Feilding
,Feilding is a charming rural town located in the Manawatu region of New Zealand. Known for its picturesque countryside and agricultural heritage, Feilding offers a relaxing and peaceful environment. The town features beautiful Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and friendly locals.
Visitors can enjoy exploring local markets, parks, and nearby farm attractions during their stay in Feilding.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Feilding
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Feilding Farmers' Market to enjoy fresh produce and local artisan goods. Grab some breakfast from one of the stalls before heading to the playground at Timona Park.
afternoon
:Take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Feilding Rose Gardens to admire the blooms. Later, visit the Feilding Art Gallery to appreciate local artwork and exhibitions.
evening
:Dine at a local restaurant and try some traditional New Zealand cuisine. End your day by watching the sunset at Letham Park.
Nature Day in Feilding
morning
:Head to the Oroua River Walkway for a refreshing nature walk. Enjoy the scenic views and perhaps grab a coffee at a nearby café afterward.
afternoon
:Visit the Feilding Golf Club for a round of golf or enjoy a picnic along the riverbanks. The peaceful surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for your lunch.
evening
:Relax at a cozy pub for dinner, experiencing local hospitality. Take some time to unwind and chat with the locals.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful rural landscapes and natural scenery.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Growing arts and culture scene with local events.
- Affordable housing and cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Public transport options may be lacking.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Possibly less diverse cultural experiences.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and hot summers.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Feilding's Farmers Market
Explore the local Farmers Market held on Saturday mornings, featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.
Shadbolt Park
Enjoy a scenic walk or picnic at Shadbolt Park, which features playgrounds, walking tracks, and beautiful greenery.
Manawatū River Walks
Experience the stunning views along the Manawatū River with multiple walking and biking tracks suitable for all skill levels.
Feilding Golf Club
Play a round of golf at the Feilding Golf Club, featuring a well-maintained course amidst picturesque surroundings.
Feilding Art Centre & Rose Gardens
Visit the Art Centre and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful rose gardens that showcase a variety of blooms.
Dawson Falls
Take a day trip to the nearby Dawson Falls for stunning views and hiking trails suitable for all ages.
Local Horse Riding
Experience the rural landscape on horseback through various local equestrian experiences available in the area.
Ballooning at the Feilding Airfield
Take a scenic hot air balloon ride at the Feilding Airfield, offering breathtaking views of the Manawatū region.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ridge Top Farm Walkway
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Ruahine Ranges.
Caccia Birch House
Beautiful gardens and historic house providing great photo opportunities.
Te Arapiki a Tane walking track
Scenic walkway with views of the Manawatu River and the surrounding landscape.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Feijoas
These green, egg-shaped fruits have a unique taste, blending flavors of guava, pineapple, and strawberry. Look for them at local markets or in orchards around Feilding during the growing season from March to June.
Must-Try!
Manawatu Speights Ale Pie
This hearty pie encapsulates the essence of Feilding. Tender beef and rich gravy infused with the local Speights Ale, encased in flaky pastry - often found at local bakeries and pubs.
Whanganui River Eel
Succulent eel from the nearby Whanganui River, typically smoked or cooked in a variety of dishes, can be savored at select restaurants and markets around Feilding.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Feilding Farmers Market
Held every Friday in the town center, this market overflows with freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, local honey, and gourmet treats. Don't miss the food stalls offering ready-to-eat delights such as homemade pies, dumplings, and authentic Māori hangi (traditional earth oven-cooked meal).
Feilding Craft Market
Sundays come alive with this market's diverse array of street food vendors. You'll find everything from wood-fired pizzas and exotic crepes to Pacific Island specialties like chop suey and smoked eel.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Personal Space
In Feilding, as in many parts of New Zealand, it's important to be aware of personal space. People generally prefer a comfortable distance when interacting. Make sure not to stand too close unless you know the person well.
