The top cities between Dunedin and Tauranga are Wellington, Rotorua, Christchurch, Taupo, Hamilton, Nelson, Oamaru, Tongariro National Park, Blenheim, and Westland National Park (Te Wahipounamu). Wellington is the most popular city on the route. It's 16 hours from Dunedin and 7 hours from Tauranga.
Oamaru, the largest town in North Otago, New Zealand, is located on the Pacific coast and connected to Timaru and Dunedin by State Highway 1 and the railway Main South Line. The town is renowned for its well-preserved Victorian Precinct, which has been featured in movies and remains open to visitors free of charge. Oamaru has experienced a revival in recent years, establishing itself as the steampunk capital of New Zealand.
9% as popular as Wellington
4 minutes off the main route, 6% of way to Tauranga
Christchurch, situated on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is renowned for its English heritage. The city centre features flat-bottomed punts that glide along the Avon River, flanked by cycling paths and green spaces such as Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Unfortunately, many historic stone buildings were destroyed by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011.
77% as popular as Wellington
2 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Tauranga
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Blenheim is a charming town located in the South Island of New Zealand. It serves as a gateway to the renowned wineries of Wairau Valley, situated towards its west. The Marlborough Museum in town provides insights into the history and evolution of winemaking along with early Polynesian settlement in this region. Another popular attraction is the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre that showcases World War I aircraft from filmmaker Peter Jackson's collection, presented within sets simulation their flight history.
8% as popular as Wellington
4 minutes off the main route, 40% of way to Tauranga
Nelson is a city situated in the South Island of New Zealand, overlooking Tasman Bay. It's renowned for its local arts and crafts stores as well as art galleries. The city serves as an ideal base for nearby caving sites, vineyards, and Abel Tasman National Park. Founded by English settlers back in 1841, the city's rich history is displayed at Founders Heritage Park, which is a living museum housing a vintage railway.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is located near the southernmost point of North Island on Cook Strait. It is a small city comprising an attractive waterfront promenade, sandy beaches, a functioning harbour and vibrant timber houses surrounding hillsides. The iconic red Wellington Cable Car from Lambton Quay heads towards Wellington Botanic Gardens. This windy place is known for its strong winds through Cook Strait.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Tauranga
I'll never travel to Tauranga without this trip planner again
Westland Tai Poutini National Park is an incredible place with amazing views of the Southern Alps and Tasman Sea. It's a great place to walk up the Trig Path to see the glaciers, and there are plenty of other activities available such as mountain biking and hiking. The park is also home to rare and endangered animals, so it's definitely worth visiting if you're interested in nature!
The whole West Coast of this south island is amazing for hikes, glacier scenery, glacier hikes, heli scenery and star photography! Loved this national park and got some good star photography done around Frans Joseph :)
Malav Patel — Google review
I went to the top of the track to view the glacier. A steady climb but only a few steep Arctic. Week-formed vehicle track, great for mountain bikes. Take plenty of fluid. It's quite a longish hike. The view is worth it though
Robert Scelly — Google review
Great parking spaces. Bathrooms at the start. Quick, easy flattish walk. There's a very small incline. Bench at the end to enjoy the views. A couple of waterfalls along the way. Wide and well established path to the Glacier. No dogs allowed. It's definitely easy enough for kids.
D B — Google review
Stunning veiws. Plenty of out door activity
Frances Reardon — Google review
Easy walk up Trig path to a most spectacular sight, the southern Alps on one side and the Tasman sea and all the lagoons and beaches on the other. Endless dense rain forest between the two. If you lucky you will see white herons, spoonbills and other rare birds
Rainer Eichblatt — Google review
The hike up Alex Knob was delightful, yet strenuous. Accomplishable in 4.5 hours round trip when proceeding at a decent clip, yet well worth settling into some bushes for a couple hours at the top for cover from the wind to watch the clouds roll by with occasional glimpses at the incredible glacier.
My Toms were feeling their misuse by the end of this hike as the South Island terrain is testing them, yet I remain resolute and proud to continue to push their limits and enjoy the mocassin-like hiking which gives me a sense of connection and way to pay respects to native hikers of centuries past especially with the North American tribes that showed so much respect to the land and animals of their time.
James Harder — Google review
This place is incredibly scenic and leads to the snout of Franz Josef Glacier. Another track crosses the river to the north (the photos are from this one). It is hard to tell which is the most beautiful, the vegetation or the geology, most probably the way they combine. Most of it is easily walkable but may prove slightly treacherous in bad weather. An absolute Must (but everybody knows that or obviously sees it).
François Y — Google review
Wow, just wow...what a magnificent place. Such spectacular scenery, great cafes and restaurants and plenty of activities to do...there is also a track just south of the chapel in Franz Josef that where you can see glow worms just after sun down.
Scott Playle — Google review
Go now The West Coast needs everyone's support. We went the other week for 4 days. Drove from Blenheim which was a 6 hour drive. We received fantastic service and friendly people every where in Franz Josef . Thank you 😊
andrew neame — Google review
An easy 20-30 minutes return good trail walk to see the glacier mountain.
Candice Neo — Google review
14% as popular as Wellington
2 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Tauranga
Tongariro National Park is one of the most popular national parks in New Zealand. The park is known for its stunning views, glaciated mountains and emerald lakes. The park also has UNESCO World Heritage status.
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a stunning hike which is a must for anyone visiting the park. It’s fairly challenging but 100% worth the effort. Try to pick a clear day if you can to enjoy the most amazing views, some of the best in NZ.
Nick Whales — Google review
An awesome adventure across an amazing landscape. Make sure you prep and pack correctly. Very quick changes in weather here and there have been some horrible stories. Other than that it's an incredible hike and unforgettable!
John Phelan — Google review
Very beautiful location nice and cold for a family touring. The ha dial ride was amazing just a bit pricy $45 for adult just to travel on top. The cafeteria on top has beautiful views as well food family spot.
udharv deshpande — Google review
This walk is a must when visiting the north island. Beautiful nature and a great exercise. You may download some Lotr mordor music and listen to it while admiring "Mount Doom" ;D It took us 8 hrs - we stopped to take photos and to enjoy some refreshments along the way. We also visited Soda springs and went around the lakes.
Martin Hässler — Google review
Highly recommended to do this hike!
like many of the people who did this, it was the best hike I ever did!
The slopes to the emerald lake was the toughest for me at least.
Hiking pole is strongly recommended.
with magnificent view all throughout the crossings it was an experience of a lifetime.
The descent path was compact and hard and it was not good for our knees.
Irenetan288 Tan — Google review
Taranaki falls walk.
Walked from the Grand Chateau. Was an easy 1.5 hour walk on path the whole way. Magnificent scenery. Well worth the experience.
Rhendy Visser — Google review
Absolutely phenomenal. Once in a lifetime trip and I highly suggest you take the opportunity to do it if you're physically able. I took over 250 pictures so I'll leave that to the true professionals but will gladly say it was worth my while. Check the weather before going, we actually overpacked a little, but be prepared for a full day of walking! It took us just under 8 hours, intermediate fitness, late 30s - early 40s couple.
TRe Blah — Google review
This is the best hiking experience you can find in the North Island, considering Tongariro is one of the worlds oldest national park.
After extensive research, this hike was difficult about 7/10 I would say with my above average fitness level. DOC estimates around 7-8 hours to hike but I managed to complete it in around 6 hours one way with the last couple hours being the easiest walk.
You will also need to arrange a shuttle at the beginning, I highly recommend which is priced around $35 depending on the websites. Overall I highly recommend this hike to anyone, every steps is worth it at the end.
Carronl — Google review
Must do in New Zealand, it’s not a difficult walk, most of parts are flat and the views are so worth especially on sunny days!! One of my favorite places in New Zealand, please be aware of the shuttle must be booked in advance as it has been sold out soon in peak season .
Juanita Huang — Google review
Park with multiple excursion possibilities. We opted for the Northern Circuit and then entered the Alpine Crossing which leads to Blue Lake. It's a very long route, but if you're fit it's worth it. to go and return scheduled 10.12 hours to travel 35km.
Marco Marazzi (Maraziño) — Google review
Wow, one of the most beautiful hikes! The route is incredibly diverse, passing through stunning and varied landscapes. The climb towards the end becomes more physically challenging, but it's totally worth it. Highly recommended to check the weather beforehand, as it's a significant factor.
Mai Srugo — Google review
This place is not to be missed! We walked the Taranaki Falls path, which passes 3 waterfalls, a desert plateau, views of perfectly shaped volcano cones, one used to represent Mount Doom in Lord of the Rings, streams, and a forest. The terrain is amazingly varied and beautiful. It took us 4 hours to make the loop with stops to view and take pics. Don't miss this!
Kathy Burdick — Google review
One of the best hikes I ever did!
Everyone should definitely do this hike once if they are traveling through this region. I highly recommend it because you can witness a stunning landscape that makes you feel as if you are standing on a different planet. It took us around 7 1/2 hours, including multiple breaks, to complete the Tongariro Crossing, but it’s definitely worth it.
Julian Elsner — Google review
Had an amazing time in this park. I went there during new year’s. It was quite hard for me. It was so unforgettable.
Catherine Chen — Google review
An amazing adventure for our little family of 4. We went there to celebrate our son's first birthday. It was my first snow trip as well. I absolutely loved it. The beauty took over the senses and left us mesmerized.
Avikil Nadan — Google review
We did the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track and it was one of the best day hikes we did so far! Definitely worth it if you are in the area!
A few tips to make your trip better:
* book a shuttle in advance because the car park is limited to 4 hours only and the hike takes between 6 to 9 hours depending on how fast you walk, how many breaks you take for pictures, etc
* there is no shop/restaurant or anything on the track so make sure you have enough water and snacks with you. I would recommend 1.5 - 2 liters.
* good footwear is required! This is a volcanic track so some parts are a bit slippery because of the volcanic terrain. Hiking boots with good ankle support would be best in my opinion
* take a wind jacked with you, gloves and a beanie. A part of the track was particularly windy and it is easy to get cold up there if you are not dressed properly.
* photo tip: take a time-lapse with the volcano❤️ The clouds move very fast and they create an amazing view
Note: check the weather before! You will not be able to see anything if the weather is bad :(
Cristina Meirosu — Google review
Nice drive up to the busy ski centre where we walked up as far as we could, even got to walk on some snow! lovely views, very busy with ski folk (as you would expect!)
Mandy & Antony — Google review
Incredible park. Did the crossing on a great (but windy!!) day. Long hike, but plenty of bathrooms and incredible views. There is a skree section that is a bit sketchy after the red crater that can get a bit spooky so bring good hiking shoes and some water and food. Super worth! We didn’t find any rings though
Erik Wiker — Google review
What a breath taking trek.
Took us 9.5hrs including few short and 1 lunch break. Challenging at some sections but totally worth it. Cannot wait to do it in when the mountains are covered in snow.
If you are thunking of doing this, make sire to book yourself a shuttle service coz its aint a loop track.
Hardika Italia — Google review
Probably one of the best hikes I
I did.
It’s not hard but moderate- about 20k and 700merers ascending.
The views are sooo nice and the trail is really easy for hiking (do bring hiking shoes or boots as it’s still technical at the section of the pools).
Dekel R — Google review
Did the Ohakune Old Coach Trail on a bike (no bike either 😅), starting at the Horopito end. Absolutely crazy downhill sections, the body was definitely feeling it. Well worth it. Cool spot to have lunch across the old viaduct. Lots of little history fact signs along the trail.
Jax Cullen — Google review
Tongariro National Park, located in the North Island of New Zealand, is a breathtaking destination that offers a myriad of natural wonders and outdoor adventures. As one of the oldest national parks in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tongariro boasts stunning landscapes, including active volcanoes, alpine meadows, and turquoise lakes.
The park is renowned for its diverse range of hiking trails, catering to all levels of fitness and experience. The most famous of these is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a challenging but rewarding day hike that takes you through volcanic terrain, past steaming vents, and alongside emerald lakes. The scenery along the way is simply awe-inspiring, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In addition to hiking, Tongariro National Park offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering in the winter months. The park is also rich in Maori cultural significance, with sacred sites and legends adding depth to the visitor experience.
Accommodation options in the park range from campsites to luxury lodges, ensuring that there's something to suit every traveler's preferences and budget. However, it's worth noting that booking accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak season, is advisable.
Overall, Tongariro National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Its stunning beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it a truly unforgettable experience.
ajleeblog — Google review
This hike (the Taranaki Fall Track) was easily the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The trails were well maintained but not intrusive with a lot of great care taken to minimize environmental impact while making the area very reasonably accessible. We did not do the full alpine crossing, but it is definitely on my bucket list for any future chance to return. Simply amazing and humbling.
John Westendorf — Google review
8% as popular as Wellington
25 minutes off the main route, 86% of way to Tauranga
8
Taupo District
Taupō District is a territorial authority district in New Zealand. It covers 6,333 km² of land, and a further 610 km² of lake area, including Lake Taupō, New Zealand's largest lake, and Lake Rotoaira. Wikipedia.
30% as popular as Wellington
2 minutes off the main route, 91% of way to Tauranga
Hamilton, located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island, is a bustling city with plenty to offer visitors. The city boasts Hamilton Gardens, a sprawling public park featuring themed gardens ranging from Italian Renaissance to Japanese and Maori styles. The Waikato Museum showcases Maori art and artefacts while ArtsPost gallery exhibits local art. Victoria Street in the busy city centre is lined with restaurants, cafes and bars.
13% as popular as Wellington
36 minutes off the main route, 94% of way to Tauranga
Rotorua is a town situated on its namesake lake in New Zealand's North Island. It is well-known for its geothermal activity and rich Maori culture. At Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley, visitors can see bubbling mud pools and the Pohutu Geyser, which erupts numerous times each day. The site also includes a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute with traditional wood carving and weaving schools.
91% as popular as Wellington
1 minute off the main route, 96% of way to Tauranga
Best stops along Dunedin to Tauranga drive
The top stops along the way from Dunedin to Tauranga (with short detours) are Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours, and Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland. Other popular stops include Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Huka Falls tracks, and Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ.
Niche museum housed in a grain elevator with multimedia sci-fi exhibits focused around steam power.
A great museum showcasing some truly incredible and out of this world thought processes of talented artists. For $10 for adult entry, you're not going to find much better value entertainment. Good engaging exhibits and stories about the artists.
Kenny W — Google review
This was lots of fun to do with the kids. We took a 3 year old, an 11 year old and two teenagers and they all had lots of fun. So many cool things to look at, but my favourite part was the ‘Portal!’ Beautiful and relaxing. This is a must see attraction if you’re in Oamaru. The best part about taking children here is the sign at the entrance that says you’re allowed to touch everything! Such a cool experience!
Lisa Alderton — Google review
Very interesting. Well worth the entry fee. I loved all the interactive pieces too. Some quality artwork in here and the industrial vibe was good fun. Good for kids and adults with an inner child that likes pretending to be in mad max.
Mark Greene — Google review
Make sure you have lots of $2 coins to put in the big train outside, absolutely wonderful experience.
Steampunk HQ was the highlight of our trip to Omaru and the train outside was great, we even went back at night to see the flames and lights 🚥 go again.
Inside the exhibition was amazing, such eclectic workmanship, well done and worth a visit
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Sandra Lee Lovering — Google review
Steampunk HQ initially caught my attention due to the numerous reviews praising its interactive installations, secret chambers, and cool atmosphere, sparking my imagination. However, my actual experience left much to be desired as I discovered several areas in need of improvement:
1.
The overall lighting was dim, requiring enhanced atmospheric illumination.
2.
The interactivity of the installations was lacking; despite the presence of many buttons, pressing them yielded no response.
3.
There was no clear delineation of which installations could be touched, with inconsistent signage, some handwritten, some printed, and some absent altogether.
4.
Safety concerns in the backyard need to be addressed; I suggest establishing a designated area for miscellaneous items to prevent harm to children.
5.
The lack of quality was evident, such as in the two installations in the yard with audiovisual effects; while the effects were impressive, exposed wires, abrupt endings to sound files, and a lack of clear instructions were disappointing.
6.
The presence of too many miscellaneous items detracted from the overall aesthetic, such as the clutter within the train carriage and poorly maintained handles, giving the impression that the venue lacked attention to detail.
7.
Overly obscure and excessively artistic installations may not be the best choice, considering the significant funds required for maintenance. If funds are insufficient to maintain such a large area of exhibits, it may be wise to reduce the scope and focus on refinement.
I strongly recommend taking inspiration from The Lost Gypsy Gallery in Papatowai, where although the number of exhibits is limited, each one demonstrates exceptional dedication and creativity, serving as a valuable example to emulate. Overall, Steampunk HQ falls short of being a recommended tourist destination in its current state.
J K — Google review
The greatest. Even my dad enjoyed himself. Wasn't what I expected but I don't know what I was. Loved it. Very different. Blew my mind. Thank you. Never seen anything like it before.
kimberley O — Google review
I've never heard of the place until we visited Oamaru!
I was absolutely in love with this place! The workmanship and talent to make this happen is insane. I would definitely recommend to go visit. For $10 entry, I was shocked at what we got for that price! It was like a mini amusement exhibition. So so SO good!!
Emma Walker — Google review
Such a cool place, kids had heaps of fun with the interactiveness of the displays. Pricing was great for family outing.
Felt like more things should have functioned in the first half of the displays...maybe a few broken items?🤷♀️
Leisha Bell — Google review
Had went today at this place.i had explored many things but felt that somethings are unnecessarily placed and some things are not worth it.
Had been with my family and fees we paid i felt was overly charged with the experience will have.
NIDHI (Nids) — Google review
This is a very cool place. Steam punk art is a vibe here. $15 to get into the museum otherwise free to roam around at the front and look at all the art display
Prisila Tuungafasi — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to the HQ, very interesting, there are lots to see, some are interactive. We spent over 2 hours there so we got our money's worth. Hubby spotted an old metal working machine from Otley Yorkshire 😁
Kat Smith — Google review
The coin-operated "steampunk" railway engine outside the building is so cool. There is a gallery that presents a theme of a dark post-apocalyptic vision of a future and it cost $10 adults/$2 child to go in.
Faye O — Google review
A fun excursion with very interesting and eclectic pieces of art. Fascinating story of its creator as well. This a hands on experience for the senses and a pass through a whimsical fantasy land.
c ?cfl? lane — Google review
Bloody fantastic. The portal room alone is worth the entrance fee. It was quite quiet when I was there and I spent a happy 40 minutes tootling around the odd bizarro carefully curated exhibits. Really fun.
Diana Gordon — Google review
If you visit Oamaru, make this your 'must see'. Some very clever work. Take a slow meander through so as not to miss anything. Lots of interactive participation, nothing you can't touch. Have fun
Daphne Keller — Google review
What a wonderful place to visit. It's just so much fun to see and do. Exhibitions are interactive, and you get to touch and play with the equipment. Well, most of the equipment.
The imagination and work put in to repurpose old industrial items to steam punk sci-fi is fantastic. It's like living in BioShock rather than playing it.
If you want fun and escapism for an hour while travelling to Dunedin, then I can thoroughly recommend Steam Punk HQ in Oamaru.
Michael Salvage — Google review
Nice place . You can easily spend couple of hours . It’s all about metal crafts having all such things from bike to train and baloon.
Kids going to love this place they do have sovereigns as well even you can rent dresses for 10$.
Even entry fee is 10$.
Staff is nice and friendly.
NIKHIL JOSHI — Google review
Very fun and interesting attraction. Amazing art pieces and the place has an eerie vibe, they've nailed it!
Everything is interactive/touchable and some things have a fun story to them too.
Good activity to do on a cold/miserable day!
Michael Engemann — Google review
Go here!
Do nót skip this HQ of steampunk!
Entrance is only 15Nwz dollars and that is worth it!
You will see amazing art, crazy stuff and it is also interactive.
I had a good laugh and I was by myself.
Go with family or friends and just touch and explore all things!
Really cool stuff.
If you do not go in?
At least put a 2 dollar coin in the train ánd the zeppelin!
Camera's ready.
The outdoor activities?
With the canon and the train?
Great!!
The room with all the lights?
Amazing!
Enjoy!!
Nicole van den broek — Google review
Pretty cool, some really quirky stuff, a bit shorter than I expected but still worth the $15 for a look around, and you can play with the stuff too.
Automated Zero — Google review
Quite impressed, there was a lot more sustenance to this museum than I thought. Plenty on hands on things for the kids.
With kids, easy to spend a couple hours here. As an adult, unless you are really into examining the finer details, a half hour would be plenty
Steve James — Google review
Amazing sights and wondrous items to look at. The best part? You are encouraged to take photos and so much of the pieces are interactive. So much fun!
The Giants House is a bed and breakfast with unique eclectic gardens, featuring a collection of whimsical mosaic sculptures by the local artist Josie Martin. The gardens are essentially one giant artwork with intricate collages of mirrors, tiles and broken china that cascade down a hillside above Akaroa. Visitors can expect to find many surprising nooks and crannies throughout the garden reminiscent of Gaudi and Miro's styles.
I accompanied close friends to this attraction, not knowing much - if anything - about it. I was pleasantly surprised. The garden had very clearly been a labour of love for the artist, who had turned a functional fruit and vegetable garden into a gorgeous spectacle of colour and wonder. This is an absolute treasure and well worth the nominal entry fee.
T E Dorward — Google review
What a beautiful, lovely place to visit full of art works, flowers and nicely laid out landscapes. We had a great time. The house is situated up the hill and there is no parking on-site but you can easily find the roadside parking near the house. The entry fee allowed you to visit the garden and gallery but not include the visit in the house unless you are in group visit with pre-arranged. Having said that there are plenty to look around, inspire and take photos. There is small cafe which serves drinks and cakes/ scones etc. Overall we had a good time. Please make sure you bring your camera/ phone as there are plenty of photo opportunities. Highly recommended place to visit. Thanks Jose - the artist for her amazing work!
ATGC — Google review
The Giants House honestly has to be seen to be believed. Photos don't do it justice.
The day that we were in Akaroa, it was raining (not entirely ideal for visiting a garden of mosaic paths), but I was determined to visit the gardens here, so I put on a poncho and with a warning about being careful on the paths in the wet off we went.
I think the rain and the bit of fog that was hanging around added some ambience (although I have no doubt they are spectacular in the sunshine) and don't regret the decision at all.
The amount of work and hours (!!) that have gone into these artworks just blows my mind.
If you are in this part of the world it's a must do experience in my opinion. If you're not in this part of the world, it's a pretty good reason to plan a trip!
Melissa Adams — Google review
Grate place to visit with family and friends. all the sculptures made with colourful marble pieces. $35 per person i think it’s worth. it’s like another world on earth 🥰. they have one cafe where you can order food and enjoy it as well .
Reet Kaur — Google review
More than your average garden.
Very drawn to the fine sparkling details that filled our experience with connection and love. So thrilled to have experienced this place for the first time with my dear ones. A sweet and precious memory. One I will always remember.
Stacey Awhitu — Google review
$20+ per adult made me think twice, but absolutely well worth the entry fee. Spent an amazing 3 hours here, eyes ever watchful at the extravaganza of opulent artwork. In one word, " UPLIFTING". Reminded me of Gaudi's work in Barcelona.
Who would have imagined that it was on OUR doorstep in Akaroa.
Marie Ashton — Google review
Absolutely beautiful garden, Josie has done an incredible job of creating such a wonderful space. On a nice calm sunny day the atmosphere is so tranquil, highly recommend a visit.
Courtney Smuts-Kennedy — Google review
I was truly captivated by the incredible artistry showcased at the Giant House in Akaroa. The meticulous construction using a myriad of glass and ceramic pieces resulted in a mesmerizing array of sculptures and mosaics that adorned the property. The visual experience was undoubtedly delightful.
Yet, I must admit that our overall impression was somewhat tainted by the considerably high entrance fee for the attraction. Regrettably, this feeling was amplified by the fact that visitors were not granted access to the interior of the house, which seemed to fall outside the scope of the attraction. While the artistic exterior was undoubtedly enchanting, the mismatch between the cost and the overall experience was a bit 🤷♀️
P.S. we just spent less than 30mins inside.
Ruth Peliño — Google review
This is often described as the happiest garden in the world, it’s easy to see how one might think that! Incredible mosaic art pieces accompany a beautiful landscape that sweeps up the hillside behind the Victorian home.
Karl Gercens — Google review
It is a Garden of International Significance, populated by quirky mosaic tile sculptures that fuel my childlike sense of wonder. My wife was blown away by the level of detail. It’s a delightful way to spend an hour or two. Be warned: it’s located up a steep driveway on a steep hill.
