On this page 6 sections
What makes a good first date
Keep it public, easy and short enough that it can end politely, with the option to keep going if it's going well. The city is compact and flat, so you can walk or cycle between most of these.
In the city
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Coffee around The Square
Te Marae o Hine on Google Maps
The city's big central square, with cafés all around it. An easy place to meet.
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Te Manawa
A museum, art gallery and science centre in one, a minute from The Square.
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Dinner on George Street
A short, walkable street of cafés and restaurants just off The Square.
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A show at the Regent on Broadway
Broadway Avenue on Google Maps
The city's historic theatre hosts touring shows, comedy and concerts. Check what's on.
Get outside
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Victoria Esplanade
Gardens, a rose garden, bush walks and a café beside the Manawatū River.
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The Manawatū River pathway
Along the river on Google Maps
A long shared path beside the river. Walk or cycle it, and cross He Ara Kotahi, the bridge over the river.
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Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge
Bush walks through the gorge, about 20 minutes from the city. The shorter loop tracks make an easy outing.
Short trips out of town
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Feilding Farmers' Market
Friday mornings in Manchester Square, about 20 minutes from the city.
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Foxton Beach
A long west coast beach about 40 minutes away, with the Dutch windmill in Foxton on the way.
Tips for dating in Palmerston North
- Meet in the middle. Coming in from Feilding or Ashhurst? Matcha's meet in the middle planner suggests a café, bar or restaurant about halfway between you, open when you want to go, without either of you sharing where you live.
- Use the river path. It links the city, the Esplanade and the bridge, so a walk fits around almost any plan.
- Bring a jacket. The Manawatū is known for its wind.
- Keep it central first. Everything around The Square is walkable, which makes an easy first date.
Common questions
What's a good free first date in Palmerston North?
Try Victoria Esplanade, the Manawatū River pathway or Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge. They cost nothing, so add a coffee or an ice cream and you've got an easy first date.
What can you do on a rainy first date in Palmerston North?
Try Te Manawa or a show at the Regent on Broadway. They work whatever the weather.
Where can you go for an evening first date in Palmerston North?
For an evening date, try dinner on George Street or a show at the Regent on Broadway.
How do you pick a first date spot halfway between you in Palmerston North?
Use Meet in the middle in Matcha. Choose coffee, drinks or food and a time, and it suggests a café, bar or restaurant about halfway between you, without either of you sharing where you live.
Photo: The Square by AnnWoolliams (CC BY-SA 4.0), cropped.