Reviews of The Victoria Esplanade. (Other) in Palmerston North (Manawatu Whanganui).

The Victoria Esplanade

3105 Reviews

397 Comments

Other

Park

Tourist attraction

1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand

Description

Information of The Victoria Esplanade, Other in Palmerston North (Manawatu Whanganui)

Here you can see the location, open hours, popular times, contact, photos and real reviews done by the users.

This place has good reviews, this means that they treat their customers well and you’ll feel great with their services, recommended 100%!

Map

Open hours of The Victoria Esplanade

Popular times

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

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Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Reviews of The Victoria Esplanade

n.

There is a children's park combined to. And ppl visit there for expressing, relax. Calm and soothing place to spend some free time under shades of city middle of nature. Public toilets available.

E. C.

This is a awesome spot in Palmy with numerous things to do. For families there is a playground, splash pool and the esplanade scenic train. I recommend making sure you check out the wild base recovery centre as well to see and learn more about native birds.

P. N.

Most beautiful park in the city of Palmerston North. Bush walks, river walks, rose gardens, Cafe Esplanade and kids play are-all great!

J. L. D. G.

People of all ages will definitely enjoy this place, so many things you can do to this place!!! You should come and see it yourself!

T.

Cool place to take the kids, even the anyone version of them. Want a place to take the toddlers for a full on a hot day? The paddling pool down by the aviaries is so will set up. Shade cloth over the pool, changing rooms and free to use bbq's! Has a cool train that operates most weekends right next to the main playground and runs a loop around the park. Cafe is pretty good (it's near the pool), and a good amount of parking. Also has a lot of trails under the trees to walk or ride

M. K.

Was quite nice of a place good for a little stroll the roses were beautiful but the weather wasn't the greatest at the time

T.

Absolutely one of the best areas I've been to. So much to do and kids have so much fun. Love the miniature train,bird viewings,rose gardens and shallow pool to name a few. Highly recommend

R. M.

A very beautiful Park well done Palmerston makes me want to return soon ,

F. L.

Awesome for people of all ages. My one year old absolutely loved the train and the Birds.

S.

We went there specifically for the train ride. Very enjoyable. Good ride for 3 dollars. Play groundis good but slides need to protected from the heat as they burn kids bums

F. K.

Even in winter a walk through the Esplanade is bliss. Not sure if the Roosters are part of the displays at Wildbase but they sure look good.

Z. G.

Great place to amble about for all ages. Wild base wildlife recovery, Play park for babies and older children, Paddling pool for toddlers, Rose gardens, and walkways. Cafe and BBQ areas as well. A great place for all for little to no cost. During Summer there is often bands playing

J. M.

Be sure to visit the Central Energy Trust Wildbase Recovery! A recovery & rehab for native birds, one of the enclosures homes a pair of kaka and kukupa. The rehab patients roll in and out based on their health and you'll never know who you're going to see.

C.

Good environment, with friendly animals and stunning plants

H.

Such a great open plan park with plenty of things to do

M. j. W.

Lots of fun things to do liked the restaurant train rides where fantastic

s.

The park from my Childhoods got better with age!! Amazing gardens,flowers,trees,ponds a epic miniature railways a couple of amazing playgrounds the rd system for the kids with working lights, signs is a brilliant concept the bird Sanctuary and Aviary is the icing on the cake!! Best park on the planet in my view !!

M.

A great place to walk among the trees have a train ride and see the animal rehabilitation efforts of Massey. The frog hunt kept us entertained.

J.

We love walking around the many tracks or the rose garden, playing in the playgrounds with our children, visiting the wildlife center and walking through the hot house gardens.

t. p.

Beautiful place to spend the day. Loved visiting the birds in the aviaries 🐦and the roses🌹 among all the other plants trees and flowers🌳 Remember going to the paddling pool as a child. Plenty to keep the kids happy at the park 😁

K. O.

I love this place, enjoyed every time I came in 2019

M. T.

Beautiful and peaceful, well cared for gardens, trees and aviary. Great variety of plants inside and out, world class rose garden and many different walks cater to all. Best place in Palmerston North to experience the river up close.

K. K.

The perfect place to stop, rest, revive & explore one of Aotearoa's most incredible hidden treasures. Free BBQ's, Paddling pool for the kids, amazing adventure playground, wonderful miniature railway which meanders through nearly 2km of gardens & native bush. Last but not least, the super delicious ice creams at the Esplanade Cafe. You owe it to yourself to visit this wonderful place

H. P.

Make sure you head to the Wildbase recovery centre. They’re doing some great things in support with Massey University. You’ll also be able to see at the centre tuatara and native birds.

G. F.

Beautiful area, great for young families. Mini trains, paddling pool and a huge playground make for an interesting and very well kept public spot. Loved the aviary with all the parrot species, really well done.

M.

Wonderful gardens. Great facilities for all ages. Rescue aviary very interesting and free to visit.

J. D.

We parked near the paddling pool on a visit to the Cafe. It brought back memories of visiting the pool and the Begonia House as children with our grandmothers. The mural looks good, bright and attractive. I liked the large gnarled old trees with character to the left of the cafe too. As we went around the ring road we remembered the playground and being terrified of the rocket slide as kids. I saw a family feeding ducks, and other looking at the gardens

A. K.

A great place for family and especially kids and also for large group. This garden / reserve has activities for people of all age. Play grounds for kids, Bush walks for adults and rose garden to relax for old people. There is a toy train track but I am not sure it still runs. There is plenty of parking spaces available and great place for picnic as well. You can easily spend a entire day with friends and family.

L.

Truly beautiful. Peaceful with a beautiful array of trees, shrubs and flowers. The rose garden is beautifully perfumed with a lovely gazebo in which to stand and gaze at the roses that are blooming. The cafe is a great place for coffee and cake or lunch. A real asset. On the whole the Esplanade is a wonderful place to be enjoyed by all ages.

w.

Great place to visit. Free entry. Lovely wander around for an hour although disappointed the specialty plant area doesn't open till midday on a Saturday?! 10am only during the week, should be 10am every day. Had to leave at 11am so missed out on that bit. Roses in leaf but no flowers yet mid October. Cafe open from 10am, nice looking food, didn't try any this time. Bought a medium takeaway trim flat white and had to pay an extra 50c for the cup! (first time ever paying extra for a takeaway cup in all my travelling round nz over the years, 10c maybe but 50c a bit much). Coffee was also bitter. Rest of visit there great, lots of photo ops 🙂

A. K.

Really nice for anyone, families included. Aviaries, duck pond nearby and the small but interesting botanical gardens. Cafe nearby. A bit pricey for some maybe.

L. J.

Always beautiful flowers, lots of space for walks through the bush, great taking a trip on the scenic railway. Wildbase recovery is a superb attraction, love seeing native birds recovering.

L. P.

Defs worth a visit...love this place! Enjoy the train during the school holidays...most of these pics are from the rose garden part

P. C. K. C.

Wonderful place for family outings and children. Parks, huge playground, bush walks, river walk, rose garden etc etc all in one play. Can easily spend a day there,👍👍👍👍

t.

Amazing place to go with the kids and family!! Take a picnic, enjoy the little pool, take a train ride or spin in the hamster wheels!!

