The Neatest Things To Do in Foxton

Mewington’s Book Shoppe is everything you want from a small-town bookshop - cosy, well-curated, and full of unexpected gems. Vintage hardbacks sit alongside modern paperbacks, and there’s always something to spark curiosity on the shelves. In addition to puzzles, board games, and quirky gifts, visitors can also go on a ‘blind date with someone’s ex (book)’, a mystery pre-loved read paired with coffee and chocolate. The owners’ passion for stories is infectious, making it easy to lose track of time as you browse for your next great read.

Petal & Bee offers a warm, down-to-earth shopping experience where wholesome, local, and organic products take centre stage. Housed in one of Foxton’s original buildings, the shop mixes nostalgic charm with a modern, feel-good energy. Customers can stock up on grains, nuts, and flours, pick up eco-friendly ingredients for homemade skincare or cleaning products, and browse ranges from local favourites like Udderly Milk, Hohepa cheese, and The Herb Farm.

Colourful, creative, and a little bit whimsical, Pink Lemonade brings a burst of colourful fun to Foxton’s Main Street. This boutique stocks a mix of retro-inspired fashion, locally made art, and nostalgic treasures. It’s all about self-expression and good vibes: think bright prints, unique accessories, and a sense of playfulness that feels right at home in Foxton’s growing creative scene.

Just a short drive from the main township and a stone’s throw from Foxton’s magnificent beach, Ocean Beach Eatery is a go-to for relaxed seaside dining. With a menu full of fresh, local ingredients and an atmosphere that leans into coastal calm, it’s as welcoming as it gets. Grab a woodfired pizza and a craft beer or Foxton Fizz, settle in on the deck, and let the sea breeze do the rest - this is beach-town hospitality at its best.

Bringing colour and spice to various spots around Foxton, the Las Fridas food truck serves up authentic Mexican fare with flair. Inspired by Frida Kahlo’s bold spirit, the truck bursts with energy: murals, music, and plates piled high with tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole. It’s the perfect spot for fun, flavour-filled bites with friends or family, and a reminder that small towns can serve big personality on a plate.

Set beside Foxton’s iconic Dutch windmill, Cafe de Molen blends culture, history, and delicious food. Within its blue, orange, and Delftware-laden walls, you’ll find Dutch treats including stroopwafels, pannenkoeken, Dutch fries, and hearty sandwiches, all served with a view of the working windmill next door. After your meal, step inside De Molen itself to see the traditional mill in action and pick up a bag of freshly milled flour to take home. It’s a quintessential Foxton experience that perfectly captures the town’s unique heritage.

This riverside precinct is the beating heart of Foxton’s cultural life, with plenty to do, see, and learn. Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom, the award-winning museum and cultural centre, celebrates the town’s Māori, Dutch, and wider community heritage. You’ll find interactive exhibitions, art galleries, and stories that bring Foxton’s diverse roots to life, all set against the peaceful backdrop of the Manawatū River.

Recognised as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, the Manawatū Estuary is a dream for bird watchers and nature lovers. It’s one of New Zealand’s most significant coastal wetlands, home to migratory species like the godwit and the wrybill. Bring your binoculars, take a stroll along the boardwalk, and soak up the serenity. This is where Foxton’s natural beauty truly shines.

Just behind the dunes at Foxton Beach, Holben | Te Wharangi Reserve is an all-ages playground with plenty to do. The internationally recognised pump track is a major drawcard, catering to everyone from keen skaters to little ones on scooters. Add in a double flying fox, playground, sports courts, bird watching spots, and open green spaces backing onto the estuary, and you’ve got the perfect spot for the family to spend the day outdoors. Grab a coffee or ice cream from the nearby cafe and unwind in this delightful green corner of Foxton.

Perfectly situated by the beach and the Manawatū Estuary, Foxton Beach Holiday Park is a great spot to base yourself if you’re exploring the area over a few days. A range of versatile options, from cosy cabins and self-contained villas to powered campsites and glamping, means there’s something to suit every group. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly hub with plenty of space and lots to do in the surrounding area: swim, fish, or paddleboard to your heart’s content, or stay inland to explore the local birdlife and the Foxton township.