John Hunter — Google review
Well worth a visit 👍😀. An amazing piece of artwork. We were there for at least three hours looking at the gardens, mosaics and having a bite to eat while watching people's face as they lit up. Take your time and enjoy what has been created 👍😀
Michael Connell — Google review
My experience here was lovely. Lots of beautiful picture opportunities and awesome views from the top of the garden. Coming to Akaroa for this is totally worth it and easy to do from Christchurch. I totally recommend checking it out and bringing your camera with you!
Leoreo — Google review
Great experience. A must do when visiting Akaroa. NZ
Josie is such a talented artist you will blown away with all her hard work.
Take in the views sit back and relax.
Sandra Stapleton — Google review
Worth the visit! So much to discover is Josie Martin's beautiful garden. Thank you for sharing your creation with the world!
Cali Q — Google review
Brilliant experience. Lovely gardens and fantastic sculptures that have clearly taken a long time to create. Entrance fee was reasonable. Would definitely recommend.
Vinnie Smith — Google review
Amazing beautifully maintained gardens with incredible mosaic work that is out of this world. Must have taken years of patient detailed work to complete this. Note while it is amazing it is not cheap - $25 per adult. But still worth it. Also there is no parking up the driveway. You need to park on the road and walk up.
Ben Fernandez — Google review
I'm amazed at how great this place is. Not cheap to visit
35 dollars an adult but well worth it. Everything I looked back I saw something I hadn't seen before. What an imagination this lady has. And so well looked after. If you have walking problems just take your time as there is lots of steps. Also able to be dropped at the top of driveway as it's quite steep.
Bronwyn Yarrall — Google review
We were lucky enough to visit the Giants House after closing to get photos with our bridal party. The photos turned out absolutely stunning due to all the colour and wonderful art. Josie was a delight to speak with and we were lucky enough to see her when we were leaving. Well worth a visit when you are in Akaroa.
Photos in this review were taken by Robin and Andie.
Jen Woollard — Google review
I thought initially it was a lot to pay, but after going through I absolutely recommend seeing this amazing garden of art, flora and fauna. Nothing like I have ever seen before. Loved it. Saw in February which was a great time for flowers.
Linda Roper — Google review
I'm not much of an art lover, but you can see how much time, patience and creativity has gone into building such an exquisite garden. It's at the top of a steep driveway and lots of stairs throughout so be prepared. However there is plenty of seating available throughout the garden. Cafe & toilets available on site. Entry fee seems a bit expensive for what it is. No public access to the giants house which was a little disappointing but understandable as the artist lives on site. Definitely worth a visit if you're an art/garden lover. Overall a lovely place to visit.
Rachael — Google review
A must....let me say that again...
A MUST do. The creativeness of this beautiful soul is very inspiring.
Diamonds produced on a budget.
🙏💖🙏
The TranzAlpine Train is a scenic train journey between Christchurch and Greymouth in the Southern Alps. The journey takes about 5 hours and offers breathtaking views of the alpine landscape, with excursions including passes over staggering viaducts and breathtaking mountain passes.
We did one way from Greymouth to Christchurch and it was great. Easy check in process at Greymouth Station. You don't choose your seats when booking, your seats are allocated when you check in at the station.
Lovely views, approx 5 hours on the train. 4 of us went (all adults), got seated around a table. We found this comfy and roomy enough. If you don't get seated around a table, the other seats are 2 people seated next to each other with tray tables that fold down from the seat above (like airline seats).
There are 2 USB ports to charge devices, overhead luggage storage so no bags have to be stored under the table and headphone commentary along the way. I found the commentary actually okay to listen to, often I get bored with this stuff but I actually listened to some of it when I wasn't standing in the observation carriage. The observation carriage is great for seeing views and feeling the wind rush past you but the seated carriages have large windows for viewing if you don't walk to the observation carriage. We purchased some hot drinks and snacks and found it reasonably priced, I was expecting it to be somewhat overpriced for being on a train but it was standard pricing. The drinks and food were yum.
The entire train was clean, tidy. The toilets were clean! The Cafe carriage has seating but was closed understandably due to covid but food can be taken back to your allocated seat/table. Easy to walk between carriages and we were seated on a carriage between the Cafe and observation carriage so didn't have far to walk which was great.
We hired a rental car from Christchurch, drove across to the West Coast. On the day of the train trip we dropped our car off at the Greymouth rental company, which was across the road from the station (perfect) and got on the train. This was our first time doing the train and we liked it, would likely do it again. But I would probably recommend only doing it one way as I imagine a two way journey makes a long trip on a train, especially if do a return trip all on one day. We are happy we did the one way journey only, as felt it was long enough for us. More a personal preference.
Otherwise highly recommended to do.
Larissa Kalike — Google review
I love train travel so we booked return trip. It was a wonderful day. The views are amazing. The train was very clean and comfortable and the staff were lovely. We were lucky to get a table for two of us on the way to Greymouth and that is great when you want to eat/ drink. The train was full coming back so couldn't move from the airline type seats. They were very comfortable just felt more enclosed with a seat in front of you.
Doing the journey both ways have me some great photo opportunities - in the morning everything was green and sunny while in the afternoon it started snowing and giving everything a dusting of white. Beautiful, but very cold in the observation car when the snow started. Overall, it was fantastic and I'd do it again.
Leanne Bithell — Google review
Considering this is advertised as a scenic journey, it’s a shame that the windows weren’t freshly cleaned prior to our departure from Christchurch. That said, there is a good expansive of glass so that you can look out at the view.
There is a good commentary that you can listen to at different stages of the journey, over the complimentary headphones. A problem with this, though, is if there are any train announcements; these override the commentary, and you miss anything that was said during this period.
We travelled mid-January and although the views were okay, they are probably more spectacular when there is lying snow.
Soon after leaving there was an announcement that the open viewing car was open, which prompted a mad rush that made it difficult to see anything from this car. A short while later, though, there were only a few hardy souls left as it was quite a breezy place to be.
For those not riding in the Scenic Plus seats, the café provides a good selection of food at reasonable rates.
Overall, though, I have been on trips with more spectacular views, and I thought this was quite expensive for what it was.
Carl — Google review
TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth is a must do. It's definitely worth the train ride instead of driving, especially for the driver as you can actually enjoy the scenery for once. Pick up the rental car from Greymouth instead, which is right inside the Greymouth Train Station. Go to to open air carriage for the best photo opportunities!
William Lin — Google review
A smooth yet expensive scenic train ride from one end of New Zealand to another through the river valleys and into the alps.
The train is clean and the seats are comfortable. The bigger glass windows enable passengers to have a better view during the relaxing journey. Overall experience was good but not great. Slightly disappointed with the overall scenery throughout the ride because it wasn’t as scenic as expected.
Ting Ting — Google review
Great scenery along the journey. Takes 4.5 hours as moves fairly slowly. Comfortable seats and an open air car to get a different set of views. Provides good commentary through headlines (provided) but was in audible as kept cutting out continuously which was very frustrating!
Gregg Carnaffan — Google review
We took the scenic plus from Christchurch to Moana and back.
The views both ways were gorgeous.
At Moana, we went for a couple of short walks that were very beautiful.
On the return journey we weren’t very happy with the food. It was not flavourful, and the staff claimed to run out of certain items. But the views and scenery were as enjoyable as ever.
I think we paid over $2,000 for three tickets both ways and food should have been good both ways.
The staff were very polite and friendly.
Ishan Chandandeep — Google review
Great train journey through the southern alps. Spectacular scenery. Comfotable seat with running commentary by headphones. Cafe on board for snacks and full breakfast if you want. One stop at Arthurs pass to stretch your legs. Really enjoyed the trip. The queues at Greymouth for hire cars were long. We hired a RAD car. There was no queue, and someone was waiting for us with the car keys.
Lindsay Howitt — Google review
We went from Christchurch to Arturs Pass where we rejoined our Bus tour. I spent the entire trip in the Cattle (Viewing) Car and loved the entire trip. Although the passenger cars were beautiful, clean, spacious, warm - I wanted the fresh air experience where i could take pictures without glass and reflections. Well worth going to the open air car if you are a photographer. It wasn't busy initially but got packed when we got into the foothills and mountains so you had to pick a side and stick with it. You miss some scenery that way but the same thing would have happened in the passenger cars. Beautiful trip.
Graham Tranter — Google review
Awesome views out the huge windows. The seats are very comfortable and have spacious leg room. There is a cafe with plenty of food options, I got a kumura and cashew pie which was killer!! Tasty and heated perfectly. The viewing carriage at the front was great fun to stand in, makes it feel much faster and was cool going through the tunnels on the coast. We also saw dolphins and loads of seals on the rocks.
T Trifonoff — Google review
A lovely 5 hour long train ride and amazing scenery along the way. Stand on the right hand side of the viewing deck going to Greymouth and you will get the best shots.
Theresa Baatjies — Google review
Very nice trip. Beautiful country. Very competent rail personnel all with smiles. The breakfast and lunch offerings are tasty. We enjoyed the Grower's breakfast and the vegetarian pie. Then later we split Proper Crisps (Garden Medley) and a McCoy Sparkling Apple Cranberry.
Daniel Shrader — Google review
I travelled to Arthur's Pass on this train and loved it. Check in was easy, my seat comfortable, there is scenery both sides to experience so it is not necessary to sit on right side. The cafe has a variety of options and coffee nice. Service and commentary excellent. I highly recommend this rail journey in New Zealand.
Faith Simon — Google review
We travelled on the TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass with a small tour group to travel on a minivan by road back to Christchurch. The train travel was thru scenic Canterbury Plains to the climb up the Southern Alps. The seating was comfortable and the dining car was functional to have a coffee and a tasty savoury scone.
Richie W — Google review
I travelled from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass, overnighted 2 nights at Alpine Motel and returned on the same train. Buffet car serves hot and cold food, tea, coffee, mulled wine and other alcohol. Staff all fantastic and helpful. Not much of interest to see close up on leaving Christchurch but it gets more interesting the closer the train gets to the mountains and there is a good audio commentary available over free headphones. Some great walks of varying length and difficulty once you get to Arthurs Pass, only one place open for meals as Arthurs itself is closed and up for sale and Keas Cafe (also for sale) didnt open over the 2 days I was there and locals said it opens irregularly. You could come back on the same day as the train arrives Arthurs Pass around 10:40 , continues to Greymouth then returns to Arthurs Pass at 4:30 pm for a 7pm arrival back to Christchurch.
David Sleightholme — Google review
Wonderful staff. Very helpful. Great commentaries available. Some of the food quite costly. But we’ll presented and good quality. My mokopuna and I loved every moment
Mere Pohatu — Google review
We had a wonderful time travelling from Greymouth to Christchurch on the TranzAlpine train! I would 100% recommend upgrading to Scenic Plus seating if it’s in your budget as the bonuses included are well worth it. The customer service and the meal were unmatched within SP and the staff made our trip one to remember (special shout out to Eva and Sasha!!!)
The views were breathtaking both from inside the seated area and the open air car. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Chambliss T — Google review
Loved it! 5hours is perfect. We did the scenic plus, food service and drinks were great. This experience is good for all ages to enjoy.
Kookie Bawooki — Google review
Really nice cross country train trip that takes about four hours and moves through some extraordinary country side. Would recommend organizing your own food snacks to take as it would be cheaper and better than the microwave meals on board. Great staff, clean and modern train. A good day trip or lead into further traveling.
Andy Bryant — Google review
Excellent service. The staff were my was so attentive to everyone's needs it was almost like being in a top rated restaurant where humility instead of who was the requirement for enjoyment. While they didn't have a vegan dish on their menu, they scrambled a Delicious meal together for me that now than exceeded my expectation. They did better than American Airlines in that department. The views were stunning asking the route. The audio guide was very helpful. However, the stats need updating.
Vincent Amanor-Boadu — Google review
Awesome views, friendly helpful service, great way to travel for an enforced break. Only niggle was we thought the supplied packed lunch(with our package deal) was a bit stingy. - 2 sandwiches and a drink. Other participants in the deal in included a cake of some some sort. On the whole an awesome trip both ways
Joe Bray — Google review
We rearranged our entire NZ South Island itinerary to take the TranzAlpine Greymouth to Christchurch. It didn’t disappoint!
Do yourself a favor and upgrade to Scenic+. The service was excellent; the staff fun, friendly and informative. The food was excellent and the wine New Zealand’s best. You see the landscape change and follow along on a guided audio tour. Highly recommend to anyone and everyone traveling across NZ.
John Michael Schert — Google review
Travelled both ways on this. I'm a well-travelled writer with experience of similar operations. I paid my own fare (full dining both ways) and did not announce my presence until the end (no special journo favours, thanks. Afterwards, I asked for the Press Office to contact me, but nothing since).
The marketing is not clear at best, deceptive at worst.
YOU DO NOT AUTOMATICALLY GET A TABLE, but are more likely to get airline-style seating. The person in charge of the car said that complaints about this happen regularly.
Staff were friendly and efficient, but if you expect a 'Pullman-style' service, you may be disappointed.
Food - airline standard rather than Orient Express.
The trip - enjoyable enough, but if you are also well-travelled, you'll probably have seen equally dramatic in Scotland, and more dramatic on mainland Europe.
The value - this is clearly aimed at profit-maximisation from a captive market (coach tours etc). Well done, if that is the sole purpose.
Would I do it again? No. It simply isn't worth the price for me.
Should others do it? Your choice, but if you've travelled half way around the planet from Europe, believe the marketing, and expect something grander than the Glacier Express, I suspect you'll be very disappointed.
John Morris (JetSetJohnnie) — Google review
One of the world's iconic journeys. Great staff, informative and friendly, good food, while the stunning views just keep on rolling by for 4 hors plus. If you're thinking about taking the trip stop thinking and book it!
Colin Jones — Google review
Have just arrived home after a trip from Christchurch to Greymouth yesterday, Greymouth to Christchurch today.
Awesome trip. Wonderful staff that waited on us hand and foot. Top notch food. Couldn't ask for better service.
Thankyou.
Peter Thompson — Google review
4.6
(1154)
•
4.5
(3532)
Troup Drive, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Christchurch's Botanic Gardens is a vast, sprawling garden that offers visitors a diverse range of plants from around the world. Spanning 30 hectares, the gardens are particularly beautiful in spring when the trees are in full bloom. There are several themed gardens to explore as well as a playground for kids and a cafe with gift shop. Guided walks depart from either Canterbury Museum or the Botanic Gardens visitor center every hour from October to May.
Always an amazing place for a walk any time of year. Beautifully curated with many different zones for different plants. Lots of choices for picnic spots. Each of the tropical houses or fern houses are a must see with the range of colourful flowers and plants
Angus M — Google review
A beautiful place. Visited from Auckland and spent a good few hours here, can’t beat it on a gorgeous sunny day! Lots if birds who all look very happy, plus a range of trees, flowers and stunning scenery. The conservatory is a great experience and full of interesting plants. Will definitely be back!
Jas Bull — Google review
Not without a reason this city is called Garden City. Regardless of the time of they year and if you are a local or visiting tourist - Botanic Gardens never disappoint. It’s one of the most beautiful gardens in New Zealand. Plenty of walkways to explore amazing collections of flowers, bushes and some of the oldest trees in the country. Walkways by the river are especially rewarding and calming with the water. There are some “hidden” houses offering some indoor plants and tropical flora, rose garden is especially beautiful during blooming time in spring, but so is everything else. Autumn colours have it’s unique charm too. Something for everyone, families, couples and groups. For parents with kids there is dedicated playground area. Parking places are quite limited but there are some surrounding streets around Harley Park where you can always find a spot.
Rafael K — Google review
My favourite place in Christchurch! Beautiful, calm, well maintained. The trails are easy, clean and there are many surprises along the way, such as small lakes, birds, different types of trees, flowers and other plants. The place is magical
Let?cia Surmas — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous place. I could spend all day in this garden and still not see everything. I went during summer and it was beautiful and I felt at peace! This is a must see place in Christchurch. The garden is divided into areas with plants from different regions. I hope to go back here some day!
Kiki S — Google review
Beautiful! Love beautiful flowers & colors during spring and plentiful roses (in rose garden) in early summer. You'll amaze to see many types of roses with various colors! They have playground and small pool (open on summer) and its kid's friendly park. Love to come here with kids
FizaRahman FazzKlean — Google review
Lovely botanical garden during spring. Lots of flowers from azalea, magnolias and camellias. Roses are in bud flowers, need to wait a little bit for the blossoms. Lot of flowers too in the hot house as you can see on the picture. Another little house for the fern with wood moas. Car park is free during three hours, it is enough to visit all the park.
Alice B. — Google review
Beautiful place to visit, relax and take a stroll. Running around it is the Avon river, which has ducks, eels and sometimes Swan's
Playground for the children and an ice cream shop close by. Great place for a picnic or to have sometime to sit and read a book.
The greenhouse has many tropical plants, everything from banana plant to cactus.
Must see gardens if you are visiting Christchurch
Sha Ron — Google review
Came early on a sunny Sunday as easier to get parking. The grounds are well maintained with lots of areas and trees/flowers to explore. The visitors centre coffee shop is a good place to stop for a break. Watch out for the birds trying to get your sandwiches!
Shahrir Zaid — Google review
A beautiful spot to wander around just outside of the centre of Christchurch. Full of constantly changing beds of flowers and a variety of indoor areas you'll almost always find something new.
The rose garden is particularly special and there's even a heritage rose garden hidden away on the other side of the Avon River. The fountains and statues throughout the park provide a widely varied experience and the New Zealand gardens can even provide you a glimpse of what the wild West Coast is like.
Edwin Dawe — Google review
Easily one of the best features of the Garden City Ōtautahi Christchurch. I absolutely love the Botanic Gardens and frequently visit for a stroll with friends or by myself as it is so refreshing. There's lots of birdsong and gorgeous flowers all year round. No matter how many times I visit there is always something new to see! I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Amelia Hamlin — Google review
The gardens are completely free. We did, however, book a guided tour in a little bus, which was $25pp. I never thought I would see a Californian Red Wood tree in my lifetime, and they have 7 of them in the park. Well, it's worth a visit. It's definitely one of the best parks I have seen in all my travels.
Carl Papenfus — Google review
The Botanical Gardens in Christchurch are absolutely stunning. Beautifully maintained, filled with diverse plant life, and perfect for a peaceful walk. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Highly recommended!
Zaza Azizan — Google review
Loved the gardens and the 2 lovely staff we saw (at Door 1) adding touches to the fairy walk for the July 2022 school holidays.
Highly recommend checking out the amazing tree near the peacock fountain!
Look forward to the next school holiday activity there!
Noisybabe007 — Google review
Free parking, lots of beautiful gardens and the river flowing through the middle. Very peaceful and recommend a visit while in Christchurch.
So many gorgeous flowers, interesting buildings and good public amenities.
We had a travel pram with okay (not great) wheels - we got a bit stuck in some of the gravel paths - sunk into the gravel and pushing was a challenge.
Michael Engemann — Google review
Definitely a five star experience, so good we had to go back for a second visit. Magnificent trees. Avon river running through only adds to the experience. Don't miss the heritage rose garden - in full flower November, and the cottage vegetable garden.
Viv MacFarlane — Google review
One of my favorite go-to places to relax. Spring time is the best season to visit as the flowers are in full bloom. All sorts of colors will flood your senses 🥰 Aside from that, there's also a playground with a paddling pool nearby so the kids will also enjoy.
Mae Bangayan (Mae Sims) — Google review
Christchurch Botanic Garden is an absolute gem in the heart of the city! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I recently had the pleasure of visiting this serene oasis, and it exceeded all my expectations. The garden's beauty is unmatched, with a vast collection of plants and flowers that will delight any nature lover. 🌿🌺
The diverse range of themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and the Water Garden, offers a delightful experience for every season. The carefully manicured landscapes, stunning floral displays, and tranquil water features create a sense of peace and tranquility. 🌷💧
One of the highlights for me was the Avon River, which gently winds its way through the garden. You can even take a punt ride for a unique perspective of the surroundings. 🚣♂️
The garden's free entry is a bonus, making it accessible to all. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or simply finding a quiet corner to relax and escape the city's hustle and bustle. 🧺🌞
Overall, Christchurch Botanic Garden is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this place has something for everyone. 📸🌲
I couldn't recommend it more highly, and I can't wait to return to witness its beauty in different seasons. Don't miss out on this green paradise in the heart of Christchurch!" 🌳💚
M Hoogerheide — Google review
Amazing plant inventory and historic plantings that survived the earthquake. Loved the little golf cart train tour with Karen's commentary. Lots of history and info. Great cafe at the mid point. Would definitely go again. Allow minimum 2 hours to half a day.
John Tattersall — Google review
Huge gardens you can spend hours walking around, there are lots of benches around the place you can sit and relax, and a couple of little cafes. There's a river going through it with heaps of ducks which is cute. Relaxing place to spend time if you enjoy nature and walking around
T Trifonoff — Google review
It's a beautiful place to go for a walk. There's lots to see when wandering around, to see different fauna and flora. The rose garden and the dahlias were blooming beautifully. The plant houses and the fern house are great places to explore. The botanic garden is just near the city centre and free to visit. Car park and toilets available.
Lyza T — Google review
Absolutely beautiful gardens. Whilst following the river, we arrived at the Gardens, accidentally. It was free, so we went in and I highly recommend it. It was gorgeous and we saw so many types of birds. The central rose gardens was in full bloom, the greenhouse was gorgeous, and the overall place was so beautiful and perfect for a stroll on a sunny day.
Eva — Google review
We had some spare time so we strolled around the botanic gardens. Entry is free, we have paid to see gardens not as good, There is a good cafe plus walking and shuttle (paid) tours. Get a free map, they highlight different areas according to the season. The conservatories, with various sections including tropical rain forest and desert cacti, was really good. There is a large rose garden (where the dahlia border is on the late summer map) and other sections displaying different vegetation. There are ponds and a play area and it is all set in a large horseshoe of a shallow river, where you may see a punt go by. There is car parking close by, along with many sports pitches and more lakes. There is a suggested 30 min walk. We spent a couple of hours, would have spent longer if we weren't off to the airport, enjoying the tranquility.
Keith Carrington — Google review
The gardens are a nice mix of park, arboretum, a few sculptures, a stream, ponds and the greenhouses and a peacock-less fountain. The greenhouses were a treat with bright floral displays and some specialist areas. There are sculptures dotted around, and plenty of birdlife to spot.
You can spend a couple of hours wandering around.
Ian Spencer — Google review
The gardens are stunning! They are so close to where we stayed and it was open on Christmas Day! It was a lovely place to walk through and there are so many places to stop for a minute and enjoy the birds and life there. There are also so many little places to read or sit for a minute. Definitely worth a wander while in Christchurch.
Zarya Dahl — Google review
Stunningly beautiful in autumn ❤️🩷💚
Will visit again next time we fly down to CHC.
About 20min to the airport, a great stop on the way to catch a flight. I wish we have a bit more time as it is a really beautiful.
Asam Pedas — Google review
Lots of big and amazing trees. The Giant Redwood tree is magnificent. The Rose garden is a must see. Lots of different varieties or colors of roses. Under the big glass dome, you will wind many subtropical plants. I like the cactus room and room with lots of pitcher plants. A beautiful big garden for a walk with beautiful avon river. Parking is pretty reasonable inside the park. I also love the beautiful weeping willow trees.
Joe Razel — Google review
Christchurch Botanical gardens are beautiful we actually visited twice on our holiday. Definitely worth going to have a little look especially if you love you trees & plants.
Monique Gilmour — Google review
4.7
(12848)
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4.5
(6807)
Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
The Canterbury Museum is a fine institution in the city center which houses a diverse range of artifacts that span New Zealands history and culture. From permanent exhibitions covering a wide range of topics to special exhibitions, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this museum.
One of my favourite places in the world. The simulated historical shopping street is a particular delight and had been since childhood decades ago. A must visit in the Botanical Gardens and Arts Centre area.
Michael Witbrock — Google review
Staff was very friendly. The museum is closed but they had an urban art exhibit called Thrive on. We quite enjoyed this! It takes you all over the building, including offices and conference rooms that have been converted into art. Great way to spend an afternoon.
Pamela De Jaeger — Google review
They are about to open a new location so their current one has limited space. There was a show by a contemporary Māori artist as well as selections from what I assume to be the museum's permanent collection. The objects on display were fascinating but could have used some more contemporary context. For example: How did all the taxidermy come to be in this museum? What cultural influences encouraged this type of specimen collection as a display method? I look forward to seeing what a contemporary exhibition designer does with these objects in their new location. It is worth checking out if you're in the area. The art gallery around the corner does a much better job confronting the legacy of museums and colonialism. See both with a friend and talk about the differences.
