Whanganui Weekend: Anzac, Events & Autumn Feels!

Right then, Whanganui! As we head towards the Anzac Day long weekend, there's a distinct autumnal crispness in the air (and maybe still a rogue wheelie bin plotting world domination). It’s a week for reflection, community connection, and perhaps finding that perfect cosy spot indoors. From commemorations to creative talks and maybe even a car show, your week from April 24th to 30th is looking characteristically 'Nui. Let's get into it!

📰 Quick Hits:

• 💰 Got a Great Event Idea? Applications are now open for Whanganui District Council's event funding! If you're planning something awesome between July 2025 and June 2026 that will add vibrancy to our city, now's the time to seek support. Details on WDC site.

• 🤝 Boosting Workplace Safety: Business Whanganui has launched a new Safety Managers Forum, bringing together local professionals to share knowledge, network, and improve health & safety practices across our region's businesses. A proactive step for a safer working Whanganui! Learn more at Business Whanganui.

• 🏘️ Tackling Housing Together: Whanganui District Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to establish a standalone housing entity as part of its draft Annual Plan. It’s a significant move aimed at addressing affordable housing challenges in our city. Read the proposal & Have Your Say via WDC News

🏪 RiverCity Biz: Shine a Light On... Porridge Watson

Nestled on Drews Avenue, Porridge Watson isn't just a bar with a quirky name. It's a proper Whanganui institution known for its stellar lineup of craft beers (many local!), delicious pub fare (those burgers!), relaxed atmosphere, and commitment to live music and events. This weekend they're hosting electronic legends Pitch Black (see What's On!), and Wellington Heads (free entry), cementing their place as a key venue for catching touring acts and local talent. With comfy couches, a sunny courtyard, and friendly vibes, it's the perfect spot for an after-work pint or a weekend session.

Support them: Pop in for a brew, grab a bite to eat, check out their live music schedule, and soak up the cool atmosphere. Find them on Facebook

🎉 What’s On in Whanganui: Your Guide for April 24th - 30th

Mark these dates in your calendar!

🎭 Live Shows & Screenings

• Dad's Army Opens: Thursday, Apr 24 - Sat, May 3 @ Amdram Theatre (171 Guyton St). Amdram Whanganui brings the beloved Home Guard to life on stage! Classic comedy. Tickets via iTicket.

• Live Music: BB & The Bullets: Friday, Apr 25 @ 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, The Grand Hotel. Catch blues/rock trio BB & The Bullets live, plus an acoustic set from Brian. Free entry!

• Country Music Night: Friday, Apr 25 @ 7:30 PM (Doors 7 PM), Amdram Theatre (171 Guyton St). Amdram Club Night featuring Tamworth winner Sophie Toyne & country classics from Phil Kilmister band. Koha entry.

• Pitch Black Live: Saturday, Apr 26 @ Porridge Watson, 30 Drews Ave. Legendary NZ electronica duo live. Deep bass and dubby soundscapes. Get tickets!

• Wellington Heads Live: Sunday, Apr 27 @ 4:30 PM, Porridge Watson (30 Drews Ave). Catch the capital city band's blend of jump blues, swing, R&B, and island grooves. Likely free entry/door charge.

🎨 Arts, Crafts & Culture

• Learn How to Paint Miniatures: Thursday, Apr 24 @ Sarjeant Gallery. Last chance for this school holiday creative fun for ages 12-18! Booking might be required.

• Artist Talk: Matthew McIntyre Wilson: Wednesday, Apr 30 @ Sarjeant Gallery. Gain insights into the work of contemporary artist Matthew McIntyre Wilson. Check gallery for exact time.

🏃‍♀️ Sports & Active Fun

• Junior Rugby Info Night: Thursday, Apr 24 @ 6:00 PM, Pirates Clubrooms (2 Sarjeant St, Gonville). Info evening for parents covering the junior rugby season, registrations, and rippa-to-tackle progression.

• ANZAC Relays: Friday, Apr 25 @ 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM, Victoria Park (Harrier Clubrooms). Battle it out in action-packed 1km relays. Fun afternoon spectating!

• Suzuki Extreme 4x4 Challenge: Sunday, Apr 27 @ 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 2278 SH3 Turakina. High-octane 4x4 action with custom obstacle courses, commentary, food. Family day out ($20 Adult, check for family pass).

• Junior Squash Night: Starts Monday, Apr 28 @ 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Whanganui Squash Club. Weekly fun squash sessions for juniors. All welcome. Free for members ($35 non-members).

• Ladies Squash Night: Starts Monday, Apr 28 @ 6:00 PM, Whanganui Squash Club. Fun, relaxed weekly evening of squash, games, and good vibes for all levels. Free for members ($5 for non-members).

• Yoga for Youth (9-16yrs): Tuesday, Apr 29 @ 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Embark Yoga (75 St Hill St). Yoga class specifically for ages 9-16. $10 pay weekly or block booking ($75/8wks). Bookings essential.

• Bowling League Night Begins: Tuesday, Apr 29 @ 7:00 PM, Play2Win Whanganui (126 St Hill St). League night fun, whether you're a pro or just keen to play with mates. Sign-up/fees may apply.

