The city of Whanganui rests on the banks of the spectacular Whanganui River. Take the Old town heritage walk or visit one of the many private gardens that are open to the public. For more natural and human history visit the Whanganui Regional Museum and Art Gallery. There are commanding views from Durie Hill. Whanganui River provides the main access route to Whanganui National Park. Kayaking along the remote and historic river from Pipiriki to Taumaruni takes 5 days so jet boating is the faster option. A number of walks begin at Pipiriki village. As the area was once extensively cultivated for wheat, you can visit remnants of old mills. At the Parks southern extremity the Skyline Track day walk passes through magnificent stands of lowland native forest. One of several mills built last century, the Kawana Mill operated for 50 years. The Mill and its water wheel have now been completely rebuilt and the millers colonial- style cottage has also been restored.