Manawatu, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Manawatu, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Manawatu, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Manawatu, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Manawatu, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Manawatu, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Manawatu, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Manawatu, New Zealand by month

January

Traveling to Manawatu in January, you will notice that it is cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to pick the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

February

February for Manawatu is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

March

In March, Manawatu is cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Manawatu, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is very breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Manawatu can be brisk and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

If you visit Manawatu during May, you may find that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

June

June here can be very chilly and very rainy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

If you vacation in Manawatu during July, you might find that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

August

In August, Manawatu is cold and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Manawatu, with most of the days of the month having rain. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

September

In September, Manawatu can be very chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Manawatu, with most of the days of the month having rain. There is frost sometimes. Additionally, it is very breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

October

If you go to Manawatu in October, you will notice that it is brisk and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

Traveling to Manawatu in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

December

December in Manawatu is relatively cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Manawatu. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

What to do in Manawatu, New Zealand

Manawatu, located in the heart of New Zealand's North Island, is a hidden gem of a tourist destination. Though often overlooked in favour of the larger cities and more well-known natural landmarks, Manawatu has plenty to offer visitors, from stunning scenic vistas to rich cultural experiences.

Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax and soak up some natural beauty, Manawatu has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the top tourist attractions in the region.

1. Te Manawa

Te Manawa is a unique cultural and arts complex located in Palmerston North, the largest city in Manawatu. The complex includes a museum, art gallery, science centre, and performance venue, making it a favourite destination for families and couples alike.

Visitors can learn about the history and culture of New Zealand through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, or delve into the world of science and technology with hands-on experiments and demonstrations.

Te Manawa also hosts a range of events and performances throughout the year, from live music and theatre to film screenings and art exhibitions.

2. Manawatu Gorge

The Manawatu Gorge, located just 10 minutes from Palmerston North, is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. The rugged gorge runs for 12 kilometres through the Tararua Range, offering breathtaking views of steep cliffs, dense forest, and a winding river below.

Visitors can explore the gorge on foot or by bike, with several well-marked trails and paths winding their way through the stunning natural surroundings.

3. Levin Adventure Park

If you're looking for a bit of excitement and adventure, the Levin Adventure Park is the perfect destination. The park offers a range of activities for all ages, including a high ropes course, zipline, archery, and paintball.

There's also a playground and picnic area for younger visitors, making it a great destination for families. And with plenty of wide open space and stunning scenery, the park is also a popular spot for weddings and other events.

4. Foxton Beach

For a more relaxed and laid-back experience, head to Foxton Beach. This charming coastal town is home to a wide, sandy beach that's perfect for swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun.

Visitors can also explore the town's iconic windmill, which dates back to 1885 and is one of the few remaining Dutch flour mills in New Zealand. And with several great cafes and restaurants nearby, Foxton Beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some of the region's delicious local cuisine.

5. Fielding Farmer's Market

Finally, no visit to Manawatu would be complete without a trip to the Fielding Farmer's Market. Held every Friday in the town of Fielding, the market is a celebration of the region's rich agricultural heritage, with stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal products, and locally made crafts.

Visitors can sample some of the region's best cheeses, meats, and baked goods while chatting with local farmers and artisans. And with live music and entertainment, it's a great place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon.

Conclusion

Manawatu may be a lesser-known destination, but it's one that's well worth exploring. From cultural and arts complexes to natural wonders and adventure parks, there's plenty to discover in this hidden gem of a region. Whether you're travelling with family or friends, there's something for everyone in Manawatu.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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