Durie Hill Elevator & War Memorial Tower
Durie Hill Elevator
A 1919 public elevator that passes through a tunnel into a hill. It is New Zealand's only underground public elevator, and the memorial tower on the summit overlooks the town.
The Durie Hill Elevator opened in 1919. Visitors first walk from the riverside through a tunnel about 205 meters long into the hill, then ride a shaft elevator about 66 meters high to the top. It is the only public elevator of its kind in New Zealand, and it still has old wooden cabins and manual operators. After leaving the elevator, it is a few minutes' walk to the Durie Hill War Memorial Tower. Built in 1925 of local shell limestone, the tower is about 33 meters tall, and you can climb its 176 spiral steps to the top. On clear days you can see the Whanganui River mouth, the Tasman Sea, and even Mount Ruapehu and Mount Taranaki. The elevator charges a small fare, and the tower is free. The entrance is across from the southeast end of the Town Bridge. You can also walk down the hill on the trail.
Opening hours
Elevator Mon–Fri approx. 07:30–18:00, weekends 10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- PS Waimarie
- New Zealand Glassworks
- Whanganui River Traders Market
- Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui
- Whanganui Regional Museum
- St Paul's Memorial Church, Putiki
- Virginia Lake Reserve
- Bason Botanic Gardens