| The name 'Manawatu' is derived from two words, | | | | Thrills and fresh air can be found by visitors to the |
| Manawa and tu. Manawa refers to the heart - tu | | | | Rangitikei district through bungy jumping, white water |
| describes something that has come to a halt. The | | | | rafting on the Rangitikei River, or they can take it |
| ancestor Hau uttered the words "ka tu taku | | | | easy with some excellent trout fishing, a game of |
| manawa" meaning 'my heart stands still' at the sight | | | | golf or some horse trekking. Sheep shearing can also |
| of the awesome Manawatu River. | | | | be experienced for those looking for something |
| Things to do in the Manawatu region | | | | traditionally Kiwi. |
| Visitors to the Tararua district can discover a relaxed | | | | The university city of Palmerston North, one of New |
| conveniently close to main centres. Great fishing, | | | | Zealand's largest provincial cities, can be found in the |
| eco-tourism and adventure opportunities. Visit the | | | | south of the region along with many restored |
| world famous National Wildlife Centre at Mount Bruce, | | | | buildings from the 1920s and 30s now containing |
| view the majestic turbines of Tararua Wind Power | | | | boutiques, great restaurants and cafes. Visitors can |
| and Te Apiti, experience the tranquillity of a walk | | | | enjoy exploring the central business district located |
| through stunning native forests. | | | | on a large leafy square. |
| Only an hour away from Wellington, between the | | | | Main towns in Manawatu |
| mountains and the sea lie the hills, plains, rivers, lakes | | | | Ashhurst & Pohangina Valley - close proximity to the |
| and beaches of the Horowhenua. The district is said | | | | Ruahine Forest Park makes it an ideal stepping-stone |
| to have the most moderate climate in the world. | | | | for outdoor enthusiasts |
| Visitors can get the feel of real NZ as they drive | | | | Sanson - popular stop-off point for crafts/antiques |
| along the coastal road passing cafes, beaches, | | | | enthusiasts |
| museums, island trips, wineries, unique nature parks | | | | Tangimoana - meaning "crying sea". Rich in Maori |
| and many other attractions. Beaches provide safe | | | | history, Tangimoana was a favoured gathering |
| swimming as do the mountain streams and there are | | | | ground of seafood |
| nature walks everywhere. | | | | Rangiwahia - Manawatu's northern most township. |