Whanganui / 8 photo spots
8 Instagram spots around Whanganui
Whanganui’s riverfront, hilltop landmarks and lakeside gardens offer several ways to photograph the city. The gardens and coast also make rewarding short trips beyond the centre.
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Photo spots on the map
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Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
Durie Hill Elevator Tunnel
The illuminated tunnel on Anzac Parade leads to the Durie Hill Elevator and has no through exit. As of November 2026 the elevator is closed for maintenance, though the operator says the tunnel remains open. Photograph it from the public walkway and check current access before visiting.
Search Google MapsDurie Hill War Memorial Tower
The stone war memorial tower stands on Durie Hill above the river. Photograph its exterior from the public area near Blyth Street and treat the memorial respectfully. Check current access before entering the tower.
Search Google MapsRotokawau Virginia Lake
A path circles Rotokawau Virginia Lake past bridges, trees and a fountain. From the lakeside path, use the fountain and the opposite shore to build your frame.
Search Google MapsBason Botanic Gardens
At Bason Botanic Gardens, follow the lakeside trail to a reclining sculpture. Photograph it against the garden landscape. The gardens are outside town and have seasonal opening hours.
Search Google MapsTe Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery
At Pukenamu Queen’s Park, photograph the stone exterior and dome of the Sarjeant Gallery from the public park. Leave room around the building to show its hilltop setting.
Search Google MapsTaupō Quay Whanganui
The shared riverside path beside Taupō Quay passes the visitor centre near Drews Avenue. From the path, frame the Whanganui River and the opposite bank. Leave space for cyclists and walkers.
Search Google MapsKowhai Park Whanganui
Kowhai Park on Anzac Parade has colourful animal and storybook sculptures beside the river. Photograph a sculpture from a path while giving children and families room to play.
Search Google MapsCastlecliff Beach Whanganui
Castlecliff Beach is a short drive from central Whanganui. From the open beach near the main access, use the shoreline to lead the eye along the coast. Watch the waves and tide.
Search Google MapsSources for these photo spots
- Durie Hill Elevator, visiting and current closure
- Discover Whanganui, Durie Hill Memorial Tower
- Whanganui District Council, Rotokawau Virginia Lake
- Whanganui District Council, Bason Botanic Gardens
- Whanganui District Council, Bason lakeside trail
- Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, about the gallery
- Whanganui District Council, visitor centre and river walkway
- Whanganui District Council, walkways and road reserves
- Whanganui District Council, Kowhai Park
- Whanganui District Council, beaches and safety
- Sarjeant Gallery, redevelopment information sheet