Steven Frost — Google review
Awesome attraction. Great range of displays and history. My favorite part was the bird hall. Lots of lovely birds there.
Dane Garrett — Google review
Visited when they had the Dinosaur exhibit going. It was pretty awesome to see the mechanical Dinosaurs but was a rather over priced entry fee for what they had. Still something fun to see though.
I've been to this museum several times over the years and not much has changed but that's fine by me. It is a cool experience for first timers or people who are nostalgic. Staff are friendly and very helpful so that is a huge plus. Will definitely visit again in the future.
Angel Liotta — Google review
The SHIFT Urban Art Takeover is undoubtedly the most unique and captivating museum I've ever set foot in! Essentially, it's a massive playground constructed where talented street artists showcase their work. Graffiti masterpieces adorn every surface. Be aware that there's a $25 admission fee, and the exhibit concludes on April 11th. I wholeheartedly suggest paying a visit before this incredible experience disappears.
Feng Zhu — Google review
Wish I was aware the original musuem was under renovations. As a musuem lover I was disappointed to be diverted to a smaller space. However, the staff are so welcoming and the space they have is used so well. I still learnt thing just not in the way I was expecting.
Especially loved that they remembered me the next day at quake city, felt very much like someone of importance rather than just me.
Tiffany Watson — Google review
The dinos where awesome. Must see. $10 for adults and $5 for children. The Maori section was more of a racist view of our history. But the rest was pretty cool. Because of the dino section a large section of the museum has been blocked
Emma — Google review
We went and saw the Shift exhibition in February 2023. Tickets are $25 for adults ($20 for seniors).
An interesting contrast between the old, formal nature of the building and such contemporary art. You will find a great variety of styles. Well worth a visit.
B P — Google review
While the museum is being reconstructed there is a pop-up featuring some of the best exhibits in the collection. There's a meteorite, a T-rex skeleton, Antarctic memorabilia and the most amazing prehistoric creature a squid in a 5m shell!
The pop-up is free to enter and takes about an hour to tour.
Steve Warne — Google review
Firstly I have to emphasize how friendly and helpful the staff are. They're so excited about explaining all the items and the book called 150 Items in Canterbury Museum. I love the "Six Extinction" theme held with some casts from Botswana Studio. They're doing a great job casting the original fossils for the other part of the world to see. Especially Scotty the T-rex.
Andy Widopo — Google review
Great exhibition!! They are rebuilding the museum so this “little” exhibition are what they have until the “real” museum are ready again. Great for me, that love fossils.
Frank Osbæck — Google review
The main museum was undergoing renovations when I visited but based on what was open for display I would definitely come back once renovations are finished. The Six Extinctions gallery is a wonderful exploration of the mass extinctions our planet has undergone, and the fossil casts are astounding, especially Scotty the Tyrannosaurus.
Jack Perkins — Google review
Beautiful place with a donation for entry. Lots to see and especially enjoyed the insect section as well as the Maori historical and art pieces.
Danielle “Danni” Nicholas — Google review
The musuem itself wasn't too bad, though anyone could come in, there were some really rude kids that came in and weren't respecting the items in there...
Although the items in there are pretty ok!
If you have kids that like dinosaurs,it would be a good place to visit.
Enen Lim — Google review
There were some cool things on display at the temporary location. Enjoyed the art exhibition. The museum was a bit small, but it wasnt packed, so we enjoyed getting around. We didn't realise the main museum was getting renovations done and was told it would take 6-7 years to complete. Would have been better if that was open
Mia M — Google review
I recently paid a visit to the Canterbury Museum and came away with a mix of feelings. The museum's "Six Extinctions" exhibition was an absolute marvel – a powerful exploration of the planet's environmental history. 🌍🦕
However, I must admit, the art gallery is a different kind of experience. The New Zealand art on display is certainly something to appreciate, but it's essential to be open-minded. The freedom of speech expressed through the art is quite evident and, at times, not suitable for children. 🖼️🎨
Some pieces are thought-provoking, while others might be challenging, depending on your perspective. But this is where the museum offers a unique space for dialogue and artistic expression. 🗣️🇳🇿
While I wouldn't give it a full five stars due to the potential for sensitive content, I believe the Canterbury Museum is a place where you can explore the spectrum of human creativity, from the marvels of science to the depths of artistic expression. It's an experience that's definitely worth a visit. 🏛️🧐 #ArtandScience #FreedomofExpression #CanterburyMuseum
M Hoogerheide — Google review
4.6
(4945)
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4.5
(2800)
66 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
Banks Peninsula, a volcanic promontory spanning over 440 square miles, is a popular destination for hiking as well as dolphin sightings. The village situated within the harbor shares its name with the peninsula and is celebrated for being the sole French settlement in New Zealand. Visitors can explore the picturesque town before enjoying some of the best fish and chips around at one of its many establishments.
I have been to the Banks Peninsula several times, from day trips to nights. The best experience I have ever had is sleeping in the car and waking up on the bay in the morning to see the scenery.
Martin Saunders — Google review
Great gravel road with great scenery.
Jared Cantlon — Google review
completely agree with dr marryatt on this one le bon
Marshal Leith — Google review
I just like this place and I like to drive through the beautiful scenery. We ended up in Akaroa, which is one of our favorite places. Stop by the river and take a look at this lovely town.
Joey Horowitz — Google review
Beautiful and lovely stunning scenery.
Jackie Spendlow — Google review
This place is too beautiful. Please don't visit. It will put you off all other places.
Paul Brown — Google review
Stunning view everywhere. This is an amazing peninsula and not far away from Christchurch. If you want to stop your car and take photos please be aware of the traffic. The road is not flat. I drove my car from Chuistchurch to the small town Akaroa in the early morning and enjoyed the view of Sunrise. It is really beautiful and peaceful. I believe you will love the drive. Cheers
Rex Pan — Google review
Good view, but submit road is arrow, not easy to drive. Be prepared to drive very slow, sometimes you can do only about 30k/h.
Harrison JC — Google review
Beautiful hiking trails, wildlife, green fields , the cliffs. I enjoyed hiking this area. New Zealand is my favorite country to visit, wish I could move there.
Best spot to see lots of seals in close distance! Highly recommended family activity in Kaikoura.
Vincent Wong — Google review
The hike is just incredible. Can see Seals from really close distance. The full hike can take up to several hours. A short return hike is possible from the car park
Alex Sar — Google review
Just walk further close to the end of the ground, trail long the cliffs. Eventually, we arrived at the seal colony. 🦭 most were basking in the sun fast asleep. We managed to catch some who have had enough UV rays and headed to the sea to cool off.
Jansen Chua — Google review
Nice short walk and so many seals! All taking naps in the sun or splashing around in the water. Definitely worth a stop in Kaikoura, we had such a great time. Make sure not to get too close to the seals as they are wild, but they seemed relatively used to humans being around and carried on napping as people were taking photos.
Georgina Bennett — Google review
Went for walk along coast and was amazed at how many seals there were lots of young ones as well all sunbathing on a beautiful day
Bob Gibbons — Google review
Really lovely spot to see seals. Down the road there's another place where you can see the seals and mountains in the background. Just make sure to not go too close to the seals.
Daniella — Google review
If you don't mind the walk, there is hundreds of seals to see along the coastline. They just lie there basking in the sun on the rocks, and they're not bothered by people walking by so you end up pretty close to them. Definitely a highlight of visiting kaikoura.
Albany Bradley — Google review
Watch out your step! There are a lot of seals living here, you might bump into one of them on the way to colony.
Don’t disturb them for respect!
There are some car park at the entrance, just walk around 15-20mins , can get to the colony.
Juanita Huang — Google review
What a beautiful experience to walk past so many beautiful seals just lazing away the day & doing their own thing. You can walk from the carpark on the beach to see them or take the peninsular walkway for great views & then walk down the cliff to the colony. Please keep behind the roped area as they don't like being disturbed
Diana Waines — Google review
Kaikoura
SEALS WALKING ROUTE :
Breathtaking route that takes you through hundreds of seals!
Amazing experience, gives National Geographic vibes.
Follow the route and be prepared & prepared for some scary seals on the way.
Definitely worth a visit!! 🦭
Jonathan Geva — Google review
Great seal colony along the coast. The track is rocky, but flat. A great opportunity to see seal close up with them sunbathing on every rock and even sometimes on the path itself! We really enjoyed viewing these beautiful creatures.
Jade Anastasia Cocurullo — Google review
A place great for fur seal sightings.
Julia — Google review
A great place to see seals for free! Busy in weekends and sunny days, but a little quieter in week days.
Haldoor Honey — Google review
The most popular walk to see seals in their natural environment at Kaikoura, is the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.
As you do the loop and walk from the beach and then on top of the cliff. Keep a lookout to sea. Dolphins, whales and occasionally even orcas, pass the Kaikoura peninsula walkway and Kean Point.
Yes, I have seen dolphins leaping out of the water in a pod.
W R Edwards — Google review
Very interesting, we saw lots of seals and the walk was quite nice but it was very windy. There also were lots of dead seals and seal bones everywhere.
Kalle Schinger — Google review
Great place to go for a walk with some great views and the chance of seeing seals and other wildlife! Keep an eye on the tide! I'd recommend walking the beach section first if the tide is out to avoid getting caught out.
Kieran Whiteman — Google review
Superb seal colony that stretches around the coast. There is an abundance of seals in the vast area. At some parts, you can watch them play in the pools or laze in the sun from afar. There are two places you can get very close to them, but be mindful mothers are very protective of their babies that wander. You need decent shoes to do this vast area. It also can get a little windy in places. Besides the abundance of seals and birds it is a beautiful walk along this coast.
D Sundance — Google review
There are so many seals! 🦭 so adorable 🥰 however, we recommend stay at least 10M from the seals. Yes there is sign mention about that but we didn’t realise that when we enter🥲 however, there are some dead seals at this colony, if you bring children together, better watch out for that💕
xuan yui lim — Google review
Spent hours watching the seals and their pups playing on this gorgeous bit of coast. You can be quite close to them at certain parts. The coastal walk is stunning . Very unique rock formations.
Michelle Ross — Google review
A fantastic free show given by Mother Nature.
NZ fur seals are actually sea lions and the colony is predominantly bachelors aged between 1 and 4. However there is a small nursery with mums and pups.
Just sit, quietly by the sea and the seals will come happily past you.
Access is rough, wear decent shoes. Keep an eye on the tide.
Ian Mantel — Google review
Great views and an abundance of sea life
Discover a mesmerizing world of seals at our enchanting colony. Witness the playful antics and graceful movements of these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in their fascinating social dynamics and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views. An unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike!
James Hall — Google review
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Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Kaikōura Peninsula, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand
The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a scenic path that runs along the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean and clifftops. Visitors have the opportunity to witness various marine animals such as seabirds, seals, and whales. The walkway can be accessed by taking a right from the carpark, descending down stairs to reach the Seal Colony area. Recognition of being on track is when one reaches the white stone path.
A great free activity to see a decent length of the coast and some seals up close. We walked the beach / low track first and then back along the top because we started quite late in the afternoon and this was the best option for us. It's a leisurely walk with stairs. A good walk with great views totally worth it.
Kristy Wei — Google review
Generally a easy hike with good scenic views in good weather conditions, a round trip would take no more then 3hrs.
Was able to sight seals sunbathing along the coast.
However it does get extremely muddy and slippery at certain sections after rain, especially at sections where the trail takes you across cow pastures.
Wesley Soh — Google review
Gorgeous! Clear blue sea color even under this cloudy day. Wild animals all around, fur seals sometimes pop up in the bush! Definitely worth to come and have a visit. Walk along the seashore and climb up the hill to enjoy the whole picturesque view.
Angelia Du — Google review
Take a right at the carpark, down the stairs and around the coastline to see the Seal Colony. Once you hit the white stone path, then you know you are on the right track. Beautiful spot for photos, the rocks look out of this world and the colours are amazing. There is also the lookout track, which is a lot longer
William Lin — Google review
One of the more popular attractions in Kaikoura and one should cater about 2hrs to complete the tracks. The view is even better on top, however the path was quite steep and the tracks were muddy after the rain. Ample free parking with a toilet at the start of the track. Great driving view on the way to the walkway.
We got to see seals too and be mindful that they may venture inwards away from the beach, as we saw one at the walkway like in the photo.
ZY — Google review
The Kaikoura Peninsula is truly stunning. Its breathtaking landscapes, with majestic mountains meeting the deep blue ocean, create a picture-perfect setting. The rich marine life and the opportunity for seal watching makes it even more special. Parking is easy.
Nikita — Google review
This is a fabulous walk, provided you skip most of it.
Much of the full circuit is a concrete footpath, or boardwalk, alongside the road, with nothing to see apart from the ocean (which is lovely, but doesn’t change until the very end of the road).
The best way to do this is drive to the very end of the road, park in the car park, walk along the rocks below the cliff until Whalers Bay, then follow the path and steps up to the headland and access the proper walk all the way back to the car park.
This will take you a couple of hours at most, and bring you right up close to the seals, and then give you the wonderful views all the way back. (Or vice versa, cliff then reef is fine).
Stop off at the crayfish van on the way there or back for lunch, and you’ve done the best of Kaikōura without the 2 hour slog along the road.
Stephen Spencer — Google review
Well managed place but it would be nice if there was some shelter for resting. Tracks are marked well and finding a car can be challenging. This is a popular spot to park your vehicle and for your hike. This snow one free activity you can do in Kaikoura.
Ravi Lal — Google review
This is arguably the best walk we’ve done in New Zealand. Varied landscape: from low down near water level, to high up on the cliffs. Well-maintained pathways, both man-made and organic. Viewing platforms and information boards.
Toilets at beginning and end. About an hour and a half to two hours depending on how many stops. A further thirty minutes back to Kaikoura. Or longer if you stop for sustenance at the road-side BBQ and drinks stall.
Hamish & Vivienne Pringle — Google review
Loved this walkway. Amazing views from the top of the cliffs & you can watch the seals below or walk back on the bottom & see them up close & personal! There's a small yellow lighthouse at the start of the walk at the top of the hill & after that, theres rural views & a grassy track on the cliff top with seats placed strategically for the views.
Diana Waines — Google review
📍 Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
You can Google the location here for parking. In fact, you can see many seals here, and on a clear day, you can even glimpse distant snow-capped mountains. Capture stunning shots as you like!
彭笙瑞 — Google review
Crazy beautiful walk and the seals were awesome 🤩
Wear sensible shoes 👞 cause of rocks on the path.
Tenna Sigvardt — Google review
One of the best walkways in New Zealand, if not the world! Seeing seals up close and in their natural habitat was spectacular. The walk up to the top gives unreal views all around. Take your time here, lots of exploring to do and a decent sized car park with washrooms. I'd say 2-3 hours is good. The trail is a loop if you keep going.
Brittany Gagne — Google review
Not a difficult walk. Amazing views south over the Pacific Ocean and stunning rock formations. Recommend doing the walk towards the end of the day as the sun is setting.
Huntley Fisher — Google review
Some interesting rock formations and patterns to see just a 5 minute walk from the car park.
Plus you should spot a few seals around as well.
Nigel — Google review
A nice trail to see ocean, mountain, and many wildlife like seals, really enjoy all of the amazing scenes here.
Eric Lee — Google review
We saw so many seals, and some were very young. The walk is beautiful and easy.
Sabine B. — Google review
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Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Kaikōura Peninsula, Kaikōura 7300, New Zealand
The Centre of New Zealand Monument, situated atop Botanical Hill, served as a central surveying point in the 1870s and offers panoramic views of the city and Tasman Bay. Although not precisely located at the geographical center of New Zealand, it is in close proximity. The monument's spire is a notable landmark that attracts tourists, who can enjoy breathtaking vistas from its summit.
Beautiful views of Nelson and harbor. Would recommend not doing it in the middle of the day as it is very hot. Nice Bush walk on way up and on the Kauai track on the way back. A few steep parts but doable for most fitness levels.
Vernon Gates — Google review
Very nice view on the top. U will enjoy here. Try hiking here 😍🥳💃
gosmami — Google review
After a pretty intense uphill walk for a regular walker the summit offers a great view of the surrounds and ocean. After regaining my breath it was certainly worth the effort.
Dazriel Sewell — Google review
Long hike to the top - it says 20 minutes but it took a little longer. There are some steep sections of track and gravel so can be slippery, especially on the way down. Take some water and good shoes to make it easier and more enjoyable. Great views from the top
Cavan Jordan — Google review
Good views of Nelson and surrounds. Mixe quick and steep hike to the top, pretty garden surrounds. Worth a trip up.
c “cfl” lane — Google review
Great scenic view and only 15mins to climb up and 10mind to come down
Jeeno Amarnath — Google review
Pretty easy hike up there and don't take that long! Can really recommend on a sunny day for a good view
Maria Theresia — Google review
Nice 20 minutes hike, spectacular view of the Nelson city and Tasman bay. No water or toilet at the summit so be prepared.
Debendra Biswas — Google review
Nice walk(s) great park to spend a few hours. Clean, well maintained paths and plenty of parking even on busy days. The hill is easy to walk, but bring a bottle with you on hot days. It's more the just a 10 minute hill.... The monument has a great view of the bay, town and surrounds. The reason (centre of NZ) of the monument is up for debate... And not a supper must to visit, but if you want 30 minutes of Nelson on a few days South island trip, it is worth getting to see the town quick... Also great information on the natural sea wall. During our walk a big group of students just did the walk, but fairly quiet on the track. Also saw plants of dogs!.
coen cramer — Google review
The trail just takes you about 20 minutes, it’s not steep, it’s worthy after you reached the top of the mountain and have a nice view!
Juanita Huang — Google review
Went up there today with my Son, A Interesting walkway to explore, Great Scenery.
Tim Smith — Google review
Nice view at the top! It did take me 20 minutes, and was challenging but do-able as someone who isn’t used to elevation/hiking. FYI there aren’t any benches until the last 5 minutes or so. There is seating all the way at the top. There were also signs for lots of other trails/gardens ~45 minutes farther along the way, so you could make a day out of it if you wanted to see more!
Michelle Pagnotta — Google review
It is a beautiful place with a stunning panoramic. After only a short walk, you will reach the monument.
Dorian Ramos — Google review
Beautiful place, make sure you have no clouds for the best views. Many short walks/hikes to the top. Bring water in the summer!
Veronika Tichá — Google review
The Center of New Zealand is a captivating destination that offers stunning panoramic views of Nelson and its surroundings. The short but rewarding hike to the summit provides a unique perspective of the city and Tasman Bay. The historical significance, marked by a central geodetic survey marker, adds a layer of interest to the site. It's an accessible and worthwhile spot for both locals and visitors, offering a delightful combination of natural beauty and historical relevance.
Jacques Thilges — Google review
Spend around 25 minutes to reach the top! It was an amazing lookout point in Nelson 😍. However, we took the wrong way on our return, spending more time getting back to the car park 😂.
Sinjie Tan — Google review
A brisk 15-mins hīkoi up the Maunga leads to a beautiful view of the city. Appreciated that council had kōrero on Kereope (Boulder Bank) displayed. Dog friendly, picnic friendly, whānau friendly. The paths around the motu all link up into this park and walk so that’s handy as well.
Sala McCarthy-Stonex — Google review
Stunning views of Nelson City leading to and at the Centre of New Zealand. This track has other tracks leading to different parks around the monument.
The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, situated just outside Blenheim, showcases New Zealand's involvement in both World War I and II through a variety of vintage aircraft and rare memorabilia. The museum features two permanent exhibits - Knights of the Sky and Dangerous Skies, which offer visitors an immersive experience into the battles that took place during these wars.
This is an astonishing collection of rare aircraft from the first and second world wars.
The aircraft are preserved & maintained to such a high standard that some are even airworthy.
You can actually see the development of aircraft technology and design features through the years.
In addition, there are accounts of pilots on all sides of the conflicts, exhibits of actual uniforms, medals and equipment.
There are staff on hand to give detailed explanations and technical information.
Well worth the entrance fee - highly recommended!
Chris Solomon — Google review
Extraordinary museum!
It is so full of amazing historic planes and their history. Some of them a beautifully placed in a scenery.
There are also halls of other plane memorabilia and trinkets.
Their new WWII displays are truly stunning too!
Highly recommend coming by and experiencing one of New Zealands best museums.
Karoline Christensen — Google review
What an important piece of history this is, displayed in a unique manner, each hall telling the story of the two greatest conflicts of the 20th Century.
We enjoyed reading the personal stories that shaped the Wars, learned things about each that were unknown to us and our guides were extremely knowledgeable and courteous.
This is a must-visit if you’re staying in the area and Peter Jackson’s contribution to this historical attraction must be commended. It’s important that people visit to keep the story alive.
Thank you for a thoroughly enjoyable couple of hours and as a tip, check Book Me Blenheim as we saved several dollars by booking both exhibits in advance. Each is well worth the admission.
Sean O'Connor — Google review
What a pleasant surprise to find this during our trip!
It’s very easy to spend the whole afternoon here, especially if you choose the WWI and WWII exhibits like we did.
There are also knowledgeable guides to give you advice about your walkthrough, plus information about the displays.
Probably best to break the exhibits up with a stop at the cafe. They have nice open indoor and outdoor seating options. The outdoor area gives you a view of small planes that periodically fly past.
Highly recommend a visit. They have good parking, it’s in a convenient location, the displays and collections are impressive, and there is plenty for history lovers to read. There were also a few groups with young children, so good for the whole family.
E S — Google review
OMG the best museum ever. It was great, there are no words to describe how it leaves you feeling or even wondering how they do it. Well I do as my mum did it on a much smaller scale but this place you have to see before you leave this planet. Both WW1 and WW2 areas take you to another zone.
kimberley O — Google review
What an amazing experience😳 if you are an aviation enthusiast then you have to visit Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum.
The amount of informatiom provided, the passion and care taken to make it the most valuable experience one can get is incredible.
What makes it even better is some of the displayed aircraft are originals and flying actually still fly making it even more special. The world war two display was great and the CGI Stalingrad video was a great touch.
Will definitely make visit again.
Roelof Van Vuren — Google review
This museum is amazing, true hidden gem of the South Island. We toured the WWII exhibit, so much personal history and stories from the region & era. 100% recommended.
Greg Peterson — Google review
Such an excellent setup and collection. The aviation enthusiasts who are all volunteers are more than willing to share information on the aircraft on display. I found it interesting how many aircraft are still air worthy.
Alister Buhler — Google review
Great to see vintage planes, the early first world war planes were specially interesting, these men were really special to go up in these machines. Time just flew by, some great dioramas.
Alasdair Purvis — Google review
Highly recommend the museum to all plane buffs, pilots, and anyone interested in WW1 and WW2 memorabilia. The display is well laid out and extensive. Allow more time than you think you will need. Parking is free and plentiful and there is a gift shop also selling cold drinks and snacks.
Kathy — Google review
Two separate exhibitions for WW1 and WW2. Planes and memorabilia are stunningly displayed in awesome tableaus. Plenty of historical and mechanical information plus human interest stories. Lovely little cafe and curio shop too.
Alexandra King — Google review
Fantastic place to visit. Very well displayed history on WW1 and WW2 aircraft.
Make sure you put aside enough time to look through the displays and memorabilia. Peter Jacksons WW1 collection is truly a sight to see with some very rare war planes on show.
Highly recommended
Chris Dawson — Google review
This is a great aviation museum, one of the best I’ve seen in my travels. A super collection of history, planes, events, uniforms and more. A very worthwhile stop in the area and very well done! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
c ?cfl? lane — Google review
World class aviation museum with good information and memorabilia. I have no interest in planes but loved the tour and displays here, even inviting others to come back with me another time. Cafes pretty good too.
Sarah Healey — Google review
Impressive record of aviation development and aerial combat history.
Superb displays. The life-like displays feel like live action settings, as if the incidents are happening before your eyes. Congratulations to the set builders.
Moris Kovitz — Google review
We only saw the WW1 museum as the WW2 one was closed for an event, however this is one of the best of its kind I have visited. The planes and artifacts were imaginatively displayed, the guide we spoke to was friendly and helpful. Highly recommended
Andy Saxby — Google review
Absolutely brilliant day out, both the WW1 & WW2 exhibitions are incredible, definitely worth it. The shop is also great with friendly staff
Alex Robertson — Google review
A well displayed and historical reference to the great wars, aircraft & stories of the people surrounding them.
