What are the best cafes and restaurants in Palmerston North?
Once you secure your Wellington to Palmerston North flights, it's time to start planning the most important part of your itinerary: where you're going to eat and drink. Here are a few of the best cafes and restaurants in Palmerston North.
Nero
This award winning restaurant is worth discovering if you're looking for a fine dining experience while visiting Palmerston North. Located in one of the most historic buildings in the city, with immaculate landscaping to boot, the restaurant itself looks as good as the premier plates it serves up. If you happen to visit in summer, try to nab a table outside and enjoy the view along with your food. With special recognition for its amazing beef and lamb dishes, it's hard to go past some of the prime proteins on the menu. You can't go wrong with the coastal lamb rack or the 42-day whiskey dry aged ocean OP rib.
Local
This cafe puts the power in your hands by letting you create your own meal. The name is an homage to the focus this eatery puts on locally sourced ingredients and supporting small business and producers in the region, with everything from fruit and veg to protein and coffee found in and around the provinces. This dedication means the menu rotates based on what's in season. All year round, however, you can build your own breakfast by choosing your style of eggs and adding tasty extras. You can do the same at lunch too, with build-your-own lunch bowls and noodle bowls.
Saigon Corner
Those who spent time scouting for cheap flights from Wellington to Palmerston North will surely appreciate the affordable menu at Saigon Corner. This local favourite offers up light, fresh and tasty Vietnamese fare without denting your wallet. Take a seat or grab and go as you check out all that Palmerston North has to offer.
What are the top experiences for visitors to Palmerston North?
Booking flights from Wellington to Palmerston North opens you up to a range of fun experiences that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
New Zealand Rugby Museum
As any Kiwi knows, there are few things more beloved in the land of the long white cloud than rugby. With decades of international dominance and a heritage that spans more than 120 years, the All Blacks represent New Zealand with pride year after year. The New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North gives visitors a chance to dive into decades of All Blacks history, with hundreds of artefacts telling the stories of legendary teams and players from the past.
Te Apiti Wind Farm Lookout
While you might not have had a wind farm in your plans when you booked your flights from Wellington to Palmerston North, it's time to add this destination to your trip to-do list. While the impressive power generated by the wind turbines is interesting in its own right, it's the collection of stunning scenic views in and around the farm that's the real draw card. Walk one of the many trails to get an up-close look at one of the massive turbines before gazing out across the gorgeous hilly landscape all the way to Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki. All this is waiting just a quick 30-minute drive west from Palmerston North’s city centre.
Victoria Esplanade
Visitors young and old will love a stroll through the Victoria Esplanade. Located just steps off the Manawatu River, this beautiful park features 26 hectares of fun for the whole family. Lovely bush walking trails, gorgeous gardens and a range of activities for the little ones provide something for everybody. Make sure to pack the kids' swimmers so they can enjoy the popular pool found within.
When is the best time to visit Palmerston North?
For optimal enjoyment of all the fun outdoor activities in this great North Island town, the best time to book cheap flights from Wellington to Palmerston North is in the spring or summer. The cherry blossoms in the Victoria Esplanade are at their best and brightest in spring, while the warmer months also give you a chance to check out the beautiful beaches and hiking trails that are only a short drive away from Palmerston North.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from Wellington to Palmerston North?
Wellington to Palmerston North flights can be as short as 2 hours and 50 minutes, and typically require one stop. The most common flight path ventures from Wellington (WLG) to Christchurch (CHC) and Christchurch to Palmerston North (PMR).
How far is Palmerston North from Wellington?
Palmerston North is approximately 140 kilometres from Wellington.
Which airlines fly from Wellington to Palmerston North?
Air New Zealand operates cheap flights from Wellington to Palmerston North.