R. M.

They've really tried hard to do well at this place, and I can't fault them for trying but i still leave this place wanting more. It's not too bad but nothing special. Being the only proper garden park in the town it needs to up it's game a little better. Mini golf is supposedly coming so that's a bonus if it does. I'd like to see the whole playground upgraded, front to back - it needs a complete overhaul. The bird avery needs to be removed and if they're serious about some small wildlife here, redo the enclosures and keep them looking healthy and open, filled with animals or birds. Too many poor enclosures with nothing in them. The pool beside this area is a bit of a joke. The new entrance is well received and the train is still a hit with the younglings. I appreciate the work done on the track over the past decade. Walkways around the trees could do with a spruce up, widening of tracks in places, laying of hard surfaces, clean up the weeds and broken trees and open the bush up a little. A sidewalk from the carpark toward the little pond is needed. Speaking of the pond, that also needs some work done. Palmy isn't the best town around but the esplanade is the best garden park that it has and would really raise the impression of the city if work was done. It would be nice to dive head first into the area with a bit of funding and really make it shine. There is tremendous potential here, but alot more work needs to be done.

E. M.

Wonderful place for everyone. Pncc do good work to maintain this park. Wonderful shrubs. Blossom great late September. Beaut birdlife.

T.

A family friendly park in Palmerston North. They have the biggest playground in PN. Miniature railway and paddling pool attract lots of children. Ducks and birds are all around the park. Cafe to have a treat.

M. S.

Omg amazing!!! Love the nature trails here, great for bird watching. I enjoyed seeing some local NZ species like the Tui. The Rose garden is A MUST! It's the best rose garden I have ever been to. So many gorgeous varieties and the scent is wonderful. Like a natural perfumery with such delicate and beautiful forals. I went in January and the garden seemed in full swing. On the other side of the park is a really well done kids playground area. Great place for families!

A.

Very Nice place for kids. Water to play, train for kids to ride and parrots are also there which you can see.

R.

Bounty of things offered at palmy local park. Kids love swings, nice shady walk towards new bridge, small train ride through green trees and last but not least beautiful flower trees. Also offer small animal zoo.

W.

Loads of excellent activities for the children, and good facilities all round. Nice safe bathroom facilities. A great place to spend time with your family. 😁👍🏾🌳

W. S.

Really good park. Loved in special the playground and the Wild Life sanctuary - you will have a uniwue chance to see Tuatara's in a safe environment there. The train ride is also a crowd pleaser for the young ones.

L. P.

Just the perfect place to unwind and take in springs freshness.... cherry blossoms n the sweet singing birds. Amazing short trails.beautiful architecture spotted around the Esplanade...

A.

Beautiful place to relax with friends and family. Cafe, rose garden, short bush walks, lovely toy train ride, birds, green house., etc.🙂👍

A.

Best place to entertain a toddler for few hours. River Walk, bush walk, playground ducks birds, tropical greenhouse, train rides followed by a drink at the cafe. It's a godsend ☺️

T. K.

Plenty of things to do and see, well maintained and great way to spend some time outdoors.

K.

Nice park, great rose garden and has a awesome kids play area

D. P.

Aptly named this park is the jewel in the crown of Palmerston North’s family friendly offering. Sprawling grounds, a rose garden, miniature railway, native bush, river walkway, children’s playground and paddling pool. Not to mention bird aviary, animal rescue centre and sports fields. A highlight from my childhood that continues to delight both young and old. A real asset for the community.

P. S.

Nice garden with train ride and amusement for children. Too good plants to see along with a little Zoo!

L.

Lovely park with long miniature railway, amazing bird/ reptile rehab centre and nice cafe.

A. T.

Great place for enjoy with your family. One of the place you must visit if you are going to Palmerston North

M. K.

The best park I have ever been to. It has many playground sets that suit the children of all ages. I wish i could live nearby so i can visit everyday!

P.

Love the birds and gardens awesome place for kids day out with train rides park etc. A must see if u have lil ones

J.

Lovely park, from watching ducks to riding on model trains it really has everything! A nice bird nursery is in the middle which is a really nice touch.

A.

so while my partner and I were out at the esplanade walking around we visited the local Cafe we had a milkshake and a Christmas Cake which was yummy we enjoyed our visit and service was good my rating for thus place I give you a 5 star...

M. C.

Love the esplanade- so beautiful throughout the year from cherry blossom to rose garden and the walkways, tracks and gardens.

Y. A.

Nice kids playing area and you can’t beat a stroll down the river on a good day The miniature train is popular with kids too The rose garden is amazing at this time of the year

J.

Grate park love the train ride and has plenty of fun things for the kids to play on and good walking tracks

S.

It was amazing experiences. Such a great place to go with family and visitors. Thank you for your time to look after the HUGE places.

D. Y.

Most roads are nicely paved ! Friendly playground for kids ! A nice nature walk inside where you can look at birds and plants ! There’s a conservatory, cafe and rose garden !

N.

Beautiful place with lots of walks and a great playground for kids

r.

Great place for a short walk or picnic. Really liked the well maintained mini zoo.

D. p.

An amazing park. We were looking for a stop off on our way through Parmy. Somewhere to feed and entertain the kids. This park certainly delivered. Cafe - check. Fish and chips were ok. The kids one was arguably better than the adults. Coffee for Dad - check. Still a long drive ahead in holiday traffic. Play Park - check. A really good one. Loads of different pieces of apparatus across s broad range of ages. That would have been enough for us. But Vic Park kept on giving. Aviary, Bush Walks, Paddling Pool and miniature railway. I feel like we barely scratched the surface. I think this one could be a regular stop off in the future.

T.

Took some corn and wild birdseed to feed the ducks and there were plenty of ducklings to see, which was awesome. Super cute!

f. 7.

Fantastic place to visit all day long. Just beautiful and so much to do! The train is the best! Palmerston North should be very proud!

G.

Lots to do; Kids playground, paths leading down to the Manawatu River, picnic tables and public toilet nearby.

L.

Such a beautiful place, but it needs 1 or 2 food trucks to complete with the cafe which charges the most horrendous prices!! $8.90 for 1 sausage roll!! It's daylight robbery 😡😤

Q.

Love this place, great walk way through the bush. Nice and clean and lots of activities to do.

K.

Always a joy to visit. The cherry blossoms in bloom the birds and the cafe. Lovely place for a walk to decompress after a stressful day.

D. L.

Excellent place....with various venue...cafe, train, river, mountain view, wind farm view, rose garden, rugby field, etc...beautifull place

J. K.

Great place to go great for walks BBQ excellent play ground for the kids has the pool next door Lovely camping ground next door as well Great place to spend the day

J.

Very nice. Great amenities for children of all ages, including a ride on train experience.

M.

The renovations of the Esplanade are absolutely beautiful they done a amazing job on the park, the water theme there is way to cool, love what they did to it 💖👌

J.

Good day with the family. Train was going need to wear mask for the ride and be vacinated. No mask while walking around park tho

B.

Very pleasant. Lovely walks. Good children playground. Clean toilets and kitchen facilities for day use only. Cafe on site. Good parking. Miniature railway on weekends.

S.

Super friendly staff and very good coffee! I also love the quiet ambience - no blaring music - so good for a conversation.

D. M.

Just an awesome place. Visited several times

K. M.

A beautiful park which is essentially a local landmark, with a sizeable playground having been redesigned over the years with Cafe, duck pond and aviary as additional attractions makes this park a must go to, for current residents of Palmerston North or tourists.

M. K.

Lots to do and see here for the kids. Pool was clean and tidy. Grounds are well kept. Offer a large range of seating areas and clean grass areas for picnics. Great place to spend the day out with the kids or a stroll along the tracks. My kids loved the range of playgrounds here, as the range started from very young ages to more advanced play areas and climbing structures for older kids. Public toilet and parenting rooms were clean and tidy. Well maintained.