In this instance I was attending as part of an Airforce reunion group whereby we had access to a few history buffs. They shared further insight about the history of some of the aircraft and displays etc.
Aaron Clark — Google review
There were cheaper tickets online, however we had a bit of trouble purchasing these and the man at the kiosk was not keen to honour the cheaper price, so definitely recommend shopping around on some of the third party sites.
Because of the price we elected to only do the one exhibit, which was the WW2 airplane show.
This was on the smaller side, but none the less very spectacular and well arranged.
The history both of the aircraft as well as how the airplane came to this museum, how it was restored etc. was very cool.
We particularly liked the segment about the battle of Britain.
Nick B — Google review
What a great place situated on what was an historic airfield. It’s a bit shy, from the outside nothing prepares you for the actual exhibits. The WWI hall is the most comprehensive display of it,s kind. And so many of the planes actually fly.
There are exceedingly rare originals along with airworthy replicas. Reminded me of Suttleworth collection, but laid out better.
Good display of uniforms and ephemera and carefully laid out diorama on a scale of 12 inches to the foot.
Off to the WWII hall and an interesting story regarding a downed pilot greets you.
Again the planes are well presented, originals and replicas. Interestingly they have a MkXIV Spitfire. Again well presented laid out scenes add to the story.
The Stalingrad CGI? In two minds, but the graphic regarding losses is well presented, it brought home to this amateur historian the extent of the Eastern front.
Would love to visit again, especially during an air show
Ian Mantel — Google review
AWESOME place! But alas not enough time to go through the exhibits. We paid to see the WW1 section but I felt I needed more time and will definitely come back. There’s so much to see, read and explore. The layout, design and curation is just unbelievable and top notch for a world traveller like myself. To find this gem in the middle of such a remote location is just amazing. The voluntary guides are so kind, friendly, informative and passionate :) I highly recommend visiting this place for a good few hours. The cafe and gift shop are also very good, nice coffee, sitting areas and tasteful range of souvenirs to pick from. I’ve seen Peter Jackson’s permanent exhibit of Gallipoli in Te Papa in Wellington and it’s pretty much another perfect example of what incredible work Weta’s team are capable of achieving. Well done to all involved in making this place happen! As a car enthusiast, I can’t wait to see the Classic Cars section when it’s opened!
daezjn — Google review
A Fascinating visit to the World War 1 and World War 2 exhibits. So interesting we spent 4.5 hours there. You could spend less time but Mr S read everything! The planes are all in excellent order-mix of real and replica models. The re-enactment scenes (by Sir Peter Jackson’s company) really bring history to life. Having seen the Gallipoli exhibit at the museum of New Zealand in Wellington and having visited Omaka we understood the tremendous sacrifice made by New Zealand as part of the allied forces during both world wars.
julia simpson — Google review
This is by far the best Heritage Centre we have ever visited anywhere. The guides are really good at interacting with you such that you feel you are on a personal tour. Nice little cafe too. Very thought provoking video at the end of the WW2 exhibition…. Do both WW1 & 2.
S Naylor — Google review
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79 Aerodrome Road, Omaka, Blenheim 7272, New Zealand
Picton, situated on the northern coast of New Zealand's South Island, is recognized as a prime gateway to explore the Marlborough Sounds. The town boasts many attractions such as the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and EcoWorld Aquarium where one can view native species like tuatara reptiles and blue penguins. Moreover, visitors can enjoy traversing the coastal forest, skyline ridges and bays of Queen Charlotte Track that lie close by.
When embarking on an adventure along the stunning Queen Charlotte Track, visitors can enjoy delectable, freshly made packed lunches to fuel their journey. These can be arranged by inquiring at the reception upon arrival, ensuring a delightful and convenient experience while exploring the picturesque surroundings.
The Wellington Botanic Garden is an impressive and popular park that's home to a variety of exotic plant life. The gardens can be visited via the Wellington Cable Car, and offer stunning views of the city skyline.
Stunning gardens and nature trails to explore. The garden varies with sights for everyone to enjoy. There are ground level paths through roses and other flora along with more elevated paths. Some are well-manicured and others are a little more rugged but all make for a pleasant walk. There are plenty of benches for taking a break. Keep your eyes peeled for some birds too!
Elizabeth Hadden — Google review
Lovely gardens here, never fails to impress no matter how often I go. The variety here and the amount of work that goes into maintaining a garden of this size is astounding.
Suggest making the observatory part of your exploration when you go here.
Dar Kin — Google review
Beautiful flowers and plants. It's such a fabulous idea to take the cable car from the top and then take a walk down the Botanical Gardens. If you have kids, there is a lovely playground on the way down. A short walk about 10 minutes or so to the Parliament house. Then back to rest of the city for our rest at the hotel.
Jansen Chua — Google review
Great place to walk around and have some good fresh breeze of air. There is a lot of place to explore within the gardens.
Lots of big trees and flowers all around its a good view to walk. The cable car and planetarium with gallery are also fun to be.
Sreeram Nattath — Google review
I recommend riding the cable car up to the top so you’re at the top of the entrance of the botanical garden and you can walk downhill throughout the garden. It is absolutely free. There’s so many flowers and trees to look at it could take a good couple of hours to explore.
Emily Paige — Google review
Wellington Botanic Garden in Wellington
Visited on 31/1/2019
Wellington Botanic Garden in Wellington
Visited on 31/1/2019
After reaching the peak at the Kelbourn Station by Wellington Cable Car, the only way to go is ls down. Our party of 4 is glad that instead of riding the cable car for a return trip, the alternative option is much better, that is, to enjoy a slow walk through the winding paths of the Wellington Botanic Garden.
From an elevation of 125 m, or lower down the slope, we can see the breathtaking panaromic views of the city and harbour in the distance.
There are shady paths, and open fields. There are big native exotic trees, ferns and colourful displays of flowers.
It is just a sensational.
Sin Fong Chan — Google review
Stunning, stunning gardens in the heart of Wellington. I spent a few hours wandering from front to back & taking photos before heading to the Cafe for a wonderful cold Kombutcha and scrumptious meal.
A highlight was a visit to the Space Place on top of the hill not far from the Cable Car which was a fun way to start my day seeing the amazing views of Wellington. It was a beautiful warm & NOT windy day.
Suzanne Bishop — Google review
A lot of things to do and see in this place, wanna take a walk, enjoy nature, have a picnic and so on. This place has benches to sit some cafe and different place to explore specific things😁. Just look at the pictures. Enjoy.
Elna Baguya — Google review
Very pretty but wish there had been more and better signage. It felt like the map did not have the same trail names. In the greenhouses, some information on the plant names or types would have been appreciated.
Sara Pianavilla — Google review
Great park for the locals. It's leafy and full of native plants. The Garden has a few spots for great photos. Although it's winding and hilly, it's a must for Wellington visitors. Just a short walk from the cable car station.
A K — Google review
Lovely botanic gardens very big, the maps where useless so leave plenty of. Time to wander around, lovely scenery and some very impressive sculptures. There is also a nice cafe in the rose garden that can be enjoyed with a nice peaceful view
jasmin ronan — Google review
My wife and I went here while visiting Wellington. It was recommended by our receptionist in our hotel. The gardens are beautiful and are well maintained. You can easily spend a few hours here enjoying the different gardens. The duck pond is nice to relax at and the rose garden was beautiful and well kept.
Daith? Kilcourse — Google review
Love the Wellington Botanical Gardens. We went for the light show and live music.
These gardens really are unique. There is lots of trees and random paths to explore.
If you are looking for a good photo backdrop, this place is perfect. Lots of spaces for a different look, without having to move too far.
Toilets were clean and well lit.
Parking can be a challenge.
You can push a wheelchair through a bit of the gardens but it is limited before you have hills to deal with
Arniya Heartford — Google review
Wellington Botanical Garden is exceptional. Its beautifully curated plant life, impeccable maintenance, and enjoyable cable car ride make it the best botanical garden I've ever visited. Absolutely a must-see in Wellington!
Zaza Azizan — Google review
So lucky to have this beautiful garden near us. Nice track courses from beginner to moderate level.
Great place and views for sightseeing.
To take a break, there is a cute cafe near rose garden.
Thomy Shimokawa — Google review
A vast botanical garden, where tulips are currently in full, vibrant bloom, providing an ideal backdrop for relaxation and capturing lasting memories through photography. It's a wonderful place to stroll in the midst of nature, with the gentle breeze caressing your skin. However, the rose garden has not yet reached its peak bloom at this moment. Additionally, we also found the cherry blossom too.
Evy Lee — Google review
I didn't have a plan other than there was a specific piece of art I wanted to see here. And as it turned out, it was a real challenge to get from the cable car station to see it. So I did a lot of wandering through the Botanic Garden. Up hills, down hills, through narrow passages, and this all gave me a fabulous self-directed tour.
Lots of beautiful trees and flowers. Several artworks. And an enjoyable hour of making sure I could get back to the cable car before it closed.
Bruce K. — Google review
Very beautiful FREE entry botanical garden.
Soooooooooo many variety of colourful flowers & plants around.
Multiple different track loop around to try with.
Connected to the Wellington top cable car station.
Worth a visit to enjoy some fresh air.
There are even children playground inside.
Clament Weng — Google review
Beautiful (and free) botanic garden!
Loved the rose garden and greenhouse… as well as everything else.
I recommend you either take the cable car or walk up to the lookout and enjoy the garden on your way back down.
Kat Klein — Google review
Great for a stroll around. Marvellous tree specimens with some clear explanation boards giving details on the trees. Flowers coming into bloom when we visited, so the overall colour was improving . As others have commented, there are some steep paths, and the directions/signposts to move around the garden aren't too clear.
The cafe was busy but coped with the guests and there was no waiting for a table.
Andy Smith — Google review
What s beautiful garden. I've never been somewhere with suck a well kept botanical garden. There is a large square with probably close to 100 roses and a greenhouse with many different plants I've never seen before. The park itself is well shaded for a stroll with your family and has multiple loops with different types of trees and flowers. My favorite part was the peace flame which is a memorial fountain near the roses.
Ethan Sparks — Google review
Cable car is a must to do list for botanic garden. Get on from Lambton quay to the top of the botanic garden. A lot of different walk ways inside. There is a cafe in rose garden. Good to have a coffee and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Jackie Shang — Google review
Amazing, walk around and enjoy the lovely views. Take the cable car up and down, or walk down. $11 ASD so around £6 for a return trip.
Dave Cutts — Google review
Lovely day out with family exploring the gardens. Highly recommend coming up here via the cable car. Lots of plants to see and a great little food store near the roses. It was very busy at 11am. Prepare for lots of walking.
Nathan Haywood — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
One of the most significant and popular museums in New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa has a vast and varied collection covering everything from natural history to Maori culture. With permanent exhibitions that can be enjoyed by all, as well as changing exhibitions that are always worth checking out, there is sure to something for everyone at this fantastic museum.
Beautiful experience glad we came and had a look this museum is very thought out the people who works there was also very informative and nice very clean and well maintained for a public area all covid protocols are also very well followed even the toilets are clean. love all the exhibition it was an eye opener and just well thought out.
Finedine Romance — Google review
Wow just wow. The states could learn a thing or two about how a museum should present itself to the people. The exhibition was amazing. The interactiveness for children were plentiful. Kids and adults will learn so much from this place. Parking was a breeze and the staff was super friendly. They do offer early admission which we bought. It’s worth it to get there before the mob. Just a fun place to spend a morning.
D C (QBNTO1) — Google review
What a fantastic museum. We took over 2.5 hours just to cover 2 floors and will have to return to see the rest. The interactive sections were really interesting and, coming from a country that doesn't suffer from much ground movement, we particularly liked the 'earthquake house.' A great experience all round. Thank you Wellington.
Brendan McGrath — Google review
We visited the Gallipoli war museum part. The self directed tour was very well organised, easy to follow and displayed pieces were amazingly realistic
The war commentary part of every displayed piece was very well done and made the whole experience very touching and informative. We were glad to have visited and thoroughly enjoyed the displays
Sandra Elezovic — Google review
Super interactive and fun museum both for adults and kids. Lots of interesting facts and info to learn about made in an easy to learn way.
A lot of nature, history, heritage and values about what makes NZ of today and it’s a MUST-Go I think if you are in Wellington to get to know a bit about the country you are visiting.
Entrance is free for the permanent exhibitions, and that took us a couple hours already which was more than enough to see.
Only a certain special exhibitions are paid.
Milo L — Google review
Took the kids(4-12yrs) there for a trip during the holidays. They were very engaged with all of the exhibits and we ended up staying longer then expected.
Lots of changes since we last visited so always new and interesting things to explore. Some sections were closed off with new exhibits being installed, but still plenty there to keep you intrigued.
As always the ANZAC exhibit is phenomenal and well worth it!!!
Bronwyn Doar — Google review
One of the best museums I have ever visited.
The National Museum of New Zealand, it houses amazing collections, stories, displays, and experience that will cater the interests of young and old.
I really enjoy Galipoli exhibition with incredible details, well curated displays and heart-touching stories.
The sections about nature and the stories of Māori and New Zealand are also very rich in information and entertaining at the same time. The can touch and feel and learn many things related to nature and lives surrounding us.
My kids also enjoy our visit here and happy to go back.
It is very disability friendly with ramps in many areas. It has cafes and the souvenir shops are also great. Parking is available at the surrounding area.
indah nuria Savitri — Google review
No one should miss this place. It's brilliant, informative, innovative, interactive, cool, and so on. I barely finished checking level 2 in 2 hrs. I will still come back to see other things and learn more. I love this place and I highly recommend. It is free and spacious.
Elna Baguya — Google review
Wow! Spectacular and awe inspiring. I cannot imagine the effort the artists, sculptors and the whole team who have dedicated their 'everything' to make this a wonderful visitor attraction. Various stages along the way , immerse the viewer into the grim reality of bygone wars.
Uniquely preserved artifacts of insects and plants too is available. Good work everyone.
Remember parking is paid-Price attached to photos.
Nilanke Perera — Google review
Free admission.
Great exhibitions.
Highly recommend.
I was only able to see the nature exhibition, unfortunately.
Great for kids. Activities throughout the exhibition.
It is one of the best nature exhibitions I have seen. Colossal squid on show, which was a highlight.
Great way to spend a few hours.
Good gift store with local arts and crafts.
Desiree — Google review
I've been several times before, but on this trip there was an exhibition on Gallipoli. Done in collaboration with Weta Studios, this is one of the most captivating exhibitions I've experienced. I spent an hour and left only because the museum was closing. The (seriously) larger than life displays were creative perfection, and the story of the campaign, in which the Aussies and Kiwis bravely sacrificed so much, was educational and compelling. I can't recommend this highly enough. Note: Entrance is free, but they gratefully accept donations, which you can give with cash or card.
tjminer99 — Google review
MUST-SEE in NZ 💯❤️
This FREE national museum on the Wellington waterfront offers a little bit of everything. From the history of the islands flora fauna, wildlife and volcanic tectonic plates to Maori history, culture to modern art, this fantastic museum has something for everyone.
Loads to see, gear and do for the individual traveler, couples and families.
Great shop too!
TOP 5 things to do in NZ--Highly recommend!! 👍👍
V.C. AF — Google review
If you like museums, this is a must. Learning the history of the country walking through it's incredible exhibits is a great experience. We saw the giant jellyfish and that was whoah! How is that not an alien!? Incredible!
Ellie Ace — Google review
What an absolutely phenomenal experience. The museum is completely free to visit, you just have to pay for parking. It only cost me $10 for 3 hours. But there is probably free parking in town, you would just have to walk over. The museum is very accommodating. It has accessibility and normal toilets, parents rooms, kids play rooms, lockers, money machines, cafes, a souvenir store, stairs and lifts. The museum itself is just incredible. With 6 entire floors to explore you could literally spend days here. It also has such a huge variety of exhibits that accommodates to all ages. My favourite floor was the animals and nature. From games for kids to dinosaurs, giants squids and an earthquake room... it was just such an amazing experience. I would highly recommend a visit.
Braydon Murphy — Google review
One of the best museums I have ever visited.
It houses amazing collections, stories, displays, and experience that will cater the interests of young and old.
We enjoyed Galipoli exhibition with incredible details, well curated displays and heart-touching stories.
The sections about nature and the stories of Māori and New Zealand are also very rich in information and entertaining at the same time. We can touch and feel and learn many things related to nature and lives surrounding us.
A great place to spent rainy or too sunny days 😉
Deea L — Google review
I recently visited this museum with my family and was thoroughly impressed by my experience. The museum had a wonderful collection of artifacts and exhibits that were both informative and engaging. The displays were well-curated and offered a fascinating glimpse into various aspects of history and culture.
One thing that stood out to me was the attention to detail in the exhibits. Each item was carefully labeled and explained, which made it easy to understand the significance and context of each artifact. The staff was also incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, providing additional information and answering any questions I had.
The museum was also very well-maintained and clean, which added to the overall experience. There are 4 floors, and the layout was easy to navigate. There were plenty of interactive exhibits that kept me engaged throughout my visit.
Overall, I would highly recommend Te papa to anyone interested in history, art, or culture. It's a great place to learn something new and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us
Kuljeet Singh — Google review
The Museum of New Zealand is truly one of the standout attractions in Wellington. Spending approximately 3 hours here is a delightful journey through its various levels, each offering a unique and enriching experience. The museum's diverse collections, engaging exhibitions, and immersive displays make it an absolute must-visit for anyone exploring Wellington. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the culture, history, and wonders of New Zealand.
Adison Odeesho — Google review
Great a lively museum with a delicious cafe/restaurant and gift shop with a wide variety of merchandise and souvenirs (bronze and gold kiwis are the best souvenirs and gifts for a great price). The museum has 2 special exhibitions going on right now. The first is the Dinosaurs on Patagonia, which displays European-found skeletons in perfect condition. Its main attraction is the giant sauropod, which looms over the entire room tickets are purchasable via the website (quickest and easiest way), or in the museum (lines are about 10-20 minutes). The second exhibition is the highly popular and Wellington exclusive Gallipoli: The Scale of our war, which displays giant, realistic statues of important people from World War 1. Other exhibitions include the Wildlife area of the museum, which displays the first and only fully-preserved giant squid. The cafe is a long wait, which lines that take up to 20-45 minutes. Would definitely recommend going as this is a key tourist destination when visiting Wellington.
david sun — Google review
Fantastic museum with many fascinating exhibits. Great for all ages. You could easily visit every day for 3-4 days, to get the full experience. The Gallipoli display was deeply moving.
Jonathan Puddle — Google review
Simply one of the greatest experiences I've ever had. You get alot for free admission so it was definitely amazing. The WW1 exhibition was truly eye opening with the realistic pieces that were displayed. There was heaps on information to keep you busy which made this section all the more interesting.
Another section involved nature and contained lots of different animals/insects and their variants. It was super cool seeing the whole aray of moths big and small (although I highly dislike them)
I'd highly recommend visiting this museum as it's fun, interesting and educational.
mary azziz — Google review
Really awesome to see the amazing quality of work and craftsmanship that goes into their exhibitions. The ANZAC models were absolutely stunning, and can see the dedication that went into the making of each one.
Both the paid, and free exhibitions were well worth a visit.
Andrew Pieterse — Google review
We explored Te Papa around 13 years ago and have been wanting to bring our children here because it was amazing then. It is still an absolutely awesome place to visit. The displays are informative and interesting. They are appropriate to our country and our unique history, so it's easy to immerse yourself in it all.
We did this over 2 days just so we could make sure we explored every part of it. We finished with the ngahere/bush walk that's connected to the museum too. Definitely recommend a visit.
Haley — Google review
Brilliant museum. All of the exhibits are expertly laid out and very informative with just the right amount of text to read. I spent 1.5hrs at the Gallipoli exhibit alone so make sure you allow yourself enough time as there are 5 levels. Interactive and engaging for both adults and children.
Mel — Google review
NZ national museum. Free entry. A must to do list when travel to Wellington. Worth to spend a few hours visit , from nature, geography, war, maori culture, arts. You name it. Good for bring kids so they can learn a lot of knowledge.
Jackie Shang — Google review
New Zealand’s national museum reflects the country’s identity, history, and culture. It takes pride of place on Wellington’s waterfront and entry is free.
Any visitor to Wellington should have the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa at the top of their to-do list. The largest museum in the country takes pride of place on Wellington’s waterfront. At 36,000 square metres and six stories high, it contains a vast repository of collections. It’s home to more than 800,000 artworks, objects, and specimens. It curates cutting-edge interactive exhibitions with a contemporary, and bicultural approach. Te Papa is a museum experience that’s accessible for all.
Sabri Fdool — Google review
Our tour group was able to visit the Gallipoli exhibition for an hour before being open to the public.
The sculptures that are 2.4 times lifesize are incredible. They are so lifelike.
The information given in the information rooms between the sculptures fills in the story of Gallipoli.
Amazing exhibit and exhibition
Eric Scheeren — Google review
Friendly staff and excellent interactive exhibits. We went to the Gallipoli exhibition on ANZAC day, and it was incredibly moving. It demonstrates the atrocities of war in a manner suitable and accessible for all ages. Educational and powerful. And it's free entry!
Dale Garsed — Google review
Beautiful New Zealand collection on 5 4 and 5. You must visit while in Wellington. Many artists are featured in the gallery.
For the parents, visit the kids' zones so vibrant and has children's activities.
My personal favorite was Goldies artwork.
Crystal Beach — Google review
This place was HUGE! There was so much to see and do! Tons of interactive things for people of all ages. Highly recommend the viewpoint from the 6th floor! Beautiful view! Even better it was free!
Paula Kellogg — Google review
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4.5
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55 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Wellington Cable Car provides panoramic city views and a history museum from the Kelburn Lookout. The cable car operates every 10 minutes every day of the week.
Great experience. We just went one way up & enjoyed the great view over Wellington & then walked back down through the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Well worth it, it's a must see attraction!! Well priced & affordable. Go on, do it, I would be surprised if you did not like it.
Mark Eekelschot — Google review
Just another ride...
We were thrilled about the ride in the Cable car. It's cool to know that this Cable car has been around for 120 years, an icon of Wellington City. It is really a ride on an antique but I'm sure there were many refurbishment and maintenance.
We weren't sure the timing so we were pretty late when we started our ride and we just miss the museum by 4 minutes. They closed at 5pm. But we were able to catch some activities at the Space Place at Carter Observatory (Science museum) and saw some cool stuffs. A 150 years old telescope is really the main highlight for our trip up the hill. Unfortunately, to be able to see the beautiful night sky, we have to prepare to walk down the hill as the Cable car cease its operation at 7pm. And the journey down hill can be very challenging for some. It gets very cold in the night in Wellington.
I must state that the view on the top of the hill is picturesque. This is really a worthwhile one trip of a lifetime kind of thing and I don't think I will ride the Cable car again.
troo foo — Google review
The cable car ride is an absolute must if you're in Wellington, even if only for the afternoon. Two trams go up and down all day which means there's only ever 5 minute wait at either end. The views, the art murals but mostly the LED lit tunnels make this a unique experience. Trams are immaculately presented with retro charm in wood floors and vinyl seats. Our drivers were approachable, chatty and friendly. Botanical gardens, a planetarium and a cafè all provide bonus extras at the summit.
Sharon Wendt — Google review
WOW , we took the cable car to the top and could not believe that this is in the heart of the city. The views are spectacular, it takes about 5 mins to get to the top but there are other options for getting off at two stops along the way and exploring. There is a gorgeous cafe at the top where we had a delightful breakfast. Also up there is the Cable Car history museum which tells you all about it and well worth a visit. Go on get in there and try it yourself
willie byrne — Google review
The cable car was a blast! We paid only for the ride up — a 6-minute ride offering stunning views of the city, and at the top we enjoyed exploring the well-done small museum. There is a cafe at the top with great views as well. Some people buy return tickets, but we were very happy we chose to walk back to the CBD through the botanical garden and cemetery. It was definitely worth the price of the ticket and it was fun!
Marsha Russell — Google review
It's definitely a must to do in Wellington, it's a great ride to the top with fantastic views of Wellington. Very inexpensive for the ride to the summit, where there is a cafe and also plenty more activities for sightseeing, including the Cable Car museum, Space Observatory, Botanical gardens and also a free shuttle to Zealandia bird sanctuary. Recommended.
Glynn Yeardley — Google review
Absolutely recommend this experience especially if you like to learn about the history of such things. The botanical gardens up the top were great for the kids to get rid of some energy, and the view is amazing up there.
