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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Dunedin to Paihia?
The direct drive from Dunedin to Paihia is 1,030 mi (1,658 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 3 hrs in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Dunedin to Paihia, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua, Christchurch, Taupo, Tauranga, Hamilton, Lake Tekapo, Nelson, and Oamaru, as well as top places to visit like The Victoria Esplanade and Tongariro Alpine Crossing, or the ever-popular Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café.
The top cities between Dunedin and Paihia are Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua, Christchurch, Taupo, Tauranga, Hamilton, Lake Tekapo, Nelson, and Oamaru. Auckland is the most popular city on the route. It's 24 hours from Dunedin and 3 hours from Paihia.
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.
Lake Tekapo is a minuscule settlement situated at the southern tip of Lake Tekapo in the interior part of South Island, New Zealand. The region comprises five settlements within the scarcely inhabited Mackenzie Basin and had a population of 558 people as per the 2018 census. One can follow a three-day itinerary starting from Garden City to Mount Cook Village through Lake Tekapo, where they can witness splendid stargazing activities.
6% as popular as Auckland
59 minutes off the main route, 13% of way to Paihia
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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.
45% as popular as Auckland
0 minutes off the main route, 18% of way to Paihia
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.
58% as popular as Auckland
1 minute off the main route, 59% of way to Paihia
I'll never travel to Paihia without this trip planner again
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.
17% as popular as Auckland
4 minutes off the main route, 76% of way to Paihia
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.
53% as popular as Auckland
19 minutes off the main route, 79% of way to Paihia
Tauranga, a charming harbourside city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty region, is home to the historic Elms Mission Station and its Georgian-style home dating back to 1847. The city is connected by a bridge to Mount Maunganui, known for its beach town vibes, hot saltwater pools, and the extinct volcano that shares its name. Additionally, visitors can explore White Island, an active volcano located offshore that can be reached by helicopter or boat.
10% as popular as Auckland
36 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Paihia
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.
8% as popular as Auckland
3 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to Paihia
Auckland is a major city located in the northern part of New Zealand's North Island. It is situated around two large harbours and offers stunning views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of luxurious super-yachts and has many bars and cafes lined up. The city's oldest park, Auckland Domain, surrounds an extinct volcano and features the formal Wintergardens. Mission Bay Beach, near downtown Auckland, also provides visitors with a beautiful seaside promenade.
Most popular city on this route
0 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Paihia
Best stops along Dunedin to Paihia drive
The top stops along the way from Dunedin to Paihia (with short detours) are Sky Tower, Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours, and Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland. Other popular stops include Huka Falls tracks, Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ, and Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
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
Large park with rose gardens, BBQs, aviaries & a paddling pool, plus a cafe & miniature railway.
I love the esplanade.
It’s the best to run the kids out of energy, grab a little ice cream, let them splash in the paddling pool, and check out some gorgeous roses too. We often walk the tracks, and find or drop some “palmy rocks”
The little train is a family favourite for the kids. My only gripe is toilets are pretty far spread out for the littles, but there is still plenty sprinkled around.
Alida — Google review
There is a children's park combined to. And ppl visit there for expressing, relax. Calm and soothing place to spend some free time under shades of city middle of nature. Public toilets available.
nirosh gamage — Google review
Very attractive place for both children and adults. Variety of things like garden, pool, train ride, small zoo, etc.
The train ride was cheap and enjoyed very well.
Good place for relaxing and entertainment.
Denn P — Google review
Our family day out was incredible. My grandchildren woke up and asked me if we can do it . Thank you for the train rides.The park was enjoyable.There is so much to explore.If you want a family day out please go and check out Victoria Esplanade in Palmerston North.
Babysons71 — Google review
The kids loved loved and loved it. Me on the other hand was struggling to keep up. I only gave 4 star because it was difficult to find seating areas with decent shade where I can work while the kids played
Victoria B3G — Google review
Came here for my first date with my partner so we come here anytime we're in Palmy now 💅 gorgeous place, especially when all the flowers and birds are out. Nice walk around, alone, for couples, familes and all;P
Kahurangi Rose — Google review
Came here a lot as a child. A Lived overseas for 45 years but always enjoy visiting when I'm back in Palmy. It's a beautiful spot for walking, picnicking and watching the wee ones splishing in the children's pool. Aviary section is a bit sad now but hopefully the birds who were there are living in a better space.
Denise Woodley — Google review
So much to do. The train ride around the park was so much fun and definitely a highlight. Train staff are ao friendly, great experience.
Kerry Coetzee — Google review
Great spot for walks. Peaceful in the morning before everyone else is up. Great tree life. Recommend popping into the conservatory there too - a banana tree in PN 😮 fabulous orchids and carnivorous plants.
Carina Daly — Google review
Omg a beautiful place to feel like yr in a secret garden beautiful Rose's little train is a hoot love love 😍
🦋 I'm an Out of towner :) :) the parakeet birds were amazing too 🐦 🦋 💐 🐦 free bbq avaliable next ⌚ 👍🏼 beautiful hothouse with amazing plants and lovely water fall plants glore ✅ ‼️ dugard Mackenzie park 🌻 🎑 ☀ 🌟 🌍 ✌️ 🚉 🧙♂️ 🎄 🚶 🌇
Chez Adele — Google review
Amazing train ride, just over 2km long. You can catch the train to the playground and mini putt etc. Then hop on the later train back. Miss 9 loved it and to be fair so did we.
Tara Stewart — Google review
Heaps to explore and a good variety of playground equipment for different ages. Love the setting, lots of bush and flowers around. The train rides are great fun too, girls had a blast.
Picnic tables, free BBQ and mini golf there as well.
Kristy H — Google review
Cherry blossoms, with their delicate white petals, create a stunning visual spectacle in early spring. The garden is awash in a sea of these blossoms, offering a breathtaking display of nature's beauty.
Seema Thomas — Google review
My Palmerston fav especially the bird sanctuary, aviaries Greenhouse, cafe and surrounding walks and gardens. So much to do and see. The sanctuary has amazing staff that teach you all about Thier residents and patients. Really love that centre with Thier knowledge and with what they do
Rachael Garrett — Google review
What a great park for the local area! My girlfriend and I first visited the river, which was spectacular, we then walked through the native bush walk until we popped put near the bird sanctuary. We were amazed by the greenhouse and then walked through the bird sanctuary. We made our way back out of the park through the enormous kids' playground. Better yet, the whole experience is free of charge, and the park is meticulously maintained.
Benjamin Mador — Google review
Great park for pretty much everything.
River walks,bush walks, playground suitable for all ages with the toddler one away from the bigger kids.
Plenty of toilets available with baby changing areas.
Lots of parking but when big events are on they fill up quickly.
The Esplanade cafe is good also.
The bush walks are easy for all ages.
Great ride on train service too!
Bridie Allen-Smith — Google review
Best place for relax with children and spend time
Play area with adventure events,
Rose garden,
River 🚶 pathway,
Mini railway,
Free Parking.
Better to take foods from outside
sameera damith — Google review
Was the perfect place to spend a cold and rainy day. So beautiful and easy to walk around. Then popped across the road for a good coffee in a historic building.
R A — Google review
Explore on a nice day, rose gardens are amazing when in bloom, aviary, cafe, mini train, duck pond, paddling pond, and plenty of places to walk and relax.
Noel J — Google review
4.7
(2990)
•
4.5
(502)
1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
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
4
Forgotten World Adventures
Tours
Sightseeing tour agency
Tour operator
Scenic Railroads
Boat Tours
4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
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 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
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)
•
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
Bridal Veil Falls, located in the Wairēinga Scenic Reserve near Raglan in the Waikato region of New Zealand, is a magnificent 55-meter plunge waterfall. It is the only one of its kind in the North Island and offers four lookout platforms for visitors to enjoy stunning views. The easily accessible track to the bottom of the falls takes about 15 minutes and is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Worth it ! It’s about 8mins to the top of the falls from the car park, two other lookout points before hitting the bottom. Another 10min down the stairs to the bottom. Would recommend going down first, then slowly make your way back up on the stairs to the other lookout points as a breather. Tracks are well paved and maintained.
Dana Young — Google review
Stunning place. Well worth the drive and the walk. The initial walk to the top of the falls is around 10 minutes. If you want to get to the bottom (where the best views are), you have to desend around 250 steps. Keep in mind you have to get back up the stairs too. But for my family with mild fitness we managed fine. Great day trip, including a visit to Raglan.
Gemma Scott — Google review
Great large spaces to capture the view. Wear non slip shoes on rainy days. The wood and clay get slippery. 20 min round walk. Easy to navigate with good walkways. Stunning views. Such a nice bush walk as well. Plenty of signs.
Joy Jackson — Google review
For years I would visit Bridal Veil Falls in Yosemite, but this is the first time I visited Bridal Veil Falls in New Zealand. It is absolutely spectacular! What I love the most was the four viewing locations along the short but steep trail. These viewing points allows many angles to be captured by my camera and my mind. Highly recommend this stop on your journey.
Cree Putney — Google review
Visiting these falls is a trip definitely worth taking. Parking is free and there is good route access. It was without a doubt the finest. Secure for children, with great viewing platforms at the top, middle, and bottom. Stunning waterfalls that exceeded my wildest dreams. Observe rainbows at their most spectacular in the late afternoon. Going down is a breeze, but coming back is a bit of a challenge. There are, however, benches where you can sit down and relax if you're getting weary.
gaurav parekh — Google review
Simple car park about a ten minute walk to the falls then 5 mins down the steps to the bottom. Quite a pretty and grand falls with the little creek rolling off the cliff. A fair amount of signage talking about the history and the conservation of the area. Which can be seen as just outside the boundary it is straight back to farm land.
