Could Rangitikei be one of the North Island’s most underrated weekend destinations?   Wedged in the heart of the lower North Island, it’s easy to drive straight through Rangitikei - but that means missing out on all that this charismatic district has to offer.  Dotted with small, charming towns that offer everything from out-of-the-ordinary activities to excellent brunch spots, it’s a fantastic place to base yourself for a busy weekend of exploring. The best approach is to lean into the variety, with riverside lodges, country pubs, galleries, museums, and scenic detours all on offer.   

Rangitikei does a particular kind of getaway very well. A region marked by white papa cliffs, long river bends, and deep pockets of quiet, here a place to stay can feel less like a stopover and more like the highlight of the trip - whether it’s a polished riverside sanctuary or an adrenaline-filled basecamp. If you’re looking for a weekend that swaps traffic noise for birdsong, spa pools, river swims, or a glass of wine with a valley view, here are five spots you can’t look past.