Exploring Levin

After a recent trip to Whanganui and prior to that Palmerston North I decided it was time to visit another town in the area. So I set about exploring Levin, its about an hour from Whanganui and 40 minutes from Palmy so ideal for short day trips. From wetlands, beaches, and nearby historical spots it’s worth taking the time to visit.

 

Lake Waiwiri/Papaitonga Scenic Reserve

Located at the end of Buller Road, Papaitonga Scenic Reserve (also known as Lake Waiwiri) is a tranquil wetland reserve and an important refuge for native birdlife.

I took the short walk (around 10 minutes) to the first viewpoint overlooking the lake. The track is mostly flat and formed, with sections of boardwalk through native forest, making it accessible for most fitness levels. There’s also a longer loop track, though it can be muddy after rain.

It’s peaceful and atmospheric, the kind of place where you naturally slow your pace. If you enjoy wetlands, birdlife, or gentle nature walks, allow 30–60 minutes here.

Exploring Levin Beaches

One of the best things about Levin is how quickly you can get to the coast. It was so much fun exploring Levin beaches!

Waitarere Beach

Waitarere Beach is just a 10-minute drive northwest of Levin and offers that classic wild west coast feel. It’s popular for surfing, fishing, walking, and simply blowing the cobwebs away.

The day I visited it was a little windy (classic west coast), so I didn’t venture too far but it definitely had that dramatic, slightly moody beauty.

From Rua Avenue you can access the Waitarere Fairy Garden and Middle Earth Adventure Park (use at your own risk) within Waitarere Forest. For Lord of the Rings fans, the forest was used as a filming location for Trollshaw Forest and Osgiliath Wood in The Lord of the Rings. Even without the props, the forest gives off those unmistakable Middle Earth vibes.

Facilities at the beach include parking and toilets.

 

Hokio Beach

Hokio Beach is another option close to Levin. There’s a playground, picnic area with barbecues, and toilets — making it ideal for families.

Of the two, I personally preferred Waitarere Beach for ease of access and atmosphere, but Hokio is great if you’re visiting with kids and want facilities close by.

 

Lunch at the Old Courthouse

After a windswept morning at the beach, it was time for something warmer.

Old Courthouse Eatery is open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch (and two nights for dinner), with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options available. I ordered the spiced prawn Thai salad, fresh, flavourful, and generously portioned.

As the name suggests, the building was originally a courthouse, built in 1903. It was relocated to its current position within the beautiful Nola Simpson Rose Gardens after being gifted to the Horowhenua District Council in 2007. It’s an absolutely stunning setting for a café.

Nola Simpson Rose Gardens

Having grown roses myself, I couldn’t resist wandering through the gardens after lunch. It felt like the perfect pairing.

While exploring, I came across information about Nola Mary Simpson, known locally as “The Rose Lady.” She was a respected rose breeder and exhibitor who won awards across New Zealand and Australia. What began as an interest inspired by her sister (and later shared with her husband John) became a lifelong passion.

What stood out most wasn’t just the awards, it was how much she gave back. Deeply involved in local and national rose societies, she shared knowledge generously and helped grow the rose community as much as she grew the roses themselves.

It was one of those small, unexpected travel moments that makes a place feel more meaningful.

 

A Short Drive to Foxton & Foxton Beach

If you have extra time, Foxton is only about a 15-minute drive from Levin, and well worth it. At first glance, it might seem like an unlikely destination, but it’s packed with heritage and culture.

Te Awahou – Cultural Heart of Foxton

 

Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom is a vibrant multicultural facility located within Te Awahou Cultural Park, beside the Foxton Loop walkway.

Inside you’ll find:

• Oranjehof Dutch Connection Centre

• Piriharakeke Generation Inspiration Centre (Māori cultural centre)

• Exhibition gallery

• Library and council services

• Café

Foxton has strong Dutch heritage, which explains the windmill you’ll also spot nearby.

Dutch Influence & Heritage

A short walk away is De Molen Windmill, a fully operational windmill and home to a Dutch deli and café.

Nearby you’ll also find the Foxton Flax Stripper Museum, which tells the story of the once-thriving flax industry that shaped the town’s economy in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

While reading about the flax industry, I couldn’t help wondering whether my father’s family (surname Chrystall) were connected, especially as one relative was Mayor of Foxton and there’s even a street in Foxton Beach with the same name.

Those little personal threads make exploring even more interesting.

 

Foxton Fizz

Foxton Fizz has been produced since the early 1900s. While it’s now made in Putāruru, you’ll still see nostalgic signage around Foxton — and you can pick up a bottle at De Molen Windmill.

It’s a fun slice of New Zealand beverage history.

 

Foxton Beach

Foxton Beach is another west coast option. It’s a white sand beach, patrolled for swimming in summer, and popular with surfers. It was a bit overcast the day I visited so the photo doesn’t do the beach justice.

 

 

Other Things to Do in Levin

The weather wasn’t perfect when I visited, so a few things are still on my list:

• A walk near Lake Horowhenua

• The Ōhau Gorge Loop Track (part of the Tararua Ranges)

• Exploring more local reserves

If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss Levin Adventure Park, one of the largest playgrounds in the lower North Island, or Jubilee Park, which includes a summer water play area.

Exploring Levin Final Thoughts

Levin might not shout for attention, but that’s part of its charm. With quiet wetlands, wild beaches, rose gardens, and a dash of Dutch heritage just down the road, it’s the kind of place that rewards slowing down.

Whether you’re passing through or planning a day trip, there’s more here than you might expect. My visit to Levin wasnt without some opshopping so keep and eye out for the next installment.

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