Manawatu
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The Manawatu region lie to the north of Wellington, and has a temperate climate, with some local variation depending on the geography.
Palmerston North is the only city in the Manawatu with just under 30,000 inhabitants. Palmerston North is a centre of excellence for education in New Zealand having a base of education research establishments. It also has a number of other large companies, and is a well organised shopping centre for the region.
Palmerston North is a lively city with cafes, bars and restaurants presenting an excellent variety of food styles including Italian, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and of course Kiwi.
The airport in Palmerston North connects to other New Zealand domestic destinations.
The Manawatu being located half way between Taupo and Wellington is often a place where visitors pause on their long journey southwards. The landscape varies from “High Country” in the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges to the coastal plains around Tangimoana and Himatangi. 
The rivers that run between the two are unspoilt, and the Manwatu Gorge and Rohangina Valley in particular are very scenic. From rural charm to city sophistication this region has a lot to offer.
The township of Feilding is a really fine example of a rural New Zealand township being an agricultural centre for the area with some lovely Edwardian architecture. Feilding is also famous for having received 14 Winner's Awards and in 2008 is the current holder of New Zealand's Most Beautiful Town Award!
Photos courtesy of Destination Manawatu at: www.manawatunz.co.nz