James Thompson — Google review
Absolutely stunning and well worth the drive and short walk to the lookouts. Multiple look outs so if you can't make it all the way down to view the waterfall you can view it from a few vantage points up top. Spectacular scenery all around!
Darren Masters — Google review
Easy walk to the top of the falls.
Lovely stone path running beside a stream & meandering through bush.
If you choose to continue to the bottom, it starts as a gentle slope before you get to the 261 stairs - there'd been rain the previous day & was large puddles on most steps needing to be avoided, be careful the wooden step surround is very slippery and the bush side muddy!
The view improved at every viewing platform and made us continue downward to the best view at the bottom. Unfortunately each seat was wet due to lack of sunlight on them & I felt the return trip up the stairs for 3-4 days afterwards!
Note: I'm not very fit - obviously.!!
Fiona — Google review
There are approximately 10 parking spots here, which tend to be mostly occupied. The entrance is easy to find. As you walk in from the entrance, you'll encounter shade from trees, pathways, and a river, but there's no need to worry; everything is straightforward. After a 5-minute walk, you'll reach a sign indicating the way to the viewing platforms. There are four viewing platforms, ascending from the highest to the lowest, and the round trip takes only 20 minutes. Each platform offers a different perspective of the waterfall, showcasing unique beauty. The shaded pathways and stairs make for a comfortable walk, and the air is refreshing. Sitting on the chairs and listening to the sound of the waterfall is incredibly relaxing; you might find it hard to leave. It's truly a great place for a leisurely walk during your vacation – the journey is easy, yet incredibly soothing!
Tiffany Wu — Google review
The 10 min to the falls across the rainforest is amazing 🤩
The fall itself is stunning: there's 260 steps down to the bottom of the fall but it is pretty easy.
This place is pretty popular, so don't expect to be all by yourself
Maud Cappelle — Google review
Love this place. Lovely walk by the stream through native bush to the top of the falls, then 261? Steps to the bottom. We'll worth the effort.
Sylvia McKenzie — Google review
This is free of cost. Majestic view of a wonderful waterfall. Small walking track leading to this view. No steps to climb or get down to view the waterfalls.
If you like to view it from the bottom, you need to climb down the stairs which is about 350.
Plenty of parking on the road.
Vinay Karanam — Google review
It’s a beautiful place to go. Very quiet, clean and scenic. The trek is not very difficult. There was no ticket required to enter this place.
radhika Khandelwal — Google review
What a little gem! A very unassuming roadside sign leads to this beautiful scene. Just a short walk to the top and a not-that-hard jaunt to the bottom for spectacular views that test the limits of your limited iPhone photography skills (see attached)
Geoff Burnhill — Google review
Nice 35 mins drive from Hamilton, and beautiful little forest walk..
hard to believe that the tiny little stream that you see when you start your walk, turns into such a majestic waterfall.. easy access, but the stairs might get slippery when wet..
Rajiv Rajusha — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous place to visit. Need to make sure you wear appropriate footwear. About 270 steps from top to bottom. Need to be relatively fit
Steven Newport — Google review
Beautiful! An easy walk upto the top view point. Around 300 odd steps down with mid and lower level to rest up if needed. The waterfall is beautiful. Great stop when in Raglan.
Smridhi Marwah — Google review
Nice place for walk and exploring bushes and tree areas. It's cold soothing environment. Fall is so nice . The view of nature is spectacular
Bhumi patel — Google review
Beautiful place to go for bush walk and enjoy the peace and quiet in the 🌳 🌲 🌴. There are 4 different levels to view the falls. There are well-built steps from top to the very bottom of the falls. Different stunning views at leavels, and it is really worth to go to the very bottom. Highly recommended 👌
Lily Liu — Google review
Beautifulllllll. Can be quite busy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get beautiful photos!
You can’t swim as it’s disrespectful to the Maori culture. Just a place to feel serene.
Four viewpoints: one right next to and above the fall, one above but a bit further, one midway down and the final at the bottom. It’s doable for the steepness, just a lot of stairs :)
Definitely a spot to experience if you love waterfalls!
Kayla Ortiz — Google review
Beautiful waterfalls, the walk is nice, many steps going back up, but manageable. My 7 and 9 years old walked back up without needing to stop 😅 Would love to visit again at different time of the day. It will surely give you all beautiful colors ❤️
Vivian Huang — Google review
Great location, lovely walk & impressive falls. Lots of steps to climb down to mid & bottom viewpoint, then of course up - only average fitness required. No steps to walk to 2 upper viewpoints. Only 1 negative - very busy with loud groups on a public holiday.
Marg Baird — Google review
Visiting the colossal waterfall was a sensory journey that unfolded in three breathtaking perspectives. From the top, the panorama was awe-inspiring as the cascading water seamlessly merged with the lush landscape, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
The mid-view offered a unique vantage point, allowing me to witness the sheer force of the waterfall and appreciate the intricate details of its descent. The deafening roar and the mist that enveloped the surroundings added a thrilling dimension to the experience.
Finally, the bottom view provided an up-close encounter with the raw power of nature as torrents of water thundered down, creating a symphony of sound and a refreshing mist that invigorated the senses. Each viewpoint unveiled a different facet of the waterfall’s grandeur, making it an unforgettable journey through nature’s majestic wonders.
Sreeram Nattath — Google review
We arrived late in the day so there was essentially no one else around. The viewing platforms are well placed to give a good look of the falls even if you choose not to walk all the way down the steps.
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.
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
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4.5
(4626)
1220 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua city, Rotorua 3040, 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.
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.
Mount Maunganui is a extinct volcano in the North Island of New Zealand, which offers stunning views of the city and harbor. It also has walking trails that wind around it. The summit walk on the mountain is steep but can be completed in about 50 minutes coming down is considerably quicker! There is also a track on Moturiki Island which adjoins the peninsula and features magical groves of pohutukawa trees which bloom between November and January.
I have walked up the Mount before but this most recent time was even better - I really recommend walking up for sunrise. You get amazing views and even better you don't get as hot with the walk. The way up with the stairs is quite steep though so give yourself time for stops to admire the view.
Kate Murray — Google review
Be careful which track you take! We took a ‘challenging’ one and it did not lie, our hammys were on fire! The views and the endorphins made it worth it though! Definitely a must do if you’re visiting.
Nikita Nelson — Google review
Mount Maunganui in Tauranga
Visited on 29/1/2019
Mount Maunganui is also known by the Maori as Mauao. It is a large lava dome formed two to three million years ago.
Do not be deceived by the name "Mount Maunganui". It is nothing more than just a low hill of 232 metres.
We walk along the Salisbury Wharf / Pilot Bay side, following the board walk.
My wife and I take the easier Base Track, while our friends decide to walk up to the summit by the Summit Track. Although the latter is a shorter track, it demands more stamina to walk up the slope.
From the track, we can catch a good view of the picturesque Pilot Bay, and some ships sailing pass.
It is a hot day, and we finish drinking the water we take along before we complete our walk. The ending point is on the different side of the peninsula.
We are surprised that our friends arrive at the foothill 20 minutes later than us. We meet at the information centre, and cool ourselves down in air-conditioned comfort.
What a relief! Toilets facilities are available near the 8nfirmation centre.
Sin Fong Chan — Google review
Really nice place to just chill out and get sea views or climb and get a full panorama of the city.
Michael Geros — Google review
Beautiful hike, well kept track. There are different tracks to choose from (some that are steep, others that are more of a gradual incline). We saw lots of families on this track.
Elisabeth Erhart — Google review
Short hike for the most amazing panoramic views of the whole bay. We spent several hours at the top enjoying the views. A must if you’re in the area.
Nick Whales — Google review
I was completely blown away by the perfect view in the summit. While walking on my way to the top i was impressed by the seaside view and surprised to see a herd of lambs on the pasteur.
ian salazar — Google review
Love the amazing views from right on top you can see whole of mount and Tauranga
Anis — Google review
Lovely place to spend a morning or afternoon walking, trekking or hiking depending on which route you choose to take. There's no toilets or rest-stops though so make sure to plan in advance and bring a bottle of water and snacks with you just in case.
Also, if you get to the section that gives you multiple options for alternate routes to the summit and it points into a trail that's covered by bushes and trees - don't take that route! It's overgrown and there's no clear path to follow which means you can easily get lost. Don't risk it!
Lena Palmer — Google review
Beautiful, short walk to the peak of Mount Maunganui! Street parking is available for free around the area, you might have to come early or get lucky to get a spot. The walk itself is pretty short, about 45 minutes to get to the top and much less to get down. The views are fantastic and you get to see some nice graffiti and cute sheep along the way. The view of the city and the bay is beautiful and totally worth a few pictures when you get to the top. Not a very crowded trail but we did see a couple of running groups pass us.
Marta Borowska — Google review
We love this area! The town, restaurants and shopping are great. The beaches are beautiful and wide, and there are wonderful hiking trails around the base of the mountain, and up to the top. Take the time to make the short (but sometimes a little steep) climb to the top to enjoy the views!
Mark Pitts — Google review
I just loved this city, the main beach is beautiful and good for kids to play and it’s close to the cafes and restaurants.