Hidden in amongst the inner city of Wellington, this was a lovely activity to find amongst the hustle and bustle.
Glad we did it.
Haley — Google review
Nice little ride up a hill to a view point. The tunnels have colored lights. There is a cafe at the top as well. It costs $9 round trip. There is a ticket window and you can pay cash or credit card. Locals can use their bus card.
Julia DeBari — Google review
📍 Cable Car & Cable Car Museum
Featuring historic trams, this is a must-ride attraction! Taking the cable car to the top, you can visit the historical museum and enjoy the panoramic view of Wellington. You can also explore the nearby gardens, allowing you to experience the freshness of the forest in the city center!
彭笙瑞 — Google review
Great place to walk around and have some good fresh breeze of air. There is a lot of place to explore within the botanical gardens.
The cable car is a one time experience, even though a small trip. Its a big wonder that they were able to have a cable car from many decades.
The view of the city of wellington is great from the cable car with tunnels lighten up.
Sreeram Nattath — Google review
Such a quirky way to get to a spectacular view. Price reasonable and staff friendly. At the top is lovely Cafe, a museum and you can get shuttle bus to Zealandia. If you buy a one way ticket you can walk back to the city via botanical Gardens which is well worth it. I rode cable car twice and enjoyed every time
Julie French — Google review
Quick and comfortable, less than 5 minute wait for the tram each time. Cheap if you have a Snapper card, even without the price is reasonable. Gorgeous views both from the tram and from the station at the top. Lovely sightseeing place, with easy access to the Botanical Gardens from the top.
Briar Rose — Google review
Great experience, I booked cable car ticket online as it saves time. You can get a ticket at counter or take one way ticket and on return from top can buy ticket in cable car, visited on 31/12, it was open on New Year’s Eve and public holidays. It’s a short ride up to the museum on top. It’s better to sit at front of car for nice photos. Cable car museum takes 5 min to cover all and there’s a gift shop inside with cable car magnets and key chains etc. The view from top is amazing but it’s very windy.
Reet Kaur — Google review
We enjoyed our ride on the Wellington Cable Car to the top and back down again. Some fun light tunnels along the ride. At the top we had a look in the Cable Car museum and enjoyed a show at Space Place. The cable car wasn't too busy on the way down and our driver let the kids ring the bell when we made it to the bottom which absolutely made their day!!
Amy Handley — Google review
Brilliant day out and not expensive. Make sure you get a return ticket if you want to ride back, or a single if you want to walk. The top of the cable car has a free pick up for Zealandia another great day out. The museum at the top is great, and the botanic gardens is lovely.
Dave Cutts — Google review
The cable cars are a cool way to see the city. It will take you up to the top of the hill and back down. You will have to buy a ticket not expensive at all. I would say it’s a must do when in Wellington.
Emily Paige — Google review
Must visit for views of the welly city and the ride is super amazing and affordable. 11 $ per person return for adult.
Not only Fun in ride but also you can see beautiful views from the top . You have to wait less than five minutes for next tram .
Navtesh — Google review
Well worth the visit and roundtrip ride. At the top is not just a great view, but also a delicious restaurant, interesting German cannon and the Space Place which has great overview of space and a rare live sun telescope!
Keith Carter — Google review
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4.5
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280 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
When travelling from Wellington to Picton on the water you’ll love the old school style and convenience of the MV Kaitaki. This is a roll-on/roll-off ferry built in 1995.
It has a great covered in viewing area and good bar with plenty of PowerPoints for working on your lap top.
A simple but well prepared menu and super well trained staff make this a really enjoyable trip. Relax and enjoy.
Nicola Hawes — Google review
Easy boarding with a vehicle to head to the South Island . Staff are exceptionally trained , very efficient & friendly.
The ferry departed on time and arrived at the Picton terminal precisely on schedule .
Amenities and restaurants were clean throughout the vessel . Seating ample & very comfortable.
I spent a fair bit of the trip on the upper viewing deck & thoroughly enjoyed the pristine sights along this remarkable trip.
Highly recommended for great service & reasonably priced value .
JT — Google review
The sailing and booking system is good. Ive marked down 2 stars as I paid extra for the Queen Elizabeth lounge which was so not worth it - an absolute ripoff actually.
There is no TV, and only 2-3 power points for charging a phone which were all being used.
The lack of TV, I reasoned, was because the lounge is touted as a quiet place however it was anything but. The door squeaked really badly every time someone came or left (constant) and it's positioned right beside the cafe so there was no relief from banging coffee grinds and listening to food and coffee orders being called out.
The only positive to this room is that you can recline the chairs a little bit.
Save your money and sit in the public area or spend less and chill out in the movie theater.
Had I not wasted money on the lounge I probably would have rated the experience 5 star as the food options are good, staff are lovely, and the process of taking a vehicle on board was seemless due to good staff and signage.
Lisa Johnston — Google review
Everything was great until the moment a cruise staff decided to close the blinds before 9pm!! Would have enjoyed the rest of the trip looking through the windows as we were doing. Most of the people had the same surprised look on their faces "what the heck?!"
Leave the blinds open please!!
Filomena Clara Rodrigues — Google review
Awesome if you travel with kids! Large playground and they give you free kids bags (color book, pencils, etc). Our kids enjoyed it a lot! Quite a delay with arrival, but it’s all understandable.
Adventure with Kids NZ — Google review
My journey this evening on the 6:30pm Interislander Ferry (Kaiarahi) from Picton to Wellington was nothing short of exceptional, and it's worth highlighting the outstanding service provided by the three young male staff members managing the premium lounge on Level 8.
From the moment I stepped into the premium lounge, their attentiveness and dedication to customer service were immediately apparent. Their warm greetings and genuine enthusiasm set a positive tone for the entire journey. Throughout the trip, they went above and beyond to ensure that every passenger in the premium lounge felt not only comfortable but also valued.
What stood out the most was their proactive approach to anticipating passenger needs. Whether it was offering refreshments, providing information about the journey, or simply checking in to ensure everyone was content, they demonstrated a level of professionalism and courtesy that exceeded my expectations. Their attention to detail truly elevated the overall travel experience.
It's noteworthy that, despite having had consistently incredible experiences with Interislander in the past, this particular interaction with the staff on Level 8 was unparalleled. Their commitment to excellence reflects positively on Interislander as a whole.
I wholeheartedly commend these three individuals for their exceptional service. They are a testament to the high standards that Interislander upholds. For anyone considering a journey between Picton and Wellington, I can confidently say that the premium lounge experience, thanks to these remarkable staff members, is well worth it. This recent trip reaffirmed my trust in Interislander and left me with fond memories of a comfortable and enjoyable ferry journey.
Ngā mihi nui kia koutou katoa!
Kat Falepau — Google review
Could be world class but NZR have invested very little into this port and terminal infrastructure for 30 to 40 years. Rumour is after many years of study they may relocate this terminal next to the private competitor BlueBridge Ferry ⛴️ services. The coffee shop at the old terminal is good 👍 and its staff are very helpful plus friendly.
Graeme Wooller — Google review
Brilliant service and an excellent way to enjoy the trip across the straight while taking in some of NZ's best scenery.
Devashish Gadhavi — Google review
Incredible staff and facilities in the premiere lounge. What wonderful hospitality and a service that we as New Zealanders can be very proud of 😊👋
Amanda Rutten — Google review
Brilliant service and an excellent way to enjoy the trip across the straight while taking in some of NZ's best scenery. Booking the plus lounge is worth every dollar.
Alexander W — Google review
Different atmosphere.. nice place, didn't stay long enough to get used to it
Wade Wharewaka — Google review
It is pricy but on a good day you get spectacular views on the sands. People and staff was friendly and professional. You wait a little between check-in and being loaded on the ship. Don’t come too early, if you are there by check-in time or a little before it is absolutely fine.
Relax and enjoy. I was surprised that prices for e.g. coffee on board were rather reasonable.
Ferry was on time and everything went smooth - we can recommend it.
Nico B — Google review
Fairly big terminal until a mass of people fills it! Definitely a good idea to come a bit earlier to get a place to sit or to get your spot in line to get on the ferry if you are interested in snagging a good seat for the ride if you aren't in a lounge. Lots of food options on board. We did end up in a lounge and they served us breakfast and lunch. The only unfortunate thing was that nothing was labelled and as vegans it was tough for us to figure out what we could eat. Staff were super nice though. Some nice views along the way.
Marta Borowska — Google review
Just had the best service from interislander... Molly from the check in to the marketing team... Its been wonderful service with a happy smile and going the extra mile.. Thank you so much.
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café is an open-air animal farm and petting zoo that offers visitors the opportunity to interact with wildlife in a natural environment. The reserve features tractor rides, feeding areas, and a rustic log cafe for refreshments. It's an ideal outing for adults and children alike. While exploring the park, guests can choose to stay on the walking path or venture down by the stream where they can cross over a wooden log or suspension bridge.
This place is an absolute sanctuary! We went as a group of young adults and had a magical experience. The animals are very friendly and you can pat A LOT of them! They all seemed happy and healthy. Would recommend buying the animal feed for the most animal interaction. We went early on a Saturday before it got busy which was nice as we didn’t have to wait for anything. A really lovely escape from the city.
Alice Nixon — Google review
Such a great outing for both adults and kids. I’d recommend buying a bag of animal food, we didn’t and regretted it.
The park is nicely sized, not too small but also not too big. You can stay on the walking path or you can walk down by the beautiful stream and cross it over a wooden log. Above it is a pretty cool suspension bridge.
The cafe was fine, not the best food or coffee but it did the trick. Service was kind and relatively quick even though it was a busy day, and employees were very kind.
Kevin Nass — Google review
Absolutely brilliant family experience. So beautifully set out, so much for the kids to see and do plus animals and birds to interact with. Added bonus, as a coeliac, was delighted to find such a great range of safe, gluten free food. I am used to making do with a coffee while watching everyone else eat at these kinds of places so am really impressed and would highly recommend.
Stephanie, Ross McKellar — Google review
Staglands is a place to visit if you have toddlers who are really into animals, as they can feed the animals there with the feeds you buy at the ticket office. It was an intimate experience with the animals as you can feed and pat most of them up close!
Unfortunately we didn't get to ride the tractor ride and eat the marshmallows as it wasn't available when we were there. But we had a good picnic outside their cafe and our toddlers enjoyed it thoroughly! They knocked out in the car on the way down the windy road.
Pete Ong — Google review
Staglands is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Greater Wellington Region. It is a quaint farm themed Wildlife Reserve located in Upper Hutt’s Akatarawa Valley. It is a very exciting environment sure to be loved by the young children. The animals are quite friendly, some can be too friendly and over excited about the food you can give to the animals. The animal food and trout food costs extra. I’ve been going there a very long time, and have never been disappointed. I do think however that there should be more staff around to keep an eye on some of the guests who get too excited around animals, or have little knowledge on how to behave around animals, especially families with little children. The cafe is excellent and the food is very yummy, it can take a while for the food to come out however. As long as you behave around the animals and don’t lose your head around them, your more than welcome, and are sure to have a great time!
DOTT The Movie — Google review
What an amazing place even in the pouring rain! The animal,fish and bird life are a delight. So well thought out and beautifully set out around numerous ponds, waterfalls and the river running through the property.
Sue Nielsen — Google review
Awesome place to visit with kids and family.
Import notes:
- drive to and from can be quite tight.
- can be a wait for the cafe for food
- wear comfortable shoes as there is loose gravel and inclines
- tractor runs 11am-2pm in 15 minutes intervals,
- Buy feeding food.
Free roaming miniature pigs running around the front, Awesome for kids to touch and feed
Malcolm C — Google review
We had such a lovely time there! Our 3 year old son absolutely loved feeding and interacting with the animals and learning about new animals that he hasn't seen before. The food at the cafe was delicious and staff were super friendly and helpful! Happy 50th anniversary Staglands! Keep up the amazing work!
Tania Du Toit — Google review
Very pleasant path through the park. Kids loved feeding and interacting with the animals. The cafe was honestly delicious and wasn’t crazy expensive. I’d come back just for lunch. We’ve been to a number of wildlife parks around the world and the deer area here with dozens of peacocks up and down the hill was completely unique.
Tim Krug — Google review
Beautiful animal park in a lovely bush setting. Lots of birds with free roaming peacocks, pheasants and chickens, often with babies. Lots of enclosures and aviaries you can go into to get up close and personal with the wildlife. The cockatoo is very friendly and will say hello, the kea are also friendly but more so on days where it's not so busy. The birds especially seem very well cared for. There are also kunekune and other pigs. They had tiny piglets when we were there, who weren't afraid to be stroked if you were slow and quiet with them. The Guinea pigs were naturally skittish, but cute. There is space to sit in their enclosure, if you're quiet and have food, they'll come to you after a while.
I was a little concerned for the cattle and horses - the young Galloway and two Highlands had rather small enclosures, along with the Clydesdale and small pony. Great for the public to access them but not healthy for such large animals who should have been in paddocks.
There is a Cafe there which we didn't visit. You can by small bags of food pellets for the animals, but we took a large bag of carrots for the big animals and some peanuts in shells for the birds, and the animals loved them. We probably spent about the same amount as we would have on their bagged pellets, but got far better value buying the fresh food. The animals aren't interested in you if you don't have food.
Its a great place for families, but there are quite a few hazards with the river and ponds (never mind the animals!) so children need to be well supervised.
Leah Cameron — Google review
Exceptional! This place is incredible! Great drive out through dense bush and running streams. The picturesque idealic setting was mesmerizing. The park is well kept and immaculately presented. Cafe was great and served up good coffee and beef stew. Our two young kids had a ball of a time, so much to see and explore. The tractor ride was a nice and fun addition. We picked the perfect day to visit, bluebird day with little to no wind. If anything they could do with some outdoor gas heaters around the outside Cafe which would top it off as the place got cold when the sun went over the hills in the afternoon. The cafe spacing does overflow to the outside arrangment when busy which did make it a cold wait for our meal outside. Otherwise an awesome place which I totally recommend.
Paul Glucina — Google review
Great place to get in touch with animals, we had a great time here, and we were lucky to be here in Spring with all the Baby goats and lamb!
The only downside was the wifi login page was difficult to use due to its colouring and the receptionist was a bit grumpy 🤣
Cabnolen Moon — Google review
What an awesome beautiful place to have in Wellington to take kids, it was really nice to walk around and see all different farm animals they have and all the birds as well. The trout was cool to see so up close swimming around, they also have a awesome horse here. The Tractor ride was great ride it added some fun for the kids. also think the price of getting in is very fair, I know some people think it’s bit high but think how much it must cost look after all the animals here, the cafe here has very friendly staff that gives very good service, food is good and they sell beer and wine.
Kyriakos George — Google review
Fabulous, took our grandsons and they loved it. Animals in excellent conditions all well looked after, loved every part of it. The old town was great. The food was very good and well priced. Really felt we got great value for money. Doesn't have a shop, which is a good thing.
Mark Hay — Google review
A fun time for the little ones. It's well maintained, and generally clean. A pretty place for a stroll, and the tracker rides are a bonus. However some of the animals look like they could use some extra love. It's also very expensive for entry, and on a busy day you're limited to one food bag (which can be a pickle with multiple young kids).
Mixed bag, but we tend to go once or twice a year.
Kent & Kristy Harris — Google review
Not only is Staglands a gorgeous wildlife park, they also do weddings! Staglands was our wedding venue last month and they did not disappoint. The photos and memories we captured here will last a lifetime. The staff, especially Gemma and Sarah, go above and beyond to make your day special. Thank you all so very much!
Nicole Paul — Google review
The best-kept secret in Wellington! Perfect for all ages. We were the last people to enter there on a beautiful sunny afternoon. There was no one but us and the mesmerizing peacocks 🦚 and other animals. A day well spent and something to be treasured! The road to Staglands is winding. Drive with caution and at a safe speed.
Roman Mortuza — Google review
A great place in the middle of nowhere. You wouldn’t find even a small shop anywhere near the place.
It’s a good place especially for the kids to come and watch the birds and animals in the wild life reserve.
The best thing is that we can go touch and feed the animals like deer, sheep, peacock and other birds.
A great place to pack food and snacks and have a small picnic with friends and family.
Sreeram Nattath — Google review
My daughter had a lovely birthday party at Staglands over the weekend- super easy with the party food, loot bags, entry, and animal food all included in the package (plus the guests all got free admission passes to visit again). The kids loved the animals, especially Jock the horse, the friendly little calf, and the extra cuddly sheep in the deer enclosure. It was raining, but there was still plenty of fun to be had! The tractor ride was a highlight. The staff were great, and all the party guests had a wonderful time. Such a beautiful reserve. Highly recommend for kids parties.
Char Blake — Google review
4.7
(1906)
•
4.5
(659)
2362 Akatarawa Road, Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt 5372, New Zealand
Absolutely a must do, the guides, the knowledge, the historic district, stories of coal mining, tunnel building, timber and farming. The river and railway bring the history alive. A huge thank you to Tina, Kahil, Oce, Krystle, Ross and the team who made our day so memorable..
Pene Frost — Google review
This is the ultimate kiwi adventure, Transfer to and from the starting point plus your food breaks are all included in this well organized tour. I rate our Guide Ray, 10 out 10 for his local knowledge, enthusiasm and his humor.
People of all ages can enjoy the Rail Trail and learn the history of the railway construction and the local farming community..
TheUncleGrant — Google review
We did the Tokirimu Taster (half day, 10 tunnels). Loved it! Had all weathers - very thankful for the blankets in the carts. The talks at the stops were very interesting, and I appreciated that I could hear the guide well (I am a little hard of hearing).
Attention to safety was excellent.
Food provided was fresh and delicious. Ample quantity - our own food was not needed on this excursion.
The shop staff were extremely helpful and recommended places to stop on our car drive home through Forgotten Highway. The views are beautiful.
We will definitely do this again!
Andie Sands — Google review
Very well run and organised without losing the friendly and personal approach. We had a wonderful day which exceeded our expectations. Can't say enough about the knowledgeable staff (Tina and Oriwia were great.) Tasty morning and afternoon tea and a filling lunch were provided as part of the package.
Suitable for young and old and everyone in between.
We did the rail cart ride to Whangamomona, stayed overnight and had the Hotel's dinner, bed and breakfast package, then returned to Taumarunui on the shuttle bus. We considered it all very good value for our money.
Jilliene Beale — Google review
What a great trip we had to the Lavender Farm and on the Railcarts.
The commentary from our guides gave us insights into parts of the country we’d never experience otherwise.
Staying in the Forgotten Highway Motel was so convenient and everyone we met in Taumarunui couldn’t have been more pleasant and helpful.
Just loved the whole adventure. Thank you.
Anne Perkinson — Google review
Four of us travelled together and we all thoroughly enjoyed the day as we carted our way to Whangamomona. Loved the frequent stops for food and commentary. A fantastic experience!!!!!!!
Ian Smith — Google review
Our family took my mum on this trip for her 80th birthday. This had always been on her bucket list. We did the republic tour. What an amazing day out and we were so looked after. lots of stops with great baking (my daughter has already made the slice), the lunch was so so fresh and tasty. Country views and tunnels galore, learning about the history and present times of the land and track we were travelling was so interesting. Our guides were absolutely brilliant, as were the support staff at check in! It is such a well run tourist business. Thank you very much to your team for helping to make mums weekend that extra bit special.
Maria — Google review
Very enjoyable activity!
We stayed the night at the Forgotten World Hotel and ordered the breakfast for the next morning before the trip. The hotel staff was great. The room was spacious and clean, although there was no ac we did have a fan and once the temperature dropped during the evening, we opened the windows to cool down the room. The beds were comfortable.
The expedition itself was excellent. There’s something about the sound of the rails beneath you while the beautiful scenery passes you by that both relaxes and enthralls you, and the sights truly were beautiful! The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, and all the history behind each stop along the way was interesting and educational at the same time. We enjoyed the meals provided, and the amount of time allotted to them. We were also grateful for the toilet breaks.
If we have the opportunity to visit NZ again, or if anyone we know decides to visit, we would definitely recommend the tour.
Ale Aldridge — Google review
The amazing array of tour options means you have so many opportunities to seek some unique Kiwi travel experiences from their base in Taumaranui.
Based around the Whanganui River and Forgotten World Highway it is very special to see first hand the amazing scenery and learn about the history of this area.
The team, led by Kara are super efficient and friendly.
Definitely add one of the Forgotten World Adventures to your list
We just completed the new Rhine of the Pacific Tour. This exclusive tour, with some added luxuries, shows you along the navigable length of the awa from Whanganui to Taumaranui, following the original colonial highway of the early 1900s.
A very special experience.
Bette Cosgrove — Google review
We shared in a great weekend with friends from our Wolseley Car Club - doing the 10 tunnel Rail Cart run to Tokorima. The weather was beautiful and it really was an awesome experience. It was a nice touch to enjoy home baking for our Morning Tea and again with our lunch. It was interesting listening to the history of the area too. Well done to the Team.
Val and Ken Thompson — Google review
My 89 year old mother and I had an enjoyable and memorably day with Forgotten World Adventures at Easter 2023 on the "Republic 20" from Okahukura to Whangamomona.
We were blessed with good weather, but were were well prepared for the cold in the tunnel thanks to the good pre departure advice.
The FWA staff were all very knowledgeable, professional and ensured we had a great time, learned all about the history of the area and stayed safe.
The food FWA provided was both delicious and generous. I particularly enjoyed the lunch with build your own sandwiches with very very fresh bread and a wide range of fillings.
We had our car transferred to Whangamomona where we stayed overnight at the Hotel in the extremely comfortable new motel style units.
I highly recommend this to friends and family.
You won't be disappointed.
Karen Pullar — Google review
Thanks so much FWA team, we had a fantastic day! Exceeded our expectations and worth every cent. A great way to see this special area and learn about the history. All our needs catered for, friendly and efficient.
rebecca vane — Google review
Stunning New Zealand scenery that you’d otherwise not see … with fun guides. A great day out doing something unique. Lunch is only a sandwich so if that’s not enough for you take something extra. And when they say dress in layers believe them … the tunnels are frigid and depending on time of year, the morning can be too! And if you are prone to motion sickness take some sealegs for the bus ride back which is very windy but again incredible views - keep your camera out!
J A F — Google review
A highlight of my New Zealand trip. Forgotten World Adventures are supported by wonderful informed tourist guides, as well as all the helpers at their motel. It is a simple accommodation, but very clean with a very comfortable bed. Part of the trip included a visit to a lovely Cafe in the midst of lavender fields.
I felt very welcome the whole time of my 3 days visit. Especially as an older single tourist! I wish the whole team success!
Elsie Dorner — Google review
if you’re even considering this, don’t think too much… just DO IT! Had the most amazing time doing the full day. The guides were so knowledgeable and it was so interesting to hear about the histories of these forgotten small towns. It was so much fun and there was just great scenery. And you get fed very well! I would do it all over again!
Jess Fu — Google review
Excellent hosts. Great experience. This tour give you a unique vantage- explore the area from train tracks. Cross many bridges, go through many tunnels.
A really good way to spend the day. Good catering too.
L P — Google review
An absolutely amazing experience. The Forgotten World Adventures team were so friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable. The scenery is stunning along with the history. The whole weekend we felt magically disconnected from everything outside of the journey and would highly recommend it. Thanks for making it an incredible weekend. We will be back!
James Terry — Google review
What a truly unique adventure. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our rail cart trip. Everyone who helped at all stages of the trip were so helpful and friendly. The scenery is spectacular and we love to hear the early stories of the area. We thoroughly enjoyed the home baking and found that there was ample food for us at the lunch time - appreciated the touch with the flowers. We became competent rail cart drivers in a very short time. We love that the experience is like no other we've ever done. Something that will stay with us for a long time. Thanks so much for sharing this part of the country with us.
raewyn birss — Google review
A very colonist focussed tour through beautiful farmland. No mention of the iwi whose land we were on, nor anything about the ecological damage done by the railroad building. An interesting couple of days, with delightful staff from around the world, fabulous food. Not really suitable for anyone with mobility issues as there are no platforms or solid steps for allowing dismounting at the various stops. Whangamōmona needs to be visited - what a stunning spot. And the hotel is great - comfortable beds, great food, awesome service. If you are interested in colonial history, railroad building in challenging terrain and tunnels, then karawhiua!
Catherine Olsen — Google review
We had a fabulous day. Was perfect for our wee family kids 4 & 6 years. Lots stops to get on and off. Beautiful views. Both kids did sleep near end of the day as it's a big day. We did full day tour.
