Things to Do in Taumarunui

• Walks
  The various walks in the area provide great ways to enjoy the surrounding countryside. To discover the Whanganui River, there is a one-hour walk from Cherry Grove along the banks of the river. Try the two-hour walk up Mt Hikurangi (771m) for some amazing views of of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Tongariro and the surrounding area. A five-minute walk will take you through native bush to the Rangaroa lookout giving you amazing views of the valley and mountains. Other walks with rewarding views include the Te Peka Lookout and Sunshine Scenic Reserve.
• River activities
  There are plenty of ways to play on the river including kayking, canoeing, rafting and jetboating.
• Fishing
  Fishing in the local rivers and streams, including the Whanganui River, can be very rewarding. You can also head to Lake Taupo, thirty minutes away, for some lake fishing.
• Golf
  The local 18-hole golf course is in a very beautiful setting and is rated as one of New Zealand’s top 50 courses.
• Heritage Trail
  The State Highway 43 Heritage Trail has information about the history of the land and hills that separate Taumarunui and Stratford.
• Hunting
  There is good hunting in the area for pigs, deer, goats, possums and rabbits.
• Hot pools
  Historic Tokaanu is nearby with hot thermal pools great for relaxing in after an adventure-filled day.
• Railway
  The local railway opened up the area in the early 1900s and the engineering is considered to be ingenious. The track includes a complete circle, two horseshoe curves and two short tunnels through dense forest. You can view the line from the Raurimu lookout.
• Turoa Ski Area
  Turoa is one of the best downhill ski areas in New Zealand. Ideally suited for intermediate skiers, this popular field has wide groomed trails and the country's longest vertical drop (720m). There are natural half-pipes for snowboarding. Ski and board gear can be hired in the town.
• Tongariro National Park
  This magnificent alpine area is a World Heritage Site and famous for its tussock plains, snow-capped volcanoes, coloured lakes and alpine treks. The park is a haven for walkers during summer, and for skiers during the winter.
• Whanganui National Park
  Home to the country's longest navigable river (329km), Whanganui offers superb opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, jetboating, hunting and hiking. The park is home to one of New Zealand's Great Walks – the stretch of river between Pipiriki and Taumarunui south.