Karine Valverde — Google review
4.8
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5.0
(2759)
3116, New Zealand
18
Main Beach Wave Pool
Swimming pool
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
5.0
(1)
•
4.5
(1666)
4 Marine Parade, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116, New Zealand
Piha Beach is a popular coastal destination known for its dark sand and powerful waves, perfect for surfing enthusiasts. Its sweeping vistas offer breathtaking panoramic views that can be enjoyed during long walks or hikes up Lion Rock, which provides an excellent vantage point. However, the beach's currents are strong and not ideal for swimming, requiring lifeguards to be on duty regularly. While climbing Lion Rock can be challenging, the stunning scenery at its peak makes it a worthwhile experience.
Awesome beach with amazing scenery. You can walk for miles and climb Lion Rock for even better views. Not the best place for swimming as the currents are quite strong but there are usually lifeguards on duty.
Nick Whales — Google review
Stunning beach and magnificent view, there are many jellyfish on the beach that people should be careful of. Beautiful place for joy and surfing and photography!
Barry_haoyun — Google review
One of the best beaches I have been to. You can climb the small rock called lion rock located in the beach and get amazing views. Sea is rough and didn’t feel confident to get into the waters.
Also you don’t get public transport or regular app based taxi services like uber to this location. Make sure you arrange your personal transport before the trip. Wonderful beach to get relaxed over a weekend and spend some time with family/friends. Plenty of parking available too.
Dilum De Silva — Google review
Easy drive from Auckland! Such a beautiful beach with black sand. It was super windy here and the water can get very rough, but it's very relaxing nonetheless.
Melissa Previte — Google review
Lion rock is nice view on the top, a little bit hard to climb but rewarding once you did.
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Santiago Destreza — Google review
Gorgeous black sand beach! They've even made stairs and railings to safely climb Lion's rock! I timed it and it only took 2 minutes for us to reach the top. Be careful not to walk barefoot on the sand in the summer as it's hot.
Sharon Chandra — Google review
Piha beach is divided into 2 parts - North and South.
Both the beaches are absolutely stunning.
Enjoyed the journey just as much as the destination,
The road is quite curvy with some sharp turns.
It is a 40mins drive from Auckland city.
It has a serene environment with a breathtaking view if it's cloudy or if it rains.
It has black sand and the beaches are very clean.
The waves are very rough so avoid swimming and surfing as lifeguards are also not around in north beach.
Carrying food and water is mandatory as we don't have cafes and shops nearby.
Limited parking and public transport is not available.
There are washrooms at the corner of the road which goes towards the north beach.
I highly recommend this beach if you are a tourist or traveller.
Peenaaz Amreen — Google review
Piha beach is a perfect weekend getaway to spend some time with nature. It's a black sand beach with nice spots to chill, read a book, do a picnic or if you're the adventurous one do surfing. The water is literally transparent and so clean. Parking can be hard to find on weekends.
Binita Shah — Google review
Lion rock climb is steep and narrow and very windy. There is a beautiful Maori guardian up there and has amazing views of the beach and houses up in mountains. We mainly just did the north beach which has black soft sand and very rough waves. Beautiful sunset views but sadly we went when it was slightly cloudy but it was still a stunner of a view. The walk down from the lion rock is a bit dangerous so wouldn’t recommend to children or those that have fear of height. It is an experience to try if you are at the beach for the views from up there. Very busy beach and is quite popular so parking is tricky. There are no dogs allowed on the beach. Waves looks great for surfing as we saw some amazing surfers doing their stunts. Would recommend to everyone even locals to check out this beach if they haven’t so yet.
M — Google review
A beautiful place where you see black sand and a beautiful view with the sunset, and near it a wonderful waterfall
Fahad M — Google review
Wow! This beach is amazing! Incredible views! The ocean is breathtaking. And Lion Rock is a sight to see!
Noor Gharbo — Google review
Enjoyed the journey just as much as the destination, New Zealands a beautiful place, worth visiting this beach with a few stops on the way to look out from the vantage points to take in the scenery.
Justin ??????? — Google review
Piha is renowned for its surf, and experienced surfers flock here for the challenging waves. However, the conditions can be rough, so it’s essential to exercise caution and follow local advice, especially if you’re new to surfing.
Easy access and parking
Lidzography Reels (LiDu) — Google review
A beautiful place worth a visit! Quite windy yet cozy and calm for a walk! It's just scenic and stunning!
The rock formations around are worth watching and the friendly sea gulls too :)
I also had a chance to see the small clamp colonies. Those were cute sights.
Malav Patel — Google review
Perfect spot to spend a half day doing various stuff around the beach, learn surfing, climb mountains, fly drones, swim and lost continues.
Unfortunately, its fame brings more crowd and eventually causes parking problem during peak hours but I did not face it during weekends.
Sajid Khan — Google review
One of the most breathtaking beaches that is straight out of a movie scene. We were fortunate to catch the sunset and enjoy great weather. Be mindful of the strong waves if strolling along the shore.
Yè — Google review
What a fantastic beach. We were here during a rainy day in february but still thought it was amazing. The black beach is cool in itself but then you also have the amazing surroundings. We took a long walk along the beach
Anton Göransson — Google review
Piha Beach in New Zealand offers breathtaking views and rugged beauty, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. However, during my recent visit, the beach was closed for swimming due to unfavorable weather conditions. While disappointed, I appreciated the safety measures in place and took advantage of the stunning coastal walks and surrounding landscapes. Despite the temporary setback, Piha Beach remains a must-visit for its striking scenery and unique charm.
Rhonda S — Google review
Piha Beach, located approximately 30 kilometers from Auckland, offers a refreshing escape just an hour's drive away. Renowned for its stunning beauty, it's a prime destination for a day trip. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Distance: Piha Beach's proximity to Auckland makes it an ideal day trip destination, providing a quick getaway from the city's hustle.
Accessibility: While the drive is relatively short, visitors should plan for potential traffic, especially during public holidays and peak seasons.
Amenities: Piha Beach offers limited parking space, which can be challenging during busy periods. However, the toilet facilities are well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Despite these minor inconveniences, Piha Beach's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Sankarnarayanan Lakshmanan (Sankar) — Google review
Surf Rescue are good and capable but the distance from the Surf Rescue Swimming Flags to the ambulance responding to emergency is 500 metres. Medical help when needed is not able to reach where they are most needed.
Still, Piha Beach is a very beautiful and popular beach where families and friends gather together to enjoy sunbathing and relaxing.
Addie Lane — Google review
Not far away from Auckland a fantastic west side beach of the north island. It is well worth a visit. Black sand can be very hot at a sunny day.
sIIcAnton — Google review
Gorgeous beach. A good option for a long walk. Absolutely beautiful scenery.
There is a place to eat and toilets, but just one shower, and there can be a queue there.
Pleiades Nebula — Google review
Beautiful beach!!! Be careful in your step, lots of man o war pieces when we were there. We wore sneakers down by the waterline. Worth the trip out of Auckland.
Olivia — Google review
Amazing! Amazing beach. Very near to Auckland. The drive itself to the beach is very scenic and really short in and you can get there in about 45 minutes. Lots of stopping points along the way to get a good view of the beach itself. The beach is really nice and the water is knee high for quite a bit deep. So you can really get into the ocean and have a nice time swimming or bodysurfing or just enjoying the water. Several lifeguards where they're during our stay which made it feel safe for everyone. Great location and definitely must visit.
DK DK — Google review
4.8
(3136)
•
4.5
(888)
Auckland 0772, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Paihia without this trip planner again
The Auckland War Memorial Museum is one of New Zealand's most significant and visited tourist attractions. It contains a permanent collection of Maori taonga (treasures) as well as temporary exhibits showcasing local and natural history.
I've visited this museum around 10+ years ago and on my visit today it felt like there was more to see before. Definitely lots of things changed, some exhibitions became computerised, which to me is a bit sad, but inevitable with time and progress. Other things were greatly improved and made the museum look awesome.
I'd like to see more on level 1 (the world), things that relate to New Zealand and over all hope that the museum will only get better with time.
Anastasia Andreeva — Google review
Got be one of the best places to take your kids for some fun, history and culture. Hours of fun for them. Though these days I prefer to relax at the Cafe or out side while the older kids explore. That said I do visit the new displays and exhibits. The Greek one was fascinating.
David Oldfield — Google review
Staff are always friendly and professional. It’s not just about history but also New Zealand culture and nature. My kids love this museum, not only there is a kid zone, but also volcanoes where they get to learn about the history of volcanic eruptions in NZ and experience a simulation of the eruption. There also different exhibitions throughout the year.
Angela Soupha — Google review
Spectacular museum!!
Plenty to see and do.
We spent 4 hours there exploring and immersing ourselves in Maori Culture.
The TRexs are not to be missed and we had fun with locating the AR dinos throughout the museum!
Definitely worth the price of admission.
Melissa Campbell — Google review
A must see if you are visiting Auckland.
Don't get misled by the name, there are entire floors for the Aboriginal people in New Zealand and Polinician islands, and for the natural history of the region.
I didn't even go to the 3rd level which is the war museum, that was not what I was after.
In-fact this is the only place I come across where you can experience the heritage of the Maori people. The Maori villages I visited are just commercial tourist attractions, except for the nature.
Sena Munasinghe — Google review
The Auckland Memorial Museum is an amazing place for everyone🥰, including people with disabilities.♿️ They have great facilities that make it easy for everyone to enjoy.
