Explore the historic heritage sites that DOC looks after in the Manawatu/Whanganui region.
DOC manages many places of cultural heritage value on public and private lands across Whanganui, Rangitikei and Manawatu.
Many of these are associated with pre-European Māori settlement or activity. They range from sites related to the era of Polynesian voyaging and settlement of Aotearoa through to elaborate fortified pa of later occupation. Some are considered to be wāhi tapu (sacred).
DOC also manages a variety of more recent historic places and structures. Prominent in the region are places and structures associated with the New Zealand Wars/Ngā Pakanga Whenua o Mua, industrial development and tourism and recreation. New Zealand's two largest registered historic areas are also located within the region.
Many of these places and structures are in areas of outstanding natural beauty. A number are just a short walk from road side parking.
They are all protected. They are places where visitors are encouraged to experience and learn about our nation’s remarkable and sometimes turbulent history.