B.

This park is gorgeous and riding the cycle trail was a real pleasure. Easy riding.

M. K.

Beautiful day when we visited. Lots of bike riders and people enjoying walks through the park and along the river bank. Excellent activities available for kids including paddling pool, aviary, mini train rides and Cafe. The conservatory has good plant collection. Rose garden is extensive and surrounded by collection of camellias. Plenty of bird life singing in the native trees beside the river. Overall a great asset for the city of Palmerston North.

R.

Great place to stop for coffee or ice cream when your out for a walk in the park. The food is also good.

J. W. Y.

I enjoyed it very much. Beautiful and lovely place. I shall recommend to my friends. Thanks.

J.

Nice park good for visits and fry ups on the bbq, bloody good cafe but very expensive

l. c.

I just discovered this park... It's a great place to catch up and exercise. Later on have a cuppa if you like to.

D.

Played with my children in the splash pool under the shade net. You can also use the barbecue outside to cook food.

S.

Beautiful park with lots of things to do

L. C.

Awesome park with plenty to keep the kids (and adults) amused. Took a ride on the kids railway today, and really appreciated that the people didn't look sideways at us even though we didn't have kids with us. Love the bird rehab place, the staff were really knowledgeable and the birds were awesome. The enormous trees give the park such a peaceful feeling.

P.

Amazing, had family photos taken on the bush walks & all look incredible

T. G.

Palmerston Norths best park. Great fun for the kids with large playgrounds, wildlife sanctuary, nature walks, swimming during the summer (or lido aquatic centre on the outskirts), miniature train rides for weekends and holidays. Go for a picnic. This park has it all... highly recommend.

J.

Such an awesome place. The train is a highlight for our kids.

S.

Longest Lasting Park and walk in Palmerston North. Great nature walks, awesome playground, bird aviary. Good place to take scenic photographs. Best place for a picnic.

C.

Great place to take the kids for a day out . BBQ available.

I. T.

Took the kids there, and they all love the playground and bush walk.

C.

One of the best places to take a family day out with young ones.

P.

There's this ice cream truck in this park called dairy & vegan ice cream scoop truck they have the best ice cream soo good 10stars ice cream yum

J.

Great food, highly recommend this place. Went for dinner, first time there. Friendly staff and not too long a wait.

R.

What a beautiful forest walk, river and cycle way for the adults. This esplanade has everything for nature lovers, including an enormous playground area for children. There are also Exercise stations scattered along the river and toilets plus water stations close to the children's play area. Heaps of parking as well. No excuses that there is no where to take the kids in parmy! :-)

W.

Had a good time, even open spaces for picnic, toilet facilities close

T.

Probably the best thing to do in the city is to wander the beautiful Esplanade. Native bush walks, a riverside promenade, fabulous rose gardens and even a bird aviary.

W. S.

The best park in Palmerston North, lots of activities for kids and adults. This is a MUST TO GO in North Island.

a.

Love the rose garden river walks and the peter black conservatory,also the train for familys

J. K.

BEAUTFUL would be the word I'd use to sum up the esplande. You could fill in a day here easy. Take a stroll through the breath taking bush walks and flower gardens or have a cuppa in the cafe. Admire the birds in the aviary, or let your toddler have a slpash around in the paddling pool. Or, how about a picnic under the trees, then a play at the awesome park full of adventures.

R.

We've been to Palmy hundreds of times before, but had no idea this place existed. What a gem! We will return!

D.

I spent many of my younger years visiting The Esplanade (and the various sporting fields surrounding the area). Loved it then. Now that I am in my more mature years and not living in Palmy, I still love visiting The Esplanade when I visit. Its even better with the pedestrian bridge crossing the river. Treasure it folks, The Esplanade is a real gem

S. R.

Truly an indictment of the people's commitment to maintain a child friendly place of communion for locals. Safe and decent looking trains. Beautiful ride. Will never disappoint.

S. S.

It was scenic and calm. I liked the river bank walk the most

L.

Lovely place to walk around and spend the day

R.

Cool place for children Great playground Train rides Flying fox

T.

Awesome place for kids and family's to relax.

J. L.

Love the serenity and peacefulness of the park, Rose garden is beautiful this time of year

H. F.

Great place for a walk, for the kids to play or in our case a few years back to get married in their beautiful rose gardens. Bike park with working traffic lights is a current favorite with the kids. Good job PNCC - great attraction.

A. R.

I have been to this place many times. The birds don't want to be in the cage. I wish they all are free to live the life they want to, instead of human controlling them. The ducks were free, and happy. The flower garden looks beautiful. The walking tract is also good. The train service was good.

B.

The Esplanade is a great place to take your children to play and runaround

I. P.

Very good playground for kids

P. Y.

The roses are still there this time of the year!! 😁

J.

Great family place the croquet club by the rose Gardens is amazing

S.

Lemon muffin bit too much sugar but beautiful out door dining

R. B.

A great place to visit. The tropical house is awesome.

S.

Gardens are beautifully manicured and looked after. Wonderful, relaxed atmosphere

R.

What a great area playground facilities birds walks

C.

Love the Esplanade nice place to go for a day out with the family. Would have been better if more people were wearing masks tho

L. D.

I love the esplanade for a nice peaceful and pretty stroll. Great playground for the kids. Rose gardens are beautiful when in bloom.

S.

BEAUTIFUL!!! :) Didn't expect it to be this beautiful. Aivary, Plenty of playground equipment, train rides, gardens. A VERY busy place

K. J.

Wonderful park with excellent facilities. Both my children love coming to play and sightsee. The train is also a big hit with them both.

n.

Beautiful park. Train ride was awesome

J.

I would highly recommend visiting this lovely space. Right near the centre of Palmerston North. You can take kids to a cool play area, explore the aviary, check out begonias, walk along native Bush paths, go to a cafe, ride a train etc. Fantastic choices for everybody. Don't miss this while visiting or needing to revitalise after shopping 👍😄

S. R.

This is a place where adults and children can have fun .We would definitely come back and visit next time we are down those ways!

J. P.

One of the best places to visit in Palmy

B.

Excellent; friendly staff and good food

K.

Top spot with kids. Best rose gardens.

S.

Favourite park. Rose garden is just so beautiful and so relaxing and calming. Play ground super fun with kids and some really nice dog friendly busy walks

E.

It is beautiful. The first you see in Palmy. Do not miss the rose garden🌹🌹🌹

N.

Great family Park with plenty of tree shade

J. F.

lovely gardens. free cool space for kids to play.

A.

Beautiful place! The indoor gardens are amaaaazing!

V.

My Grandson loves the playground. The Avery, gardens and Teahouse/cafe are great way to relax and the kids love the paddling pools and the trains too. Handy to the local indoor pools and river walkways.

a. s.

Great place for children and adults to hang around in Palmy...

D.

Awesome place to clear the mind or un energise the children .

A.

Just a fantastic place to chill out, go for a walk, take your bike. A definite slice of paradise in Palmerston North

M.

Lots to do and see here for the kids. Pool was clean and tidy. Grounds are well kept. Offer a large range of seating areas and clean grass areas for picnics. …

S.

I love taking my lot to the Esplanade there's so much to do there

2.

Excellent place for all aged kids

b.

This is a place of beauty and fun. It is the next thing to paradise. Take your love one and enjoy the romance. Don't forget the kids. Excitement.

D.

Great place to take the kids. Hours of fun

g.

