While you’re in Whanganui
We love our town and think you will too. From our thriving arts scene to river views and great coffee, Whanganui offers a relaxed pace and rich character. Below are our picks of what to do while you’re here for Lit.
Visit the Coastal Art Trail website for a list of the many galleries in our area.
And check out Discover Whanganui for more places to see.
Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery
Reopened in late 2024 after a major redevelopment, the Sarjeant Gallery is once again the cultural heart of Whanganui. The beautifully restored heritage building now includes a striking new wing, blending contemporary design with deep local connections. With a thoughtfully curated exhibition programme and one of the country’s most significant art collections, it’s a must-visit while you’re in town. The licensed cafe has become a firm favourite with visitors and locals alike. Open every day. Gallery: 10am – 5pm | Café: 10am – 4pm
Quartz, Museum of Studio Ceramics
Opened in 2015 by renowned potter Rick Rudd, Quartz is Aotearoa’s only dedicated studio ceramics museum and showcases over 4,000 ceramic works at any given time. The permanent collection offers a fascinating look at the evolution of New Zealand pottery. Rotating installations and temporary exhibitions keep the experience fresh. Free to enter and open Tues–Sun, 10.30am - 4pm, Quartz is a quiet gem on Whanganui’s cultural map – and a must‑see for art lovers.
Whanganui Regional Museum
Smack in the centre of Pukenamu Queen’s Park, the Whanganui Regional Museum has just received a dramatic exterior makeover. Its freshly revealed façade features a bold palette of Resene Merino and Triple Merino beige, volcanic red (Scoria), soft blue (Bali Hai) and blush pink – colours chosen to reflect the region’s geology, cultural heritage and early 1920s architecture. Inside, the museum remains a rich bicultural waharoa to Taonga Māori, moa fossils, and stories of local life – all presented in beautifully restored displays. Open every day 10am–4.30pm.
Article Café & Vintage Store
Nestled in Whanganui’s old Chronicle building on Drews Avenue, Article is equal parts café, vintage shop and creative hub. The coffee – served in mismatched crockery with a side of quirky charm – consistently earns praise for its quality and flavour. Browse through retro clothing, local crafts and mid-century goodness, or relax at the communal table and maybe pet a visiting dog while you sip. Open Wednesday to Saturday, with a curated food selection focused on fresh pies, croissants and cabinet treats – simple, satisfying and ideal with great organic fair trade coffee. Wed–Sat, 8.30am–2pm.
The Teal Lounge
Tucked away at 40 Drews Avenue, The Teal Lounge channels the glamour of vintage Tasman Empire Airways in a cosy, softly lit bar setting. The décor evokes mid‑century luxury with cushioned booths and second‑floor window views overlooking the city below. Owners Tanya and Chris Hayton curate an impressive drink menu, featuring classic cocktails crafted with flair and tap offerings from their own Brews on Drews brewery. Open from 4pm Thursday through Saturday, it’s a perfect spot for winding down after a day of exploring Whanganui – especially at sunset, when the light and views add to the ambience.
Paige’s Book Gallery
Paige’s is a delightful duo of bookshops under one roof – a dedicated children’s store overflowing with picture books, early readers and kid‑friendly titles, and the original Paige’s Book Gallery next door, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of fiction, non‑fiction, poetry and literary picks. Both spaces celebrate New Zealand writers alongside international favourites, with friendly, knowledgeable staff on hand to help. Whether you’re browsing for tiny hands or grown‑up minds, Paige’s is a Whanganui institution for booklovers of all ages. Closed Sundays.
Whanganui River Markets
Held every Saturday from 8.30am to 1pm along Taupō Quay by the Whanganui River, this vibrant market brings together over 100 stalls of local growers, artisans and food vendors – rain or shine. Wander through the farmers’ section for fresh fruit, veges, eggs and preserves, then explore riverbank stalls offering crafts, vintage items, plants, baked goods and wood‑fired pizza. The atmosphere buzzes with friendly chatter, buskers and the scent of good coffee – all set against the peaceful river backdrop. Visiting here is one of the town’s most authentic Saturday‑morning experiences.
Brown & Co
Housed in a beautifully restored heritage space on Ridgway Street, Brown & Co is a contemporary design store with a strong local feel. Curated by glass artist Katie Brown, the shop features her own handblown vessels and lighting alongside ceramics, textiles, jewellery and homeware by over 20 New Zealand makers. It’s an elegant, ever-changing space – part gallery, part boutique – and a great place to find something special.
New Zealand Glassworks – Te Whare Tūhua O Te Ao
Housed in the old Chronicle building on Rutland Street, New Zealand Glassworks is the national centre for art glass – a working studio, gallery and shop all in one. Visitors can watch live glassblowing most days, browse an ever-changing display of work by leading New Zealand artists, or even take part in a beginner workshop. The space blends heritage and contemporary design, offering a rare chance to see this intricate craft up close.
Durie Hill Elevator
A true Whanganui icon, the Durie Hill Elevator is New Zealand’s only public underground lift – and one of just a few left in the world. Opened in 1919, it connects Anzac Parade by the river to the hilltop garden suburb of Durie Hill via a long pedestrian tunnel and a 66‑metre vertical shaft. Ring the bell and the operator will bring the lift down – it’s still in daily use and costs just a couple of dollars for the ride. At the top, you’ll find panoramic views from the lookout tower and a peaceful spot to take in the city, the river and beyond. Access from Anzac Parade, opposite the city bridge.
Bookhunters
Under the passionate stewardship of owner Cam Dale, Bookhunters Whanganui has continued its legacy as a haven for lovers of secondhand books and vintage media. Located on Ridgway Street, the shop offers a welcoming, laidback browsing experience – packed shelves and a loyal local following. Cam’s enthusiasm keeps the inventory fresh and well curated, making every visit feel like a personal treasure hunt. Whether you’re after a rare find or a nostalgic listen, Bookhunters is Whanganui’s analogue gem. Closed Sundays.
Porridge Watson
Tucked into an alley on Drews Avenue, Porridge Watson is Whanganui’s beloved arts‑meets‑pub destination. With comfy couches, shuffleboard, board games and fun vintage decor, it’s an easy place to settle in for a pint and a chat. Craft beers rotate regularly – many from local breweries – and the food includes fan‑favourite burgers. The venue hosts everything from live bands and comedy to open‑mic nights and poetry. Known for its inclusive, creative atmosphere, Porridge Watson is where Whanganui’s culture comes to hang out. Open Wednesday to Sunday.
