One of Whanganui’s favourite recreational spots, Rotokawau Virginia Lake offers a range of activities including a 25-minute woodland walk around the lake. The birdlife is a major attraction and this is complemented by an aviary.

One of the beautiful attractions at Virginia Lake Whanganui is the Higginbottom Fountain. This beautiful feature is coin operated and is lit at night, gently changes between colours.

Enjoying ice creams near the Winter Gardens.

The Winter Gardens is an all-year-round attraction with colourful displays whatever the season or weather. Adjoining the Winter Gardens is the Art Garden which combines an intriguing blend of sculpture and garden art.

Funky Duck Café, which operates out of Virginia Lake Reserve, is a popular spot for ice creams and refreshments in summer and warm drinks and delicious fare in winter.

Add in a children’s playground and this makes Rotokawau one of Wanganui’s most popular spots to walk, picnic, relax and play.
For visitors in self-contained campervans, Babbage Place car park is a great camping site for overnighters.