Friendly and courteous service.

R.

What a beautiful forest walk, river and cycle way for the adults. This esplanade has everything for nature lovers, including an enormous playground area for children. There are also Exercise stations scattered along the river and toilets …

D.

Most roads are nicely paved ! Friendly playground for kids ! A nice nature walk inside where you can look at birds and plants ! There’s a conservatory, cafe and rose garden !

b.

This is a place of beauty and fun. It is the next thing to paradise. Take your love one and enjoy the romance. Don't forget the kids. Excitement.

D. R.

Lovely place to relax for the elderly or somewhere to take the kids to get rid of their energy. Great for birthdays, hot days in the pool, people who love birds, 2 different parks to suit all ages and a walk along the river is behind the bush walk. Bike track, toilet blocks down both ends, free bbqs for use, large flying fox, and of course the famous train that has different events through out the year.

D.

Awesome place to clear the mind or un energise the children .

I. R.

Many things to keep your children entertained.

a. d.

Spent time at children's playground. 8year old Grandson loved it. Also had a small kids train ride. Based on nursery rhyme themes. Lots to play on. Lots of shaded trees and picnic areas. Modern clean toilets. Park area huge to explore if you had time.

S.

Great place to have fun for kids, really very nice rides in play area. Train ride was $3 and its a must do if you visit the park. Ill definitely take the kids again

F.

Great place to spend quality family time. The train ride is an absolute must do. Very well maintained with lot of options for kids and adults to just chillax in the sun. There is a swimming pool, lots of play areas and if you want to have a family gathering you've got some great spots to picnic. Parking is in abundance and if you ride a bike even better. It doesn't stop their, there are also walking trails, bike tracks and River access. You will find an Ice cream shop 'Duck Island' too near the bridge by the river and it's a must try the flavors are a knockout. There is a coffee shop next to it too.

M.

Great place to visit and dog friendly

D. W.

Love this place it is such a beautiful family friendly park with so much to do.

S.

I love this park going every day for walk by river and bush walk amazing park getting freshness everyday wow

J. P.

Very nice and diverse place, with lots of things to do for kids and adults

D.

Great place to visit fantastic Cafe and rose gardens

J.

Great place to take children for an outdoor play.

H. K.

Love the bird sanctuary and lovely walks

N.

Loves the miniature train! Best train ride. Fabulous double swing, variety of play areas for children and grown ups. Shaded areas and lots to do around the park. Even has the cafe close by.

T.

Beautiful place with a rose garden and park for the kids. They also have a bird sanctuary, a small paddle pool with toilets and kitchen area/sink you can prep food in. It has free bbq's and a zip kettle for hot drinks. A great place free for the family with great facilities to cook and prepare food

M. R.

Nice park design, plenty of areas for kids to play safely in playground. Nice flowers, garden design and areas where you can sit and relax.

A.

Just a fantastic place to chill out, go for a walk, take your bike. A definite slice of paradise in Palmerston North

S.

Quaint park on banks of Manawatu River. Great new pedestrian bridge. Excellent gardens

F. A.

One of the best parks I’ve been to! Something for all ages, scenic bush walks gardens a train an adventure park for kids of all ages, a river/ pool too apparently that I have yet to see. Fully recommended. A must see for anyone in Palmy!

G.

Awesome place. Rose gardens, bird sanctuary and good walking trails

Q.

Always a fun place to visit for adults and children alike! The vast expanse of greenery and abundance of shade provides plenty of space for games and picnics. It also features a pool for young children to play in, a greenhouse, several walking tracks, a well-equipped playground, and a series of bird enclosures. And let's not forget: the miniture railway that cuts across the Esplanade, connecting the playground to the carpark (note that you do have to buy train tickets). There's something for everyone at the Esplanade, from cooking on the public BBQs (or eating at the café) to admiring plants. You get the idea.

I.

One of the best city gardens I have been to

B.

Decent sized place this, nice little walks, playground activities for kids and a little train which you can go for rides on but wasn't operating when I was there

T.

Such a brilliant place to take a picnic with the kids. Huge playground with all ages catered for, flying fox, kids train, awesome pretend road bike park for young kids and a beautiful walking path along the river. Highly recommended for a lady Sunday picnic lunch to keep the kids entertained.

M. M.

A good place to take the kids for the day

S. M.

I love taking my lot to the Esplanade there's so much to do there

D. D.

Absolutely stunning place well set out and the facilities are amazing love this place

B. S.

Always a fun place. Plenty for kids, small railway, fab playground, flying fox, bird aviary, wild life rescue center. Great walks, river picnics and bike rides. Rose gardens and gorgeous cafe with yummy ice creams. A real treat for everyone.❤

r. h.

The park was very well patronized due to it being fathers day and a fine day.the feature is the miniature railroad which is very good with the rides being of 20 minutes duration.there is also a road layout for training youngsters in road rules using their bicycles. Worth a visit.

J.

Great work on the referb of the ground and good cricket

B.

Great place to chill out. Have a picnic. Big playground for the kids,and the big kid in adults haha.great gardens

M.

Such a range of relaxing activities for all! - Mini train, rose gardens, playground, walkways, paddling pool, duck pond, cafe, hot house, aviary and the new Wildlife Centre. There is great seating and a BBQ area! Great day out!

A.

Impressive stand of native bush, walking/ cycling paths and extensive children's playground

L. O.

It has a fantastic playground for the kids, paddling pool for the toddlers, beautiful rose gardens, an aviary, a cute model railway, tropical plant conservatory, cool bush walks for a hot day, and a riverside pathway which runs the full length of Palmerston city. And a really nice cafe.

R.

Beautiful landscape, train services fun and staff are right into character kids love it playgrounds clean and well looked after, cafe and bird reserves are relaxing and learning about the birds is a good child parent interaction. Easily spend the whole day there!

S.

Food was delicious, atmosphere good and Staff friendly.Need to realize that no tomato means just that as accompaniment to my dish produced portion of relish.Very beautiful setting for Cafe and handy to Town.

G.

Best place to try in Palmerston North and the railway is fabulous. A must do.

L. W.

An awesome park to go to. Beautiful Gardens, particularly Rose Garden. Lots of Scenic Bush Walks. You can travel around the Gardens on the Train. Well worth taking the ride. Kids love it and also the Play Areas. There is also a lovely Bird Avery. A lovely place for a Family Day Out. Take a Picnic, Relax and Enjoy

A.

It is nice area to take a casual stroll through bush settings and many differant garden and pond settings a picnic bbq and a paddlin pool and play ground for the kids it is wheel chair access friendly for all to enjoy

2.

Excellent place for all aged kids

T.

A great place to bring the kids on a nice day

S.

Good place to tack the kids for a walk

D. H.

A lovely park to relax at. Great for the family with a big playground suiting a wide range of kids ages. Flying fox, miniature train, swings, seesaw, slides, huts etc. Plenty of trees to provide much needed shelter. Definitely will be visiting again.

M.

The miniature train ride is definitely worth it 👍

R.

Great place for children to swim clean and you can take a small bbq or use the park one take shade stuff if hot or find a tree our moko s loved it clean up your rubbiish as we do

R.

Don't forget to take a camera as there are many opportunities to take great photos. We visited in Springtime when the flowers, trees, and blossoms are particularly beautiful. As we strolled through the Victoria Esplanade I realised that it is a great privilege to have such a venue in the city centre to enjoy - and it is all free! There are heaps of things for children to do in the esplanade. You could spend a good part of a day there and the surrounds.

R.

