A weekend away: 48 hours in Horowhenua

A weekend away: 48 hours in Horowhenua

Recharge or unwind, Horowhenua is a destination where you can unplug and reconnect with yourself and loved ones. Discover what Horowhenua has to offer with this two day itinerary.

Day 1: Culture on the Coast

  • Treat yourself to brunch at Ocean Beach Eatery, Foxton Beach
  • Visit De Molen, a 17th century replica Dutch Windmill
  • Discover Māori, Dutch and pioneering history at Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom
  • Meander Foxton Mainstreet and indulge in some boutique shopping – don’t forget to pop into Mewington’s Book Shoppe, it’s worth the short walk to Johnston Street
  • Watch the sunset at Foxton Beach with fish n' chips from Delish takeaways
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Start the day at De Molen

The De Molen Dutch Windmill stands proudly in Foxton’s town centre. Take a tour inside this 17th century replica windmill and observe the inner workings of a Dutch flourmill. At the ground level of De Molen, you can explore the Dutch Market and purchase their stone-ground flour, along with delicious imported Dutch groceries.

Oysters at the beach

Relish in the small town, coastal hospitality at Ocean Beach Eatery in Foxton Beach. The beer is cold, and the fish is fresh!

Celebrate diversity

Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom is a unique visitor hub. Discover Māori, Dutch and pioneering history by exploring the museums, gallery, exhibitions, library and cultural centre.

Sunsets and scoops

There’s no better way to end the day than with a Kiwi classic – fish n’ chips on the beach. Take a drive down to Foxton Beach and indulge in some fish n’ chips from Delish takeaways. Locals will tell you their gourmet chicken burgers are the best! 

Day 2: A tee-rific journey to Middle Earth

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A journey to Middle Earth

Within the Waitārere forest you’ll discover a Lord of the Rings filming location where Frodo, Sam and Gollum walked after leaving Faramir. You’ll also find the fairy garden and playground, which has been lovingly created by locals from recycled and upcycled material. Our lawyers told us to tell you to ‘play at your own risk’.

Breakfast (and lunch) is the most important meal of the day

Whether you’re craving eggs benny, chicken and waffles, or just a cup of coffee, Focal Point Cinema and Café is your one-stop shop for delicious brunch options. Located in the heart of Levin, it’s an eatery you won’t want to miss!

It’s time to move

However you like to get your 30 minutes a day in, Horowhenua offers a variety of options. Maybe you fancy a dip in the pool at the Levin Aquatic Centre, a round of golf at the Levin Golf Course, or if you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon stroll we have a range of walking tracks to suit all fitness levels.

A taste explosion

End your day by taking your taste buds to Malaysia. Nanyang Flavours, based in Shannon, offers delectable Malaysian dishes that blend Malaysian spices with New Zealand’s finest produce. Yum!

Ready to book your weekend away?

What are you waiting for? Check out our accommodation options and more activities and eateries on our website. We can’t wait to see you.

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