It's also a perfect spot for families – kids love it, and grandparents have a great time too. 🚼👨👩👧👦👨👦👭🧑🤝🧑You should definitely visit if you want a fun and educational experience for all ages❗️
A coffee☕️🍵🍪🥤🥪🍩 spot is available, and there's a pleasant dining area for those who bring their own food🍱.
The Museum also offers the convenience of FREE 🚗 car parking for up to 180 minutes, making your visit hassle-free. Plus, it's surrounded by a beautiful park area🌋, adding to the overall charm of this wonderful destination💖🇳🇿.
Svetla Nestorova — Google review
Beautifully displayed with a wide array of topics and broad history covered. Very enjoyable and I love that it's free for residents and for those of us that aren't, the price was very reasonable. Lucky to be able to add the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibit for only $9NZ
Jerry Rex — Google review
A place with lot to learn, from Maori history to world wars, from ancient animals to modern animals, volcanos, asian art, and many more. A very informative sections on various different topics. My favourite is the volcano section. Definitely try out the stimulation. There are activities for kids as well. I recommend going in the morning around the time they open, because if you really want to read through information and get to know things, it will take time.
Savindi Wijenayaka — Google review
Please, promise me you will definitely visit Auckland War Memorial Museum when you are in town!
Rich Maori culture and history
Varieties of pacific culture and history
Vivid war and history display
A great introduction of how New Zealand is here today
Reminds you to respect people and to love the world
Informative and full of education
How earthquake is happening, how animals are dying, how you can to do protect the earth..........
Promise me, visit Auckland War Memorial Museum when you are in town.
Eric Chou????? — Google review
Excellent place to visit for rainy day - indoor activities. We visited the current exhibition-Egypt - in the time of Pharaohs. Very informative and unique displays. They have a gift shop which have good selections of souvenirs. The restaurant inside there is very good too. We enjoyed the visit.
ATGC — Google review
Went for the Egyptian Exhibition and totally love it! The gallery presents remarkable collection of artifacts abd relics from Ancient Egypt. The whole exhibition is thoughtfully curated, with detailed information to shed lights on various aspects of Egyptian life.
Bunzy Chai — Google review
Will always give this place 5 stars. I consider this place my own secret garden. It shows our rates are well spent when we visit OUR very own museum. Auckland museum is always updated and keeps up with current trends. Been going here for years.
ENKI'S FUN TECHNO STUFF (EnkiTrillionaire) — Google review
Excellent attraction to spend the day at. You have the cafe insude plus the grounds to picnic. Stunning building both outside and in with decorative features around the outside of the museum. Has the Botanical Gardens near and great views of the City.
Andrew Rogers — Google review
Amazing place it's a must do when in Auckland. It's war memorial cum museum. Some of the exhibits like the Japanese ZERO were mind blowing!
Somnath Chatterjee — Google review
I don't know how, but we got in here for free, went around, looked at stunning exhibitions, bought some souvenirs and left saying what an adventure! That's how interesting a museum has got to be. I also like how the mask mandate poster features Roman Emperor Nero!
Spalton221 — Google review
One of the best museums I’ve ever been to. The name is a bit misleading as the non-war exhibits were the real standout for me. The Maroi displays were great as was the Auckland life expo and the NZ photos. Allow yourself 3-4hours to get around and a bit more to see the botanics and walk up the bloody hills to get there.
Black Cab Central — Google review
The Auckland War Memorial Museum is a must-visit attraction that immerses you in Auckland's rich history. I had the pleasure of exploring it on a rainy afternoon and discovered that it's free for Auckland residents, creating a vibrant atmosphere even in gloomy weather. The museum beautifully showcases Maori culture, offering an insightful journey into their traditions and heritage. While tickets may be slightly pricey for foreigners, the experience is undoubtedly worthwhile. If you're a museum lover, allocate more than four hours to fully appreciate the extensive exhibits. Prepare to be captivated by the fascinating stories and immerse yourself in Auckland's vibrant past at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Cooper Lin — Google review
Went to see Peter - fantastic to see an example up close. Overall the museum is a pretty good stop. Lines can be a little long, and some of the 'modern' exhibit styles struggle to present a cohesive narrative (why are these things here together?). But the majority of the exhibits are well put together and show a rich history with good background information.
David Vedder — Google review
We spent half a day here. It was really interesting to see all the different areas and displays. Kids loved the section where they could explore the animals. And the volcano eruption experience was really good!
Thelma van den Berg — Google review
The best museum to visit in New Zealand thanks to the Māori cultural performance. It started with a beautiful smile and welcome at the ticket counter. You have to do the Māori cultural performance. They were beyond amazing and what was said, taught, sung and performed was so emotional, inspiring, and spot on true. It is not a show, it is a glimpse into a way of life, and you are lucky if you get the chance to experience that.
Benjamin B — Google review
Not just a museum, an experience.
The building itself is amazing !
Sections : WW, Pacific islands, volcanoes and earthquakes, antiquity, rocks, contemporary collections about the city of Auckland...
Just go, you won't be disappointed.
PREFOL Rémi — Google review
Was visiting as part of our cruise. Walked from the dock in Auckland. Beautiful and at times challenging walk. Arrived at museum to find international guests are required to pay to enter. Chose to walk around surroundings and gardens instead.
Christopher McGowan — Google review
If u are a residence of Auckland, u are eligible for free entrance. Working holiday visa holders can also enjoy this benefit. Will be great if u can spend half day here exploring. Unfortunately the T-Rex fossil will be taken down for good from 11 Dec 2023 onwards. Might need to ask the museum management when will it be put back into display.
Harvester Lee — Google review
What a fabulous museum. Awesome displays and special exhibitions. We did a guided tour for an hour; highly recommended. I loved the photographic display by Robin Morrison; special photos of the Sth Is....and the people of that time. We need to return; we were there for 3+ hours but just scratched the surface
Adrienne Heal — Google review
Great place to visit plenty to see, would have preferred to see more information about weapons over the years. The First World War exhibition was sanitized with little about injuries and effects on soldiers coming back. The top floor was saddest with lists of the dead, what a great loss to all.
The Sky Tower is a landmark in Auckland, New Zealand that offers panoramic views of the surrounding communities as well as a revolving restaurant and bungee-jumping platform. The tower is situated at 328 metres above street level and has three observation levels namely the main observation, sky deck and sky cafe.
Very nice place in the city. Great for wide panorama view but also for some refreshments. Yeah, it's a bit pricy but these places around the whole world are like that. So even a cup of good coffee is worthy here because the view around is just different as from the other places in Auckland.
If you are willing to spend more time and money as well then you will never regret it cuz the food is also awesome.
Ales Tvrdy — Google review
Goes without saying please Visit this!!! Absolutely stunning panoramic view of the whole city and beyond! What we Absolutely loved was that on the windows they have described what we are seeing and the meaning behind it. The staff is so courteous and they even have clear window panes to look underneath. We made a reservation but when we got there the lines were minimal (I'm sure because of covid) you can also dine there but definitely need reservation for that!
D Sh — Google review
If you are visiting Auckland and have time a must is the Sky Tower. Once up the Sky Deck which is the Main observation area you can get 360-degree view of Auckland and on a clear day the views are just phenomenal, it's said you can see 51 miles from the sky tower.
Yes I wouldn't say it's a cheap experience but it's certainly worth it even if it's just once you do it. The tower also is so well built with high strength, high performance concrete, it's also suspected that during up to a 8.0 magnitude earthquake the tower would still stand and honestly you can believe this by just looking at it.
When visiting we found the staff to be very welcoming and friendly and overall there isn't much else to say other than look at the pictures and see for yourself if it's something you want to witness for real.
Keiran — Google review
I give it 5 stars, however, with a minus. You really get amazing views of the Auckland. You see the city sprawling out to all sides. However, comparing with similar attractions in similar countries it is a bit shabby and aged.
darius savolskis — Google review
Nice views from both decks. Crowded but well organized. Worth a 1-2 hour visit. NZ$75 for a couple in Dec 2023 plus add-ons if you want to try the walk or sky jump.
Pavel F — Google review
I have been here twice before, once during the day, another for dinner on the revolving restaurant. This time was 7pm on a Monday evening when the visibility was amazing. The panoramic view of our city make me love it more and more. I would recommend the 60 floor -sky deck-200 meters above and the bridge and motorway look stunning. Particularly the window is much clearer on Sky Deck. I also bought a pair of red merino gloves. God bless Auckland, God bless our NZ.
Monica Cheng — Google review
Used our free $100 Auckland voucher today which included $25 free gift card for the gift shop. The front counter person didn't mention anything about it, it wasn't a big deal though. All the staff mbrs we came into contact with were friendly. My kids enjoyed it. It was busy, but not over crowded. Worth the freebie, however I forgot to validate my parking n since we were there all up less than 1h10mins my parking was casual rate of $24 😢😢 will return in the near future
olivia mefi — Google review
A must visit in Auckland! Of all their activities we only tried the VR experience which was short but fun. Watched a man do the sky jump, looks very scary but fun!! Had a drink and snack at the cafe with awesome views. Pics don't do it justice. Definitely recommend a visit!
Nicholas Lindsay — Google review
Such a beautiful view at night time, has the sky bar which was busy so opted for the walk around instead. Recommend booking if wanting to enjoy a beverage at the sky bar. Also 2 adults for 70 vs 40 pp was great value
Corey Neligan — Google review
Two of us did the 'sun and stars' entry today. This allows a day and a night visit. Well worth it. The stars experience was wonderful on the upper level (60). Great information bites everywhere, and the staff were excellent, friendly and informative.
