Okay, with crazy windy weather and a little bit colder than further up the island, but still an amazing place.
Maybe my homesickness is exaggerated because I was only just hitting my stride resettling into the River City after years away before we left last year. Plus my youngest son had only just turned two, giving me a bit more freedom and I was reconnecting - and creating new connections - with some amazing people in town.
But I think it's more than that ... I think it's because Whanganui has incredible heart.
The things I miss are the Friday nights at the Musicians Club, including the first time I heard The Black Trio play; visiting my friends' pop-up shop on a Saturday morning, which has morphed into a permanent location on Victoria Ave as Evelyn & Moose; walking to the River Traders' market and buying flowers from artist Jo Melville plus my free-range eggs, fresh bread and a macadamia nut biscuit from Annette Main's stall.
Generations have loved taking kids to the wonderfully retro yet timeless Kowhai Park. I love showing off the stunning Sarjeant Gallery to overseas visitors, plus racing the kids down the Durie Hill tunnel then taking the elevator through the hill and climbing to the top of the tower for breath-taking views. And I miss feeding the ducks at Virginia Lake and talking to the cockatoo at the aviary, plus climbing on the Peter Pan statue - all essential stops.
On a shopping front, I try not to buy too many fabulous books from Paige's at once and limit myself to how many times we'd partake of the $20 family pizza deals at Mint cafe on a Thursday.
Waving at the paddle steamer Waimarie from my parents' house trying to get it to sound its horn as it cruises past on the river ... and, of course, the river. I've barely started.
It's no surprise that the Whanganui is topping the Green Party's Best Rivers online poll. Mangapurua Landing leading the way to the almost inconceivable Bridge To Nowhere, a relic of history left in the national park, is an unforgettable experience.
I was disappointed not to be part of the Castlecliff Beach driftwood and sand sculpture event marking the start of Sea Week last weekend - my friends' clever children won the under-10 category for their sandcastle replica of Kai Iwi Beach.
When I saw the Children's Day celebrations planned in Whanganui, I googled for New Plymouth attractions but only one small event here. Whanganui is lucky to have so many outstanding organisations caring for children here, led by SKIP.
And to be missing out on the fifth annual La Fiesta celebration of women ... I am gutted, especially the free hydroslide for women from 4pm to 6pm tomorrow.
This is an incredible place and, with the Artists Open Studios only a couple of weeks away, it's our time to shine. We will be showcasing our treasures led by the artists who call Whanganui home.
Out-of-towners will only glimpse our best-kept secrets with 100 art studios to visit, but perhaps some will be tempted to return or even investigate settling here as our real estate is the best value in New Zealand.
I know we'll be more settled in Oakura in time and I'm grateful for landing on my feet with fantastic neighbours all around ... I just miss Whanganui.