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A must-see attraction when exploring New Zealand's North Island is the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a renowned day hike that showcases breathtaking scenery amongst three active volcanoes: Ngauruhoe (also known as Mount Doom), Tongariro, and Ruapehu. For those seeking more adventure, Taupo offers a stunning 17 km trek to the crossing. While not personally experienced, fellow travelers have praised this hike for its beauty and allure.
5.0
(2202)
New Zealand
I'll never travel to Tauranga without this trip planner again
The Glowworm Cave is a natural tourist attraction in New Zealand that houses a colony of magical creatures, known as glow worms. At the cave's guided tour, visitors experience impressive stalactites and stalagmites before descending into a large cavern known as the Cathedral. The highlight of the tour comes at the end when guests board a boat and swing off onto the river accompanied by glowing worms.
It was a wonderful experience especially for kids. Well guided tour with a sense of humour which is a bonus.
It well be better if you gonna book at the center instead of calling them on their customer hotline number.
Recommendable for family with kids. You can clearly see the glow worms inside the cave while riding the boat. Quite fascinating.
No videos or camera allowed inside the cave.
Jeddah B — Google review
Wonderful experience, Guides to tell about the cave and give instructions. Good service. Restaurant available with in the permises.Boat ride was exciting with pitch black surrounding😬 and glow worms😍. Shops inside with collections. But too costly.
Vinesh Kondoor — Google review
An excellent place to visit and admire nature and what all it can do. The cave formations are incredible to look at. The guides are exceedingly knowledgeable about the glow worms themselves as well as the caves. The history of the discovery and control of the caves was also interesting to learn about.
Mark Johnson — Google review
Great experience! These folks are excellent when it comes to meeting the needs of their patrons. We accidentally purchased tickets on the wrong day, so we tried our luck and drove to the ticket office and they were able to transfer our 3 tickets on the spot and the tour started in just a few minutes after that. While we truly appreciated that, the amazing experience didn’t stop there- our guide, Charlie, was knowledgeable and have an interesting tour of the caves. She sang a Māori waiata for us in the cathedral area of the caves and it gave me goosebumps! Thanks Charlie!
Silvana Oderisi — Google review
I hadn't seen glowworms in over 50 years since I did a class field trip from Orewa up to a private farm near Puhoi, so this was a special blast from the past for me. More fantastic for my companion as he had never seen glowworms. I especially like the pupae cave where the larvae had their food catchers dangling. Shame that pictures cant be taken, but I totally understand how that would be a massive problem. Well worth doing to see something you may have never seen before. Our guide also sang to us in the echo cave and she was very good.
Graham Tranter — Google review
Visited Waitomo caves as a group of 8 today (Sunday)- 1pm tour. Our guide Justin was fantastic!! Very knowledgeable, fun, interesting and had the most amazing voice!! Beautiful local song sung by Justin at the cathedral part of the cave, we thoroughly enjoyed it the sound effects.
He was also very kind and attentive to our elderly mum who had difficulty walking esp in the dark parts of the cave.
Beautiful cave system and fascinating glow worms.
Highly recommend visiting these caves if in the area.
Carol Pereira — Google review
Unforgettable place. Amazing tour of cave and glowworms. Booked online but found not so busy. Fortunately toured with a samll group and a nice guide. Easy to find and plenty of parking...
Leon Lu — Google review
Fun-filled filled experience! Family and friends had a very enjoyable time here. Very informative - the tour guide was well rounded and knew his job so well. Safety is always a priority. He even rendered a song for us - cool dude. Initially my grandchildren were hesitant and scared due to darkness however they totally forgot about it and enjoyed the adventure
Arlene Barraca — Google review
Beautiful park and tour. The guide was very knowledgeable and had a beautiful singing voice. We took the short tour, which was great, but now I wish we'd taken the longer one
heath bates — Google review
The caves themselves are not overly impressive if you visited some before. What makes it different it’s glowworms- luminescent insects living there. Tiny lights covering the ceiling of the caves make it really magic, especially during the boat trip. The overall tour is around 40 minutes and boat trip roughly 5-10 minutes. It’s pity that you cannot take pictures inside
darius savolskis — Google review
Loved every moment. It was great to learn the history and how the caves were used in the past by Māori but also how it was cared for. Loved the scientific history as well and how the caves were formed but more so looking at the beautiful glow worms, it was truly an experience. Last but not least our tour guide Christian was awesome! The kids loved everything about our trip to the caves.
Rachel Schmidt — Google review
Arrived at 1pm with no booking during school holidays-we were hoping to get to all 3 caves but they managed to fit us into 2. All the staff were super friendly-cafe food was yummy and quick, considering there was a large group ahead of us.
There was a minor mix up with our first cave booking but they fit us onto the next tour and we still made our second tour with plenty of time. Brooke and Blake in particular were lovely.
And let me tell you, I’ve been to many caves in the US, France, and Australia and these are AMAZING. Definitely coming back for the 3rd cave next time we are in NZ :)
Yes it’s a bit pricy but I hope the employees are paid well; it’s well organised and clean and they explain their measures to maintain the caves responsibly.
Diane Damaskin — Google review
The caves are just majestic and the local Maori guides do provide lots of information about the caves and their traditional values! Really worth a visit. Feels like staring at a night sky full of stars.
Malav Patel — Google review
We had an excellent guide T a young male (hiatus name Chris). Our group that we were with however weren’t so good, with the disturbances and doing the opposite to what they were told. Would definitely go back however would be looking at a more private tour.
Damian Lai — Google review
A unique experience. Our guide was wonderful. My highlight was our guides singing and the glow worms, of course.
Betty Damianidis — Google review
One of the most famous caves in nz and normally will pop up if you search for glowworms caves . It was a great experience and i will recommend to most of the people but few things before you get there .
1- The ticket price is 75 dollars and the tour supposed to be for an hour but we were done in 30 mins . This included a boat ride which will be the best part for most but it’s only like 5 mins .
2- They are very strict with the photos and videos so you can’t click anything . Only towards the end you will be allowed at the exit .
3) the cafe is nice and if you doing other caves , get your food here because others don’t have much option.
4) I found the gift shop ridiculously expensive but they do have lots of things in there .
5) Now most important part specifically for tourist and people visiting from far . I would highly recommend to take the combo package with ruakuri caves because the other tour is 90 minutes and has way more value for money . You are also allowed to use your camera there. Combo price (158 dollars )
From Auckland it will take you 2-230 hours to reach and the drive is split between highway and scenic route between little farms .
Devesh sharma — Google review
The Waitomo Caves attraction is interesting and well worth a visit. While the caves are beautiful, the star attraction is the glowworms, you will learn about the history of the caves and about the geology of the region as well. Be prepared for low light and some steps as you wind your way through the caverns. The boat ride itself is about 20 minutes, but Glow worms can be seen throughout the cave.
There is also a cafe and gift shop.
Ann Baity — Google review
The caves were amazing, not what you would expect at all! They were huge, with massive caverns that have ceilings that glow like the stars! The grand finally- hop on a small boat INSIDE the caves, and traverse on the underground river through a "portal" back to the land of light!
Ron Hoseman — Google review
It was a very good experience. There is a tour guide to explain everything before stepping onto the boat. The cave is very dark and quiet, where you can feel the peace.
I visited during winter, and it was cold. You'll see all these glowing worms forming some sort of starry sky in the "ceiling" of the cave.
Please note that if you have booked a specific time slot, ensure you arrive here punctually.
Coby Khor — Google review
4.5
(10682)
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4.0
(5794)
39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand
The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co offers a unique underground adventure in the Waitomo Caves. Instead of traditional white water rafting, participants float down river in the dark using an inflated rubber inner tube. This form of black water rafting includes tubing, ziplining and climbing waterfalls within the Ruakuri Cave. Tourists are dressed in wet suits and fitted with inflated inner tubes for safety as they go down rapids and over waterfalls.
Love Waitomo caves and what a beautiful way to enjoy the glow worms. You definitely get your monies worth with this tour. Such a unique experience with awesome staff. We had lots of laughs! We came on Easter weekend so got to experience the bunny head 😅 loved it!
Jenna O'Donnell — Google review
Checked out these caves and this tour without the rafting portion. Not because I didn’t want to, but my wife was pregnant. The caves were still quite cool. Lots of information to learn, lots of cool caves to explore. Photography was allowed which was good, because there was some cool stuff to see. I will share some pics. No advice for you really, but I recommend the tour. It was fun, it was interesting, it was worth the price.
Parker Heuser — Google review
Worth the thrill, but not if you're CLAUSTROPHOBIC and GERMOPHOBE. A wetsuit will be provided at the place, yes they smell but your nose will get used to it and you won't smell it once you're in the water.
It's a cave, so if you're CLAUSTROPHOBIC and don't like dark spaces, then this is not for you. The cave itself is pretty spectacular, especially seeing the glow worms, but you might have to go into tight spaces so keep that in mind. They do have different tours that don't involve you getting wet or into tight spots. You can just walk tour.
Ericka Lorenzo — Google review
My partner and I did the black abyss tour last month and it was an absolutely fantastic experience! There was a perfect balance of relaxing enjoyment of the glow worms and adrenaline filled fun. The guides were wonderful, I couldn't fault them. Even though it was cold, the equipment was appropriate and they kept the warm drinks and small snacks coming to warm us up when needed. We luckily had a small group on the day so it was easy for the guides to cater to each of us and our wants which was lucky for us. I'd really recommend this. And if you are hesitant about the expense as I initially was, I say it's totally worth it! ✨
Chantelle N? Chr?in?n — Google review
We did the Labyrinth Tour because we didn't have enough time for the Abyss but I'm so happy we did it because it was SO MUCH FUN!! The labyrinth is a 3 hour affair that involves a fairly exhausting wetsuit initiation, followed by a quick demonstration of working with the tube rafts and jumping into the water on them, and then finally the actual cave. You walk, raft and jump off waterfalls inside the cave under the expert supervision of your guides. Everywhere you look (walls and ceiling), you see the glowworms. We loved seeing the glowworms. But, we loved the adventure of rafting through the cave even more. At the end, you just float in the dark trying to find your way back out, which is insanely cool! The guides are extremely fun and professional. They make everything look easy and doable and there is really no room for fear at all. It is nice to walk into a cave to see glowworms but a whole other experience to raft through the same cave while watching glowworms and I know exactly which one I prefer. An absolute must-do in Waitomo!
P.S. the soup afterwards is the best tomato soup I've had in a while. The photos only cost $26!!
Pranjali Sharma — Google review
I’ve been traveling for several months globally and the 5 hour Abyss adventure may have been the single coolest experience I’ve had. My guides, Matt and Ollie, were extremely fun and professional, and kept us entertained / safe throughout. We started with abseiling, then ziplining, then tubing (where we had a wonderful view of glowworms), and a short climb up a waterfall. I was lucky to have a great group, who hung out afterwards as they provided us snacks. Amazing pictures as well!
I’ve heard Tom Cruise has done this experience multiple times, if that’s any indication of how great this is!
Steven Wang — Google review
We did the labyrinth experience on Tuesday.
Fantastic experience with Alister, Luke and Jesse. Very professional tour, fun, funny and just an all round good time. It’s clear the guides care about the caves and ensured that the impact of our trip would be as minimal as possible. Health and safety was top notch and I felt in very safe hands with the team.
The experience itself was very enjoyable, the water was cold but the wetsuits looked after that. Glow worms were about as bright as you’d hope, and we got to experience an unencumbered view of the natural beauty that the cave had to offer.
Would highly recommend this tour to friends and family. Thanks guys for the safe, fun and memorable adventure.
Trentyz — Google review
This tour was way better than we expected!! We did this on our honeymoon + birthdays. Pippin was the best tour guide (and singer!). Matt was awesome too — really personable. Felt totally relaxed and had a blast tubing through the caves. I’d 100% recommend over just a walking or boat tour if you are active. I’m so glad we decided to explore the caves this way. There’s fun, mystery and a little adrenaline in it for you. You can really tell the guides enjoy what they do. Also, the water may be a bit cold but don’t let that deter you!! You won’t be uncomfortable. Biggest tip is bring shampoo/conditioner/body soap with you for the post-tour shower.
Kimberly Dohner — Google review
Visiting NZ from Utah, USA. Did the 5 hour excursion with Black Water. This was the absolute highlight of my trip. Matt and Alisha were friendly, funny, super upbeat and most of all kept us safe. They took their time making sure that everyone was comfortable and trained on the activities that we were doing which included; hiking, climbing, repelling (abseiling), floating and zip lining. They both made the experience way more than I imagined and expected. I haven't left NZ yet and I've already recommended the tour to people I've met in restaurants and bars. I would go back in a heartbeat. Thank you for the amazing time.
James Schmidt — Google review
Amazing!! Did the Black Abyss tour and worth every penny. Our guides were awesome and so helpful (Alistar and Patty, sorry not sure how to spell) and made me feel safe on every step! Worth doing to push yourself outside your comfort zone and go on such an adventure!
Natasha Ouellette (Deirdre) — Google review
If you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping, awe-inspiring, and unforgettable adventure, look no further than the Waitomo Black Water Rafting tour. This tour combines caving, abseiling, ziplining, tubing, and glowworm spotting in one epic package. You will explore the stunning underground world of the Waitomo Caves, with its limestone formations, crystal clear water, and dazzling glowworms. You will experience the thrill of descending into the darkness, flying through the air, floating down the rapids, and jumping off the waterfalls. You will also learn about the history and culture of the caves from your friendly and professional guides, who will ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the tour. The Waitomo Black Water Rafting tour is not for the faint-hearted, but it is definitely worth it. It is the best way to experience the beauty and mystery of the Waitomo Caves, and one of the most amazing things you can do in New Zealand. It is a pricey experience but don't miss this opportunity to challenge yourself and have the time of your life
Doctors Dates — Google review
Amazing experience!! The crew are professional, super friendly and helpful and did everything they could to make sure we had a good time. Our Guides Cory and Ollie were brilliant. We've done the Waitomo Trilogy tours a couple of times over the years which are also great but to go 70m below ground level and tube in the water was another level of fun. Try it... you won't be disappointed and they give you loads of free photos of you throughout the trip which is very unusual from a tour operator!!!
P Simpson — Google review
What a blast as our first experience after a long flight. We went on the 3 hour black water rafting tour. It was a ton of fun as well as a learning experience. I highly recommend you try out this great adventure. You definitely won’t regret your decision to float down the caves. It’s a great tour with great tour guides. I definitely want to do this tour again and hope you try it as well.
Cori Mill — Google review
i did the blackwater rafting but it sounded more promising than it was. the "rafting" part was mostly walking through ancle-deep water, a couple of jumps off some ledge into the water with your ring, and sometimes a bit of (slow) floating. however, you do see thousands of glowworms. also, the staff are really nice and cheerful and take pictures along the way (no private cameras allowed). back at the base, these are then sold at 25NZD (for downloading digital copies!) and the snacks are two/three tiny frozen samosas per person heated up, hardly felt like "we are happily heating back up together" (but you can buy yourself more food from cafe in which you are seated...). also, i came down with severe influenza the next day, imho i was too cold and too wet for too long whilst on that experience. i've now realized i dont need to be wet and cold to be looking at glowworms...
AJ — Google review
We did the Black Abyss tour and could not recommend it more! Our guides Tim and Max were absolutely phenomenal. Max was incredibly knowledgeable about the caves and had both interesting/fun facts as well as humor. He also took some pretty stellar photos. Both Max and Tim made us feel comfortable and safe throughout. The soup at the end hit the spot.
Ailise Delaney — Google review
10/10 just absolutely wonderful. I did the Black Labyrinth and I loved absolutely everything. Was really nervous but the guides were awesome and helped me every step of the way (literally). Thank you so much to the American girl from Minnesota (sorry I’ve forgotten your name but not where you’re from) and Hannah you both made me feel so comfortable during the activity and helped me get over my fears. I will be recommending this tour to every person I see! Thank you guys, yous rock 🤙🏻
Rebecca McAvoy — Google review
Absolutely fantastic, magical experience floating through what felt like space! The guides are very fun, and led us safely through. The water is quite cold, but you mostly get used to it after the first couple plunges. We did the labyrinth tour and we were fairly chilly by the end of it, but I’d 10/10 do it again. The journey starts narrow, more closed in around you, then opens up to virtually a slot canyon with tons of glow worms above! I was worried it’d be a small amount of glow worm viewing but oh boy was I wrong, there are tons throughout most of the tour. Beware you want to be comfortable jumping backwards off of 3-5ft waterfalls into deep pools. It takes courage to jump but was pretty painless upon landing. My ONLY critique is most times, even with a guide near you, it was virtually impossible to hear them and understand instructions, but I didn’t find that truly hindered safety. I would recommend the company introduce hand signals for things like “stop”, “forward”, etc. All in all I highly recommend this tour, as after it was my second time in New Zealand, this was my favorite tour we did!
Jesse Fisher — Google review
I have never had more FUN with a rubber ring in my life ! We donned the damp wetsuits ( which helped us keep warm) helmets and gum boots and down we went into a 35m cave, clambering over, and squeezing through the laundry chute and drifting on a rubber ring down the river with amazing rock formations above & glow worms. Lydia's X rated narration about the glow worms, was a real hoot. ( it's the way she tells it).
life — Google review
Fantastic experience and one I will remember forever. Nothing can compare to repelling down into a cave, ziplining under a sky of glow worms, and then leaping into the dark waters below for a rafting adventure! The staff were super friendly and provided accommodations for my every need. If there was a wall that was too tricky for me to scale they helped me find a way around it all while taking once in a lifetime photos. 10/10 only wish I could do it again. (Clarification: I did the 5 hour tour, while initially it may appear expensive this experience made me feel like I got my absolute money's worth)
M Martin — Google review
Fantastic!!! I will recommend this to anyone and everyone! We had the best tour Guides, Matt and Alicia. If it was not for these two amazing people I would not have been able to have such a great experience. If you are one limb short as I am, make sure you are in good physical condition as it really takes it out of you. I will definitely be doing it again when I am in better shape!
Vian Van Niekerk — Google review
A million times YES! My absolutely favorite experience on the North Island during our two week road trip honeymoon. I can not say enough about the Black Abyss tour! We repelled into the cave (took me about 3-4 minutes to get down!), zip lined, had a snack, jumped into the freezing water and so stunning we got to lay on our backs and float through the cave and look at the glorious glow worms. At the end we climbed through two waterfalls to get out of the cave. AMAZING TOUR! I want to go back again!
Holly Siebert — Google review
The Black Abyss was one of our favorite experiences during our trip to NZ. We were well taken care of by our guides (shout out to Callie and Ollie!) and their enthusiasm and joy was contagious throughout our day. Having the full 5 hours in the cave meant we got to have fun splashing about in the river and also had quite a bit of time to just relax and enjoy the absolutely stunning(!!!) glow worms. Highly recommend!
Hannah — Google review
4.8
(1717)
•
4.5
(2067)
585 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand
A geothermal attraction featuring bubbling pools, steam vents, and boardwalks in the stunning landscape of Taupo, New Zealand. The area is a popular stop for tourists visiting the region, and provides a great introduction to the area's geothermal sights.
Entry is really cheap only $8 for an adult (can get half price voucher for a morning section by bookme) Great way to spend an hour or so. The main track is flat and there's no rush to get around it. The roaring holes on hill are accessible too. The field is active so it's not a boring walk. the steaming holes and outlook view are super for photos. Would definitely be going back.
Leon Lu — Google review
We really enjoyed our visit here. Fascinating place
It would of been helpful to know prior to starting loop walk that a siren will sound giving you 30 minutes to return to your car or you’ll be locked in!! This then turned our exploration into a speed walker marathon once it sounded only just getting back to office with a minute to spare. Signage should be at start so you can take an alternative route. Prices are excellent staff a little cold and unfriendly.
Christine Hollis — Google review
This is a fantastic little spot to walk and enjoy the earth's magnificent power! A great walk with a regularly maintained track. Very affordable ($10 per adult).
The walk took us 1 hour which included plenty of time to take photos and soaking in the amazing view at the top of the track
The Legitimate Reviewer — Google review
Educational, and unique dramatic scenery... you must visit!
Well worth the small fee for entry. Visit on an overcast day to enjoy the steam vents even more!
Joel R — Google review
Great park and real special views of the craters. This walk will take you through a valley of different craters, with nice colours and special nature, with the information about their existence. One of the best things to do in the area when you compare the value with the price (cheap here !) You can go for an extra loop for the hikers amongst us, which gives you a nice overview of the valley. Great place!
Tim Vleesenbeek — Google review
It's entrance fee is cheaper compared to other walks and less crowded as well. You can truly stay longer and enjoy each viewing spots. It's well-paved so it's also an easy walk.
We've already been to several geothermal walks prior, and we couldve skipped this one if we had someplace else to go.
mean cagadas — Google review
Nice leisurely walk through the experience, but not quite as awe-inspiring as I expected from the price tag of admission.
West Bielstein — Google review
A good opportunity to see geothermal activity for a small price. Entry was $8 each and at a relaxed pace we spent 2 hours walking around the park and reading all of the info-signs explaining crater formation, fumeroles, and various flora and fauna found in the area. It was an overcast day which was nice as it kept temperatures down a bit. In a couple of areas you can feel the heat rising out of the ground which was pretty cool. Well worth a visit.
T E Dorward — Google review
Came down for a trip from Auckland with my family visiting from South Africa. It was such a cool experience, such a lovely walk. We were more than happy paying the price for the well maintained walkways etc.
Melissa Bothma — Google review
Craters of the Moon in New Zealand is an interesting place to visit. It is a unique geological formation located in the Wairakei Tourist Park near Taupo. The area is made up of a series of craters, fumaroles, and other volcanic features, and is a great place to explore and learn about the geology of the region. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll on the well maintained trail, exploring all the steaming sites. The weather was perfect for taking very cool pictures.
Cree Putney — Google review
Very affordable tourist attraction as compare to others - definitely recommended!!! We took a leisurely walk during very slight showers. We had a plastic poncho which we used twice but this didn't stop us from enjoying the sights, smells and sounds. It brings you closer to nature too even if we where walking on raised paths to protect the environment and the guest too! We enjoyed listening to the roaring sound of steam coming from the geyser holes
Patrick Zuluaga — Google review
This was a seriously cool geothermal walk! The entrance fee wasn't too pricey, and there's a souvenir shop to grab some mementos along with the fantastic experience. While there's a hint of sulfur in the air, it's quite tolerable. A must-do adventure!
Evy Lee — Google review
Cool place, but it's not especially beautiful. Most of the walk is through flat and sort of boring vegetation. The craters with the steam coming out are cool. At a couple we could hear a deep boiling sound, though we couldn't actually see anything boiling. Ultimately, I'm glad we visited, but there are more beautiful spots than this around the world.
Michael Pasko — Google review
An amazing spot to watch and look around for geothermal activity. Plenty of infocards that educate you about the region, its history and the surrounding rocks, nature and other things.
An interesting experience for sure to see the steam come from seamingly nothing in the ground. The entry is only $10 which is not that much.
Vincent Beurskens — Google review
4.3
(2862)
•
4.0
(2027)
171 Karapiti Road, Wairakei, Taupō 3377, New Zealand
Hamilton Gardens is a large and elaborate botanical garden that features themed gardens from different parts of the world, as well as an impressive sculpture garden. The gardens are spread over 50 hectares southeast of the city centre and include a large park, cafe, restaurant, and extravagant themed enclosed gardens.
Lovely gardens. Well kept and lots of variety. Takes about 2hrs for a good wander around. All the various gardens are surprisingly large. A few grassy bits amongst the enclosed gardens good for a picnic. Entry is Free! You can pick up a map brochure for a couple of dollars.
James Thompson — Google review
One of if not the best garden i have visited worldwide, and I've easily been to over 50 through about 20 countries! Give a whole day to this trip as there us so much to explore and enjoy here. Beautiful differing gardens in a wide variety of themes with excellent info provided on all content.
John Phelan — Google review
A must visit spot for nature lovers. The sections are beautifully designed, and represent different cultures. There are signs posted with description, and i believe there are audio tours as well. Can take up to a good 3-4 hours to cover. Would highly recommend.
Akriti Sakhuja — Google review
A great place to visit mainly in spring and summer with flowers all around. Still good in winter to explore the enclosed gardens and spend quality time appreciating them. A great place to spend on a bright day for a picnic. Kids friendly area. Lot of parking in different parts of the garden. Best part it's free, but you can pay $2 to get a map which goes into the upkeep of the place.
