Palmerston North
The urban city of Palmerston North is home to the New Zealand Rugby Museum, Te Manawa – Museum of Art, Science and History, and a prominent collection of art galleries.
Known as a premier shopping destination in the lower North Island, the city offers everything from major chain brands to boutique designer stores – all of which go hand in hand with the colourful array of cafes and dining options. A bustling hub of the lower North Island, you’ll find a wide range of eateries and events, mixed with diverse activities, arts and theatre and plenty of inner city walks and cycling trails.
The Manawatu offers an authentic Kiwi experience, offering a playground of adventure and discovery. Located in the heart of the lower North Island, landscapes sweep from the rugged Ruahine and Tararua Ranges out to the Tasman Sea, making a diverse playground for all tastes. Palmerston North City is the perfect place to base yourself for your adventure, or to stock up on supplies and services. Whether you like to explore the great outdoors, admire the beauty of artwork, or devour a perfectly brewed coffee; Manawatu is ready to show you what it’s made of.
History
The Square - found at the heart of the city is New Zealand’s largest inner-city park. The Maori name for The Square is Te Marae-o-Hine, meaning “Courtyard of the Daughter of Peace”, a name that commemorates a past leader and inspires the message of future hope. The historic clock tower comes alive at night lit by ever changing coloured lights, and the butterfly shaped duck pond sits next to a giant chessboard.
The city is home to an eclectic array of architecture taking you through the ages. Set on park like grounds and backing on to the Hokowhitu Lagoon, Caccia Birch House is a Category One in the NZ Historical Places Trust and is open daily for visits.
Home of the Robertson Holden International Speedway, Palmerston North City holds an exciting calendar of petrol fuelled adrenaline from October through May, this action packed sport is filled with national and international competitions and brings spectators from far and wide.
Palmerston North City is also home to New Zealand‘s only museum of Rugby! Experience the journey of the sport that shaped our nation, see some of the world’s rarest rugby artifacts, and explore one of the world’s largest collections of rugby relics and memorabilia from the first ‘fern’, the oldest All Black jersey, the oldest rugby ball and more.
You’ll be rewarded with a trip back in time exploring the rich history and folklore of our nation’s mighty game, with an unmasking of our rugby heroes and legends as their stories unfold. Get a feel for the real New Zealand by learning how it’s rich rugby heritage has shaped, and been shaped, by our country. Test your skills in the ‘Have A Go’ area and tackle, scrum, jump, sprint and kick like the rugby legends. Housed in the modern Te Manawa building, The New Zealand Rugby Museum is a must-visit for all kiwis!
Palmerston North City Council
http://www.pncc.govt.nz/
Phone: