Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum, Wanganui, New Zealand

Whanganui Riverboat Centre and Museum is not only home to the vibrant history of the Whanganui River in Wanganui, New Zealand, but it also houses the 100-year-old Paddle Steamer Waimarie, the country’s last steam-powered paddle steamer. This paddle steamer was retrieved from the bottom of the said river, where it capsized some five decades ago. The ship was then restored and now accommodates river cruises for tourists. The center itself, where guests can make bookings and buy tickets, is housed in over a hundred-year-old building, making it a fascinating sight in itself.  

Most of the visitors coming into Wanganui to visit the riverboat center and museum can find numerous hotels dotting the city. Two of the top-rated ones are the Aotea Motor Lodge and The Rutland Arms Inn. Both 4.5-star hotels, these luxury apartments are within a 30-minute walk from the museum only. The Rutland Arms Inn features a restaurant, and bar/lounge, while the Aotea Motor Lodge comes with a health club and business center. The good thing about these hotels is that they also sit close to the other attractions of the city. The Sarjeant Gallery is around a 15 to 30-minute walk from either hotel. This regional art museum dated back to 1912 and was commissioned by Henry Sarjeant who donated the money for the construction of the said museum. Another notable site within walking distance from the hotels is the Watt Fountain, which opened in September 1881 and wowed tourists with its Gothic structure. It was initially set at the intersection of Ridgway St. and Victoria Avenue before moving to Queen’s Park in 1993.