The bustling town of Whanganui is brimming with creativity and community. Here you can find heritage buildings, black sand beaches, museums and beautiful gardens. Also keeping the outdoorsy happy, why not check out the magical kayaking options, grab a bike and check out the nearby tracks or get out and hike in the Whanganui National Park. West of Whanganui, you'll find the Taranaki Region. Famous for Mount Taranaki, this beautiful mountain is a spectacular backdrop to the artistic New Plymouth with a thriving cafe culture. With a rich culture, Manawatu has stunning scenery and not to be missed driving routes. This is a perfect spot to experience the real rural New Zealand.