Ankit Bhatnagar — Google review
We thoroughly enjoyed exploring these beautiful and unique gardens. I recommend researching and picking out the top five gardens you want to see. Get started as soon as they open and go to those gardens first. You will have many of them all to yourself, which is well worth it. Our favorites were the Italian, Japanese, Indian, Chinese, and Egyptian gardens. If you are limited on time, you should at least check those out. If you like taking photos, look for opportunities, and there are many, to use the doorways and other architecture to frame your subject. Have fun!
Christopher Walker — Google review
An awesome garden that is well laid out and maintained. So much to enjoy that you will hardly notice when couple of hours has passed. And you will need a minimum of 2 hours if you want to visit all sections in the garden. You can easily spend at least half a day here.
I didn’t take enough pictures and my pictures do not adequately capture the beauty of this garden.
This is must visit destination if you enjoy parks and gardens. Parking is free. There is no entrance fee. Please visit the gift shop to buy something in way of contribution.
Winnie ThePooh — Google review
Absolutely stunning! Exceeded all my expectations! Within Hamilton Gardens, there are several smaller gardens, each with a different theme. Every one of them were unique, beautiful and well maintained. My favourites were the Indian, Italian Renaissance and the Surrealist themed ones. One of my highlights here was seeing a really pregnant fish. I highly recommend giving this place a visit!
Mandie L. — Google review
If I was able to, I would give this place 20 stars.
There are separate gardens reflecting different parts of the world. It is really cool and so tastefully done. I can't imagine yhe amount of effort that goes into this place. Very well setup, presented and maintained.
Place is absolutely lovely, parking a breeze and well worth the hours you can spend here. You should go! ...... multiple times.
Jason Oneal — Google review
The attention to detail and the level of upkeep here at the gardens just blew me away. Another must see thing to do in the Tron (along with the classics musiem). Look forward to bringing my Mum for a look and the new exhibits will be awesome I'm sure.
Donate and get a map (there are some fixed ones around the place) so you can look at it when needed, you don't want to miss anything!
Aaron Povey (Azzman) — Google review
It's a beautiful place to go to with your friends, family or partner. Considered as the top most attraction of hamilton. It's definitely worth watching all the gardens inside. Thanks to the council, how good they have maintained it and have kept the entry free of charge. Could spend a couple of hours in there. One can lose its track of place as it's a huge garden. It's recommended to have a map with you when you visit.
Karan Joshi — Google review
A must visit in Hamilton. You could easily spend a few hours exploring the gardens.
We only had enough time for some of the enclosed gardens. They were outstanding. Kudos to the designers of these. Each different garden felt so unique and fitting their respective styles. Japanese garden was definitely my favorite. It was so peaceful. Right up until a couple of loads of families with kids showed up!
Jon Adams — Google review
My friend and I went to The Hamilton Garden's on an overcast day, it was the middle of winter and spent an hour looking around the gardens on show ...
..the theme gardens we viewed namely England, Italy, China, Japan, India were damper than usual but still looked picturesque in it's own way depending on the cultural heritage of the different countries, it was interesting to note the shrubbery and plant's on display from different regions...
We didn't have time to finish All the sights but have the intention of coming back to spend longer looking around another day, you really need to have time to spare to browse the different countries and gardens on show!
I would definitely recommend the visit if you want to spend a relaxed day out with a friend or family!
FOOKES RANGITEWIWINI — Google review
Quite a bunch of flowers despite it being the dead of winter!! It was fun walking into the different kinds of gardens 🥰 they were very true to form and theme! Will definitely come back and hopefully by then, all the maintenance and construction will be done :)
Mariel Tanchuling — Google review
Just such a stunning day, love a wee afternoon stroll here, always something new to see. Entry was free on this day, excluding guided tours. Great interactive listening posts, see the visitor center for this service. Excellent upkeep of the gardens, great place for families visitors and locals alike. Great parking at multiple entry points, Cafe, ice cream and coffee, playground.
Marie Swanson — Google review
Impressive variety of themed gardens. Not all in the absolute best shape, but clearly thought has been put into them and the themes are pretty fun, from cultural/historical to "style" to practicality (kitchen and herb gardens).
Was under construction when I went so I missed out on the visitor centre and probably a few other amenities but still a nice place, and if you're on the fence about it but still enjoy a nice stroll in some fun gardens I would recommend it. Check out my pictures for a taste.
Travis Ng — Google review
Such a lovely place to admire beautiful flowers! With ample free parking and a spacious picnic area, it's perfect for families or friends to gather. Unfortunately, we couldn't explore the entire garden due to time constraints. However, revisiting still allowed us to appreciate the garden's hidden beauty. Overall, a delightful experience worth returning for!
Evy Lee — Google review
Visiting Hamilton Gardens in New Zealand is like stepping into a living, breathing storybook of natural wonder and cultural tapestry. As you wander through the meticulously crafted enclosures, you're transported across time and space. The Japanese Garden of Contemplation offers a serene pause, with its minimalist beauty and tranquil water features whispering ancient Eastern philosophies. In contrast, the Italian Renaissance Garden is a bold celebration of symmetry and splendor, its fountains and statues a testament to human creativity.
Each garden is a universe unto itself, a delicate harmony of flora, architecture, and history. The Maori garden educates and inspires with its indigenous plants and art, connecting visitors to the land's original guardians. The Tudor Garden, with its knot garden and heraldic beasts, feels like a scene from a Shakespearean play.
Beyond the gardens, the staff are custodians of magic, their passion and knowledge as enriching as the gardens they tend. Even the humblest flower bed is cared for with a reverence that speaks volumes of their dedication.
Hamilton Gardens isn't just a place to visit; it's an experience to be absorbed, a journey through the very soul of beauty, culture, and nature. Five stars are inadequate for this Eden-like oasis in New Zealand. It's a place where every visit feels like the first, where each turn reveals a new secret, and where the world's beauty is celebrated in every leaf and petal.
Gary Mitchell — Google review
The Hamilton Gardens really are a beautiful and pleasant experience. They offer many different kinds of garden styles and the overall area is huge. Even if it was 5 NZD I’d easily pay the admission - but it actually is free!
Nathan — Google review
Was incredible to visit these gardens! Was surprised that it was free to enter. Car park was so full, but not too many people throughout considering, due to the size! Highly recommend for all ages! Just beautiful!
Karen D — Google review
What a beautiful place. I love it how there are different ares with different themes. Even the way you transition from 1 area to another is honestly something else. The place is huge so you do get a decent walk around while enjoying the landscape. Definitely worth the visit.
Andrew Tai — Google review
Completely unexpected. What a surreal experience.
A series of gardens, inspired from interesting time periods, and cleverly interconnected in such a way that they're hidden until you walk in.
Every new garden is a new WOW, all over again.
It feels criminal not paying an entry fee.
Andres Sepulveda — Google review
Great place, excellent gardens. Took my mum to test out a walker and it was great. The only issue was in the Chinese garden - not suitable for wheeled items past the bridge, as there's uneven cobbles and then stairs up to and back from the pagoda up the hill. Otherwise, fantastic, and we all enjoyed it.
Haldoor Honey — Google review
What an amazing place. Must go back again, hopefully in the Spring so I can see the rhododendrons and other spring flowers. So much to see. Love the separate "rooms" of different types of gardens. Well worth the drive.
Nigel Walmsley — Google review
Beautiful gardens and such a great place to take the family out. Highly recommended.
Saw quite a few families holding their little ones as it was a pretty long walk if your going to all the different sections. Recommend you take a pram or carrier. We had our 1 year old with us and thank goodness we thought to take the pram because it takes over an hour walk to go through all the different gardens.
Family enjoyed it. We were looking forward for the giant door but it was closed. Enjoyed all the other gardens though and kid’s favourite was the Ancient Egyptian Garden.
Nita. — Google review
One of the most beautiful gardens I've been too. Absolutely stunning. Each area is themed perfectly. Couldn't fault it. We spent 2 hours wandering around, could have easily spent more!!!
Roxanne Milne — Google review
With only limited time we decided to concentrate on the Enclosed Gardens. With the help of a mostly accurate $2 map and visitor guide we saw all 18 gardens.
They are in three groups of gardens, paradise, fantasy and productive with the Tropical Garden, in untropical Hamilton, in a group of its own.
My favourites are the Egyptian, Italian and Indian gardens.
The gardens and parking are free, if I were a local I would be visiting regularly to see the various gardens in each of the four seasons.
p b — Google review
Beautiful gardens to look at even if your not 💯 into gardens it's free and something to plod around and look at with friends or family, I went with my family and all the kids really enjoyed it. Free to enter, free parking and takes 1-2hours to look at longer if you really want to spend some time taking it in. You can get food and drinks in the cafe and there are things available to donate if you wish.
D Bakes — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. If you enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of plants and greenery, this is definitely worth a visit. Each area of the garden is unique, calming, and pleasant. I particularly enjoyed the bamboo walkway.
Melvin Chien — Google review
The enclosed gardens are stunning. Definitely worth a few hours of your time, even if plants are not quite your thing. They close at a set time, so be sure to get there early enough. I would recommend 2+ hours, as there is so much to see. It is free to get in, but a $2 map sold at the information center is handy to have.
Lucia Stewart — Google review
More than just gardens, the enclosed gardens are curated scenes of each theme. Incredibly thought out and interesting. Lots of information provided too. Highly recommend
Eleanor Morris — Google review
These gardens are a worthwhile stop as they’re like no other.
Luckily the weather was excellent on the day we went and this helps.
It’s a good walking workout because there’s a lot to see and the whole place is very photogenic.
The cafe at the front is pretty good too.
Blossom Circle — Google review
Beautiful gardens, we loved the new Egyptian gardens exhibit. I would definitely recommend a spring visit, a lot of the flowers were dead as we visited in Autumn but that's only to be expected. Most of the gardens are perennial and absolutely stunning and well maintained.
Ji-Hyun A — Google review
One of my favourite places in the world! Always inspirational. The current construction work makes it less appealing at the moment but I’m sure it will be better than ever when it’s finished. The cafe is great too, good selection, quality food and reasonably priced
karen titulaer — Google review
Brilliant! Popped by with Mum to pass some time before our hotel check in and didn't know what to expect and we both had a great time!
Easy, flat walking, which mum really appreciated... I've never seen her take more photos. World def love to come back in the future when more of the gardens open.
This popular geothermal attraction located south of the egg-smelling capital of Rotorua features brightly coloured pools, bubbling water, active regions and sculpted volcanic rocks. It's a massive sight to behold with a dedicated day required to walk through all the different sections.
The ticket is a bit expensive but it’s awesome to experience the sulphur lakes and geysers. There’s a lot to see and you won’t find anything else like it in NZ
Nick Whales — Google review
Cool site. If you've been to Yellowstone and seen the geothermal parts of the park and liked it, come here!
Photos don't do the park justice, so I've attached some terrible videos to give some insight into what you can see here.
Parts of the park have a hydrogen sulfide smell but that's expected around geothermal springs.
Really unique area, just be sure to stay on the path! You don't want to join the Maori warriors who were buried here. 🙂
Jacob Cassagnol — Google review
My wife and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and were thoroughly captivated by the experience. The well-maintained trails allowed us to easily explore this active geothermal area together. The preserved and highly active vents provided a mesmerizing spectacle, leaving us in awe of nature's power. The clear labeling of the various areas, along with detailed descriptions, made the trip not only informative but also enjoyable for both of us. Witnessing the vibrant colors of the Champagne Pool was an enchanting experience that we shared and cherished. Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is a must-visit destination that can be enjoyed by couples, leaving them with lasting impressions and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our planet.
Marion O — Google review
Wow! this is a huge and absolutely amazing natural park. A place I've never seen before. It's really blows my mind, stimulates my curiosity and amazes me with the wondrous nature. We spent about 2 hours on this visit. At the entrance and also at the exit there are food and drink, souvenirs and toilets. You should bring water and go to the toilet before going in, no restrooms inside the park.
Inside the park there are also very few seats and no roof so you should check the weather before going.
Parking: yes
Chloe Dang — Google review
So Excited to be here!!! Wow I finally made it here. So beautiful to experience all the mud pools, Sulphur Pools, Ground Holes, Many pools of water and different colors oranges reds greens it does smell a little. It took about an hour to see everything. Nice gift shop here. I would highly recommend this place to see it all. They also have a nice place to eat as well.
Joshua Rothman — Google review
We went first thing in the morning in late March and the site was quiet and empty. There was a point on our walk where we didn’t see another person for at least 15 minutes. The geothermal pools were interesting - specifically the devil’s pool near the end. There are 3 possible loops to walk. I walked 1 and 2 and took lots of photos and was done in just under an hour. My husband added in loop 3 (though fast walker) and he was maybe 10 minutes behind us. Loops 1/2 were easy walks. The geothermal site was interesting, though fell a little short compared to experiences in Yellowstone and Iceland. This was less colourful. We actively chose not to see the Lone Star Geyser because I take issue with them making it erupt artificially - something that isn’t allowed in other countries (and a practice I hope they will stop here soon). Parking was plentiful and free at the time of our visit. We were definitely glad we came.
Alyssa Becker — Google review
Our fault: we went on a blustery rainy day and paid for the entire 'tour'/walk' but didn't get a chance to experience anything at all. We had to turn back 10min into the walk! Oh well, I guess you can't do much about that! But nevertheless, nice place.
Shyam Amarsee — Google review
Champagne pool is beautiful and it's got heaps of warm steam. Lovely walkways, but it's too hot on a sunny day in summer with only few shelters and shades. There's a souvenir shop and a Cafe with vending machines at the entrance. Fast entry on Monday, plenty of carpark outside, and not crowded inside.
Yuan Z — Google review
Must see! This area is very nicely laid out to get you up close to the thermal activity. Allow 2 hours to walk all three tracks. Each one is more interesting than the next. A bit of the walking can be strenuous, but just go slow and take your time. It's worth it! The tracks are all clearly marked and the walking route through the park is easy to follow. An amazing place! Some of my favorite photos from our trip were taken here.
Eleven Roe — Google review
Wonderful Waiotapu!!! This place is really mind blowing. A must visit place in North Island.
There are 3 different walking trails, all are linked with each other making the walking level easier to moderate. Please make sure you have shoes with good grip on a wet day as the surfaces can be slippery.
Would recommend to carry enough water for yourself to keep hydrated and food if needed. Plenty of places to sit and eat with family/friends.
LS World — Google review
Incredible place to explore, lots of walking but worth it! Very scenic, there are some incredible water colours. One third is pram/wheelchair friendly, the other two thirds have lots of stairs.
Take food with you and make sure you use the toilets as you enter!
Michael Engemann — Google review
This place was really cool and we spent about 3-4 hours and saw everything. There is a good amount of walking, but mostly flat with some stairs. Nice and clean place each and every volcano you can see closely ♥️🥰
Priyanka Parsana — Google review
Great walk with views of thermal pools. Three different levels of walks. If you want to do the longest walk I would advise arriving about 2/2.30pm as you have to be back to the beginning by 4.15pm.
Nicola Signal — Google review
Just like visiting Jurassic Park! Highly recommend the visit and the ticket price. You’ll need about 2-3hrs to leisurely walk all 3 sections/routes. Highlights are the green pond and champagne lake. We didn’t bother with the once daily geyser show at 10:15am. Watch it on YouTube and spend your time walking around the main section instead. It’s hard not to take great photos tbh. You get used to the smell and it really depends on the wind direction, so don’t worry. Take proper walking shoes too.
Matthew Graham — Google review
One of the 20 Most Surreal Places in the World. Visitors can choose one or all of three walks which take between 45 and 90 minutes.
It was a fantastic experience walking around the volcanic city -Rotoroa, New Zealand. Got a chance to enjoy the unique features include the world famous Champagne Pool naturally coloured springs, bubbling mud, steaming ground, expansive vistas, huge volcanic craters and sinter terrace formations.
But this wonderland is currently closed. There is an entrance fee to get in this place around NZ$ 30.00+ for adults.
The Maydell?s Wander — Google review
New Zealand vacation day 4 - visited one of New Zealands most popular geothermal site.
Place is huge and very impressive. Gives everyone a better appreciation of our planet and how active an area New Zealand is. The sites should offset the smell...by a bit!
Their gift store has some nice items as well.
Definitely a stop everyone should go to when visiting New Zealand!
Denny Hui — Google review
This thermal park is amazing. The tracks are very easy to follow, and the information signs are easy to read and give you all the information/facts in easy to understand wording. All our family (10 people) enjoyed the experience. Everything is well maintained and clean and tidy. The facilities are pristine, including the toilets. The staff are polite and very friendly, thank you :-)
Russell Hazlett — Google review
A wonderful morning spent walking around different tracks seeing beautiful geothermal sights. $85 for a family which is very reasonable. 3 different routes but are all linked. Track 2 and 3 would be difficult with a pushchair or wheelchair as there are steps going down.. minimum 30 steps down. Lovely being able to get so close to a natural wonder.
Katie Hughes — Google review
Wonderful place to visit where you can see and feel various natural phenomena created by the geothermal activity. Bubbling mud, hot water pools with varying colours and odors, terraces formed by rock fragments carried to surface by the hot water springs.
The bursting gyzer is another interesting experience.
Sena Munasinghe — Google review
It was extremly interesting and beautiful. One of the two best things I have seen during my 10 days visit. Definitely recommend! Besides the champagne pool i really liked the green and green-yellowish (my favourite) lakes.
Martin Hässler — Google review
It is truly a wonder land. I found it
much more interesting and diverse than rotorua Geyser. A place where you can find the amazing outcome of play by wind, water, and mineral temperatures combine with mother nature.
I place for 🎨, Explorer, scientists, and photographers. It will not let you down.
Just a reminder last entry is till 3:30 PM in summer.
Bilquis Ara — Google review
We arrived first thing to lots of available parking and no wait.
We did not see the Lone Star Geyser because there are environmental concerns with making it erupt artificially and is prohibited in some countries.
So I think most people go to the Geyser before coming to the Thermal Wonderland, which was great for us because there were less people!
We did 2 of 3 trails, it was easy walking for them. The pools and geothermal spots were neat to see.
Vanessa Becker — Google review
Overpriced at 45$ NZD and overrated. resembles a construction site with white mud in the rain more than a wonderland.
If you’ve been to the US, yellow stone park is free99 and infinitely better.
While you can get a few cool pictures, Don't waste your time and money. You are better off going somewhere else nearby. It’s all the same.
Raymond K — Google review
Stunning collection of volcanic features. Most impressive was the green pool and champagne pool. The entire walk is out in the open so bring a hat and put on some Sunscreen.
Trypp Adams — Google review
We loved our visit here. There were quite a lot tourists when we arrived at 10am, and we missed the geyser but the rest of the park was interesting. Be prepared to be greeted by the smell of sulphur for the whole walk. We spent roughly 2 hours doing all three walks and it was educational and enjoyable. Lots of see and explore.
Rosie — Google review
What a sight and great staff. We arrived just minutes before the eruption but with the guidance of the friendly staff we were able to get there in time. Then we did the walk around the thermal wonderland.
There was a smell but that was to be expected. The paths were wide enough and in good repair. I appreciated the signs giving additional information.
There are restrooms, a cafe and a gift shop.
Teala Kaiser — Google review
Great walk through a thermal landscape with various features such as mud pools, acid lakes, terraces and steam vents. The walk itself is pleasant, you can go at your own pace, and there are plenty of view points. It does get pretty hot when the sun is out, and there is not a whole lot of shade so wear sunscreen !
Mischa Kriens — Google review
Main park is amazing and worth it. Mud pools are free but paid for Lady Knox Geyser erupting at 10:15 daily (they put soap inside it for stimulus). Whole main park walk takes about 90mins average. Very stunning and informative. After the initial morning rush the park isn’t too busy so it’s nice. Bring your own lunch however as the cafe is lacking stock and options and is pricey, gift shop could be better too. Overall fantastic.
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours is a sheep farm that offers guided tours of the filming location for the Shire scenes in the Lord of the Rings movies. Visitors can explore a complete set of Hobbiton, which includes different sized hobbit holes and speciality houses such as those for beekeepers, gardeners, and lumberjacks. The attraction also features a gift shop, cafe and inn.
Breathtaking experience with interesting facts along the way. Must do it at least once when you visit NZ!
The tour is guided and each time slot gets on a bus and is driven to the set. Tour guide was friendly, funny, and enthusiastic. Answered all and every question we had. There aren't any actors or anything like that on the set/tour. You walk around the whole set.
You are taken around different hobbit holes and told fun facts about the actors and the set. The set is so detailed with fun props and real veggie gardens. The detail was amazing. It is so green out there! There is also a beautiful large lake.
At the pub/bar you can choose between ginger beer or a couple of different alcoholic drinks.
Adult prices were 89 $ in April 2022. Masks not required while out doors on the set but were required indoors and on the bus.
Tour lasted maybe 45 mins - an hour.
Laura James — Google review
Had a great experience visiting the movie set. Really enjoyed the informative tour which taught me quite a bit about how the movies were filmed. Ample opportunity to take pictures around the set if it is not too crowded. There was also a nice complimentary drink at the end of the tour. Would definitely recommend booking with a day tour as it is quite far from Auckland. Tour guides also seem to have some domain knowledge of how to avoid the crowds etc.
Andrew L — Google review
Unfortunately it was raining, but it must do that a lot cos they had heaps of umbrellas. The guide rattled off lots of facts but it was hard to hear due to rain & distance (umbrellas). There are lots of dwellings and things to look at that make it interesting. Photo opportunities abound. I really wanted to go inside a 'house', but there just aren't any apart from 1, and that is just a photo stop. If it were possible I would do a 1 on 1 with a guide, but you would need a quiet non rainy day, do they exist? The Green dragon tavern ( and mill) was very good, the ale not too bad either. The interior was well fitted out and large enough for tall people, roaring log fires to warm and dry you. Tables and chairs & food I think. I was in a group, one of several doing the rounds, & it was stop (take pictures)and start and listen throughout. No time to stop and look really, there was always another group coming up behind. Some of the doors could do with some TLC. Would I do it again. Oh YES.
A Y — Google review
This was the first thing I booked right after we booked our flights. My husband and I did the evening banquet tour and everything was phenomenal, from the tour, to the drinks, to the food, and the commentary. If you are considering booking a tour, it is an absolute must! If possible, I would definitely recommend the evening banquet tour so you can eat in the green dragon and feel like you’re in the movie! Also, definitely book in advance and space fills up quickly. Overall, it was absolutely wonderful!
Bridgete Clover — Google review
Joel picked us up early morning at our Hotel. He shared so much history of the movie set. He is knowledgeable and funny and made our trip very memorable. For individuals with disabilities in our group, he was considerate of their needs and tried his best to make the visit a great experience. My family loved the props he had at the ready to be used for photos. I definitely recommend this tour, just wish we had booked a longer tour, i really wanted to take more time to enjoy the scenery and would love to walk in the forest.
Fatima B. — Google review
This is a must do attraction. We did the 10:10am Tour + Lunch and enjoyed it. I would love to visit again, and this time much later in the afternoon when the sun is not too high up above, the scenery would look even more fantastically enchanting.
R Edrosolano (Red) — Google review
Amazing experience. Definitely recommend if you are in the area or want make a wee trip from Auckland.
Our tour guide Anna was great. Perfect level of information whilst still letting us have free reign to wander a bit.
The actual Hobbiton village is so beautiful. Such amazing attention to detail throughout. The gardens were absolutely outstanding. It's also so much bigger than we thought!
Going whilst NZ is still quiet was so great. We had the whole village to ourselves, so it was quiet and let us get photos without other people in it.
Will definitely go back one day!
Jon Adams — Google review
We adored our trip to this movie set. I'm a huge Tolkien fan, but my wife is less so and she still loved it for its overall beauty and uniqueness. We spent a good half day exploring on the tour and loved the beverage at the end of the tour in the cozy inn. A must do if you're in the area, fan or not. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
John Phelan — Google review
How could you not love this place! Enough is probably already been said about this, just a place dreams are made off. The guide was very engaging and entertaining, told us lots of behind-the-scenes stories and there’s made watching the movies after our visit all the more interesting. Our afternoon tea in the Dragon Inn was just wonderful it is such a picturesque and cozy place to stay for a bit. The staff was kind enough to give us some nice gluten-free slices, that came from the freezer, just super kind. There is some hobbit clothing in the in for guests to try out and take photos with, aside from that everything is just so beautifully done there are many many stunning photo opportunities.
Mathilde Noordzij — Google review
This was such a lovely experience! The tours are spaced enough that you manage to take pictures without the crowds. We got warned multiple times about an ongoing construction on the site, which was very kind, but it did not really spoil the experience at all. The guide was very fun and the food (we did the tour with lunch) was great. We loved it!
