Schools in Dannevirke, Manawatu-Wanganui Region, New Zealand

Dannevirke is a rural service town in the Manawatū-Whanganui Region. It has strong Scandinavian heritage, close-knit schools and clubs, and access to rolling farmland, forests and rivers that define the central North Island’s landscapes.

Manawatū-Whanganui Region

The Manawatū-Whanganui Region spans a large part of the lower North Island, containing a mix of coastal plains, river valleys such as the Manawatū River, small cities like Palmerston North, and extensive farmland. This region balances rural character with educational hubs, and is often more affordable than the larger metropolitan centres — attractive for schools wanting to position themselves as accessible. For international students, the region offers a quieter but rich cultural and outdoor environment, with pastoral landscapes, bush, and a strong sense of community.