Virginia Lake Reserve
Rotokawau
A lakeside park north of the city, with a lakeshore path, a winter garden greenhouse, and a night-lit fountain. A favorite local leisure spot.
Virginia Lake (Māori name Rotokawau) is a natural lake in the north of the city, surrounded by a mature woodland reserve. The lakeside path around it is about 1.5 km long, and the lake is home to black swans and various waterfowl. The winter garden greenhouse in the reserve has flowers year-round, and there is an aviary and a lakeside café nearby. The musical fountain in the lake lights up at night. The park is free to enter and about 3 km from the city center, making it a good choice for a morning stroll or a family outing.
Opening hours
Open all day (greenhouse approx. 09:00–17:00)
Nearby sights
- Whanganui Regional Museum
- Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui
- Whanganui River Traders Market
- New Zealand Glassworks
- PS Waimarie
- Durie Hill Elevator & War Memorial Tower
- St Paul's Memorial Church, Putiki
- Bason Botanic Gardens