Welcome to Taranaki & Whanganui

Halfway between Auckland and Wellington on New Zealand's underappreciated west coast, Taranaki (aka 'the 'Naki') is the country's Texas, with oil and gas streaming in from offshore rigs. But in New Plymouth free galleries, a provincial museum and dining hot spots attract young families and retirees from Auckland craving a slower pace without compromising lifestyle. Travellers are following suit.

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Behind the city the stunning Mt Taranaki demands to be photographed, if not visited. The volcanic terrain is responsible for the area’s black-sand beaches, lapped up by surfers and holidaymakers during summer.

Further east the history-rich Whanganui River curls its way through Whanganui National Park down to Whanganui city, a 19th-century river port ageing with grace and embracing its local arts scene. Palmerston North, the Manawatu region's main city, is a students' town courtesy of caffeinated Massey University literati. Beyond the city, the region blends rural grace with yesterday’s pace.

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Top experiences in Taranaki & Whanganui

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Taranaki & Whanganui activities

$130.09 Outdoor Activities

River Valley Stables - Harmony With Horses, Half Day Horsemanship & Trek

At River Valley Stables we train our horses using natural horsemanship techniques.  Natural Horsemanship is about the partnership between horse and human. Our guides have spent time building this connection with the horses and working with them in a way that makes our horses feel good about their work.  Our horses are ridden freestyle, in a halter, so no metal bits in the horse’s mouth. It encourages you to build a connection with your horse.  It is this connection between you and your horse that makes River Valley Stables uniqueWe start with building a trusting relationship between you and your horse. It does not matter if you are new to horses or they have been a part of your life forever. We work with you at the level you need to be working at.Next we take you and your horse, who is now your partner, out into the beautiful countryside of River Valley. Here you will have the opportunity to try everything you learn’t beforehand. You will be riding over the hills, taking in the spectacular scenery, and if you are up for it, cantering through the fields.
$130.09 Outdoor Activities

The Awesome Scenic Rafting Adventure

Have You Ever Thought that a Day on a River Could be a Fun Adventure?Our Awesome Scenic Rafting Adventure is safe, interesting and fun for all ages!This is a full day trip, departing from River Valley Lodge at 9.30am.  You will spend approximately 4 hours on the river.  With over 30 Grade 2 (easy) rapids, the 13 km scenic section of the Rangitikei River downstream from River Valley Lodge is great for all ages.As you raft downstream immense cliffs cradle the river canyon. In one of these sections we stop and have a picnic lunch. From there it is a relaxing float out to the take out, followed by a scenic drive back to River Valley Lodge.  There is plenty of time on the way to stop for a swim, or (weather permitting) walk to a stunning waterfall.Get The Family Outdoors This SummerHave you been looking for a first time family adventure experience that is safe, scenic and fun? Families love the Scenic section of the Rangitikei River, downstream from River Valley Lodge.  This day trip is great if you are looking for things to do with your kids, but also been somewhere for your family to have their first river rafting experience.Looking For A Bit More Action?This is the Time for Inflatable KayaksDepending on the river level, we can usually add on some inflatable kayaks. These stable, and easily maneouvered boats, are a heap of fun and will get teens, and adults, smiling from ear to ear as they run some of the easy rapids.How Much Time to Allow, and When to Do It?Total time on the river depends on flow, but is generally between 3 and a half to 4 hours, however allow a full day, with a meeting time of 9.30am at River Valley Lodge.For families, when booking a Scenic river rafting adventure, we will need to know the age of your children (minimum age is 5 years).What if You Just Want a Pleasant day on the River with Friends?This trip can also be run as a gentle float trip with oared rafts, especially suitable for older less active participants.If you are part of a group who would like a very relaxed experience such as one that is provided by oared rafts, please specify when booking so we can make sure that is the type of experience you will get.
$86.04 Outdoor Activities

One Day Ski and Activity Pass Mt Ruapehu

Explore the North Island's largest mountain and ski the volcano!  This all mountain, full day lift pass provides access to all lifts at Mt Ruapehu's two major ski areas - Whakapapa and Turoa.  It's your choice as to where you ski for the day.  Lifts open daily at 9am and close at 4pm.  There are licensed cafes and eateries open all day for you to drop into and relax whilst enjoying a hot drink or bite to eat.  Shuttles operate daily from National Park and Whakapapa Village to Whakapapa ski area and from Ohakune to Turoa.  This pass can also be swapped at any of the Mt Ruapehu customer relations offices for an Activity Pass if you wish to take the day off skiing.
$189.28 Outdoor Activities

3 Day Flexi-Ski Lift Pass Mt Ruapehu

This all mountain, full 3-day lift pass provides access to all lifts at Mt Ruapehu's two major ski areas - Whakapapa and Turoa.  It's your choice as to where you ski for the day.  Flexi Pass does not need to be used on consecutive days, but on any 3 days throughout the 2018 season.  Lifts open daily at 9am and close at 4pm.  Explore the North Island's largest mountain and ski the volcano!  There are licensed cafes and eateries open all day for you to drop into and relax whilst enjoying a hot drink or bite to eat.  Shuttles operate daily from National Park and Whakapapa Village to Whakapapa ski area and from Ohakune to Turoa.
$251.23 Outdoor Activities

5 Day Flexi-Ski Lift Pass Mt Ruapehu

This all mountain, full 5-day lift pass provides access to all lifts at Mt Ruapehu's two major ski areas - Whakapapa and Turoa.  It's your choice as to where you ski for the day.  Flexi Pass does not need to be used on consecutive days but on any 5 days throughout the 2018 season.  Lifts open daily at 9am and close at 4pm.  Explore the North Island's largest mountain and ski the volcano!  There are licensed cafes and eateries open all day for you to drop into and relax whilst enjoying a hot drink or bite to eat.  Shuttles operate daily from National Park and Whakapapa Village to Whakapapa ski area and from Ohakune to Turoa.
$136.97 Outdoor Activities

Learn to Ski Mt Ruapehu

Explore the North Island's largest mountain and ski the volcano!  This all mountain, full day lift pass provides access to all lifts at Mt Ruapehu's two major ski areas - Whakapapa and Turoa.  It's your choice as to where you ski for the day.  Lifts open daily at 9am and close at 4pm.  There are licensed cafes and eateries open all day for you to drop into and relax whilst enjoying a hot drink or bite to eat.  Shuttles operate daily from National Park and Whakapapa Village to Whakapapa ski area and from Ohakune to Turoa.  This full day lift pass enables you to choose from Whakapapa or Turoa.  Package includes Lift Pass, 2 x 1hr 50min lessons and ski/snowboard rental.  Lesson times are at 10am and 1pm (level 1-4). You can grab your lunch in between lessons.
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