A large park with activities for everyone in the family. There are heaps of walk ways around, as well as a kids train that can take you to the kids playground, or do a full loop to see the sights. If you like birds there are aviaries with many types of birds. There are also beautiful gardens with an indoor greenhouse that has many tropical plants growing. If you want to swim there are the local swimming pools right next door and on the other side a large field to play any type of sport.

P. N.

A really beautiful park right by city centre with so many different areas to enjoy-from bush walk, river walk, rose garden, kids playgrounds and Cafe Esplanade.

T.

Wonderful play area, sad to see adults blowing vape clouds about/in the air, suppose that's part of our society, we took grandchild away because I don't think we as rate payers should have to put up with that.

m.

Great place to stop with a motorhome for lunch a very beautiful place

B. M.

Wildbase is a great asset to the Manawatu and a place for families to visit on a regular basis

A.

Lovely place. So much stuff for kids to enjoy. Love the new bird recovery centre

N. H.

I love coming here! The kids' area is so much fun with sections for little and big kids. The miniature railway is wonderful and inexpensive to ride. Then it's a short walk to the river.

L. S.

All the stores you need in the centre of the city. Stoos the inner city becoming dilapidated. Wish more city councils did this.

A.

Very friendly, efficient service. Enjoyable food and great coffee

l.

Nice place to take your children and grandchildren to enjoy themselves.

G.

Great park for a picnic or a walk or cycle. Excellent train ride for the kids and us.

V.

Great bush walks and fun train!

T.

Awesome place to take the family. Park, beautiful gardens, birds, ducks, paddling pool and cafe all there. Something for everyone!

R.

Overall an disappointing breakfast experience. The waffles/bananas were over cooked. The cooked breakfast was adequate. A considerable wait for our coffees which they subsequently got wrong anyway.

S.

Well worth a visit for Rose enthusiasts or for those with families. Great miniature train track. Excellent bike park. Extensive playground. Lovely Rose garden. Large paddling pool.

b.

Beautifull rose gardens just such a lovely place to take a stroll. Lots for the kids to do, ride the train.. take the dogs.. fantastic experience!

h.

Fabulous family area. From the train to the play area, tea rooms, this area caters for all young and old. New addition being the wildbase area, totally had 5yr old's attention.

K.

Was a great afternoon

M.

Amazing park with lots for kids to see and do. Train ride is excellent and good variety of equipment for kids to use up some energy.

C.

Always have an ice cream from the cafe!

R. B.

This area has v.good driving roads , plenty of parking around the perimeter of gardens and play area / paddling pool. A miniature train ride for the public is loads of fun and safe. There is a public tea rooms,a toilet /restrooms. Plus much more.

A.

One of the largest playgrounds I've come across, with great equipment which is clean and well cared for. The trains are well-kept amd the staff is polite and professional, even when telling people off for grabbing branches, which then flick back when released and could hurt someone (wasn't me, honest).

i.

It was amazing, a great place for kids to play, grest to have a walk and it's also a good place to have picnic.

J.

Good improvements with fitness equipment throughout park. Shame there's no lasers to shoot lazy parents letting children litter.

S.

Probably the best park and playground in Palmy. Has a bit of everything. Beautiful gardens big luscious trees. Bird aviary, little kids playground, bigger kids playground and lots in between. Cafe in one area, duck pond, paddling pool for kids open in summer. Great place to meet up with friends .

G.

Grain rice round the park is awesome

R.

This is a beautiful spot with so much on offer. I wish I could visit all the options every time we come to Palmerston North - alas, we always end up having to save something for the next visit. Spent a bit of time at the kids skate park today which was great fun (the kids had a good time too!). I really wish we had such a beautiful, feature-rich park and playground closer to home.

j.

Great park lots to see do not miss a ride on the train. Excellent cafe.

C.

Beautiful space, great for walking, cycling, running, community events, anyone can enjoy this space with playground, cafe, train, wild base, greenhouses, lots of potential❤❤

R. D.

The grounds are always tidy, and there is plenty of speed bumps to keep traffic speed down and improve safety. The cafe there is awesome and very rustic also, small indoor eating area, can struggle to get a table inside sometimes. But that's because it's good there. Try the wedges.

B.

Exceptional place to hangout for a whole day with family/friends/kids to do a multiple activities like beautiful bush walks, visiting aviary, plant gardens and much more.

J.

Great place to relax and enjoy the day, birds and train

J. B.

Go visit. Walking shoes and jacket. Love this place

R.

Overall an disappointing breakfast experience. The waffles/bananas were over cooked. The cooked breakfast was adequate. A considerable wait for our coffees which they subsequently got wrong anyway.

j.

Eight of us for lunch quick friendly service. Food & coffee great

A.

Lovely place to spend some time...

C.

Nice have a walk

C.

Great place to wander around, go for walks, or just spend a lazy afternoon sitting around in the sun. Toilets, and cafe available etc.

P.

Nice to chill out place

E.

Beautiful place, lovely to go for a stroll with your so

C.

Absolutele solitude.. reflect on nature... enjoy the various things.

H.

Great place 🥰

J.

Stunning gardens and walks

H.

Best park in Palmy. Has an aviary, free splash pool, playground, public toilets, Cafe and ice cream shop and a train for kids. Lots of space and there are walks which wind up down beside the river. The lido aquatic centre is right beside the park Rd entrance.

T.

I loved sharing the rose garden and cafe experience with a friend... it's a pity the bird enclosures haven't been kept up to the standard they were when I lived in Palmy... my Dad would be sad to see the state they are in. The glasshouse looks wonderful, and the pathed walkway is a great idea. Overall a wonderful experience that brought back good memories from times past when I spent many hours there ☺☺☺

c.

Great place to take the kids

H.

Simply love the blossoms at this time of year, so abundant.

B.

Clean and tidy with plenty of options to explore, between the rose gardens, playground the surrounding bush walks access to the river or the wild base there is something to entertain the whole family. The cafe is ok

E. L.

Had a ride on the little train with the grandies, it was fun for old and young...

H.

Trees, gardens (indoor and outdoor), a large playground (including a ride-on train) as well as a new bird enclosure, the esplanade is a great place to visit on a nice day. It even has it's own cafe if you want an alternative to bringing your own picnic. Located on the eastern edge of Palmerston North between the city and the Manawatu River it is easy to find. Free to enter and explore. Check it out.

R. P.

Beautiful gardens! Relaxing atmosphere and a wonderful place to visit with family. Extremely clean and well maintained. Includes an aviary with a small variety of birds.

z. r.

They have birds . Pools . Play gym . Traffic guides . Every think a child could ask for .

T.

Always beautiful and full of awesome things to do. From scenery to parks and walks. Love this place

M.

Wonderful place to visit. Beautiful.

S.

Great playgrounds and facilities. Amazing fauna, especially in spring. Don't miss the train ride

L. S.

An excellent park for every age. We travel to go to the esplanade regularly. The train ride is great for all ages. It has many facets. It is continually maintained and improved. Lovely all year round

D.

The train attraction for the children makes them very happy. The children playground keeps them physically occupied. The garden and the walkway is beautiful , the restaurant to get refreshments at Victoria esplanade their service is excellent. Great place to visit. Primo guys keep it up.

N.

Very lovely place to visit. Heaps of space and walkway to go for a stroll, walk the dog or just breathe in that nature. There's also a really great kids park area full of things to do and never get boring.