I would have liked a Cafe onsite. The bar would have done, but with no under 18s allowed, it was not an option. It would have been lovely to just sit with a coffee and look out.
Maybe a dining experience will need to be next visit.
kitnkat nz — Google review
The Sky Tower is a remarkable piece of architecture. The views of Auckland are absolutely stunning and no photo or video can replicate. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. There were binocular viewers that look like they needed a coin to operate but they were free for use. I highly (pun intended) recommend this attraction.
Margo Prodan — Google review
Very iconic views and definitely worth it if you're making a trip to Auckland. Great way to see the entire city, grab a cocktail, or dinner reservations. If you eat at the restaurant, you get discounted tickets. Walking along the clear glass floor was a little scary, but super safe. Bungee jumpers can be seen jumping off which is neat to see. Elevators are extremely fast and overall it's a very easy experience.
Melissa Previte — Google review
Spectacular views, entry was included with our reservation at the Orbit Restaurant so that‘s a bonus! Really cool to see the city from above, some sections have glass floors (makes you realize just HOW high up you are!).
A must do when you‘re in Auckland!
Anne Victoria — Google review
Very good. Prices are a bit steep but if you’ve never been it’s a great experience! I would recommend trying to visit on a sunny/clear day as on foggy days it can be hard to see
Also recommend going up to the sky deck, which is the highest level; it doesn’t cost anymore and provides a massive view.
Brynn Pierce — Google review
Friendly staff from the ground up to the sky deck. Good place to bring your visiting families. The album at the exit costs $55 which is overpriced, but somewhat expected at this touristy place. We visited on a Saturday but the place is not that packed. I recommend booking your tickets via Klook!
Kathrine — Google review
Very impressive and fun experience. Was wonderful to see the city in such detail. Great dinner. Very romantic for a date! Was also an awesome double date location for our group. Great service all round. Perfect Birthday dinner location. Such fun.
MJ Raatz — Google review
I'm happy to share my review of the Sky Tower! Our recent visit, starting from the 51st floor and ascending to the 60th floor, left us with an unforgettable experience. The moment we stepped onto the observation deck, we were greeted with breathtaking views that stretched as far as the eye could see. The city's beauty and vibrancy were on full display, creating a sense of wonder and awe.
The transition between floors was seamless, and the journey itself was an adventure. It's evident that the Sky Tower team has invested in creating an enjoyable and well-organized experience for visitors. The staff's hospitality and assistance further added to the positive atmosphere.
From the panoramic windows to the interactive exhibits, every element was thoughtfully designed to enhance our understanding of the city's landscape and history. Standing at such heights allowed us to truly appreciate the urban tapestry below.
Overall, our visit to the Sky Tower was a highlight of our trip. The opportunity to see the world from a different perspective and capture incredible memories is something we will cherish. Without a doubt, this is an attraction that offers not just a good experience, but a truly exceptional one.
Mohit Gautam — Google review
A simply incredible experience as one of the things you must do when in Auckland. The views are stunning. Friendly staff. Toilets and food available at the top.
Greg Facer — Google review
Seattle has their Space Needle, Toronto has their CN Tower and Auckland has their Sky Tower. All have similar purposes as a communication towers, tourist attraction/ Observation deck and iconic land mark that can be seen long distances away. I find these towers very useful as a visual land reference when walking about in an unfamiliar city. I also like how they change the light colours of the towers at night. It does create a post card look.
If you like my reviews, photos or videos then reach up to the Sky and Tower over the like button
Seeing the world In a different way — Google review
Wonderful experience. No time pressure, plenty of time to admire the views and take pictures. Be careful if you buy tickets in advance, we accidentally bought two lots of two admissions and they would not refund our mistake. Please read the details carefully.
Howard Farr — Google review
Visited on a Sunday morning, no queue getting in and up the tower, bought my ticket on the day no hassle quick and easy, I ended up spending a couple hours checking out the views floor 51 is the main observation deck, but you can go up to floor 60 for sky deck, incredible views, the glass seemed cleaner on the top floor but as you can do the tower walk I guess it's easier to keep clean who knows, the sky deck floor did get busier and there was a queue to get back down the one lift but enjoying the view it's easy to either wait or do another lap around and enjoy the view again, watching the boats in and out of the harbour, well worth a visit in my opinion a good way to see the city (helps getting bearings for wandering around the city for me)
JAMES Barton — Google review
A great way to see the whole city and enjoy the sights. It's also a thrilling time if you want to bungee jump or do the Skywalk which isn't for the faint of heart. The sky bar is also very enjoyable.The trip to the Sky Tower in Auckland was exhilarating. The panoramic views from the observation deck were breathtaking, offering a stunning perspective of the city and its surroundings. The glass floor added an extra thrill, making it a memorable experience. Well worth it. Great information bites everywhere, and the staff were excellent, friendly and informative. The dining experience is awesome! You can see the 360 degree view of the city while enjoying your dinner an a glass of wine. Cheers!👍
Mayet Zupanek — Google review
A quick ride to the top via the elevator and outstanding views of Auckland spread out before us. The platform is a little shy of 200m above the ground and for the more adventurous you can do a 360° walk around outside (while attached to a harness) or even simulate a free fall off the side (being slowed by your lines before hitting the sidewalk).
For the less brave, looking down at the tiny cars below, while standing on the thick toughened glass in the viewing platform, might be more than enough to make your heart race.
David Westaway — Google review
One of the best place to visit in Auckland. It’s joint through Casino. Access for everyone. Paid entry to tower top . Different levels to visit. Awesome view of Auckland from the top.
Harry & Harnaaz Wairar — Google review
We were very confused when we got there as we couldn't find the entrance. You have to go inside the casino then down the escalator. We had bought online tickets which included the Hop on/off bus & the email said there was no need to print them, but when we got to the desk, ready to go into the tower, we were told to go back outside & have them printed at the bus stop. So we weren't very impressed with that. The views are very good, but it is definitely over priced.
Janice Jeffries — Google review
As this was the third we'd been up in six weeks the novelty had started to wear off. It's still worth doing but perhaps Auckland has less to see than other cities with sky towers. Reasonably priced but disappointing that you can't get a drink unless you pre book your visit so spur of the moment decisions are not the best.
Adrian Walter — Google review
Soared up to top in just 4 seconds. A lot of visitors had to turn away from the front window that showed the climb to the top but not me. It was an adrenaline rush. Off the elevator, the whole city is beneath your feet. Auckland is beautiful. The observation deck is clean, bright and tall. There are wooden benches to sit on while observing the view. There are also transparent mats for those daring to stand on. Caused my heart to flutter for a moment. Missing is a souvenir shop at the top or a kiosk for drinks. Take another lift to get up higher and see sky jumpers risk their life for 5 seconds of their life.
Tony Li — Google review
4.5
(17223)
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4.5
(11521)
Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Devonport, a charming bayside village in Auckland, offers a relaxed atmosphere with its upscale cafes, seafood restaurants, and classic Kiwi pubs. Visitors can explore small boutiques and art dealerships along Victoria Road or relax at Devonport and Cheltenham beaches. The area also boasts the volcanic cone of North Head with its harbor views and underground army tunnels, as well as Mount Victoria for hiking enthusiasts.
4.5
(4154)
Auckland 0624, New Zealand
24
EcoZip Adventures
Tour operator
Tours
Eco Tours
Nature & Wildlife Tours
Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
Very lovely, helpful and knowledgeable staff, from David the shuttle driver who shared with us many local tips/well-known places to the zipline operator and guides Rosie and Sophie, who are so friendly and nice. It's quite refreshing to see someone who is very passionate about their job, the environment, sustainability and know all little cool facts about all the plants that we walked past. Thank you for the great experience guys! 😃👍
Linh Nguyen — Google review
A must do experience in Waiheke. Bookings are recommended. Awesome staff who take great care of you. There is a total of 3 zip lines on the way, with each one getting gradually more exciting. The guided walk back up is fairly easy going and a very informative talk along the way. Great family experience and beautiful views as you glide over tree tops. Don't forget to leave your problems (rocks) behind
William Lin — Google review
Fantastic experience! Felt very safe yet fun and the staff was very encouraging and entertaining. The 3 ziplines were just long and high enough to get great views and to get that thrill of speed. The nature walk was a bonus as well and learned alot about the area and the history. Thank you for a great time!
LavenderRoseFarmer — Google review
These guys were very professional and fantastic to work with. Our guides, Dylan and Frasier were amazing and fun! This place has incredible views of the country side and bay. The walk back to the top was on a well groomed trail winding its way through the jungle. We had a great time!
Craig Wall — Google review
Ziplining was awesome! Amazing location, great friendly guides and a good cause as a large part of the money goes into reforestation and caring for the land.
Wish there could be a slower, longer Iplime to appreciate the views even more, but the walk back up through the bush was a good way to complement the full experience.
Jorge Bisteni — Google review
We visited EcoZip and found the operation to be exceptionally well run, safe, and fun. The staff were wonderful. The zip line runs weren’t as exciting as we’ve experienced in other parts of New Zealand or places like Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, however they were still enjoyable. The walk through the forest was arguably the favorite for all. It was magical and informative. Overall we would recommend EcoZip for the entirety of what the experience is. Match it with a visit to Batch Winery (just one hill away) and you have a great Waiheke day!
Caleb Whitmore — Google review
Great experience! Loved the whole thing. Would definitely recommend
Trace — Google review
Great ziplining. 3 zips in total - only downside is I wish it didn't have to end!
