Horowhenua

Bounded by the Tararua Ranges in the east and the Tasman Sea in the west, this region north of Wellington is a fine example of forested mountains meeting the ocean. The Tararua Forest Park offers many great trails for hikers - from major outdoor adventures to pleasant day walks. On a fine day the ridges and peaks provide breathtaking views not only of the Tararua Range itself, but far beyond to Mt Taranaki in the northwest, the Wairarapa valley in the east, Wellington harbour in the south and Kapiti Island in the west. The unique dune lakes of Horowhenua and Papaitonga at Levin are rich in Maori history and native fauna.

At Owlcatraz, a nature park in Shannon, you can see a variety of native birds and other animals, including the native New Zealand morepork (ruru) owl.

Foxton township is the original river port of the Manawatu region and the centre of the country’s large flax industry. This history is told in painted murals around the town, and the trolley bus museum. There’s also a working horse-drawn tram. The Foxton River Cruise travels the Manawatu River estuary and wetlands, an international treasure, for a view of the royal spoonbills.

Horticulture is the main way of life for this region, thanks to the rich alluvial soils and mild temperate climate. In contrast, the local town of Levin has a thriving clothing industry - it’s a good place to pick up a stylish bargain from one of the many factory outlets.