Understanding Maori Culture
New Zealand has a rich Maori culture, and it's essential to show respect for it. Familiarize yourself with basic Maori greetings, such as 'Kia ora', and be respectful when attending cultural events or sites.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is not a common practice in New Zealand, including Feilding. While it's appreciated for exceptional service, it's not expected. Instead, show gratitude through compliments or positive feedback.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Feilding, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice as it is in some other countries. Service charges are typically included in the price of the meal or service. Customers may leave a small tip for exceptional service, but it is not expected or required.
Payment
Payment methods in Feilding are diverse, including cash, credit, and debit cards. Many establishments also accept mobile payments and contactless options. Prices are generally inclusive of GST, and receipts are provided for all transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer
The best time to visit Feilding is during the summer season, which runs from December to February. During this time, you can expect warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and many outdoor events and activities. The Feilding Farmers Market is bustling with fresh produce and local crafts, and the vibrant gardens are in full bloom.
Autumn
In autumn (March to May), Feilding experiences cooler temperatures and stunning foliage as the leaves change color. This is a great time for nature walks and exploring the surrounding countryside. The Feilding Evening Market continues to offer local goods and a lively atmosphere.
Winter
Winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures and occasional frosts to Feilding. However, it's a peaceful time to visit, and there are still indoor activities and events to enjoy. The Feilding Craft Market showcases unique handmade items, and cozy cafes provide a warm retreat from the chilly weather.
Spring
Spring (September to November) brings a burst of life to Feilding as flowers bloom, and the countryside becomes lush and green. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The Feilding Spring Fling festival celebrates the season with live music, entertainment, and local food and drink.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kowai Track
A scenic track that offers views of the surrounding countryside and a variety of native flora and fauna.
Windfarm Walk
A popular walking trail that winds through a wind farm, providing unique views and an educational experience about renewable energy.
Makino Scenic Reserve
Features a network of walking trails through beautiful bushland with picnic areas and birdwatching opportunities.
Mt. Stewart Scenic Reserve
A short hike leading to the summit of Mt. Stewart with panoramic views of the Manawatu region.
Bunnythorpe Walkway
A flat, easy walking track suitable for all ages, offering a peaceful rural setting.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Feilding by plane.
Palmerston North Airport (PMR)
The nearest airport to Feilding, located approximately 15 kilometers south. It offers domestic flights and limited international connections.
Wellington International Airport (WLG)
Located about 140 kilometers from Feilding, it is the second-largest airport in the North Island, serving both domestic and international flights.
Auckland Airport (AKL)
Approximately 650 kilometers from Feilding, it is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, with extensive international flights.
Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
Located about 350 kilometers to the south of Feilding, it is another major international airport, serving a broad range of international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
European
The largest demographic group in Feilding, primarily of European descent.
Māori
The indigenous people of New Zealand, representing a significant portion of the population.
Pacific Peoples
Includes several ethnicities from Pacific Island nations, contributing to the local culture.
Asian
A growing demographic group that includes various Asian ethnicities.
Middle Eastern, Latin American, and African
A smaller demographic group encompassing individuals from various countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby
Rugby is a very popular sport in Feilding, with local clubs and a strong community following.
Netball
Netball is widely played in Feilding, particularly among women and youth, with various local competitions.
Cricket
Cricket has a rich history in Feilding, with many clubs participating in regional leagues.
Football (Soccer)
Football is growing in popularity, with several teams representing local clubs in different competitions.
Athletics
Athletics is popular among schools and clubs in Feilding, promoting participation in various track and field events.
Volleyball
Volleyball has a community of players in Feilding, with competitions held at local facilities.
Basketball
Basketball is played at various levels in Feilding, with schools and clubs organizing leagues and events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan
Feilding embraces vegetarian and vegan cuisine, with most cafes and restaurants offering creative plant-based options alongside classic Kiwi fare. The Kowhai Café is particularly well-regarded for its inventive vegetarian dishes.
Gluten-free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find numerous eateries catering to their needs, with gluten-free menus or suitable alternatives available at many establishments. The Cobb Hotel is known for its accommodating approach to gluten-free dining.