Start your food tour with a savoury slice at Tony's Pizza. Photo / Neat Places
Start your food tour with a savoury slice at Tony's Pizza. Photo / Neat Places
In a city where everyone seems to know someone behind the counter, the best stuff often spreads by word of mouth: where to get late-night pho, whose loaves sell out before lunch, which gallery is quietly punching above its weight.
Instead of making you rely on luck and small talk,we’ve pulled together a handful of those go-to spots, straight from the people who actually live here.
Follow the locals, and you’ll land on the places for coffee, kai, fresh air and a bit of culture.
Here’s a Palmy hit-list bundled the way residents talk about it.
Start casual and tasty. Tony’s Pizza on The Square serves New York-style slices and NZ craft beer with a side of arcade nostalgia, while Pho Nem Hanoi Home Cooking does comforting bowls and crisp, punchy plates. For bread and pastry, BABCO is the local carb magnet: everyday sourdough, laminated goodness and seasonal specials that disappear fast. When you want a change of pace, The Herb Farm in Ashhurst doubles as both an easygoing cafe and a natural-skincare shop, plus beautiful garden paths to wander through. Round things out at Brew Union with plenty of popular beers on tap, wood-fired pizzas and big, social tables.
Brew Union. Photo / Neat Places
Coffee, proper
For a dependable brew, locals rotate a tight list. Ebony Coffee Roasters for dialled-in espresso and a bag for home, Mouthwater for a compact espresso bar done right, Arrosta Roasting Co. for beans, brew gear and training under one roof and Coffee on Ascot for a dose of neighbourhood warmth, allergy-friendly treats and takeaway cups that actually compost.
Coffee on Ascot. Photo / Neat Places
Speedway Saturdays
From October to April, Palmy’s weekend soundscape often includes engines. Join thousands at the Robertson Prestige International Speedway inside Central Energy Trust Arena for superstocks, teams racing and big nights out that the whole community show up for. Post-race, drift a few blocks to Brew Union for pints and pizzas, or grab a late slice from Tony’s on The Square.
Robertson Prestige International Speedway. Photo / Neat Places
Bikes, bridges and big views
Need a tune-up or trail steer? Central Bicycle Studio is a community-minded bike studio known for its trusted workshop, friendly service and gear for everyone, from commuters and weekend riders through to ride-or-die MTB fans. Then, point your wheels to Arapuke Forest Mountain Bike Park: 30-plus kilometres built and loved by locals, from green/blue flow to spicy blacks. Walkers are also welcome on shared tracks. Prefer something gentler? Cross the He Ara Kotahi bridge and roll down the family-friendly riverside pathway, with playgrounds, dog parks and picnic spots along the way. For a bigger dose of nature (and story), head to Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge.
Dip into the local art scene starting at Zimmerman Gallery, keeping contemporary art accessible: sculpture, drawing and mixed media in a bright, unfussy space. A few blocks away, check out Snails, an artist-run space with a range of exhibitions, markets, gigs and workshops tucked inside a character building. Check the calendar; you’ll often catch something unexpected. Nearby, LIGHTBOX Gallery & Art Supplies showcases local artists and makers while offering a curated selection of art supplies, making it a hub for both inspiration and creativity. To complete your Palmy keepsakes, visit Pork Chop Hill from Wednesday to Saturday for a slice of Kiwi culture to wear from this independent clothing label.
Lightbox. Photo / Neat Places
A proper bookshop
On George Street, the locally beloved, family-run Bruce McKenzie Booksellers has been quietly shaping reading lists for over two decades. Expect thoughtful staff picks, a strong line-up of NZ titles (with Manawatū stories always well represented) and the inevitable urge to browse the aisles for ages.
Bruce McKenzies Booksellers. Photo / Neat Places
Curtain up
Since 1974, Centrepoint Theatre has anchored Palmy’s performing arts scene that put you close to the action. The main season blends fresh local writing and well-loved favourites, and their Outreach programme keeps the doors open to budding actors of all ages.
