Flight Routes:
Nelson to Palmerston North (50 mins)
Palmerston North to Nelson (50 mins)
Palmerston North to Hamilton (60 mins)
Hamilton to Palmerston North (60 mins)
About Palmerston North
Manawatū rewards those who follow their nose and get off the beaten track to uncover its hidden gems. OK sure, we offer epic trails to shred, food to die for, world-class coffee, and enough shopping to get your heart pumping, but the special thing about Manawatū is your unique journey of discovery along the way.
Lift the lid on our urban centre, Palmy, and you’ll see that we’re home to prominent art galleries, cultural collections and colourful street art that lines the city walls. Palmy is a city abuzz with a youthful and creative energy nourished by the multiple tertiary institutes located here as well as the diversity of cultures that call this city their home. This melting pot of backgrounds and perspectives brings a richness to Palmerston North’s arts scene, events calendar, vibrant theatre and music scene and of course its food offerings, with hundreds of international and local restaurants and café’s to be found dotted throughout the city and across the wider region. The city has many public sculptures, pop-up installations, and art exhibitions in galleries – a perfect accompaniment to the eclectic offering of cafes and eateries.
Cradling this city is the mighty Manawatū river, which is a popular spot to walk, scooter or cycle along more than 11kms of wide river pathways, appreciate the cultural sites like the Turitea Pā site or eel viewing platform, or to simply picnic and enjoy the view. A nature lover’s paradise, with walks, tramps and renowned gardens all with a backdrop of beautiful bird song and scenic sights. Explore the magnificent geographical marvel formed over thousands of years by the Manawatū River, Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge is a must see on your New Zealand journey.
The charming town of Feilding, 15 minutes east of the city, has won the award for New Zealand’s Most Beautiful Town no less than 16 times. Visit the award-winning Friday farmers’ market, tour the saleyards and enjoy boutique shopping and locally sourced food with exceptional service.
Seek your next adrenaline fix in the adventure playground that is our backyard. Take a 4WD safari with Makoura Lodge, let the wind take you for a ride on a blokart or take to the hills with a scenic horse trek. Raft the Rangitīkei River with Awastone and take in the soaring white papa cliffs or wakeboard at a purpose-built park on our rugged west coast. Home to one of the largest mountain bike parks in the North Island, you’ll find over 40kms of trails to shred and explore at Arapuke Mountain Bike Park, located 15 minutes south of the city, or for something without wheels, you can’t beat the driving range at the scenic Orland Country .
Venture deeper into Manawatū along The Country Road driving routes to savour our scenery and secluded stayovers at any of the unique and boutique retreats along the way. Discover surprising excursions along these less-travelled country roads, hidden places and tucked away treasures around every corner – from convivial country cafes and pubs and heritage sites to galleries and gardens, scenic reserves, day walks, swimming holes, glow worm caves, picnic areas, camping spots and more. Meet the locals along the way and savour stunning scenery from the road.
No matter your preferred flavour, here you can get the best of both worlds. Hike the lush, bush clad mountain ranges in the morning to chase that epic sunrise. Refresh yourself with lunch and a local brew in the city centre, get some shopping in our hit the theatre, or finish of the day with a cool dip and fresh fish n’ chips at Himatangi beach while watching the sun go down.
See more at: www.ManawatuNZ.co.nz
How do I get to Palmerston North Airport?
Palmerston North Airport is 5 kilometres, or a 10-minute drive, from the city centre. Palmerston North Taxis, Gold & Black Taxis, Blue Bubble Taxis, Super Shuttle, Uber, OLA and the Horizon buses all operate services to and from the airport.
Is there a bus to and from Palmerston North airport?
Yes, the local bus service links the Palmerston North CBD, Massey University and Feilding with Palmerston North Airport. The 101 Massey to Airport (via CBD) route runs multiple times a day 7 days a week, and the 311 Feilding to Airport services runs Monday – Saturday. You can check timetables here: www.horizons.govt.nz/buses
Does Uber pick up at Palmerston North Airport?
Yes, Uber picks up at Palmerston North Airport. Shuttles, rental cars, taxis, OLA and the bus service are also available.
Where do I check in for Originair at Palmerston North Airport?
The Originair check-in counter is located on the left as you enter the main entrance.