Had two great guides with us who were knowledgeable about the local ferns and wildlife around the Bush too and how important it is to protect it.
Emma Hill — Google review
It was such amazing experience at EcoZip Adventures the kids and I had yesterday morning. We are from Gold Coast, Australia and just visited Waiheke Island for a day trip. It was the best decision to choose this experience. All staff members we have come across were very professional. Got picked up from the Waiheke Pier by warmly greeting staff Marie. We had Ella and Lucy as our guides for the zip lines and nature walk. The place, the view, the weather, another family that we met- everything was beautiful and perfect. We absolutely loved and enjoyed this experience. Love to come back again in the future for sure.
Nan Clark — Google review
Enjoyed our Ecozip Adventure. The scariest part was being weighed 😂 but fortunately it is discreet. We had an awesome time.
tracy nagel — Google review
Wow, the whole experience was amazing! From the pick up to the guides, they really made us feel safe while providing a great experience. The zip lines had stunning views and the hike back to base camp was beautiful and informative. Highly recommend!
Sounds Good — Google review
Great set up, views are amazing and staff were friendly. Felt it was expensive for what you experienced and took a long time for how little you do. Took around 3 hours to experience 3 zip lines and then walk which is described as a nature forest walk and it is just the walk back to the top once you have completed the zips. Glad I did it to see the island in a cool way but found it expensive for what it is.
Emma Lievesley — Google review
Great staff and ziplines. I had a lot of fun!
Mithun Das — Google review
From the Shuttle driver Ruth, to our guides, Alex and Ella; everyone was super friendly and reassuring. They know what they are doing and they all are very knowledgeable. They always made us feel safe. We had an absolutely wonderful day and i so would do it again in a heartbeat.
Thank you so much for the amazing experience team. You guys are awesome! ♥️
Shani Gunawardana — Google review
What a fun adventure! So much so, you want to do more after the 3 zip lines!
From the easy online booking process/informative website, to the straightforward free transfer service from the ferry, what a great team of staff that were professional and made you feel safe and comfortable at all times on the course.
J and Ellie(?) were an awesome team. Great communication and informative throughout the experience! Thanks guys!!
Ramona Stratful — Google review
Excellent. The driver was kind enough to let my husband and I in Onerea town explore because we got to the island early. He also recommended where the best Gelato to get, and he was right. The staff ensured you that you are in safe hands. The views from the three runs in Waiheke are beautiful, and we got lucky w the weather even though it's a dreary day in Auckland.
Jennie Yau — Google review
Fantastic adventure on a beautiful island. Friendly helpful staff in Nicky Georgia and Jess.
Had a great time very safe and professional and suitable for anyone all ages. I'm 60 and had no dramas. Get out there and do it
Laurie Kennedy — Google review
Had a great time at EcoZip Adventures! Our guides Ella and Lucy were fun but professional, making sure we were safe and comfortable during our awesome experience. Highly recommend!
Michelle Bielat Rowe — Google review
Loads of fun, beautiful scenery, very well run with great experienced friendly staff. The trip back through the bush afterwards was lovely. High recommend doing this with a group of friends/family or as a work function. Thank you all.
Linda Mudrovcich — Google review
Great, wonderful experience! Daniel and Jack were so helpful and safely harnessed us up. We flew over the forest canopy and vineyards on three separate zip lines each time adding length and height. They took the time to photograph us with our own camera. There are lockers so you can bring a backpack and bathrooms at the top. The hike was great to learn about the flora and fauna, plus get a rest from the climbs. The tour can let you off afterwards at the village above Onamia beach so bring a swimsuit and towel to do that, too! Then you can walk back downhill to the ferry. Also, when you catch the ferry in Aukland, give yourself extra time to get in the queue as we almost didn’t make the ferry as they only allow so many to board the ferry. When we signed up through Get Your Guide, make sure you buy both the zip line tickets and ferry tickets, then you will get an email to fill out the disclosure form which will save time when you arrive. This was a great experience!
Janet Smith — Google review
4.8
(771)
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5.0
(1625)
150 Trig Hill Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island 1081, New Zealand
Waiheke Island is a popular day trip destination from Auckland, which can be reached by taking a 40-minute ferry ride. The island offers plenty of options for visitors to enjoy, such as famous vineyards, diverse beaches and adventurous activities including zip lining and sea kayaking. Waiheke was once a quiet summer vacation retreat with hippie beach houses dotting its edges but now boasts of around 35 vineyards along with friendly locals and charming shops and bars.
Friendly locals, lovely little shops and bars
cameo wilson — Google review
We just went last Saturday and to my surprised 😮 there’s a long line waiting for us. We arrived in Viaduct at 10:00 am and get in at 11:40 am. Around 35 mins travel time. When we arrived in Waiheke Island we waited for another 1 hour for the Tour Bus. Lots of patience you need if your going here 😤 we had our lunch at cable bay vineyard at around 3pm and just enjoyed the rest of the day.
Maricar Dela Cruz — Google review
We did a wine tour on the island. Lots of really cute wineries and great food. The beach is beautiful. I would love to go back and spend a few days exploring.
Kim Dominguez — Google review
I fell in love with this beautiful island. Family visited this on a Saturday through a ferry from East Auckland as we brought a van with us. Left 8am trip returned 7pm, had enough time to explore the beaches, vineyard, Catholic church, CBD for our brunch. We had a taste of oysters and wine tasting for our late lunch. Able to enjoy Waiheke ostend market every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, grandchildren loved the art gallery and parks. See you again.
Arlene Barraca — Google review
Great day trip from Auckland. Better if you find accommodation there for a night or two so you can enjoy the winery's and rend a bike to go around the island. It has amazing spots all around. I highly recommend to do the AT hop transport car and use that to travel to the island as the tour agency the rip you off 45$ return ticket.
Traveling with Apple — Google review
Waiheke Island is only 40 minutes ferry ride from downtown Auckland and has a lot to offer. You can walk, ride a bike or take a shuttle bus to all attractions. If you can walk I strongly recommend you do so. It’s a lovely walk to Oneroa Beach, Cable Bay and Mudbrick vineyards
Pia Cristina — Google review
Just about 20 km away from Auckland, you find this landmass, which is so magical and beautiful. Island has a population of over 1000 permeant residence. This unspoilt beauty is all about nature and landscape. I took the ferry in the morning and after speeding a day I came back to Auckland in the evening. The lifestyle, culture and locals within the island was inspiring. They were friendly relaxed and fun. Next time I would spend a couple of days on the island itself, rent a beach house and wake up to the sound of the waves. Also, I wish I could own a home on top the of a cliff like in the photos and retire in a heavy island like this.
Rajinda Fernando — Google review
Loved Waiheke Island. Such a diverse island. Well worth the visit. Must drive the island.
Vanessa Hillerman — Google review
In the summer season, it is super busy which requires preparing well to enjoy.
Things to know:
- Ferry: As the ticket says, it would be really good to arrive at the ferry terminal an hour before your estimated departing time. We aimed to take a ferry at 9 am and we arrived around 8.20 am. The 8 am ferry arrived at 8.25 am and left from the downtown ferry terminal at 8.35 am. We were super lucky, and I am unsure how this would impact the rest of the hours ferry.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus: Although we purchased tickets, we didn't use them. Yes.. it is a waste of money, but we wanted to avoid possible hassles. On Friday, the interval is an hour and most of the winery at the bus stop was fully booked. Some people complained of 1.30 hours waiting at the bus stop.
- Rent a car: In the end, we rented a car a day after checking all the recent reviews.
-- Pros: good to go wherever you go, enjoy some viewpoints and avoid crowded spots.
-- Cons : limits for drinking and unable to go Man O war bay road if it is not a 4wd car.
Jean Lee — Google review
It's beautiful island and if you are a wine-lover this is a must.
We went there for a day and used the fullers hop-on hop-off bus; and highly recommended to start early to make the most out of it as it's quite expensive. It's a good way to have look at the entire island then decide which stop fits you the most.
We had lunch and few wines in Mudbrick (also quite expensive too) but the food’s yum.
mean cagadas — Google review
If you are in Auckland , this place is a never miss one . 35-40mims on boat will take you to the Waiheke . It’s a scenic island with great vineyards and some little beaches. You can go around the island by bus or on bicycles. Vineyard tours are the main attraction and you can pre book these tours. Most these vineyards offer great food too…views on the way to and from the island on ferry is also mesmerising.
Jesto Jose — Google review
Breathtaking place. If you want to see the entire island in a day, take a bus or hire an electric bike. I completed the trails on the southwest and northwest sides, and they are beautiful.
If you have some time in Auckland, do not miss out on Waiheke island. If you're there, be sure you check out the shops and the wineries if that's your fancy.
Adam Hof — Google review
Lovely day trip to see the sea, beautiful beaches and natural beauty of this small but picturesque island. It was easy waving on a well scheduled ferry from Auckland’s downtown Harbour to go to Matiatia ferry wharf and loved the smooth fresh air ferry ride. (I purchased tickets for both the ferry ride and hop on hop off bus shuttle at Auckland ferry terminal and was pleased I did so)
Once on Waiheke island I hopped onto the scheduled 30 minute island circuit ride and enjoyed exploring the many vineyards, several beaches and a good forest walk. There is lots of to do on your day trip so be mindful of the last hop-on hop-off bus on the schedule.
