Durie Hill, located in Whanganui, New Zealand, offers several unique attractions for visitors. One of the main highlights is the Durie Hill Elevator, the only underground public transport elevator in New Zealand. This historic elevator takes visitors on a 55-second trip through a tunnel to the top of the hill, providing access to the Durie Hill Memorial Tower. The tower, built from fossilized shell rock, offers sweeping views of the city, inland volcanic mountains, and the Tasman Sea. Visitors can also climb the 176 steps of the War Memorial Tower to enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, including Mount Taranaki and Mount Ruapehu.
In addition to these attractions, Durie Hill is home to the Bason Botanic Gardens, a beautiful and tranquil spot for nature lovers. The gardens offer a peaceful retreat with a diverse range of plant species and well-maintained walking paths, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural environment.