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Beaches, Parks Reserves & Gardens |
| Bushy Park Forest Reserve
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Bushy Park is 90 hectares of
pristine native forest, and
includes “Ratanui”, believed
to be the largest rata tree in
the Southern Hemisphere.
The forest has a predator proof
fence around the Reserve to
become a predator free, true
“inland island.” Enquire about the
Kiwi Tours. The walking tracks are
well maintained, and a visitor is
almost certain to be escorted friendly native birds as they view
the lush native flora and fauna,
unspoiled by man or predators.
The park entrance fee includes a
visit to the historic Homestead.
This magnificent 100 year-old
Edwardian mansion has been
maintained in near-original
condition. Here, you can enjoy
teas or lunches or stay overnight
in the manner of a bygone era.
791 Rangitautau East Road, Kai Iwi
Wanganui
Tel: (06) 342 1722 - Homestead
or (06) 342 1722 - Trust
www.bushyparksanctuary.org.nz
More info
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| Paloma Gardens
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This private garden is rated of
“National Significance” by the
New Zealand Gardens Trust. Its
exotic collection of plants from
Africa, Asia and the Americas
cover a site that also offers
swimming, picnic areas and
accommodation. It is 20 km
from Wanganui at Fordell.
RD7
Wanganui
Tel: (06) 342 7857
Email:
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www.paloma.co.nz
More info
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| Wanganui Parks & Reserves |
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Tel: (06) 349 0001
www.wanganui.govt.nz
More info
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| Bason Botanic Gardens |
 In a rural setting 11km from
town, the park is open daily
from 8.00am till dusk. It has
picnic areas with free gas
fired barbecues and extensive
plantings of native and exotic
trees. The formal area has three conservatories (open 9am till
4.30pm) and is rated as “Regional
Significance” by the New Zealand
Gardens Trust.
There is no entry charge.
www.basonbotanicgardens.org.nz
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| Castlecliff Beach |
| Popular for swimming, this beach
is patrolled by professional
lifeguards during summer.
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| Kai Iwi Beach/Mowhanau Beach |
| Kai Iwi is an attractive swimming
beach 14 km from Wanganui
along Rapanui Rd. A children’s
playground and wood-burning
barbecues make this a very
popular spot for summer family
picnics. Camping facilities are
also available.
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| Kowhai Park |
 Kowhai Park by the river
on Anzac Parade is a great
favourite with children. Here
they can ride a brontosaurus,
swing on an octopus, seesaw
with a snake and on a hot
day play in the water maze.
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| Queens Park |
Queens Park is a central city
hilltop park that was once a
fortified Maori pa and then the
site of the Rutland Stockade.
Now it is the site of several
historic and architecturally
significant buildings, including
the Sarjeant Gallery, the
Whanganui Regional Museum
and the War Memorial Hall. The
Veterans Steps leading up to the
Sarjeant Gallery are a reminder
of the New Zealand Wars.
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| Virginia Lake & Park |
 A beautiful 25-minute woodland
walk around this lake, is located
on St Johns Hill. It features the
Statue of Tainui (take the time
to read the inscription), a band
rotunda, twin bridges and rose
and wisteria pergolas. At night
the trees are softly illuminated
and for just 50c the fountain
erupts in a spectacular display.
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