Plan Your Manawatū Trip
Make a day of the Kimbolton Sculpture Festival, or turn your visit into a weekend exploring northern Manawatū.
Set among the rolling hills and rural communities north of Feilding, Kimbolton is a great starting point for discovering local gardens, country roads, cafés and the smaller towns that make this part of the region special.
Whether you're travelling from further afield or just looking for an excuse to explore somewhere new, there's plenty to see and do while you're here.
Where can I stay?
Manawatū has a number of unique accommodation options to make your stay memorable.
From motels and bed and breakfasts to rural retreats, farm stays and glamping, there are accommodation options throughout the region. Staying nearby gives you more time to discover local gardens, cafés and small rural towns without having to rush home after the festival.
Camping and caravan sites are available from Friday afternoon in the paddock right next to the festival grounds. It's a convenient option if you'd like to stay close to the action and make a weekend of it.
Where can I eat?
There'll be plenty to eat and drink at the Kimbolton Sculpture Festival (9am - 4pm on Saturday 3rd April), with food stalls, coffee, sweet treats and local goodies available throughout the day.
If you're staying for the weekend, there are plenty more places to grab a bite to eat around the Manawatū. Stop in at the Hansen’s Café and Store in Kimbolton, enjoy a meal and a view of sculptures at either the Kimbolton Hotel & Sculpture Café or Apiti Tavern and Eatery, or head further afield to Ginger Bird Café in Colyton, The Herb Farm Café in Ashhurst or the range of restaurants and cafés in Feilding and Palmerston North.
Check opening hours before visiting, particularly if you're travelling out of your way.
What else can I do?
There's plenty to see and do, whether you're after a relaxed afternoon or a more adventurous day out.
Take a wander through the award-winning Cross Hills Gardens or Heritage Park Gardens in Kimbolton, or get out and enjoy some of the region's walking tracks, including the spectacular Rangiwahia Hut Track.
If you're around on Friday, head into Feilding to browse the Feilding Farmers' Market or experience the action of a live auction at the Feilding Saleyards (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere). You could also visit the Coach House Museum to learn more about the region's rural history.