Make sure that you respect this beautiful island and avoid going off established pathways, put garbage in its proper place and keep your eyes open for the road traffic. Local drivers don’t have much patience for pedestrians.
If you like my reviews, photos or videos then don’t stay stuck on an island just jump on and off and hit the like button
Seeing the world In a different way — Google review
Definitely a must visit if you are in Auckland. Only a quick ferry ride here and lots of beautiful scenery and wineries to visit. Beautiful beaches and just an all around perfect place.
Jessica A — Google review
Waiheke Island 🏝️🏖️ .....
Yesterday we had a grand trip to Waiheke Island which is a popular tourist destination in NZ . It's been ranked 1st by 'National Geographic Magazine' as the top island escape in the world. Its the fifth largest island in New Zealand & is located off the east coast of North Island. It can be reached in 40mins by a ferry from Auckland. The ferry service is fast & frequent.
Waiheke Island is known for its Vineyards, Beaches 🏖️ and seaside villages...
Dr Rajan Ekatpure — Google review
A must do if you’re in NZ. Easy ferry service from Auckland and incredibly beautiful.
Olivia — Google review
A beautiful island with lots of beaches, walks, nature reserves and wineries. A day worth spending
wilson veranakunnel — Google review
4.7
(439)
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4.5
(2077)
Auckland, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Paihia without this trip planner again
Tiritiri Matangi Island is a nature reserve located in the Hauraki Gulf of Auckland, New Zealand. Visitors can access the island via ferry from downtown Auckland and enjoy a guided walk with local volunteers to witness endangered native birds up close. The island serves as a wildlife sanctuary, providing untouched beaches and forests for visitors to explore. Tiritiri Matangi Island is highly recommended for those who seek an experience with rare bird species amidst blooming flowers and singing melodies in the air.
An island rich in wildlife, Tiritiri Matangi is one of New Zealand’s oldest sanctuaries and a treasure trove for students and researchers alike. Here, they will learn first-hand about our threatened species and the country’s conservation effort throughout its history.
Located just an hour from Aotearoa's largest city, this island sanctuary is home to an unrivalled variety of wildlife living their best lives. Take a guided walk to learn about the island's wildlife and original spade brigade, or explore it at your own pace. Support our conservation and education programmes, or get involved as a volunteer.
Enjoyed the day out with the family, the weather was perfect. If you are going on a hot day take your swimming gear for a dip after a long walk. Also take lunch as well. Great day out, the guided walk is a bonus which we didn't book but decided on the day it was a good idea and glad we did it. Our guide was very knowledgable about the trees and birds too
Nick Manarangi — Google review
If anyone from the Dept of Conservation is reading this, great job! I'd recommend adding a tagline to the island name e.g. "for the love of birds" :) It's a perfect day trip from Auckland. Big shout out to the amazing volunteers! A guided tour is a must for all first timers.
Saurabh R — Google review
If visiting Auckland or even if you live in Auckland ,Tiritiri Matangi Island is a must go to. Considering what it was 50 odd years, practically treeless. 20,000 planted trees later and plenty of bird life. What a transformation.
Nigel Walmsley — Google review
A fantastic day trip to a beautiful island to see the native bird life. We took the ferry over and booked a guided walk, which really helped to learn and locate all the birds and trees. They have really created a nice experience and it was well worth it.
Pascal Rapon — Google review
You can feel the spring in the air. With the flowers blooming, there are more nectar for birds. They are singing loudly and putting on a show.
amy zhu — Google review
Beautiful island and the guides were absolutely great, full of knowledge.
The volunteers have done an amazing job of creating this bird sanctuary
Anthony Milne — Google review
The perfect spot for a hike! My family and I went on a tour, and the guide named Neal was very friendly. Complete with muddy pathways and rocks. Saw some giant weta too.
Micah — Google review
A Great Peaceful place to visit.
Since it's a reserve and conserved land to it's original form, it is highly organized to keep as natural as possible it is.
Need to bring your own drinks and food when you are going there.. for public only one ferry from Auckland Harbour which is operated by explorer ferry.
There are some real rare birds in here.. I have taken some pictures of these rare birds and some of the pics you can find in my Instagram account fahaz_kurukkan
Advise to take a map or note the map in advance and plan to walk on the train as much as possible with a plan to reach back to ferry terminal before it leaves.
Fahaz Kurukkan — Google review
So much hard work has gone into making this island sanctuary a place where our native birds can flourish again. It is an amazing place and well worth the journey. I can recommend the guided walk if you are curious. There are toilets and a gift shop on the island. Proceeds help to continue pest eradication efforts.
sawmillguy — Google review
Loved it! Beautiful Island. On the way to the island I saw penguins swimming in the ocean. The island itself is beautiful. Its not crowded at all. I saw them all: Takahes, Kokakos, sattlebacks, Hihis, Bellbirds, NZ pigeons, Tuis, Kakarikis, Whiteheads, Robins. Couldn't be happier. Great Day Trip. Could have spend even more time there :)
Emi W — Google review
A great day out from Auckland! We had a guided tour with Enid (one of the volunteer tour guides) and she was so knowledgable about the wildlife and plants on the island, and the history of creating the sanctuary. We saw so many native birds, including the Kōkako. There was also a lovely shop in the visior centre, and the Explore boat to/from the island was great.
Ben Kirkland — Google review
Great facilities and overnight stay if you book well ahead. Exercise and fresh air. Great people working there. Close to nature and the best morning chorus from the birds. Fantastic Sunrise!
Gordon Liston — Google review
A most rewarding experience for those wanting to encounter our rare wildlife without to much effort. Firstly a pleasant ocean voyage, and then an abundance of birdlife and other critter to find on the many easy tracks. Good swimming beaches too.
Jeremy P — Google review
I really like this island, it‘s so beautiful! You can have lunch at the Lighthouse (has toilets, a shop for souvenirs and free tea). And at the end you can swim at the beach near the ferry, that‘s a great ending for your trip.
They will control your food which you bring (you can only buy chocolate in the shop, so I would bring my own lunch), you have to fill it in plastic bags (or in containers) so no seeds can come on the island and maybe damage the nature.
Your shoes have to be cleaned.
There are some guides who show you around and tell you everything about the birds. You can just point on one you see and they will give you much information about it.
The trip is definitely worth it & i can only recommend it. But if you want to enjoy it, take your time and do a day trip to the Island!!
julia — Google review
Amazing day tour with lots of birds to see, but also excellent information provided by volunteers! And wonderful landscapes, too. Next time I will definitely stay longer.
Ruby Grape — Google review
A must for any nature lovers. You can either pre-book online or hope for the best and get tickets on the day. Pick up options for the ferry are either Auckland Ferry Terminal or Gulf Harbour Ferry terminal. I went with the latter since the tickets were cheaper and there was free parking in proximity to the terminal.
The ferry ride was quite nice and once we arrived on the island there was a 10 minute welcome before being split into groups if you had a guided tour. There are two options for the tour, straight to the lighthouse (Wattle Track) or circling around the island before heading to the lighthouse (Kawerau Track).
It was enjoyable to leisurely walk down the track and stop off at certain places to look at the birds in the area. The guides were quite knowledgeable about the birds on the island as well as the history. They also knew where certain birds are located like when I went they knew that there was a family of Takahe near the light house. Both walks stop at the lighthouse which is near the visitor center.
The Kawerau track (longer of the two) took most of the day so there wasn't much time to explore more of the island but it was informative since it was my first time there. I walked down the Wattle track back to the ferry terminal. Just remember to get to the terminal before the ferry leaves otherwise it is an expensive ride back.
Hot Water Beach, located on the eastern coast of the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique beach experience. Situated just south of Mercury Bay and approximately 12 kilometers southeast of Whitianga, this natural wonder offers visitors the opportunity to dig their own hot pool in the sand during low tide and soak in the thermal waters that bubble up from beneath the surface.
The Sculptureum is a modern and diverse facility featuring various art galleries, sculpture gardens, and a vineyard. Visitors can enjoy an elegant restaurant as well as view a wide range of artwork from all over the world, including the popular polar bear sculpture. While it may be crowded during public holidays, it is still worth visiting for its outstanding collections. The museum is wheelchair accessible with ample parking spaces available. Senior citizens can also get discounted rates at $20 per person.
Two beautiful gardens and an amazing gallery, lots to see and plenty of awesome photo spots! We came on a lovely sunny autumn's day and easily spent more than a couple of hours here, would have stayed longer as the art gallery was surprisingly good and we loved everything on display there. Really enjoyed watching the colourful birds, rabbits and turtles too 😊
Linda Tso — Google review
Visited on a public holiday. There was a long wait to enter. The garden is very ordinary. Not many exciting sculptures. Some items in the gallery was good. There was an offer for the tickets and we went for half price. Otherwise they usually charge 45$ per person which i feel a bit too much for this place. Kids will have a good time.
Madan Senthil — Google review
Sculptures were interesting and the place was really well kept! The recommended time on their website was very accurate if you were going to take your time and read the descriptions on the artworks. It was a bit hot when we got there so it was really nice that there were umbrellas available for guests to take by the entrance. Really good experience
Daenah Costales — Google review
Took the kids for a day out at Sculptureum and we loved it. The grounds are beautifully kept, the staff are welcoming and lovely.
We enjoyed the art and gardens so much. Didn't get a chance to eat at the restaurant but we'd love to do that next time.
Tasha Lacock — Google review
Fabulous collection of one couple's art including bronzes, wooden, stone, glass, ceramic, metal, photographic and plastic pieces from around the world plus local NZ artists. Also contains some interesting and provocative quotations.
