As spring brightens the landscape and summer warms up, Palmerston North and the Manawatū region come alive with gardens, festivals, culture, outdoor fun, and community spirit. Here’s your seasonal guide for locals and visitors alike.

Key Events to Watch

Here are some of the standout events in and around Palmerston North during spring/summer:

Manawatū Garden Festival

A much-loved event from 12-16 November, this self-drive tour features inspiring homes and gardens in and around Palmerston North. Click here to read more.

Festival of Cultures

Celebrating community diversity, this multi-day event features a variety of activities, including food, crafts, music, dance, and more. The next edition is scheduled for 20-21 February 2026. Click here to read more about it.

Manawatu Striders: Summer Super Sevens

Every summer, this running series (3 km / 5 km / 7 km) uses the river pathways, esplanade tracks and trails in Palmy. Click here to visit their website. 

Awapuni & Racing Events

The Awapuni Racecourse hosts several major races in spring/early summer, including the Manawatu Sires Produce Stakes, Awapuni Gold Cup, Manawatu Classic, etc.

Other Concerts, Exhibitions & Sports

The local “What’s On” calendars and arenas host a rotating list: music events, theatre, sports matches (e.g. Manawatū Turbo vs regional teams), exhibitions, and community fairs. 

Rainbow Fair

A community event with family-friendly activities, scheduled on 4 October 2025 at Central Energy Trust Arena. Click here for more details.

Things to Do Outside the Big Events

Beyond headline events, here’s what spring/summer offers around Palmy / Manawatū:

Victoria Esplanade & Gardens
Stroll the rose gardens, enjoy picnics, use the playground, follow walking loops, and visit the Dugald MacKenzie rose garden and camellia collections.

Walks, Trails & Nature

  • Te Āpiti / Manawatū Gorge Track — enjoy native bush, lookouts, and the Whatonga steel sculpture.
  • River walks, shared walking/cycling tracks along the Manawatū River corridor.
  • Local parks like David Spring Park are suitable for family walks, playgrounds, and casual outings.

Markets & Local Shopping

  • Farmers’ markets, craft & food fairs, pop-up stalls — often on weekends or at the Esplanade gardens.
  • Boutique streets (Coleman Place, The Square, Broadway Ave) offer cafés, local stores, etc.

Art, Culture & Museums
Check out local galleries, rotating exhibitions, heritage collections, and street art around the city centre.

Sport, Fitness & Community Activities

  • Running events & races through the region (Manawatu Striders).
  • Outdoor sports fixtures, community fitness classes, open-air or festival sports days.
  • Regular local events via Palais, arenas, and community centres.

Food & Dining Al Fresco

Warm evenings invite patio dining, food trucks, markets, and seasonal menus in cafés and restaurants.

Tips for Enjoying Palmy in Spring/Summer

  • Keep an eye on “What’s On” calendars
    Use Manawatū NZ’s events page and local event calendars to stay updated.
  • Book ahead for big events/venue tickets
    Some festivals and popular concerts sell out or require early planning.
  • Dress in layers & prepare for changeable weather
    Spring can still surprise with cooler mornings or evening breezes.
  • Mix big events with local gems
    Don’t just stick to the marquee festivals — enjoy walks, markets, galleries, and quiet garden visits.
  • Think timing — weekdays vs weekends, peak hours
    For locals or visitors passing through, plan around event peak times or consider alternative zones.
  • Support local & community ventures
    Many small community events, artisan markets, food stalls are run locally. They often make the season special.