C. J.

This was an awesome park, quite a hidden gem and from being out of town just happened to find it by accident. The park play area is large with multiple play grounds for most ages. The highlight would be the miniature train which is by far the beat one I have seen in New Zealand. It is massive with multiple stations. This is a must park if you are visiting or living in Plamerston north.

N. :.

Plenty of things for the kids and adult kids to do here . free use of BBQ so bring something to cook for an all day picnic or just a lunch

Q.

Grandsons 4 & 8 had a great time on the train. It's definitely superbly done...far superior to any others in NZ we've been to. Fabulous children's park. Highly recommended.

D. M.

If for whatever reason you find yourself in Palmerston North, you have with you some kids and you're at a loss as to what to do - cannot recommend the Esplanade enough. This place has stuff for all ages. You could easily spend the better part of the day here doing the walks, looking at birds or taking the kids to the massive playground, which has enough to keep them occupied for hours

E.

Lots of open tree shaded space with a meandering sealed drive through extensive park grounds. Kiddies loong train rides through bush settings most weekends. Comprehensive kiddies play ground with large & small swings, round about, seesaws, flying fox & paddling pool (no dogs in play areas)... RC model boat pond & bird Avery with a sealed riverbank walk suitable for wheelchairs & mobility scooters...dogs on leads & please take a doggy bag.

A.

Nice big park for a walk. Has some bird cages. Kids will love the huge playground which has some different equipment like mouse wheels. Only problem is everything is exactly the same as it was 10 years ago. Don't go out of your way to visit but if you have some time to kill or the kids need a run arround go for it.

C.

Awesome place to take the kids lots for them to do. Plenty of playground space... you ha e the bird averies, miniature trains and nice native forest walks to do...

D.

Such an excellent place for people of all ages huge playground for children and rose gardens, botanical gardens, bird averies and fantastic walking track for all ages

A. F.

Great park for kids, and adults, of all ages. Good stop for a break on your travels. Unfortunately the train wasn't going till later, so we missed that. But lots to play on and some shade, which is good. Will definitely be going back.

E. P.

Always a good time. We have a 3 year old and 1 year old. There's lots of variety of things to play on and do. Nice areas to sit down in shade too. Looking forward to the new bird aviaries being opened!

C.

Heaps of different things to do for kids. Cafe has okay food, good coffee and a great setting.

C.

A grest place to get out with the kids

S. D.

Lovely area for children (and adults) to play... With a duck pond, aviary, playground and miniature train, fairly large paddling pool (filled in summer) and a gorgeous rose garden. A great way to spend a summers day.. easily accessible public toilets, and free-to-use bbqs, or purchase food at the esplanade cafe.

C.

Wonderful place, lots of shade from massive trees, wonderful fun park for the kids, showing its age though

S.

Visited the rose garden with some friends and really enjoyed walking around and viewing all the different rose names. Very beautiful place to visit, great walks down by the river and stunning gardens. Definitely keen to visit again soon.

C. M.

Beautiful place to bring your family.

B. W.

Fantastic place for the family day out. Gardens, train ride, park, a pool for the little ones to have a play in on a hot day, there are some really nice bush walks there too that lead down to the river if you wish to go there

M.

I've never seen such a beautiful Park like it in the whole of nz From roadrules for kids to learn to flying fox to swing. Ect rosegarden To birds fish and miniature train pool for 5yrs under walk through the Bush tracks baracuers and much more all at the price of walking no money included only the train ride around the park

K.

Beautiful, peaceful, even a help yourself book stand , for that quiet read in a rose garden setting. Close to a yummy cafe an park with bird aviary and Miniature train rides, plus flying fox and lots more

S.

Wonderful park setting for the kids, free to use gas bbqs... a great place for an afternoon out with the family

R.

Good place for a walk by riverside and train rides is awesome experience and a must try

j. p.

Beautiful and clean park

L.

Absolutely beautiful is the words l would use to describe this beautiful park like gardens, the lovely trees, the drive ways into the place a lone is gorgeous the thought many a year ago that went into the planting of the trees. The pretty fountain and roses with the pavers gorgeous, the setting where the cafe is you can sit outside and have lunch and enjoy your time, staff nice, plenty for the kids with a train, plenty for the adults with the gardens, beautiful birds, they are well ,see for yourself, lovely glasshouse with unusual plants you name it, l could go on, please go and visit this beautiful park for your self VICTORIA ESPLANADE PALMERSTON NORTH. Thankyou Louise.

M.

The best outdoor place till now I have experienced in NZ. it's having beautiful lawns, a pool for babies and a lot of activities for toddlers n children, kids' train offers a long trip inside the park.

B. L.

This place just keeps getting better. Lots of work by the river has reconnected the river with the esplanade, the Wild Base recovery centre is almost ready to open,, the Esplanade Scenic Train journey is great and the rose gardens and bush walks make for an enjoyable 1/2 day exploring.

B.

I have lived here for a few weeks now and have only just happened across this gem in the centre of town. It is an oasis of green, a place to replenish. There are walking tracks criss crossing the native bush reserve and access to the river. We are really lucky to have this place in town. Well worth a visit to recharge your batteries.

D.

Fantastic gardens, and especially the glasshouse only thing that would make it better is if they sold plants like Christchurch botanical gardens.

C.

A very nice place for every one. Shame about the toilets. No hooks in any cubicle. We ladies don't want to put our handbags on very wet floors as was the case in all cubicles. Please install hooks! I am a visitor from the U.K. Thank you. Christine.

R. R.

It a wonderful park for the whole family. You can go on hikes, see native flora and fauna, feed ducks, play sports, have BBQs and the playground is great with hamster wheels, zip lines, trampolines, big slides and more.

E.

Lovely place, great range of food and menu meals, service was great, in the summer would be a great place to go.

D.

Totally beautiful still. Been along time since I have been there. Also a lot of changes.. but looks great...

D.

If you are visiting Palmerston North, make this the top of you must-do list. The Esplanade is a beautiful park for all, with a rose garden, cafe, paddling pool, duck pond, bird cages and playground. The new wildlife sanctuary is going in which will be a wonderful addition. There is a young children's playground (with shade sails in summer) and a large playground for bigger kids. The esplanade train is always fun for the kids, going around the whole park and through native bush. There are free bbq zones, picnic tables and plenty of lawn areas scattered about. There are also paths through the bush if you fancy a pleasant stroll to the Manawatu river.

C.

Great place to wander around, go for walks, or just spend a lazy afternoon sitting around in the sun. Toilets, and cafe available etc.

P.

Great Park love the Rose Gardens and the train! Avoid the cafe your better off just popping down to the BP and eating in gardens.

E.

Beautiful space with ample spots to relax and take in nature.

K.

Gorgeous day to enjoy the Esplanade. Kids splashing in the pool, playing in the playground and at the bike park. Lots riding the train and even people performing 12th Night in the Rose Gardens. Always something new to see.

H.

Heaps of people but alot of things to play on for our children was a quick visit as we cruising through on our way home. Very nice facilities

A. T.

This place is superb for kids and families... Lots to do.. Free... Plenty of parking also free, big open spaces, tracks, Bush, manawatu River. Play grounds everywhere, train, flying fox, Gardens... Pool, cafe... Geez... And centre of town... Perfect!!

W.

Beautiful place to go at this time of the year

D.

Fantastic place to bring the kids or just go for a walk. The Halloween train was amazing the staff did a fantastic job playing their roles the kids loved it Massive well done to all involved.

T.

A real asset for the City. Great for kids of all ages, with an excellent Rose garden behind the cafe. So much to explore and enjoy. Lots of rubbish bins so no excuse to litter!

