Manawatu/Horowhenua
"The Manawatu", as it is usually called, is located in the southwest of the island, close to the river which shares its name.
Located north of Wellington, the district stretches from slightly north of the settlement of Himatangi in the south to just south of Mangaweka in the north, and from the Rangitikei River to the summit of the Tararua Ranges. The southern boundary follows the Manawatu River, and the district excludes the area around the city of Palmerston North (including Ashhurst).
The main city of this region Palmerston North is home to more than 70 major educational and research institutions, including New Zealand's fastest expanding university, Massey University, the Massey University Sport and Recreation Institute at the Massey University campus, Turitea; University College of Learning (UCOL) and the Linton Army Camp.
Conveniently located half way between Rotorua and Wellington, the region combines the charm of rural New Zealand with the sophisticated provincial appeal of Palmerston North city.
The landscape sweeps dramatically from the Ruahine and Tararua mountain ranges, through the spectacular Manawatu Gorge and picturesque Pohangina Valley, along Manawatu River to the coastal plains of Tangimoana and Himatangi. The region enjoys a mild climate, providing fantastic growing conditions for the many public, world-class gardens.
Visitors can enjoy jet boating through the spectacular, scenic Manawatu Gorge, or can learn the fascinating history of selling livestock, one of New Zealand’s oldest traditions with Feilding Saleyard Tours. A vareity of other interesting activities and accommodation is available throughout this region.
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