Manawatū

Manawatū is nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island and has a diverse range of attractions and opportunities. 

Our region is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Take a stroll along the Manawatū River, hike the nearby Tararua or Ruahine Ranges, or cycle the city’s many bike trails. You can also explore the region’s wildlife and flora at the nationally renowned Victoria Esplanade Gardens and Manawatū Gorge.

We're known as the food innovation capital of New Zealand, and for good reason. With a diverse range of cafes, restaurants and bars, the city offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for international cuisine, gourmet burgers, or craft beer, you’re sure to find it here.

We're also home to regional New Zealand’s leading professional theatre company – Centrepoint and has a world class venue in The Regent on Broadway theatre. We are also home to New Zealand Rugby Museum, and Te Manawa Museum and Art Gallery, which features interactive exhibits and a collection of more than 10,000 artworks. Our city also hosts an exciting range of festivals and events throughout the year.

We have state-of-the-art venues that are no strangers to hosting premium conferences and business events. From a grand theatre that exudes elegance and charm, to an international motorsport track or a bespoke country club where you can step out of the meeting room and straight onto the green, our region has it all. 

Travelling here is easy by road, air or rail and once you’ve arrived, you can get around with absolute ease. You’ll love discovering Palmy and Manawatū through the eye of a local, with our rich arts scene, immersive bush walks and adrenaline junkie activities. 

You’ll be able to explore our venues in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re walking, driving, catching a taxi or taking an e-scooter, you’ll be between venues in no time. Plus, most of our accommodation providers are only a hop, skip and a jump away from your event.

Our thriving urban centre is in the heart of the lower North Island, and together we have an established business ecosystem that is well-connected and home to some of the brightest minds in Aotearoa. We’re leading the way with industry research, sustainability, nutrition, infrastructure and the future of food. We are a hub for industry research and development labs. We’re also a future-focused region that cares about enhancing our natural and built environment.

Manawatū offers exclusive activities that can be added to your next event programme. We will work with you to ensure your delegates gain unforgettable, tailored experiences from corporate activities to cultural engagement.

From clothing to art and books to jewellery, you’ll find off the-beaten-path shopping spots dotted throughout Palmy and Manawatū. With plenty of handmade products and unique bespoke pieces to discover around the region, shop our independent boutiques, pick up all the major brands or be a little boujie and buy artisan fare directly from farmers’ market stalls.

With over 200 bars, restaurants, bakeries and cafés, there really is something for everyone. If you crave farm to plate, Palmy is sure to be your jam. Here you’ll find an abundance of foodie delights all within just a few kilometres. From fine dining and gourmet indulgence to traditional dishes from around the world, you’ll never be far from a meal that suits your taste and budget. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice by the city’s diverse range of international fare.

For a taste of fresh air after your event, relish our iconic natural playgrounds, Te Āpiti - Manawatū Gorge and come face-to-face with the 6m statue of Whātonga, an ancient Māori Chief. Thrill seekers have their pick of white-water rafting, wakeboarding, kite surfing, and incredible mountain biking at Arapuke Park. For something a little different, try blokarting or let the team hone their coffee skills with a coffee cupping class at one of our local award-winning coffee roasteries.
 

The best time to visit Manawatū, New Zealand, is during the spring and summer months from October to March. This period showcases the region's natural beauty and vibrant culture in its full glory.

In spring, from October to November, Manawatū bursts into life with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the region’s numerous outdoor attractions. Take a leisurely stroll along the Manawatū River or hike the scenic trails in the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges. The Victoria Esplanade Gardens are especially stunning during this time, with vibrant colours and fragrant blooms.

Summer, from December to March, offers warm and pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and events. The longer daylight hours provide ample time to enjoy the region’s bike trails, parks, and nature reserves. This season is also packed with festivals and events that highlight Manawatū’s rich cultural scene. The city's lively atmosphere is complemented by its renowned foodie culture, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars offering delicious local and international cuisine.

During these months, you can fully experience Manawatū’s vibrant arts scene, with performances at the Regent on Broadway and Centrepoint Theatre, as well as interactive exhibits at Te Manawa Museum and Art Gallery. The New Zealand Rugby Museum is also a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. Visiting Manawatū in spring and summer ensures you enjoy the best of what the region has to offer, from its stunning natural landscapes to its dynamic cultural and culinary scenes.

Manawatū offers a variety of options when it comes to conference and event venues. Our region offers an impressive array of spaces designed to accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences. For grand events, the Regent on Broadway stands as a jewel in our crown, offering an elegant and historic theatre experience. Centrepoint Theatre provides a dynamic and versatile space for performances and presentations, ensuring every event is memorable. Looking for something with a touch of nature? 

Consider our stunning country clubs and picturesque outdoor venues, perfect for blending business with leisure. Manawatū also features modern conference centres equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring your event runs smoothly and professionally. Our university city status brings an added advantage with several academic venues offering advanced facilities and ample space for conferences, seminars, and workshops. These venues are equipped with the latest in audiovisual technology, ensuring a seamless experience for presenters and attendees alike.

For those seeking unique and memorable settings, consider hosting your event at our international motorsport track or the renowned Te Manawa Museum and Art Gallery, where culture and creativity meet. Accommodation is never a concern, as many of our venues offer on-site lodging or are located within a short distance of quality hotels and boutique accommodations, providing convenience and comfort for all attendees