What are the top things to do and see in Palmerston North?
Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage
Palmerston North’s Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage was established to not only preserve history and knowledge, but to also make it accessible to the people who visit its galleries. With a collection of approximately 55,000 items, the museum showcases an assortment of fascinating artefacts, captivating artworks, and more, throughout its exhibition spaces. See works of art by prominent New Zealand artists, explore the Science Centre’s interactive exhibits or enjoy discovering the museum’s themed displays. General admission to the museum is free for visitors of all ages. Admission charges may apply for some events and exhibitions, however.
Dugald MacKenzie Rose Gardens
Situated within the Victoria Esplanade precinct, the Dugald MacKenzie Rose Gardens is a beautiful place to explore during your time in Palmerston North. Home to more than 5,000 roses planted across more than four acres, the gardens are divided into sections featuring established varieties, brand new types of blooms and more. Considered to be one of the world’s finest rose gardens, the gardens are open from dawn to dusk daily and are free to visit. If you’re wanting to see the garden in its full glory, book your flights from Queenstown to Palmerston North to arrive between November in May, when the roses are in full bloom.
The Stairs of Lindos
Also known as Te Arapiki a Tane, the Stairs of Lindos offer fantastic views across the Manawatū River. Comprised of 222 stairs that lead the way from Vaucluse Heights to the river below, the stairway has become a popular attraction for visitors wanting to get active while enjoying the beauty of the North Palmerston area. The stairway is quite steep and has no handrail, and is best suited to people with a reasonable level of fitness. Slip on your walking shoes, pack a drink bottle and enjoy the challenge of making your way from the top to the bottom and back again.
When is the best time to visit Palmerston North?
If you’re seeking good weather during your stay, the best time to visit Palmerston North is during the summer months. From December to February, the city experiences its highest average temperatures, with daytime temperatures, on average, hovering between 21℃ and 23℃. Evenings and early mornings are cool at this time, but are warmer than at any other time of the year. It’s good to note that summer in Palmerston North does coincide with several popular local events and New Zealand school holidays. If you are wanting to visit during summer, be sure to book your accommodation and flights from Queenstown to Palmerston North ahead of time as demand may be higher.
From June to August, Palmerston North is at its coldest. Temperatures average at around 13℃ during the day and drop, on average, to just 5℃ in the evening. Although winter is typically the low season for many destinations across the globe, winter in Palmerston North remains quite popular. With several ski fields within driving distance of the city, travellers from across New Zealand and beyond make their way to Palmerston North before travelling onwards to enjoy some fun at the snow. If you’re wanting to try your hand at skiing and snowboarding, consider booking Queenstown to Palmerston North flights and set out on your own winter adventure.
For cheaper flights and better deals on accommodation, consider booking Queenstown to Palmerston North flights to arrive in autumn or spring. The shoulder seasons, spanning from March to May and September to November, may see lower demand for flights and hotel rooms, allowing you to snap up a good deal for your next stay in the city. Although temperatures are generally lower than those enjoyed in summer, they are still fair enough to allow you to enjoy all the city has to offer.
What should you pack when visiting Palmerston North?
Much like any other destination in New Zealand, the key to packing for a visit to Palmerston North is selecting clothing that can be easily layered. Start off with a few t-shirts and pairs of pants, before adding jumpers, jackets and light coats into the mix. Having the option to add or remove layers of clothing is great when the days are warm but the nights are chilly. Temperatures can be quite cool during winter, so consider packing a warm coat when visiting with Queenstown to Palmerston North flights at this time of the year.
If you’re planning to spend time outdoors when visiting Palmerston North during winter, a pair of gloves, a beanie and a scarf are great additions to any packing list.
Winter is typically the rainiest season in Palmerston North. If your trip to the city is set to fall in June, July or August, add an umbrella and a pair of waterproof shoes to your packing list to avoid being caught out in an unexpected shower.
FAQs
How far is Queenstown to Palmerston North?
Palmerston North is approximately 760 kilometres from Queenstown.
What is the flight time from Queenstown to Palmerston North?
As there are no direct flights from Queenstown to Palmerston North, the total travel time between the two cities may vary. Most services stopover in either Auckland or Christchurch, with the length of the stopover varying. For flights stopping in Christchurch, the first leg of the journey typically takes around an hour, while the second leg to Palmerston North takes 1 hour 15 minutes. The first leg of the journey via Auckland takes, on average, 1 hour 50 minutes, while the second leg takes 1 hour 15 minutes.
Which airlines fly to Palmerston North?
Air New Zealand currently services flights from Queenstown to Palmerston North.
The best time to visit Palmerston North
Palmerston North has pleasant weather year-round. To enjoy the warmest temperature, ideal for sightseeing, opt to visit during December, January, or February. These months will bring minimal precipitation, and a warm, 20-degree temperature. To catch some discounts on your airfare, and accommodation, choose May, June, or July. This is when the crowds clear out, and the weather stays suitable for sightseeing. October, and November are when the city experiences some rainfall, however, you can also expect to save up some money during these months.
Departing From Queenstown
Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) serves around one million people, annually. It is the fourth busiest airport in the country.
Getting to Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Queenstown International Airport (ZQN) is located 8 kilometres from the centre of the city. You can use a bus service, such as Orbus to travel to the airport quickly, and conveniently. The ticket price is around $10NZD for a one-way trip. If you choose to purchase a GoCard, you can get a discount. You can also find shuttles in, and around the city centre, or opt for a taxi, for the most convenient option.
Parking at Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Queenstown International Airport has two parking options for passengers who wish to leave their car at the airport while away in Auckland.
Where to Park at Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
Car Parks A and B: situated near the terminals. Prices start from $25NZD per day, or $100NZD per week. Park and Ride: this car park has a convenient shuttle service which departs every 30 minutes. Prices start at $10NZD per day, or $70NZD per week. It also comes with a luggage area.
Arriving to Palmerston North
Cheap Hamilton to Palmerston North flights will take you to the Palmerston North Airport (PMR). This airport offers service to around 500,000 passengers, annually.
How to Get from Palmerston North Airport (PMR) to Your Palmerston North Hotel or Accommodation
The cheapest way of getting to your hotel from the Palmerston North Airport (PMR) is by using its bus service, the AirConnector. This will take you to the CBD, and they have 8 rides in a day. If you are looking for a more convenient option, go for a taxi, or shuttle service, which you can find directly at the terminals.
