Looking for an epic adventure into nature around Palmerston North/Te Papa-i-Oea that even the kids will approve of? Look no further—we’ve done the research of the best day trips to embark on from this North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui city, so you don’t have to.  

The region surrounding Palmerston North is brimming with incredible opportunities to explore the playground of nature in your Thrifty rental car. These aren’t just adventures fit for a kid, they’re remarkable journeys that travelers of all ages will love. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go! 

Take in the Stunning Scenery at Ashhurst Domain 

You’ll never be short of picturesque scenery as you’re travelling around Palmerston North and the area that surrounds it. This is a stop that combines scenic outlooks with the most thrilling fun. Ashhurst Domain, just a fifteen-minute drive from Palmerston North, is a great day trip to embark on with the whole family in tow. Also known by its Māori name Te Matairangi o Te Papa Rehia o Ashhurst, this park is a whopping 54 hectares of wildlife, nature, playgrounds, facilities and, of course, amazing views. Whether you’re soaking up the sweeping hills and incredible Te Āpiti Wind Farm on the horizon from the viewing platform, or you’re making the most of the barbeque facilities by cooking up a lunchtime storm, there’s plenty of activities to fill a whole day as you’re exploring this gem. The walking tracks, native bush, wetlands and river all provide incredible adventures into nature, however if the kids are after some safe, structural fun, there’s no going past the colorful playground in the center of the domain. 

Embrace Unruly Landscapes on the Manawatu Gorge Track 

If you’re looking for a wild slice of paradise, we’ve got just the day trip for you. Only a thirty minute drive from Palmerston North, the Manawatu Gorge Track is calling your name. Here, you’ll find nature’s playground at its most unruly, but still accessible for hikers of all ages. Nothing screams nature like a walk through the lush, vibrant native bush that can be found around the rolling hills of this region. Although the entire track stretches out a whopping 11.2 kilometers, you don’t need to complete the whole distance to get a taste of the rich scenery and incredible wildlife. Strap up those hiking shoes, bring along a picnic and soak up the sweeping views of the hills and greenery. If you’re after a shorter version of this walk, which is great for those with smaller legs, try the Manawatu Gorge Loop Track. This walk will still lead you through the scenic reserve, but it only takes a breezy 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how fast you want to take in all the beauty that surrounds.  

Make a Splash at Foxton Beach 

If the fam is wanting to mix up your adventures into nature on your day trips out of Palmerston North, why not head out to the west coast and get a glorious taste of that fresh ocean air! Foxton Beach is a hidden gem, located just a 40-minute drive from Palmerston North. Foxton Beach isn’t any old sandy bay, though—this mecca of nature is home to an impressive and world-renowned wildlife reserve, so you can bet on discovering a whole bunch of fascinating creatures wandering around the coast. After you’re done exploring the lush green side of things, make sure to take a refreshing dip in that endless turquoise blue. Thrill-seekers can have a go of the stand-up paddleboarding or kite surfing that is often offered on the beach, or just make the most of those rugged waves. Foxton Beach is patrolled by surf lifesavers in the summer months, so you and the kids can have a swim knowing you’re in safe hands. 

Elevate Your Adventures at Tōtara Reserve Regional Park 

The adventures don’t stop there! Next up for the ultimate nature-filled day trip: Tōtara Reserve Regional Park. This regional park located an easy 40 minute drive out of Palmerston North, is sure to entertain the whole family with its array of activities on offer. This extremely accessible and family-friendly park covers an incredible 340 hectares of native forest, including walking tracks, swimming holes and an adventure playground. Also, keep a look out for all the phenomenal native flora and flora around the park as you traverse this glorious gem of nature hotspots. 

Whether you’re after a park that has it all or a secluded corner of native bush to explore, you and the family are sorted with these epic day trips to embark on from Palmerston North in your Thrifty rental car.