S.

Beautiful gardens, play grounds and walk ways that are well maintained. The rose garden is stunning. The miniature trains are also well maintained and are a great way to get to see the grounds & gardens.

R.

Magic, something for every one.

D.

Awesome place for the family. Large playground, miniture trainrides, paddling pool, beautiful walks.

E.

Such an awesome place to relax or go for a walk...beautiful and well kept, great playground for the kids and such a lovely walk through the bush and down along the riverside.

T.

Great place for all ages, kids especially with various playgrounds for various ages. A good park to spend a sunny afternoon with the family with plenty of different activities to keep everyone occupied.

m. w.

Had a great time here. So much to see an do. Lovely staff. The train was awesome, the kids loved it. Beautiful place for a picnic.

B.

Lovely place to spend some spear time.

T.

Great place to take the family. Heaps to do and see

K.

Loads of options for things to do, including café, children's open air pool, sensory garden, free BBQs, aviaries, the hot house, duck ponds, bush walking, train rides, rose garden and other scenic gardens, and children's playground with space for littlies as well as older children (and the young at heart 😉 ).

E.

A very popular spot, especially with families. The playground and traffic safety park are great for all ages. The paddling pool is always welcome in the summer. Wildbase, the bird aviaries, and the bush walks are a great places to wander and explore. Heaps of parking and shade.

A.

Beautiful place for picnic, bush walk, river walk, sports, playground for kids and rose gardens. Lovely cafe for brunch. Well worth a visit either on your own or with family/friends.

M.

The park has been upgraded with improved facilities and toys for children. The train is still an on going feature along with excellent walking trails and a magnificent garden.

J. P.

Nice place to enjoy weekend.

N.

Great park for the kids. Very well set out.

M.

A large and diverse park, with planted forest, the river, children's play areas, duck pond, paddling pool, flying fox, hockey grounds...

G.

Can get very busy but love it on the quiet days. Soo much variety from rose gardens to Bush walks to river walks flying foxes and trampolines. Birds and a little pool tk splash in in the summer

R.

Esplande is a great place for families. Great selection of playground activities to suit any age group

G.

Loved it. Great asset.

J.

Beautiful warm day, always nice & clean

R.

Trains, nature walks--in the trees and next to the Manawatu River--birds, ice cream, and a huge space for kids to play: what more can you ask for?

L.

Awesome place for the family.lots of picnic tables & good restrooms. BBQs available for public use.A+++

K. D.

Congratulations to the people of Palmerston North. What a wonderful facility for all the kids young and old, with its amazing playground that provides adventure activities and fun play equipment for all ages, alongside bush walks and the most Amazing, cheap railway ride that was fun even for this old geezer. It is the longest model train ride I have seen to date and it meanders right around the park through the bush and stops at stations along the way to pick up and drop off passengers. A lovely setting and a great place for a day out with the kids and grandkids. Try it. You'll love It!

R.

Nice park for our grandson. Good playground, birds & gardens.

T.

Yeah it's cool that we have this place but it's lame that every public music event in Palmerston North has to be generic inoffensive jazz and the gardens just have this boring old lady vibe. The birds are cool and they playground has heaps of great stuff like those satellite dish echo things where you talk into the tube and you can hear the other person from across the park, and the giant hamster wheels are mean but I was always too scared to do the full hand stand 360. I actually kind of feel sorry for the birds now that I think of it.

R.

Average park, definitely will be better once the upgrades are complete. The birds were cool. the plant place was ok, kinda simple though. When I return, I will reevaluate my review.

J.

Nice place for the children and families ' days

G.

Lovely walk through the Esplanade setting a GPS trail ready for a Scout event next weekend. Great to see the train getting ready for Halloween. Clean and tidy with grounds well maintained thanks PNCC

C.

Great place to take a nice summery stroll and let the kids run around and play :)

D.

Love this place. A must visit while in Pamly. Great place for young old and in between. Lots of little side things to see

S.

Great place for a bike ride with the grandson did 12km. The park was also very good

A.

Lovely place to chill out. Bird life flowers, huge selection of roses, clean amenities.

T.

Victoria Esplanade Park in Palmerston North New Zealand is definitely a Park worth exploring. Surrounded by luscious Nature walks, Bird Avery, Free Bbqs just to name a few. There is something for everyone of all ages to enjoy. There are gorgeous miniture trains that you and your family can ride for a very affordable small cost per person. The trains travel through and around the Victoria Esplanade and, is a great way to enjoy the views even more with your loved ones. There is so much to see and do. With an Wild life enclosure for you to go into and learn about the New Zealand Birds and Wildlife. Theres even a Plant enclosure for you to enjoy as you stroll through to encounter the adorable plants and water features created by hard working hands all for our enjoyment. Duck ponds and Rose Gardens, Sun covered Parks, Flying Fox, Cafe, close to all amenities, Toddler paddling pool wide enough for you to dip your toes to cool down or soak up the sun rays through the trees or cover from the rain. The Manawatu River that runs alongside The Victoria Esplanade just through the amazing refreshing nature walks with accessible tracks that even Prams and Wheelchairs can go on. This is only a few of my favorite things theres still alot more for you to explore. Why not go and experience it all for yourself and create memories that will last forever.

S.

Amazing resource in the heart of town. Fields, waterpark, kids play ground..it seems to have everything. The trail is great to walk and an easy trip to Linton. We are new to town and this really makes Palmy a gem.

c.

Massive playground, pond, pool, train ride, cafe, ice cream, flowers and loads of green grass and park benches for picnics. What more do you need?!!

S.

It's a marvellous place to visit

d.

Very scenic, also has train ride, flying fox, etc

H.

It's all happening down at the Esplanade today. Happy faces everywhere. Riding on the Esplanade Scenic railway train was the highlight. Love their flash new station. And it was only $3 for about a 15 minute ride. Very cool.

I.

Beautiful place to visit.

j. h.

Kids love the upgraded junior playground as well as the added bike track. There are not a lot of park tables and benches around the playground so better bring a picnic rug if planning on a picnic. There are some available near the aviaries though. Nature trail is also a good place to take the kids to learn something about nature, trees and birds around the area. The birds are getting old though. Don't miss going to the conservatory too to see a range plants usually found only in the tropics.

H.

Cool playground for kids. Make sure they bring their scooters/pushbikes to use on the play roads. The miniature train is a big hit too

A.

Awesome park for kids and adults alike. The bike track for rinner bikes is incredible. My son loves the little train here

D.

Good park for kids, bush walk, rose gardens and a baby pool

M.

Probably the prettiest place in palmy to go. Great place for a day off. It's got a park, playground, conservatory, and flowers everywhere 😁

P.

Great place to take the kiddies to play, have a picnic in the park and go for a walk.

R.

Has an awesome playground for kids and a free gas bbq as well!

M.

If you want one reason why I stayed in Palmerston North, it would be the esplanade. Is a great place to take kids mainly for the adult stuff around. You can have your kids hanging off climbing equipment screaming watch me watch me, and you can be entranced by a Tui singing his heart out to a rival in the nearby bush. You can be on your way to the cafe with your kids whining can I have an ice cream can I have an ice cream and have your spirits lifted by a mature ginko tree in autumn clothing, or a groove of tree ferns forming a natural chapel in the sunshine. Great place for the kids to play and with enough nature to maintain the inner peace essential to parenthood. Even better with noise canceling headphones. Try it.

C.

