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

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

Contents

When to go to Palmerston North, New Zealand

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

What to wear/what to pack for Palmerston North, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Palmerston North is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palmerston North. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Palmerston North in February, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s 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 always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Palmerston North. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Palmerston North during March, you are likely to see that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

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 Palmerston North. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to Palmerston North in April, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palmerston North. 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find 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 Palmerston North. 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Palmerston North is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Palmerston North, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. There is frost once in a while.

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 repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find 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 Palmerston North. 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 things.

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Palmerston North is pretty cool and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palmerston North. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Palmerston North is relatively cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Palmerston North, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. There is frost sometimes.

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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Palmerston North is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to high 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palmerston North. 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Palmerston North in October, 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 60s F (high 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 constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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. Be careful to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Palmerston North is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 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 Palmerston North. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Palmerston North is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s 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.

  • 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the New Zealand Rugby Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Palmerston North, New Zealand

Palmerston North is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in New Zealand, known for its beautiful parks, cultural diversity, and a range of outdoor activities. With a bustling center surrounded by picturesque countryside, this urban center has plenty to offer both locals and tourists alike. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Palmerston North.

1. Te Manawa

Te Manawa is a stunning and unique museum complex that highlights the history, art, and science of Palmerston North. Visitors can explore the interactive exhibits, art galleries, and science center that will keep visitors engaged for hours. The museum is housed in a modern and sleek building that is easy to find and provides a stunning view of the city skyline from its rooftop.

2. Victoria Esplanade Gardens

The Victoria Esplanade Gardens are a beautiful park located in Palmerston North city center. This charming park is an ideal spot for those who love outdoor activities, picnics, and having a relaxing walk. The park has plenty of exotic and natural plants, as well as a mini-zoo and a children's play area. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including tennis, cycling, and walking trails.

3. Manawatu Gorge

The Manawatu Gorge is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers. The gorge features steep mountains covered with lush vegetation and the spectacular Manawatu River running through it. The hiking trails are outstanding, and the views are stunning. The Manawatu Gorge is a place to discover the natural beauty of New Zealand.

4. The New Zealand Rugby Museum

New Zealand is a country that is passionate about rugby, and the Rugby Museum is a perfect destination for anyone who would love to learn about the history of rugby in the country. Visitors can learn about the development of the game from its origins through today, get up close and personal with memorabilia from some of the most significant moments in rugby history, and even participate in an interactive exhibit that takes visitors behind the scenes of the sport.

5. Lido Aquatic Centre

Lastly, Lido Aquatic Centre is an excellent spot for visitors and locals alike to beat the heat during New Zealand's hot summer months. The aquatic center has multiple pools varying in temperature, a water slide, and even outdoor playgrounds for children. With a well-equipped gym and cafe, the Lido Aquatic Centre has something for everyone interested in health and fitness.

In summary, Palmerston North is a diverse and vibrant city that is always bustling with activity. Visitors will find something to enjoy in every corner of this eclectic city with a range of cultural sites, parks, outdoor activities, and shopping locations. Whether you're passing through New Zealand or planning a longer stay, Palmerston North is a must-see destination on any traveler's list.

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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