Palmerston North
If it's your first time in Palmerston North, some things might be new to you, like the public transport system and finding your way around the city. This can be exciting but don't worry if you feel a little homesick. That's natural, especially in the first 12 months of living overseas.
One of the best things you can do to feel at home is to explore and experience your city. Then the things that are new become normal as you create a great life here.
Been in Palmerston North for a while? Scroll down and see if you've visited all the places and landmarks listed below!
Quick facts
Population
Palmerston North has a population of around 84,639 people.(external link that opens in a new tab)
Fun fact
It's nicknamed 'Palmy' by locals, which is just a short way of saying its full name!
Living in Palmerston North
There are many ways to describe life in Palmerston North. Here are two important ones:
Great country-city lifestyle
In Palmerston North you'll get the perfect balance of true Kiwi living. There's nowhere else quite like it, with its wild west coast beaches, dramatic gorges and stunning mountains – like the Ruahine Ranges.
While in the city itself, you'll experience many events which bring together the local community. One to put in your calendar is the Festival of Cultures(external link that opens in a new tab). Held each year, it celebrates the cultural diversity of the city. There's a magical lantern parade which opens the festival and over the following days there'll be live music, performances and a craft fair.
Like a challenge? There's around 130 languages spoken in the city, so listen carefully and see how many you can recognise!
Quiet
Palmy is a small city where you'll never find yourself stuck in traffic. While there are many events to keep students entertained, it's known as one of New Zealand's quieter cities. It's a great place to relax and explore New Zealand's beautiful landscape, as it has scenic walks(external link that opens in a new tab), bike trails(external link that opens in a new tab) and camping spots(external link that opens in a new tab).
Tip: Of course, if you like excitement – don't worry, it's not quite all the time. When the students arrive to start their studies, things get louder.
Massey University, the Universal College of Learning (UCOL) and the Institute of Pacific United New Zealand (previously known as the International Pacific College) are all based here, which means you'll get to socialise with many people your own age, who are excited to explore the same city you are!
Get useful information and important updates to make your life easier while you're living and studying in New Zealand.
Useful Palmerston North websites
Here are a few suggestions to help you have a great experience and a safe time in Palmerston North.
Studying in Palmerston North(external link that opens in a new tab): Find information on study, activities and support for students in Palmerston North.
Palmerston North City and Manawatu(external link that opens in a new tab): Find events, festivals and great places to eat.
Palmerston North City Council(external link that opens in a new tab): Find out how local government works and important information to help you with daily life in Palmerston North. For example information on local parks, museums, libraries, recycling and the location of public toilets and other facilities. You can also follow the local council on Facebook(external link that opens in a new tab).
Buses and public transport in Palmerston North(external link that opens in a new tab): Learn how to get around Palmerston North and its surrounding suburbs on public transport. Find out which bus you need to catch and how your student ID might help you travel free on routes to university or polytechnic.
New Zealand Rugby Museum(external link that opens in a new tab): The New Zealand Rugby Museum is the first museum about our most popular sport. It's a must-see if you're a sports or rugby fan! Find out about New Zealand's rich rugby heritage and how it shaped our country. Check out the oldest All Blacks jersey and the oldest rugby ball. You can even test out your rugby skills in the 'Have a Go' space!
Te Manawa Museum(external link that opens in a new tab): Te Manawa is an art, history and science museum in the heart of Palmy's CBD (central business district). It's a short walk from The Square and the city library. Check out the exhibitions, walks and tours they offer. Best of all it's free!
Palmerston North Hospital(external link that opens in a new tab): If there's a medical emergency and you or someone else's life is in danger, go to the local hospital or phone 111 (this emergency number gives you access to police, fire and ambulance services). If it's not urgent, make a doctor's appointment or visit the City Doctors Palmerston North(external link that opens in a new tab) which is also open after hours. This means the medical centre is open outside of normal working hours (8:30am to 5:30pm).
Prepare for an emergency in Palmerston North(external link that opens in a new tab): New Zealand is a very safe place but like anywhere in the world there's a chance a natural disaster could happen. This could be something like a flood, tsunami or earthquake. It's a good idea to be prepared for an emergency so check out the resources on the Palmerston North City Council website, including how to get mobile alerts(external link that opens in a new tab) when you're in danger.
Trade Me - Rooms in Palmerston North(external link that opens in a new tab): If you're not staying in a university hall of residence or a homestay, you might need to find a room to rent. You can try Trade Me to find a place to live. Make sure to check how far your new home is from important places, like your place of study or job (if you're working part time).
Plate of Origin(external link that opens in a new tab): Plate of Origin is a restaurant-based food festival held in Manawatu (the region Palmerston North is located in). It showcases some of New Zealand’s greatest restaurants, chefs and ingredients. Special dishes are available on menus of participating restaurants for two weeks in March every year.
Alexandre Patisserie and Chocolaterie(external link that opens in a new tab): A French bakery and chocolate cafe you can visit right in Palmerston North! Pick up a sweet snack for your morning or afternoon tea, or try one of their famous chocolate milkshakes.
Sculpture walk with Te Manawa(external link that opens in a new tab): For NZD$5 you can take a relaxed, guided walk with Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and History and explore the many art sculptures throughout the city. Palmerston North is home to many visual art features like sculptures, carvings, paintings, photographs, murals, mosaics, glassworks and galleries.
Apiti Loop Cycle Trail(external link that opens in a new tab): Palmerston North and its surrounding region have many scenic cycle trails(external link that opens in a new tab) you can choose from. From beginner to advanced, you'll find something to suit your experience level. Check out some of the best views in Manawatu with the Apiti Loop!
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