Katerina Merrill — Google review
For fans of "The Lord of the Rings," visiting this location is akin to stepping into the magical world of Middle-earth. Even for those who haven't seen the movie, the experience promises to be enchanting, thanks to the charming props, picturesque green pastures, and meticulously crafted set designs. The tour, lasting 1.5 hours, whisks visitors away on a journey that seems to transcend time.
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the quaint hobbit homes nestled amidst lush greenery, evoking a sense of wonder and nostalgia. The presence of farm animals adds to the idyllic ambiance, making every moment feel like a dream come true.
Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture adorable pictures amidst the scenic backdrop. However, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves quite a bit of walking.
Overall, whether you're a die-hard fan of "The Lord of the Rings" or simply seeking a magical escape into a whimsical realm, this experience is sure to leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings, soak in the tranquility of the countryside, and prepare to be transported to a world where fantasy meets reality.
Binita Shah — Google review
This was an awesome tour! If you’re a fan of the LOTR and the hobbit, then this is a must see. Our guide went into great detail explaining the art and production of this fantastic creation. We had a great experience, a day to remember 😊
The Necklens — Google review
I had a wonderful time at this place. The guided tour was very informative and engaging. I enjoyed seeing the movie set and learning about the characters and the scenes. I also found out how they chose this location for the film. Even though they were still working on some parts of the set, they gave me a free mug to make up for it. The gift shop was a bit pricey, but I got some amazing photos to remember this experience.
Nikolai Lesak — Google review
Visited from the U.S. with a group of 6. I personally had only viewed one of the movies. But, the guide explained things well such that you don't need to know details of the movies to understand the movie set. Beautiful area. And I really mean beautiful. Very interesting - the incredible details that went into the productions.
M T — Google review
It’s a magical place! We loved our tour guide and loved the whole tour. I’m so happy that I never felt rushed and I was able to explore and enjoy everything. I loved that they opened up a new experience of going inside a hobbits home and we got to fully explore how a hobbit lives. So happy coming here and it’s just such an enjoyable place.
Trinh Nguyen — Google review
A definite must-see. Glad I was able to finally check it off my bucket list. They are very organized, Every tour is set up by times. We had a great guide, too. The tour was about 2 hours long. Loved we were able to go inside one of the homes too. Highly recommend.
80's Girl — Google review
Very fun and well designed tour, everything smooth. Our tour guide Rob had the perfect personality to keep the group entertained, informed, and moving along in harmony. They have a lot of visitors every day but each group is a reasonable size. The tour start area is also well designed with adequate parking, toilets, and staff to field any issue. Follow the info in your reservation e.g. go to check-in and pick up your actual tickets, and get in the well marked line for your tour time. Recommended!
GT Hodge — Google review
Such a great, magical place and very good organized. We came in the afternoon at around 5-6pm and we were just 6 people group. Our guide was so good, local, so a lot of funny stories and moments from the creation of this village. Like we went to fairytale story. We enjoyed our time, weather also was great and drinks were delicious.
Highly recommended.
Maria Mikheeva — Google review
A must to do in New Zealand if you love Lord of the Rings.
Hobbiton is a huge place where you can see some of the original locations used in the movies. Be ready to spend your whole day there.
I did the tour with one of the guides from there called Steven. He was super nice and walked us through all the places explaining the stories and details about the productions. You’ll be able to go inside of the remarkable hobbit house and even have a real beer in the Green Dragon Inn.
They also have a souvenir shop with many items available so bring a lot of money to buy nice things.
Amazing experience.
Jaime Lettich — Google review
This is great. Just a wonderful experience. Like anything Weta, it's all so carefully made and the attention to detail is spectacular. You will love investigating all the intricacies in this magical world. And then, you get to explore inside an actual Hobbit hole, and wow it is really worth it. 10 rooms and corridors, each one as realistic as the movies. A running tap in the bathroom and kitchen! They really let you take your time to get the photos you want.
And finally, to top it off with a drink and snack at the green dragon. The pub is so fabulous. Great atmosphere with the roaring fire and authentic feeling.
A must do indeed.
Gareth Willmore — Google review
incredible experience!
Our guides were fantastic and made the day fun and even more memorable. Learning about the behind the scenes knowledge and little details made the experience even more memorable! The tour ends at the green dragon where they serve a complimentary beer of choice that is specifically brewed for hobbiton
I cannot recommend this experience enough!
Raymond K — Google review
Awesome tour. Did the lunch one and it was fantastic. Plenty of free car parks, check in is fast and the tour guides are lovely and informative. The set is amazing and you can now go inside one of two hobbit homes which are incredibly detailed. Buffet lunch was tasty and we got plenty of time to relax and eat.
Recommend a hat or one of the complimentary umbrellas if it is a hot day.
Dean 01 — Google review
This place is awesome and provided more than I expected. The tour of the Shire was well worth the money. You got to go inside a few of the houses and learn a lot of behind the scenes info. The staff is all really nice and knowledgeable which makes it even more fun. I definitely recommend taking the time to make the drive out here.
Located in Rotorua, Te Puia is a tourist attraction that combines natural beauty with Maori culture. With a recreated village and scenic geysers, the destination is perfect for anyone looking for an adventure while learning about New Zealand's indigenous people.
Great experience to all ages!
If you haven't seen a kiwi bird yet, visit the kiwi conservation. 3 birds were in cage and the young one would be set free once the bird reach to its maturity and can live independently outside. While the other 2 were expected to mate.
Best to go with a guided tour so you get more information plus the yummy volcano cake shouldn't be missed at the end of your tour😊
Jean Lu — Google review
Gene, our guide was fantastic. Explained things well, had interesting stories, and always made time for questions. It's a gentle hour and a half tour. About 20 minutes are waiting and watching for the geyser to erupt. The first part you take a tram down to the Kiwi bird sanctuary. Not sure why as it isn't far and we walked back. The tour is a nice mix of local culture, with the Kiwi birds, geyser and nature, and the Maori marae, and the three craft schools. You walk most of the tour, but it is mostly flat.
Would definitely recommend.
You can walk around for free (I think) if you don't want a guide. There are maps at the front you can get. The gift shop was a bit disappointing. It was either really nice, expensive pieces from the craft schools or really cheap junk that was mass produced.
Julia DeBari — Google review
Did the Te Rā guided experience and it was amazing! Powerful geysers, excellent guide, beautiful views, and you get to see wee kiwis as a bonus in a suitably designed environment. You also get access to the art and craft centre which houses students learning to carve and weave. I spent 2 hours all in all but you can do it in 1.5 hours.
Zeyad Tuffaha — Google review
We chose the package that includes geyser, Māori show, kiwi bird and dinner options. Pretty impressive with how well Māori cultures are preserved here. If you are looking for an all-inclusive in Rotorua, check out the 4 hours experience.
Aquarius — Google review
The cultural show and traditional art exhibit were top-notch highlights of our trip! It was awesome to immerse ourselves in the local culture. Plus, witnessing the natural mud and hot water geyser was mind-blowing—a sight you definitely don't want to miss!
Murray Bell — Google review
We did the nighttime geyser experience and would totally recommend it to others. Take a guided tour through the park without melting in the summer sun like you would during the day. Learn about history of the site as well as about the carvings and school. Such a cool experience to do. Main Pohutu geyser didn't go off while we were there despite waiting extra time but a number of the other geysers did. Would have been nice to see but still very special to see the others go off. The guides were awesome story tellers.
Mike Owen — Google review
A must-do when visiting New Zealand. My third time at Te Puia and I’ll still come back for a fourth visit. A 70ha geothermal valley, Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and kiwi conservation centre.
They don’t run self-guided tours anymore but you do get to freely explore the park after the guided tour to take photos at your leisure.
After seeing the main attraction of Pohutu geyser, there’s a nice circular trail around the park seeing the more dormant geysers and springs, mud pools, and river.
The Māori artwork is amazing, and the tour through the institute gives you a fantastic insight into the culture and knowledge of the Māori. Being able to speak to the students and see what brought them to the school was a real bonus.
And to top it off, we saw both kiwi in their enclosure! (You’ll be impressed at how big they are)
James Weston — Google review
The guided tour started with seeing Maori students learning to carve wood, stone and bone. Also, we saw examples of weaving before going to the kiwi conservation house. A male and female kiwi are kept in separate living areas and they were both out foraging when we were there.
Next was the thermal area, including the Pohutu Geyser.
The guide was knowledgeable and funny but unfortunately, if you stopped to take a photo or couldn't keep up with the front of the tour, you missed out on the commentary of the quietly spoken guide.
The tour was over in 1hr 15min, but you are welcome to stay in the grounds or visit the cafe and restaurant.
p b — Google review
One of the best parts of our holiday in NZ! We had an amazing tour guide and both the natural wonders and the cultural experience were beautiful. Also got to see a real life kiwi bird in the conversation section. A MUST DO if you are visiting Rotorua!
Katherine Manoulios — Google review
Seriously one of the best attractions in New Zealand! If the unique thermal landscape doesn't impress you the customer service certainly will; our family felt truly welcomed at Te Puia and the friendly, down to earth guides and staff really impressed me and made a great day, outstanding. The restaurant provided a buffet that was affordable and delicious. 6 hours after leaving and I'm still smiling from a wonderful day hosted by the truly fantastic team.
Siobhan Kelly — Google review
From the moment the tour started we were in good hands. Our tour guide was happy to answer questions and cared for those in our party with accessibility needs. The train we were driven around in is a great idea as the temperature was warm. Amazing craft there as well to purchase and the cafe does a lovely lunch. We didn't go to the hangi but our friends said the food was amazing and worth going to experience.
Jayne Rout — Google review
This is a total must do in Rotorua or even as a day trip from Auckland. There’s so much history and nature to explore here and it was definitely the highlight of my trip! The Māori people who own this land were so friendly so welcoming and I feel like I learned so much about their history and culture. Don’t miss out on this place! There’s also a lunch buffet that was delicious and filled with all kinds of food!
Jessica A — Google review
Excellent buffet dinner with MANY gluten free items and absolutely everything is labeled. The show after was a real treat and we enjoyed learning more about Māori culture. I brought kids ages 11, 12, 14 and 15 and everyone had a great time. Most of us skipped the hyper afterwards due to heavy rains. We hope to come back tomorrow for a full tour with history lesson.
Joshua Rothman — Google review
We went around with a guide which adds value to the experience. There are opportunities to see, hear, smell and feel the thermal park. You can feel the heat in the ground and on some of the 'hot seats' they have. Also worth a mention is the Kiwis you can see in their dedicated nocturnal enclosure; you have to be patient and ideally quiet and give time for your eyes to adjust to the dark, but it's worth it if you are fortunate enough to see them
Mark — Google review
Our experience started with a cultural experience that gave me goosebumps. The Māori performers are talented, energetic and passionate.
Then we did a tour with the guide Paul. He was knowledgeable, funny, and patient with questions and insights.
Worth the trip, great time overall.
*we did not get to see the geyser erupt but it was still really cool
Reserve in advance! Cultural performances are in the morning/afternoon, or you can do an evening/dinner.
Shannon Hoeg — Google review
Mixed feelings, glad I went.
Initially I thought you could easily walk to see the geyser and go, like only spend 30 minutes there.
To see the geyser it is organised in controlled groups that leave at set times. Recommend booking in advance and knowing the times.
It’s a guided tour that takes you past a Kiwi enclosure in a dark building behind glass. If you are lucky you may see one. It was a non event for us.
You then walk past some mud pools then over to the Geyser. You don’t get long there so explore and snap your photos quickly.
From there it’s on a bus tram thingy back to the main centre where you can learn more about Kiwi culture.
It was well over an hour overall, if you are really keen on the culture and history aspect, this place is well worth the entry fee.
If you are just after a photo of the geyser, it’s an expensive photo to take.
The day we went, it was raining so the photos are more moody, and can become interesting with a little contrast added in an edit.
We also had lunch at the buffet restaurant, we booked that in advance in which I recommend doing, especially at holiday time. It was a nice experience.
Overall, a good experience, one you need to allocate time for.
Boris Biskupic — Google review
I do recommend the trip. The tour guide was fantastic and the sites and info and school-tour is really cool. You learn a lot about the culture and it’s very interesting.
The tour was overcrowded like many can be, and it was hard to see/hear/learn everything that you may want to with such a big group. If you come and have extra time to walk around on your own after the guided tour, it may add to the experience and bump it to 5 stars, but we didn’t know it was an option ahead of time and therefore didn’t have the time to do so.
Also get to see a kiwi if you’re lucky! The geysers are pretty cool and natural.
Sol — Google review
The guided tours definitely feel rushed, too many people in one group and overall too many groups during the day - however you are allowed to roam free after the tour which gives you the option to go back to places of your interests. Considering of what you get to experience during your tour (arts and crafts institute, kiwi bird, geysers) and cultural performance (optional), I think the entry fee is fair and worth the money. I absolutely enjoyed it ☺️
Jana Gerhards — Google review
An extraordinary Māori cultural performance awaits, set against breathtaking views of the geysers. Our guide was truly delightful, providing insightful commentary throughout the journey. Additionally, the opportunity for amazing kiwi viewing added an extra layer of wonder to the experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Lutsy Leggett — Google review
Amazing history of Maori people showing us the students at the school learning wood working and weaving. Our guide was amazing! The geothermal park is fascinating with geysers and bubbling mud. Also saw a kiwi in the conservation centre.
Debbie Edwards — Google review
Really enjoyed our group time here. We saw the Huka show, toured the Craft School for weaving and wood working and the beautiful store with all of the handmade items. We had the special dinner, which was delicious! Would highly recommend the entire experience.
Jerri Grunewald — Google review
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20 Hemo Road, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
Whakarewarewa Forest is a national forest in Rotorua, New Zealand, which offers hikers, cyclists and horse riders a variety of trails for exploring its tall redwood trees. It is also home to geysers and mud pools.
One of the most amazing forests I've seen located within a city! Plenty of activity here, such as mountain biking and walking tracks. If you go through the vistors center there is a tree top walk and flying fox which you can pay and enter. Everything else is free and there's plenty of parking. Walking tracks start from the visitors center, take the red track for a quick 30min walk.
Amazing place to visit both during the day and at night.
Walking tracks can be seen in my photos.
Jude B — Google review
It was really such a nice walk in the redwoods forest that you will feel to remain there forever. We took 1 hr track which is blue one. You have the option to take three walk which we will plan in night time later but overall it was a wonderful break in Rotorua. Would love to visit again anytime.
Alok Verma — Google review
You just can't go wrong coming here. Sure it gets a bit busy sometimes but walking among these giant trees and the cool fresh air is always worth it.
They have various clearly marked tracks with different difficulty levels ranging from 30mins to 3.5hrs, from comfy family walk to some fairly steep walks
Can also grab a nice coffee at the end or even do some of the awesome canopy walks
maans le roux — Google review
This is an absolute must see experience. Bring a decent pair of boots/shoes and walk the various number of walking tracks available. No words can describe the absolute beauty of the Whakarewarewa Forest.
Toilet facilities and parking are available onsite and there is a gift store where the staff are very helpful.
Phillip — Google review
This is one beautiful forest with plenty of large majestic trees. I could spend all day soaking up the scenery. There is one set of toilets at the front entrance along with a small shop. I wouldn't recommend use of wheelchairs or strollers as the tree roots are everywhere! There are horses around the tracks which is great to see and loads of mountain bike riders. You can opt to take a short track which is good for small children (follow the signs) will be coming back for sure!
vydella09 — Google review
Perhaps ignorance on our part however we were quite shocked to find out that the forest was actually non-native trees. Equally surprising is how fast these must grow to become the massive impressive glorious looking trees at the forest. We took the tree walk and later noticed that many others were also walking thru forest floor. We noticed all the signs stating not to touch the bark of the trees to avoid damaging it - I agree. However could not help noticing that were the walkway is connecting to the trees that the barks are getting compressed and are sorting to bulge below and above the connections and straps. I understand the commercial attractiveness of the tree walks versus walking on the forest floor.
Patrick Zuluaga — Google review
Magical day and night. I arrived 5 39 so bought night ticket which started at 6 15. But as you only pay for tree walk was able to see trees from ground on one of the public tracks. So saw forest in day and night. Magical both times of the day.
Julie French — Google review
We went for a hike and took the Pohaturoa track (yellow arrows) which took us a little over 2 hours. The trail had many beautiful lookouts facing both the mountains and the lake, and many photo opportunities amongst the trees. The first part of the route is mostly under the open sky, and the latter part being covered in the forest.
The track itself was relatively smooth; easy to intermediate in difficulty. I would highly recommend this track to anyone who loves nature to experience these trails for themselves!
Denise — Google review
Great place for spending a few hours with family. You can choose to take the ground track for free, or tree top path if you pay. The bridges have plenty of of connection points and relatively high walls, therefore they feel safe even though they’re suspended bridges and wobbly. The parking lots inside are limited, but there’s a lot of parking spots along the road outside.
Mansour Ganji — Google review
Must do in the evening when the sun has set, the forest is lit up like a Christmas tree and is spectacular to see. Day tours are also available. Buy a ticket that allows you to do both.
Terry Ross — Google review
Great walk at night, despite the rain! I‘m usually scared of heights, but it was too dark to see to the ground, so it was perfect! Don’t think I’d manage the 20m option at the end of the track during daylight - there’s see-through bridges and platforms!
Olivia T. — Google review
Stunning, peaceful place! Even for the physically disabled, I was able to walk 5 minutes down the path and find a lovely bench to sit amongst the great trees instead of walking too much. The parking lot was chaotic but still found free spots to park.
Nova — Google review
The lantern walk among the redwoods was incredible. I’d recommend booking the fast track if you can. We actually weren’t aware of the lantern walk before we got to Rotorua, and so we had a long wait. It was still worth it but skipping the queue would have been good.
Andrew — Google review
The Redwoods were majestic and serene, towering over us like ancient guardians. We walked among them, feeling their presence and their history. The air was fresh and fragrant, filled with the sounds of birds and insects. We felt a connection with nature, a sense of awe and wonder. It was a peaceful and beautiful experience, one that we will always remember.
The Tamaki Maori Village is a popular tourist attraction in New Zealand that replicates an indigenous Maori village. The village features demonstrations of traditional arts, songs and dances, as well as tours of the surrounding forest.
The tour begins with performance of a village chief and villagers challenging the strangers coming to their village. Then you walk through the village where you see the people living their lives, playing games. You end up in a room where singing and dancing performance happens, including haka performance.
The dinner comes as a fine dining experience served as buffet at the middle of the table where you sit at with few fellow travelers. The alcoholic drinks are not included in price, but coffee and tea are - those are served in Victorian tea cups. Really interesting.
What I minded a bit is that it's not clear what to expect form the tour before you actually experience it. You see a lot of ads about how the tour is great, but no more information about what exactly to expect. Maybe it's on purpose, but I didn't exactly know what I'm buying.
The tour is surely not cheap, but I would still recommend it, as it's really just interesting. Book your tickets in advance - the tickets might be booked out, as it happened to me and my boyfriend. We needed to alter our plans a bit to experience this performance.
Jana Krištanová — Google review
Its not a real show. Its a show but it's nice to see some of the Maori traditions being presented. The Maori welcome dance is very interesting. The food was great as well.
Neda Javadpour — Google review
One of the best tour I have taken. The driver was funny and make the trip to the village educational. The experience was fascinating and entertaining, offering insights into the lives and culture of the Maori people. The meal at the end was absolutely delicious as well. Highly recommended!
Jonsson Liu — Google review
Just wonderful.. I recommend this experience to everyone who visits New Zealand.. the bus driver was a true entertainer and the people are incredible friendly and funny
Naty Schaller — Google review
Mixed feelings about the Experience.
The setting and the demonstrations were fun.
The session was too long
The dancing session was very loud
The dinner was a disappointment. Food was not great and some things were overcooked (duck)
C C (Sushigirl0725) — Google review
What an incredible experience! We learned about the Maori culture and had a great dinner. We went on a rainy day, but the rain didnt disturb our adventure. The driver of our bus was very friendly and made everyone feel at home!
Giulia Mundstock — Google review
An amazing experience! It absolutely poured rain on the night we visited and they just rolled with it and made it still such a fun experience for us. Such a friendly group with amazing talent! We learned a lot and felt so welcomed. Make sure to join in for at least one activity when they ask for volunteers, I promise you'll have fun doing it. Food at the dinner was really good.
Stephanie Sandercock — Google review
I attended this experience in 2014 and a month ago. It is great for learning about the Maori culture in an interactive was and the singing is amazing. My partner, who is musically trained and came with ne last month, said that this was one of the best singing and harmonising she's ever heard!
Re food: please note that they used to have a Hangi, but not anymore. It is fine dining, no cooking in the ground involved. I myself hadn't read properly through the website having done the experience before ad having read all the reviews that include hangi on Google. As a result, that was a bit of a disappointment as I had talked it up so much to my partner.
The staff was great though, thanks for making this an enjoyable evening for the most part.
Joannie Debes — Google review
This is a must if you are visiting Rotorua. All the staff were very welcoming and really made us feel like extended family. The demonstrations were beautiful. I loved eating family style with other guests. Definitely arrive with an empty stomach because they serve heaps of yummy food. They’ve put a lot of heart into the entire evening.
Jayme Azeyria Rare — Google review
The process was very educational. They randomly arranged guests to sit together and we had very interesting conversation during dinner. And of course the food was sensational.
陳妍君 — Google review
Stunning! Mahalo the 'ohana and iwi for allowing us to be a part of their world. Great information, knowledge and very friendly kanaka maoli. Will be back again. The food was great with state of the art hospitality. Mahalo nui loa. A hui hou, which is never good bye but until we meet again.
Carlos Navor Jr — Google review
This was such a great experience, and a highlight of our trip. The food was amazing, the entertainment was fantastic, and the educational aspect was very insightful.
My wife was suffering from some residual motion sickness, and they were so attentive to make sure she was comfortable and cared for.
I would highly recommend making this part of any trip to New Zealand, and will be going back if we get the chance to return to that beautiful country.
Jared A. Olschewski — Google review
Great experience ( also comes up under previous name Tamaki Maori Village) . Opportunity to try some of the traditional skills/dances . Informative and educational. Good food, a bar but the best bits were the performances of traditional culture .
Seuss 72 — Google review
Was not value for money. This was the most expensive experience we had and it had some good points but also some bad. Entertainment and the interactions were fantastic. What an amazingly talented and kind group of people. The appetizers at each station with local ingredients were phenomenal. Where it failed was the meal. The best thing was the warm roll. All of the food was served family style, was cold, and was not tasty. We expected local food in a local experience. The dining room was too formal and didn’t fit the rest of the experience. The food did not match the rest of the experience which I would give a five. The food literally was a 1 and I’m not the only one to note this, as of late, so take that into account as something may have changed since we booked back in 2023 for our 2024 trip.
Tania D — Google review
Amazing cultural experience! Highly recommend for everyone visiting Rotorua and New Zealand in general.
You get picked up at the gathering place or your hotel of choice and as soon as you hop on the bus, experience starts with friendly guides teaching you their language and sharing interesting facts.
Once in the village, you get to not only just watch the performance, but also experience the games and traditions first hand - such a generous and welcoming act!
Dinner was great as well - lot of tasty food with a pairing options (note: if going for a non alcoholic pairing, consider doing one for two people as drinks were fairly large).
Must visit when in NZ!
Anna Grishaeva — Google review
Amazing. I highly recommend this place. My daughter is the tour guide there and she shouted us some tickets. I was literally thinking it was going to be boring and I’d fall asleep…I swallow my words because it was O for Awesome. 10/10 for me. Everyone there genuinely seemed to enjoy their part in the tour. The food was amazing, especially the Duck and the Watercress salad.
Roxanne Toleafoa — Google review
Such an amazing experience! I would highly recommend to anyone wanting to do a cultural experience in Rotorua.
The lady at check in (I didn’t catch her name!) went above and beyond to assist us when we had a small issue with our booking (not at the fault of Te Pa Tu), and we are so thankful for her help. Our bus driver, Uncle Hemi, shared his knowledge and his jokes, and made the short drives so much fun and interactive. Everyone at the village were amazing, and we are lucky to have had them share their knowledge and their Māori culture with us. The food was beautifully cooked and the service in the dining space was wonderful.
Laura Roach — Google review
4.6
(824)
•
4.5
(4626)
1220 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua city, Rotorua 3040, New Zealand