No jackets required here there is no splashing of waves or waterfall.The new bridge is an extension linking the main town centre to the outer region. Ride your bike to Linton or do the circuit.Awesome designs on the bridge walk and exhilarating views of the wind farm mills.A must do.

S.

Some of my best walks and bike rides ... right here

A.

Lovely place for a family day out. Throughly recommend. Train rides. Paddling pool, cafe, duck pond,play ground, wildlife enclosure, bush walks, rise gardens and so much more.

R.

So pretty at every time of year!

P.

Very enjoyable great for the whole family wheelchair accessible lots to do and see

T. L.

Sweet park to chill with your kids. Especially the train ride

B.

Beautiful place to walk with our dogs without being harassed by other peoples dogs on the loose. Lovely well kept gardens & the childrens areas were being well patronised.. by mums & dads.

S. B.

I always love visiting the Esplanade, there are walks, duck ponds, birds, a cafe, playgrounds, a large paddling pool and during school holidays they even have a train running. A great place to take the kids

D.

This has changed since I was last here 50 yrs ago. The change is more kids play area and I like the kids road training area. A must for families who want to spend quality time together.

G.

The best in Palmerston North and a must go to place for families. Fantastic playground. The feature of the park is the miniature railway with rides costing only $2.50. This was the best fun.

B.

Such a beautiful garden. Very relaxing and a fantastic place for kids with a huge play ground, flying fox and electric mini trains that go around the park

A.

Great place for kids, and the driver even let our big dog on the train, he loved it

M.

Beautiful place to bring your kids have a picnic or walk around the different areas such as duck ponds or around the playground or just leisurely walk.

C.

My second favourite park after Queen Elizabeth park in masterton. There is HEAPS to do here. An awesome mini railway set up huge playground a brand new scooter park with lights and road markings. There is a bird menagerie a paddling pool heaps of beautiful walking track. A cafe and the lido aquatic centre is right next door. Plus miles of bike and walking track along the Manawatu river accessible from the park. We have even ridden our horses along there!!!

A.

Huge park located 5-10 minutes from city center. Has outdoor sports areas close. The lido aquatic center, a huge kids playground for all ages, with a flying fox. Bird aviary and multiple garden areas, and cafe. Bush walks all over the park, and a train ride around the park that stops between the station and playground.

j.

Beautiful park and sports area with very well looked after gardens and sports fields.

L.

Great family space

D.

Great place even for the adult with an inner child!

V.

Absolutely amazing forest walk that led out onto the walkway by the river and up to the he ara kotahi bridge

L.

Relaxing place to wander and destress/ get back in touch with nature. Plus a wonderful playground for kids...

A.

Fantastic playgrounds surrounded picturesque picnic spots. Very family friendly atmosphere, and be sure to check out the bird hospital ^_^

P.

It was lovely environment a nice food, but they didn't have many Covid-19 Tracer barcodes

D. N.

$3 Train rides for the kids. Lots of activities at the playground. Paddling pool to cool off and also a new kids street/road with traffic lights and stop/give way signs for them to play

K.

A jewel in Palmerston North's crown. This place has something for everyone. There are playgrounds, a paddling pool, cafe/ice-cream shop. Rose gardens, avaries, duck pond. Miniature trains to ride, walking/cycling tracks and access to the river walkway. Public bbq's and plenty of picnic spots and also the recently opened kids bike/scooter park.

s.

Peaceful and beautifully maintained. Memories returned of over 50 years ago of when I was a child and our family stayed in our caravan in the Esplanade and played at the fun playground. Loved the green house and the care and thought that has gone into presenting the array of plants eg bananas, bromelaids etc; and the goldfish. The begonias hanging in baskets outside were just beautiful. Talking to Bubs the cockatoo was a real treat. However he wanted nothing to do with me until an Australian MAN came along and said Hello Digger. Then Bubs came down off his perch and got going having a chat with him. When the Aussie left Bubs would still have nothing to do with me and returned to his perch and whipped out a stalk of siverbeet and began nibbling on it. Made my day. I love the upgrade the aviaries are being given and the co-operative work being done between interested parties so that ownership is spread. Congrats to all who look after this beautiful Palmy jewel in the crown. I still have more to explore on my next visit there.

A. K.

Awesome park! Kids playground, rose gardens, miniature train rides, great walkways through the bush. A really nice place.

D.

Great place, Really enjoyed my experience there . Cafe was nice setting but food was a bit expensive.

R.

Great park thank you. Our children like it.

C.

Wide variety of equipment for all ages to enjoy, including a learners bike road & box track

G.

Best spot in palmy. Through winter you will not find more tuis anywhere in the gum trees by the cafe. Park around the back. A must to go while you are in the area.

A.

Amazing facility with entertainment for all ages and both old and new attractions and activities. The in ground trampolines were a favourite. As was the three wide slide.

S.

Really great place to walk/run/ride. Loads of space, really clean and tidy, and now with gym equipment!

J.

Great place to walk and picnic

A.

Fantastic place to go with children

r.

Beautiful place...amazing place for a family day out

A.

Nice trees. Nice grass. The grass was green, always a pleasant surprise to see green grass that's not purple. Oxygen was nice to breathe. 10/10 avocados.

S.

Longtime visitor, can't recommend it enough, for families young & old, mixtures of all walks of life.

J.

The perfect spot for a day out with the family, beautiful gardens and well maintained grounds, lovely picnic spots. A perfect family picnic day out.

A.

Rose garden never fails to impress

W.

A great place to relax, have a walk, take children to the playground and a padling pool for the young children. There is a nice cafe.

D.

A great place for family fun. Ride the miniture train, enjoy the great playground and easy family friendly bushwalks and bird aviaries along.

v.

Well kept, loved, beautiful place. Amazingly colorful in the rose garden at the moment.

N.

Lots to see and do ,place to enjoy with grandchildren. Walking and using the little train , paddling in the pool ,so much to keep the family entertained .

J.

Has remnants of Bush you can walk through, surrounded by massive bird calls. It has a reasonable cafe, which do good flat whites. They have a native animal wildlife rescue centre which is well worth a visit. If you're into BBQ, there is a couple of electric BBQs you can use, though from memory I think they're coin operated. There's a rose garden which also does rose trials and is a wonderful assault on the senses. All in all, it's the jewel of Palmerston North

K.

very nice food, and coffee ☕ 🤗 covered outside seating

L.

Beautiful place to visit for a picnic with family also great for children.

I.

Great accommodation in a beautiful house with a beautiful gardens! Great hosts, very friendly and very helpful. Made us feel really welcome!

J.

No menu for older people to read. Menu computorized an was changing to fast to read it. Burgers are shrinking in size . This in taupo store.

R.

Fabulous coffee, wonderful atmosphere in a tranquil setting. A destination spot for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle.

p.

Beautiful place. Train was so much fun and the play ground is great. Garden attracts me the most.

S.

Had very nice time had a cake and drink at the cafe and a walk through the trees and put some rocks around for kids to find. Very pleasant lots people about

J.

Beautiful botanical gardens. Great walking trails through native trees and plants. Extremely well maintained. Fantastic asset for Palmerston North

B.

Excellent facilities, wide range of things to keep the kids entertained and all in good condition. Watch out though in the summer the slides get so hot they could burn

H.

Good park for a walk and kids playground is great

F.

Really stunning park/gardens, beautiful rose garden with an unbelievable number of varieties, lovely bush walks, huge playground, aviary, duck pond etc. Would highly recommend

A.

Great park beautiful scenery and walking tracks. Great playground and the train ride is fun for the kids. Always improving

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