Tower.
Gonville
Though Gonville may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Whanganui Museum and Durie Hill Memorial Tower.
Westmere
If you're spending some time in Westmere, Mowhanau Beach and Bason Botanic Gardens are top sights worth seeing.
Whanganui Beach Holiday
Take a break from life's daily stresses and let yourself completely unwind on your Whanganui holiday. There's nothing more rejuvenating than the cool sea breeze and the soothing sound of waves lapping at the shore. Plan your trip to Whanganui the easy way by booking one of our Whanganui packages. Many visitors choose to stay near South Beach, a local highlight just 6 miles from the downtown area.
Things You Should Know About Whanganui
- If fresh ocean breezes and walks along the shoreline are your idea of a dreamy escape, why not think about one of our Whanganui beach hotels? Staying by the water is the perfect antidote to life's little stresses.
- Motels are another top choice for people planning a stay in Whanganui. Two great options are 151 on London Motel and BK's Magnolia Motor Lodge.
- Approximately 40,300 people live in Whanganui. If you want advice about what to see and do in this area, why not ask a few of the locals? Our Whanganui things to do page is also a great source of info.
- Don't leave without checking out Whanganui Museum, Virginia Lake and South Beach. With all the cash you save through our Whanganui holiday deals, you can see more top attractions like these.
Whanganui Essential Information
Language | English |
|---|---|
Currency | New Zealand dollars |
Closest Airport | Whanganui (WAG) |
Population | 40,300 |
Max Temp Winter | 13ºC |
Max Temp Summer | 21ºC |
Top Sights | Bushy Park Homestead & Forest, Whanganui Museum and Ward Observatory |
Top hotels in Whanganui
151 on London Motel
151 London Street Whanganui
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£59
27 Aug - 28 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (517 reviews)
"Pleasant stay and appreciate the charging facilities for EV. It does suffer a bit from some traffic noise as London Street is SH3 as it passes through the town, so if someone is sensitive to noise, bring earplugs."
Reviewed on 12 Aug 2026
Anndion Lodge Motel and Function Centre
143 Anzac Parade Whanganui
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£32
27 Aug - 28 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (268 reviews)
"Needs privacy glass on bathroom window"
Reviewed on 9 Aug 2026
The Rutland Arms Inn
Cnr Victoria Ave & Ridgway Street Whanganui
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
£93
20 Aug - 21 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (334 reviews)
"Great location and super-friendly staff. The hotel rooms show their age and could do with a makeover."
Reviewed on 4 Aug 2026
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.
Stay near popular Whanganui attractions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Putiki Church
8.0/10 (33 reviews)
St Paul's Memorial Church showcases extraordinary Māori carvings and woven panels, blending indigenous artistry with Christian architecture. Book a guided tour to learn the cultural symbolism behind this unique space.
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.
Frequently asked questions
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're planning to stay in the Gonville neighbourhood, Grand Hotel Wanganui and Gateway Motor Lodge Wanganui are fabulous options. Whanganui East is another favourite Whanganui area. We recommend The Rutland Arms Inn or The Avenue Hotel if you prefer this end of town.
How do I get a cheap holiday to 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 should I do on my Whanganui holiday?
There's an almost endless list of places to check out while on your holiday in Whanganui. Castlecliff Beach, Mowhanau Beach, South Beach and Virginia Lake are some of this city's key attractions.
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.
Explore a world of travel with Expedia
- Flights to Whanganui
- Flights from Whanganui
- Flights from Auckland (AKL) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Birmingham (BHX) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Calais (CQF) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Delhi (DEL) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from London (LHR) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Manchester (MAN) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Southampton (SOU) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Whakatane (WHK) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Wellington (WLG) to Whanganui (WAG)
- Flights from Queenstown (ZQN) to Whanganui (WAG)
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected.
