Whanganui Vacations
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Your Whanganui Vacation
Select a Whanganui vacation package and concentrate on what matters — enjoying yourself. This means no more planning nightmares, just a lot more time to experience the charms of this interesting city, such as its cultural experiences and rich history. Like to get out and explore? Castlecliff Beach, Whanganui Museum and Virginia Lake are a few of the best places to visit during your trip to Whanganui. A couple of clicks is all it takes to put together a tailored Whanganui vacation on Expedia.
Where to stay in Whanganui
Find the best Whanganui areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Whanganui
Whanganui Central
6 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
If you're spending some time in Whanganui Central, Whanganui Museum and Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum are top sights worth seeing.
Castlecliff
Visitors to Castlecliff enjoy its beaches, and if you want to do some exploring, Castlecliff Beach is worth a stop.
Whanganui East
Though Whanganui East might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum and Whanganui Museum.
Westmere
1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area
If you're spending some time in Westmere, Mowhanau Beach and Bason Botanic Gardens are top sights worth seeing.
Aramoho
When in Aramoho, you can plan a visit to Virginia Lake and Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Stay near popular Whanganui attractions
Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum
8.8/10 (69 reviews)
Step aboard New Zealand's only coal-fired paddle steamer at this riverboat museum showcasing the Whanganui's maritime heritage. Experience history during a scenic cruise on the restored P.S. Waimarie.
Virginia Lake
9.4/10 (172 reviews)
This tranquil lake features a scenic woodland walk, vibrant Winter Gardens, and a collection of sculptures. Enjoy the illuminated Higginbottom Fountain display at dusk or watch colorful birds in the free-flight aviary.
Whanganui Museum
9.0/10 (85 reviews)
This museum houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of moa bones alongside treasured Māori artifacts. Explore the Māori Court and Lindauer Gallery for insights into the region's cultural heritage.
Sarjeant Gallery
8.2/10 (69 reviews)
The Sarjeant Gallery showcases European and New Zealand artworks across four centuries. Explore historical and contemporary exhibitions in this neoclassical treasure with beautiful natural lighting.
Durie Hill Elevator
9.0/10 (173 reviews)
New Zealand's only public underground elevator takes you through a 213-meter tunnel before ascending 66 meters to Durie Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Whanganui and Mount Taranaki from the adjacent Memorial Tower.
Wanganui Community Arts Centre
8.6/10 (9 reviews)
This volunteer-run arts hub showcases diverse exhibitions and supports artists of all levels. Browse local creations at The Boring Gallery or visit on Saturdays for the vibrant Craft Market.
Moutoa Gardens
8.0/10 (47 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Moutoa Gardens, a lovely green space in Whanganui. While you're in the area, stroll along the riverfront.
Durie Hill Memorial Tower
8.6/10 (134 reviews)
This 1925 memorial tower honors 513 local WWI casualties with its distinctive shell rock construction. Climb 176 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Whanganui River and distant mountains.
Whanganui Hotel Deals
151 on London Motel
151 London Street Whanganui
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$77 nightly
$88 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Total with taxes and fees
9/10 Wonderful! (522 reviews)
"Great to have the Cafe next door. Close to the main road. Plenty of parking. Well appointed room."
Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026
Riverside Motel
30 Somme Parade Whanganui
$63 nightly
$74 total
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Total with taxes and fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (376 reviews)
"Nice and clean room. The kitchen is big compared to other motels we had stayed before. There was only 1 electric heater to heat up the entire room. If stay during the winter time it will be very cold. Needed a bathroom heater too. I think the rooms Needed to be updated. Lot of noises at night when ..."
Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026
Anndion Lodge Motel and Function Centre
143 Anzac Parade Whanganui
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$42 nightly
$48 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Total with taxes and fees
8.2/10 Very Good! (273 reviews)
"Large unit clean and comfortable outside could do with a water blast and a bit paint maybe there waiting for better weather.Probably wouldn’t stay there again ."
Reviewed on Sep 19, 2026
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Find the Best Whanganui Vacation Packages
Whanganui Beach Vacation
Take a break from life's daily stresses and let yourself completely unwind on your Whanganui vacation. There's nothing more rejuvenating than the cool sea breeze and the soothing sound of waves lapping at the shore. Plan your trip to Whanganui the easy way by booking one of our Whanganui packages. Many visitors choose to stay near South Beach, a local highlight just 6 miles (9 km) from the downtown area.
Things You Should Know About Whanganui
- If fresh ocean breezes and walks along the shoreline are your idea of a dreamy escape, why not think about one of our Whanganui beach hotels? Staying by the water is the perfect antidote to life's little stresses.
- Motels are another top choice for people planning a stay in Whanganui. Two great options are 151 on London Motel and BK's Magnolia Motor Lodge.
- Approximately 40,300 people live in Whanganui. If you want advice about what to see and do in this area, why not ask a few of the locals? Our Whanganui things to do page is also a great source of info.
- Don't leave without checking out Whanganui Museum, Virginia Lake and South Beach. With all the cash you save through our Whanganui vacation deals, you can see more top attractions like these.
Whanganui Essential Information
Language | English |
|---|---|
Currency | New Zealand dollars |
Closest Airport | Whanganui (WAG) |
Population | 40,300 |
Max Temp Winter | 55ºF |
Max Temp Summer | 70ºF |
Top Sights | Bushy Park Homestead & Forest, Whanganui Museum and Ward Observatory |
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a Whanganui vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Whanganui break. However, a range of factors like the season, length of stay and your choice of hotel will influence how much your vacation to Whanganui costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Whanganui?
You're likely to find lower prices and greater availability in February, May and November. Take a look at our cheap Whanganui vacation packages and you could land some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Whanganui?
With about 2 days, you'll have enough time to visit popular neighborhoods like Whanganui East and Putiki during your Whanganui vacation. Remember to also add Virginia Lake and Bason Botanic Gardens to your must-see list. In the mood for more adventures? Consider venturing outside of Whanganui on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Whanganui?
Whanganui offers everything you need for an unforgettable trip. Begin your Whanganui vacation on a high note by visiting popular attractions like Virginia Lake.
How to find the best Whanganui package deals?
Landing a cheap Whanganui package deal is easy with Expedia. After you've entered your destination and preferred dates under our "Packages" tab, set your budget range, add a couple of filters and see what's available. You can customize your search by "Area," "Amenities," "Property type" and more. Sort the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most affordable Whanganui package deals. Want a simple trick to get the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider traveling on a weekday, when prices are generally lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Whanganui vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Whanganui break by booking a personalized vacation package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to view some great flight and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a great-value package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Whanganui?
If you've got your Whanganui vacation dates locked in, book as soon as you can to score some awesome deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment trips? Our last-minute deals are ideal for jetting off on a whim.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Whanganui vacation packages?
Your Whanganui getaway should be an escape from your busy life, not a source of money worries. So to allow you a bit more flexibility, we've partnered with online lender Affirm to offer our Book Now, Pay Later vacations. Choose one of our vacation packages with payment plans and split up the cost over 3, 6 or 12 months. Plus, there are no late payment fees or hidden costs to worry about.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.