Around Whanganui

Whanganui

After our adventures on Mt Taranaki, we take the road again, heading south. The west coast of north island is not really interesting for travellers. But surprisingly as we were looking for a place to stay overnight in the town of Whanganui, we are amazed by the charming old and colourful buildings. In the past, it was a major harbour at the mouth of the Whanganui River. Since then, the city grew up around the docks, which are today converted into stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Art deco buildings share the streets with blooming flowers. And moreover backpackers are welcome here! The city council has allowed a free overnight car park right in the town center, and the library offers a 24h available free wifi. If you’re in town on Saturday morning, don’t miss the lovely local market.

Whanganui river, witness of the past

From Whanganui, we take a superb little road that goes along the river for around 100km. Large and muddy the river winds its way between the hills from the Tongariro National Park, from where it starts. We already travelled a few kilometres along its calm waters during our road trip on the Forgotten World Highway. Like this old highway, the road along the Whanganui river is charged with History. From the maoris “iwi”, folk of the river, to the first Europeans settlers who came at the beginning of XXth century. Even with its sometimes-capricious temper and its few rapids, the river has been the main access to the inlands during a long time, and the main income resource of the area.

On our way, we often stop to visit old villages, charming 150 years old churches, ancient watermills converted in museums, and beautiful marae (sacred meeting place for maoris, used as much for religious ceremonies than for political or social tribe events). We are allowed to take pictures, but are not authorised to come inside. For that we must be greeted by the maori tribe, through a welcoming ceremony. Nonetheless, we admire the amazing patterns of the carvings on the front of the marae. This day was definitely fascinating. It’s now time for us to get back on the roads to reach our next destination : Wellington.

See you soon

Tintin & Riette

Tips

Free camping around Whanganui :

• In the city, the council allow free overnight camping (for all vehicules, but no tents), in Bates St, along Moutoa Gardens
  Toilets are available within the park. Be careful anyway they close quite early.
• Along the Whanganui River, half way between Whanganui and Pipiriki, Otumaire campsite is a free DOC Campsite. There is drinkable water, toilets, and even a little track that goes down to the river.

Photo spot :

• Climb up the War Memorial tower  to take some wonderful pictures of the city, if the weather is good, or even if not ! If you have the chance to have a colorful sunset, it is the perfect place for a perfect shot.

A good fish’n’chips :

• Georges Fisheries is the best fish’n’chips in the region. Famous for a long time by locals, the shop is crowded in the evening. Order early if you don’t want to wait 30mn !
  40 Victoria Avenue
  Whanganui 4500