🧘 Workshops & Wellbeing

• Intro Dance/Pilates Workshops: Saturday, Apr 26 @ Dance & Pilates Whanganui (Check studio location). Try Beginner Salsa Shines, Partner Salsa, or Partner Bachata for $10 each. Int/Adv Pilates Reformer Jumpboard also offered (10am, $28). Bookings essential via dancewhanganui.com.

• Mediums Day Open Day: Saturday, Apr 26 @ 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Wisdom Is Yours Wellbeing Centre (59 Victoria Ave). Meet visiting mediums, optional paid readings ($25/20min), clairvoyance demo (11am?), free gifts.

• Free Meditation Workshop: Saturday, Apr 26 @ 2:30 PM, Community House (60 Ridgway St). Learn Sahaja Yoga meditation techniques. Beginners welcome, free entry.

• Relax & Renew Workshop: Sunday, Apr 27 @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Yogabee (72 Saint Hill St). Afternoon of deep relaxation with yin yoga poses paired with essential oils. Booking essential via yogabee.co.nz/events.

🎉 Community Events

• Monster Book Sale: Thurs 24 Apr (9-5) - Sun 27 Apr (1-5), Mon 28 Apr (9-5) @ St Andrew's Church (Glasgow St). Huge Rotary Club sale! Books, puzzles, CDs, DVDs, records ($1-$3). Bargains galore!

• Roar from the West Revival: Thursday, Apr 24 - Sunday, Apr 27 @ Whanganui Intermediate School Hall (Dublin St). Free, multi-day Healing & Miracle Revival event with multiple sessions. Free registration via Eventbrite.

• Anzac Day Commemorations: Friday, Apr 25 @ War Memorial Centre and various locations for Dawn Services (~5:30am). Join the community in remembrance. Full itinerary here.

• Motorcycle Swap Meet: Sunday, Apr 27 @ 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 143 Ridgway Street. All things motorcycle related! Sell parts, catch up with mates. BBQ & coffee on-site. Entry by donation to St John.

• U18 Hoopnation Dance Party: Baseline @ Frank: Friday, Apr 25 @ 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Frank Bar + Eatery (Ridgway St). Safe, secure dance party for Year 9-13 students. $10 entry.

• River City Park Up 2025: Sunday, Apr 27 @ 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, City College Whanganui. Hosted by Wanganui Road Rodders! Check out classic cars, hot rods & more. Gold coin donation entry supports Cancer Society ($5 to display car).

🌟 Local Spotlight: Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui

Perched majestically above Pukenamu Queen's Park, the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua is more than just an art gallery; it's an architectural icon and a cultural heart of Whanganui. While the original heritage building undergoes strengthening, the modern extension offers stunning spaces for world-class exhibitions, showcasing works from its significant collection alongside contemporary artists. It's also a hub for creativity, hosting workshops (like this week's miniature painting), artist talks, and educational programmes. A visit always offers inspiration and perspective.

Check them out: Visit the current exhibitions, attend an event, or simply admire the building and the views. https://sarjeant.org.nz/

🌿 River Roundup

Kō au te Āwa, kō te Āwa kō au. (I am the river, the river is me). Heads up for anyone planning recreational activities on the water in the wider region this week! Genesis Energy has several scheduled water releases impacting flows:

• Tongariro River: Recreational release below Poutū Intake, Sat Apr 26 (9am-3pm).

• Tongariro River: Environmental flush, Wed Apr 30 (5 hours). 

These releases mean significantly higher and faster water flows during these times. Always check the Genesis Energy website and the Whitewater NZ website for the latest flow information and exercise caution if kayaking, rafting, or fishing near these areas on these specific dates. Safety first on the Awa and its tributaries!

🎶 Weekend Picks: Your Top 3 for April 25th - 27th

Planning your long weekend? Here are a few ideas beyond the main events:

1. Quiet Reflection (Fri): Anzac Day is a time for remembrance. After attending a service, consider a quiet walk through the peaceful grounds of Pukenamu Queen's Park near the Cenotaph and War Memorial Centre, or visit the historically significant Pākaitore / Moutoa Gardens.

2. Market Haul & Molten Magic (Sat): Start your Saturday morning by browsing the vibrant Whanganui River Markets for local goodies (8:30 am - 1 pm, Taupō Quay). In the afternoon, pop into NZ Glassworks – beyond the exhibition, you might catch the mesmerizing sight of glass artists working their magic in the studio (usually open 10 am - 4:30 pm). 🛍️🔥

3. Autumn Walks & City Views (Sun): Soak up the autumn colours with a relaxing stroll around Virginia Lake (Rotokawau) – feed the ducks (responsibly!), admire the winter garden. Afterwards, take a ride up the iconic Durie Hill Elevator and climb the tower for unbeatable views across Whanganui and the awa (Elevator usually open 10 am - 5 pm). 🍂🔭

📚 Fun Corner: Whanganui Firsts

Did you know that Whanganui is home to New Zealand's oldest newspaper? The Whanganui Chronicle first rolled off a makeshift wooden press (built by a local Reverand and his students!) on September 18, 1856. Originally the Wanganui Chronicle, it's been keeping locals informed for over 168 years! Now that's a news cycle. 📰🕰️

That’s the entirely new scoop for April 24th - 30th! Have a meaningful Anzac Day and a fantastic week, Whanganui.

(Disclaimer: Event details are based on available information; please check with organisers via links or local listings for final confirmation, times, locations, and ticketing before heading out.)