Durie Hill War Memorial Tower
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Durie Hill War Memorial Tower

4.6
·491k reviews·Whanganui, New Zealand

Ride a historic underground elevator to a memorial tower offering breathtaking 360° views of Whanganui and its stunning coastline.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Clear mornings

Best visibility for views

CrowdLow
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Durie Hill War Memorial Tower

Durie Hill War Memorial Tower

Best Time

Clear mornings

Best visibility for views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride a historic underground elevator to a memorial tower offering breathtaking 360° views of Whanganui and its stunning coastline.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The view from the top on a nice day is tremendous, and even better if you go up the Durie Hill tower."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ride the Historic Elevator

Don't miss the unique underground elevator ride – it's an experience in itself! :train2:

Climb for the Views

The tower offers incredible panoramic views. Go on a clear day for the best experience. :mountain_cableway:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Durie Hill Elevator Ride

Durie Hill Elevator Ride

Experience a unique underground funicular ride, a true Wanganui icon. The journey itself is an adventure.

Durie Hill War Memorial Tower

Durie Hill War Memorial Tower

Summit of Durie Hill

Climb the tower for unparalleled 360-degree views of Whanganui, the river, and the Tasman Sea.

Panoramic City Vistas

Panoramic City Vistas

Soak in the expansive scenery of Whanganui from above. Perfect for photographers and sightseers alike.

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Planning Your Visit

Elevator Adventure & Tower Views

Ride the historic Durie Hill Elevator, one of NZ's few remaining underground funiculars. Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Whanganui and beyond, especially from the War Memorial Tower. Plan for a clear day to maximize the vista.

Timing Your Visit

The elevator and tower offer stunning vistas, but check operating hours as they can vary. Weekends and holidays might see more visitors. Consider a weekday visit for a more serene experience and better photo opportunities.

Best Times

When
Clear mornings
Why
Best visibility for views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Durie Hill Memorial Tower and Elevator - Whanganui - New Zealand

Ride the Historic Elevator

Don't miss the unique underground elevator ride – it's an experience in itself! :train2:

Climb for the Views

The tower offers incredible panoramic views. Go on a clear day for the best experience. :mountain_cableway:

reddit.com

The Mercury Arc Rectifier that powers the Durie hill elevator in Wanganui

Check Operating Hours

Elevator and tower hours can vary, so check in advance to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing some climbing, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

Ride the Historic Elevator

Don't miss the unique underground elevator ride – it's an experience in itself! :train2:

Climb for the Views

The tower offers incredible panoramic views. Go on a clear day for the best experience. :mountain_cableway:

Check Operating Hours

Elevator and tower hours can vary, so check in advance to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing some climbing, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Durie Hill War Memorial Tower for its spectacular panoramic views and the unique experience of riding the historic underground elevator. The tower offers a memorable perspective of Whanganui and its surroundings, making it a must-visit for many. Some minor points of feedback relate to checking operating hours in advance.

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Unique elevator ride
Historic charm

What People Dislike

Variable operating hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Durie Hill War Memorial Tower is accessed via the Durie Hill Elevator, located at the end of Brown Street in Whanganui. The elevator itself is a unique experience, taking you underground to the summit. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near the base of the Durie Hill Elevator on Brown Street. It's convenient for accessing the elevator and starting your ascent. Reddit

While there are walking paths in the area, the primary and most iconic way to reach the summit for the tower is via the Durie Hill Elevator. The walk up can be steep. Reddit

From downtown Whanganui, it's a short drive or a moderate walk to the Durie Hill Elevator. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also readily available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding ticket prices for the Durie Hill Elevator and access to the War Memorial Tower can be found on local council websites or by contacting the Whanganui i-SITE Visitor Centre. It's advisable to check current pricing and operating times before your visit. Reddit

Operating hours for the Durie Hill Elevator and War Memorial Tower can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. It's recommended to check the official Whanganui District Council website or contact the local i-SITE for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Typically, there is a small fee for accessing the Durie Hill War Memorial Tower itself, in addition to any fare for the elevator ride. Confirm current rates with local visitor information services. Reddit

Advance booking for the Durie Hill Elevator is generally not required, as it operates on a pay-as-you-go basis. However, for group bookings or specific inquiries, contacting the relevant authority is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At the top, you'll find the Durie Hill War Memorial Tower offering spectacular panoramic views of Whanganui, the river, and the coastline. The surrounding area also provides pleasant walking opportunities. Reddit

A visit typically involves the elevator ride up and down, plus time spent at the tower enjoying the views. Allow at least 1-2 hours for a relaxed experience, including travel to and from the elevator. Reddit

The Durie Hill Elevator is generally accessible, but it's always best to confirm specific accessibility details with the Whanganui District Council or local visitor information services prior to your visit. Reddit

The elevator travels through a unique underground tunnel. Visitors often describe the echoing footsteps and the atmospheric blend of light as a memorable part of the journey. Reddit

Basic facilities may be available at the summit, but it's advisable to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the War Memorial Tower offers the most iconic photo opportunities with its sweeping 360-degree views. Capture the Whanganui River, city skyline, and the coastline. Reddit

Yes, Durie Hill provides a fantastic vantage point for sunset photos, with the golden light illuminating the city and river. Reddit

Clear mornings offer crisp views, while late afternoons and sunset provide beautiful golden hour light. Midday can be bright, but the panoramic scope is always impressive. Reddit

Photography inside the Durie Hill Elevator is generally permitted, but be mindful of other passengers and the unique, enclosed environment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Durie Hill Elevator and Tower offer a unique adventure for families. The novelty of riding an underground elevator is sure to excite children, and the climb up the tower provides a sense of accomplishment. The expansive views from the top are also a great way to engage kids with the local geography. Remember to check operating hours and consider bringing snacks and drinks for a more comfortable outing. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Durie Hill is a photographer's dream, especially on a clear day. The War Memorial Tower provides a commanding position for capturing sweeping panoramas of Whanganui, the river, and the coastline. Golden hour, particularly at sunset, offers spectacular lighting conditions for dramatic shots. Don't forget to capture the unique interior of the Durie Hill Elevator as well. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Durie Hill Elevator

The Durie Hill Elevator is a remarkable piece of Whanganui's history, serving as one of New Zealand's few remaining underground funiculars. Opened in 1919, it was designed to provide easy access to the residential area of Durie Hill from the lower town. The elevator travels through a 190-meter tunnel carved into the hillside, a feat of engineering for its time. Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere within the tunnel, with the echoing sounds of footsteps and the interplay of light creating a memorable experience. Reddit

This iconic structure not only offers a practical means of ascent but also a journey back in time. The engineering marvel of the Mercury Arc Rectifier that powers the elevator is also a point of interest for some. Riding the elevator is considered an essential part of the Durie Hill experience, setting the stage for the stunning views that await at the summit. Reddit

Ascending the War Memorial Tower

At the summit of Durie Hill stands the War Memorial Tower, a poignant monument offering unparalleled panoramic views. This tower is more than just a viewpoint; it's a place of remembrance and a symbol of the community. Visitors are encouraged to climb to the top to witness the breathtaking 360-degree vistas that stretch across Whanganui, the winding Whanganui River, and out to the Tasman Sea. On a clear day, the visibility is exceptional, making it a prime spot for photography and appreciating the local landscape. Reddit

The experience of climbing the tower is often described as rewarding, with each level offering a slightly different perspective. The unobstructed views make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gain a comprehensive understanding of the city's layout and its stunning natural surroundings. It’s a place where history, engineering, and natural beauty converge, offering a truly memorable visit. Reddit

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