Budget-Friendly Family Adventures Near Palmerston North

Journey to the heart of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui and embark on an adventure of a lifetime around the city of Palmerston North/Te Papa-i-Oea. There are plenty of thrilling and exciting activities to be discovered across this region, with so many of them budget-friendly and suited to the entire family. 

Load up your Thrifty rental car with the fam, get ready for some epic adventures, and follow this guide to discover all the best budget-friendly activities around Palmerston North that the whole family can enjoy This is going to be one action-packed ride! 

Take a Ride on the Scenic Railway 

Get ready for an unbeatable journey aboard Palmerston North’s very own scenic railway! This miniature railway experience is the perfect way to do some exploring around Palmerston North’s Victoria Esplanade, all while sitting comfy in the comfort of this adorable train. The kids are sure to love this unique journey as you traverse the over two kilometers of track through the secluded and lush scenery of the Esplanade. Only twenty minutes long, this is a great adventure that will chug you along from Victoria Esplanade Station to the Playground Station—a perfect disembarking point if the kids are still wanting to let off some steam. This is the ideal route to take, because you can leave your rental car safely in the carpark at Victoria Esplanade Station when you board. While you do have to pay for this adventure, it’s very budget friendly, costing only a few dollars each.  

Embrace Adventure at Rangitāne Park 

Tucked into the southwest corner of the city, Rangitāne Park is a scenic nature reserve, fitted out with a wonderful playground. Situated next to Otira Park, Mangaone Park and the Mangaone Stream, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to places to hang out The best part about this collection of expansive spaces of lush greenery is that it’s all completely free to access. As you’re cruising around these picturesque parklands and taking in the serene nature of the environment, make sure to also save a good amount of time to have a go down the epic slide at Rangitāne Park. This massive structure is sure to deliver a thrill or two and is a great way for little ones and kids to burn off some energy. Elevate your experience at Rangitāne Park by bringing a picnic and settling down in the lush grass as you soak up the peaceful vibes and calm atmosphere of this slice of paradise, right within the city. 

Make a Splash at Lido Aquatic Centre 

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit as you’re adventuring around Palmerston North, why not check out the incredible water park at the Lido Aquatic Centre? This water-based playground has something for the whole family, with a variety of slides and water play areas. Fancy a ride around the SuperBowl? What about a go of the SpeedSlide? There’s also no going past the thrilling AquaPlay playground area. Kids of all ages can enjoy these water activities, all in the safety of a top-notch Aquatic Centre. You’ll have to pay a small fee to get into Lido Aquatic Centre, however if you have three or more people wanting a full day pass, you’ll be able to save some dollars! In summertime, you’ll find even more options for water fun available with the diving platform and some more outdoor slides open for use.  

Learn About New Zealand’s Favourite Sport at the Rugby Museum 

For those wanting to get a real taste of Kiwi culture, you absolutely have to adventure to the New Zealand Rugby Museum. Located in the heart of Palmerston North’s city centre, this museum isn’t just for fans of rugby—this is a museum for anyone interested in learning more about the important cultural history of sport in New Zealand/Aotearoa. Discover a mammoth collection of rugby memorabilia, artefacts and records, some of which are super rare. You’ll have to pay entry to visit the Rugby Museum, however it’s extra cheap for kids. Not only is this an incredible journey into the history of the sport at the country’s very first rugby museum, but there’s also even a ‘Have a Go’ area for kids to get interactive. Kick, tackle, run and play as you celebrate this incredible sport that has found a treasured home in this country. 

From a scenic railway journey to picture-perfect parks, a thrilling aquatic park to an iconic sports museum, there are boundless adventures all around Palmerston North for the whole family to enjoy. Discover the fun of these activities as you travel around in your Thrifty rental car, all without breaking the bank.