Top Things to Do and See in Palmerston North
Go mountain bike riding in Arapuke Forest Mountain Park
Arapuke Forest Park is one of the best places to go mountain bike riding in Palmerston North. You can choose from trails graded 2 to 6 that make it easy for all skill levels to enjoy New Zealand's natural beauty. Travellers buying flights to Palmerston North can rent a bike in town. A hire car is one of the easiest ways to reach the park, as it is a 30-minute drive from the city. Rental cars can be booked on Webjet at the same time as purchasing your cheap flights to Palmerston North.
New Zealand Rugby Museum
Rugby fans booking flights to Palmerston North shouldn't miss out on visiting the New Zealand Rugby Museum. It houses the biggest collection of rugby memorabilia and records. Some of the highlights of the collection include the whistle used to start the first-ever Rugby World Cup. Visitors can also learn about the history of the game and some of the sport's top players.
Go on a day trip to Manawatu Gorge
Located between the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges, Manawatu Gorge is one of the top things to do for travellers buying return flights to Palmerston North. Once you're there, you can choose from 12 different walking trails with six levels of difficulty. If you plan on walking the entire track, you'll need to arrange transport at both ends as it's not a loop track.
Go the the beach
There are a number of stunning beaches only a short drive away from Palmerston North. Travellers booking cheap flights to Palmerston North will need to rent a car to get to most of them, but it's well worth it. Some of the top beaches are Himatangi Beach and Foxton Beach. Foxton also has beautiful walking trails, and the town deserves some exploring as well.
Public Transport and How to Get Around Palmerston North
Once your flights to Palmerston North arrive, you should buy a GoCard if you plan on using the city's public transportation. You won't need to pay for your rides in cash, and you'll get a discount on fares. The card costs $12 NZD and comes with $5 NZD pre-loaded credit.
Bus
Palmerston North has a decent bus network that can travellers booking flights to Palmerston North can take to get between the suburbs and the city centre. Travellers buying tickets to Palmerston North need to remember to flag down the driver at stops. You'll also need to press the bell before you arrive at your destination to get off.
Transport from Palmerston North Airport (PMR)
If you're buying cheap flights to Palmerston North and you want to keep your transportation costs down, take the bus to your accommodation. There is a local bus stop at the terminal that runs from Palmerston North Airport (PMR) to Fielding. For travellers that want to get into town as quickly as possible, it's advisable to take a taxi. Once your flights to Palmerston North land, you'll find the drivers outside of the airport terminal. Alternatively, there is a Supershuttle service you can take. It's cheaper than a regular taxi as you'll be able to split the fare with more people.
Car rental
The best way to get around Palmerston North is to hire a car. You'll have more freedom, and it gives you the independence to plan day trips from the city. When you buy your return flights to Palmerston North with Webjet, you can add a car hire option at check out. When you arrive, your vehicle will be waiting for you at Palmerston North Airport (PMR).
Cafes and Restaurants
Elm Cafe
Elm Cafe is one of the most popular spots in the city to grab something to eat. Travellers buying an airfare to Palmerston North can take their pick from plates on the delicious breakfast and brunch menu. There's also a decadent dessert menu that will satiate anyone's sweet tooth. The cafe has a beautiful garden courtyard, and patrons can sit inside or outside.
Joe's Garage
Joe's Garage is a franchise in New Zealand. The restaurant has locations all over North and South Island. It's an excellent place to have breakfast or lunch if you're in the mood for Western classics like gourmet burgers and pizzas. Travellers booking flights to Palmerston North will also be happy to know that the restaurant caters to gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian diets.
Cafe Cuba
Located in the heart of the city is Cafe Cuba. It's the perfect place to grab a good cup of coffee and something to eat while you explore Palmerston North. Travellers booking tickets to Palmerston North can tuck into their all-day breakfast or sit down for dinner after 5pm. For coffee aficionados, Cafe Cuba serves authentic Havana-roasted coffee.
