How to get to Palmerston North

Located in the heart of the Manawatu region on the North Island, Palmerston North is a dynamic university city and a key logistics hub. You can reach this corner of New Zealand in various ways: from a quick flight to an exciting journey by train or car through picturesque green hills. The city offers convenient transport accessibility for both business travellers and tourists exploring the country.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is to fly into Palmerston North Airport (PMR). This regional aviation hub receives regular flights from the country's main cities, ensuring excellent connectivity with the rest of the archipelago.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities such as Whanganui or Paraparaumu, located within a 100 km radius. However, arriving directly in Palmerston North remains the most convenient option, significantly saving time on ground transfers.

Unlike many other cities in the region, Palmerston North has active railway connections. The city is a key stop for the scenic tourist train Northern Explorer, which runs between Auckland and Wellington, allowing you to enjoy views of the volcanic plateau.

Additionally, on weekdays, the commuter train Capital Connection runs between the capital and the city. This makes train travel a convenient option for those wishing to get from Wellington or Paraparaumu with comfort and without traffic jams.

Bus services reliably connect Palmerston North with neighbouring regions. For example, a trip from Paraparaumu will take just about 1.5 hours, covering a distance of 83 km along scenic roads.

The route from the city of Whanganui is also popular: comfortable intercity buses travel about 80 km in approximately 1.9 hours. This is an affordable and relaxed way to travel, allowing you to admire the Manawatu landscapes from the window.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and allows you to reach Palmerston North at a comfortable pace. The road from Whanganui takes only about 1 hour (74 km), passing through peaceful countryside.

If you are heading from the Kapiti Coast, the journey from Paraparaumu, spanning about 90 km, will require slightly more time — approximately 1.1 hours. The roads here are of excellent quality, and a trip by rental car or taxi will be easy and pleasant.

Palmerston North is a hospitable city, but knowing local features will make your stay much more comfortable. Here are some practical tips for preparing for your trip.

1. Clothing and Weather. The city is known for its winds, so even in summer, be sure to carry a windbreaker. Dress in layers, as the weather can change throughout the day.
2. Transport. The city centre is compact and convenient for walking, but to explore the surroundings of the Manawatu region, it is better to rent a car.
3. Finance. The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but a small amount of cash is useful for markets and small cafes.
4. Sun Protection. The UV index in New Zealand is extremely high. Use sunscreen with SPF 50+ even in cloudy weather.
5. Connectivity. English is the main language. For mobile internet, it is recommended to buy a local SIM card upon arrival, as roaming can be expensive.
6. Local Etiquette. New Zealanders are very friendly and informal. A simple greeting and a smile are always appropriate when interacting with locals.
7. Safety. The city is safe, but do not leave valuables in plain sight in a parked car, especially at tourist parking lots.
8. Local Tip. Visit the central square, The Square — it is the heart of the city, where events often take place, and from where it is convenient to start any route.

By following these simple recommendations, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the attractions and culture of this cozy city.