Well worth the entrance price.
Tony Haigh — Google review
A must see attraction! Absolutely outstanding. Allow 2 hours minimum to enjoy at a relaxing pace. You will be blown away! Wheelchair friendly. Heaps of spacious parking. Food & wine available. $20 senior citizen rates.
jill jaques — Google review
We are so glad to get the special tickets to visit this unique place. The garden is sitting on an open and wide area. It's amazing as you pass through the main entrance. With over 800 items of collections, you don't need to be an artist, you will be impressed. Lovely restaurants on site.
TheNZLILY — Google review
This place is worth going, and I would like to visit again in the future:) It is saperated into three gardens and six galleries where there are more than 800 works displaying. I love the Palm garden the most, and the Pink Snail Garden is fun too! Other than sculptures, there are also some real animals, including bunny, turtles, parrots and so on. One of the parrots can say 'Hello' again and again, which made us lingering for a long time😆 Free carpark outside, and the ticket is 49.50 pp (it's 38 pp if you're a resident). Staff is nice and welcoming.
Yuan Z — Google review
Absolutely fantastic place!! We spent a couple of hours here, soaking up the beauty of the gardens, art and all interesting things. Very well presented and maintained. You won't be disappointed! Easy to find, good parking, toilets and food onsite. The hosts were super friendly and helpful!
Abbie Payne — Google review
An experience not to be missed. Amazing gardens and art gallery. The quality of the sculptures, art and garden designs are one of the best in Auckland. Once finished, enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
Greg Daniel — Google review
What a great spot to explore! Would be great for families. Excellent customer service, very friendly and welcoming. We were traveling in a campervan and were relieved to find parking was a breeze.
We visited in peak season (early new year), so arrived early to avoid crowds, and glad we did as when we left, the car park was very full! Arriving early allows plenty of time to stroll leisurely through beautifully shaded pathways, discovering quaint quirky signage and clever displays along the way.
The art gallery was impressive, unexpected, and somewhat mesmerizing, with a great dose of colour and quirk! Loved it.
The one-way automated doors were great, but were a touch confusing initially. Perhaps some glow in the dark signage or LED lights could be a fun addition here? (Although it is barely a second in between doors closing and opening).
Smart supply of loan umbrellas available at the entrance to the final garden were a nice touch. Wish we'd lingered a touch longer here, but needed to get away and was incredibly hot day, so we kind of raced through (not before snapping the famous snails though!)
The restaurant appeared incredibly popular (definitely book ahead!). We were pleased to find the food caravans but wish there could have been a smoothie or milkshake as an option.
Sam Roff — Google review
The website describes it as 6 art galleries, so I was disappointed to see it was actually just 6 different small rooms. Despite that, there were lots of brilliant pieces on display, from all around the world. The polar bear was my favourite! Highly recommend you avoid a public holiday weekend, we went over Easter weekend and it was uncomfortably packed. Would say it's worth a visit.
Anna Pomeroy — Google review
Very cool pace for ages to hang out. There are two sculpture gardens to walk and enjoy, ticket once, multiple entry. The gardens are filled with awesome sculptures and artworks, it is very well maintained, footpaths and clean and property paved, most parts are wheelchair friendly. The restaurant also provides a great place to stop for lunch and a rest from the gardens, great service, great food. Lots of parking spaces out back.
Tan Wang — Google review
A truly amazing place, well worth the hour drive out of Auckland. Spent a good couple of hours here wandering through the amazing outdoor sculptures and gallery inside. I thoroughly recommend this place.
Dave Pearson — Google review
The absolute stunning place if you are interested in different forms of art. I loved gardens and art gallery.
Kids will love this place with multiple farm animals and birds in the gardens.
Must visit if you are close to Matakana and I personally feel its under-rated place. But worth to visit it.
apurva sharma — Google review
We had a couple of grabone vouchers and decided to visit. The sculptures and the gallery were outstanding. Great customer service upon arrival. Great for kids as plenty for them to explore, such as birds ,turtles, and a bunny. Restaurant and wine tasting require booking. Otherwise, hot chips, coffee, drinks and ice cream are available from the ticket counter.
Ganga Jayawickrama — Google review
Visited Sculptureum today. Amazing. Exceeded my expectations. The colour of the leaves are still so vibrant, even at this time of the year and that's just the trees! It's amazing how art can really trigger emotion. I came out feeling inspired and wanting to nurture my own (tiny) creative nature😍
Jo Campling — Google review
Went with family, there were 13 of us (aged 2 years - 70+yrs) and everyone loved it! Plenty of parking. The gardens and grounds were well kept. Staff were amazing. There are umbrellas in case if it’s raining. Amazing place, a must visit for everyone .
Manish Kumar Gadia — Google review
Went with family, there were nine of us (aged 17-70+yrs) and everyone loved it! Plenty of parking. Well kept place/grounds. Popular restaurant. Staff are amazing, welcoming and friendly. The weather was overcast but umbrellas are provided for the walk/stroll. Awesome gallery and garden!
m2020 — Google review
Had about two hours walking the lovely Scultureum displays which were excellent & far exceeded our expectations. Both garden outside displays are terrific but for us the indoor gallery of priceless artworks was the best
Colin Slark — Google review
Such a great experience .. such a beautiful place
To spend day with family .. beautiful art gallery.. must recommend this place to family and friends.. just little expensive entry fee.. loved food from food truck as restaurant was fully booked and wine tasting experience was great too .. both ladies were fabulous too
gurpreet kaur — Google review
Just been to the Sculptureum and it's pretty impressive. There's heaps of cool sculptures and artworks, indoors and out. Loved wandering through the gardens – every nook has something interesting.
Just a heads-up, it can get a bit packed and some outdoor paths are quite snug. Not a huge issue, but something to bear in mind if you're not keen on crowded spaces.
The staff are friendly and there's a nice café for a cuppa and a bite. Definitely worth a look if you're into art, but maybe avoid the busy times if you like more space.
Ged de Meyer — Google review
The entrance and parking are easy to find from the main road. The first garden (across the little bridge) is okay, but would not be the main attraction (some strange sections....some "shrine-like"). The posters have a sort of "young" language (basic, not hip).
The internal art gallery is mesmerising. I could have spent much longer in there but found the one way system sometimes shunted you done the line a bit quick. The other garden (with the famous pink snail) was very entertaining for my 4 year old. It has cute and cartoony sculptures at the beginning. The outside gardens are covered with well-established trees and are cool with gentle breezes. There are some truly serene spots to find a bench to sit and contemplate.
The food truck area was nice enough (shaded tables and beanbags and some outdoor table games). However the hot food took about 30 minutes to cook. We only ordered hot chips but they were cooked in 5 separate batches.... Also the 15% surcharge on $7 portions of chips was quite steep. Probably wouldn't have food there next time, but also didn't get the sense it was welcoming to picnics.
Took a pram the whole way with no issues. Was offers a quiet corner to breastfeed my baby which was lovely and private.
Emma Milligan — Google review
Sculptureum in Matakana, New Zealand, is fantastic! I had an amazing time surrounded by incredible art. The place is full of stunning sculptures and beautiful artworks. It's a must-visit for art lovers, with its lovely gardens and inspiring exhibits. A truly enjoyable experience!
Whangarei Falls, located in the Whangarei Scenic Reserve on the Hatea River in New Zealand, is a stunning 85-foot waterfall that attracts many visitors. The falls can be viewed from the top with a short walk to a lookout point, but for the best views, it's recommended to take a walk down through the lush bush to the bottom. During warmer weather, visitors may have the opportunity to swim in the large pool at the base of the falls.
Must Stop in Whangarei. If you local or passing through. Quick 20-30 min loop track will take you to the base of the Whangarei water falls. Not too steep walk. Cruising. Great lunch, picnic spot with public toilets, picnic benches etc.
Malay N — Google review
I was surprised how close the falls are to everything in the town. They are located in a really wonderful park right in the middle of it.
There are many different trails around them, some were a bit muddy from all of the recent rain, but there were alternatives that were not.
It is a quick walk from the parking lot to the main falls. But there are many routes around it to get a good hike in still.
Stunning and very accessible.
Emily F — Google review
Like Rainbow Falls a bit farther north, this is a stunning classic freefall that is extremely easy to access. Located just a few minutes outside of the town center of Whangarei, the 76-meter waterfall is simply breathtaking. A large parking area with toilets is provided , and a perfect view from the left side is only steps away. You can cross a footbridge just meters above the brink (be careful!), then a well-groomed foot path takes you to an upper side view and then more steeply down to a footbridge with a perfect frontal view. Paths continue along the river (quite muddy during our visit) as well as along the cliffs above. There is no entry fee.
This is a gorgeous place and there is no charge to see it. Highly recommended!
Marsha Russell — Google review
Beautiful walk. Dogs allowed on leash. Pick up it’s poop though !!
Probably tough for anyone that struggles walking too far. Total distance is maybe 1km but it’s a reasonably steep track down to the base of the falls and an back up the other side. If you have a strong person the parking lot side track down is possible in a wheelchair. It is gravel so probably a good slog to push the wheelchair back up if the passenger is “heavy” 😬
Very impressive waterfall though and in some awesome NZ bush 👍🏼❤️
Jimbo — Google review
Gorgeous waterfall just 100 feet from the car park. Several viewing stations. If you are able, walk across the bridge (that has no handrail) and walk down a path and several steps to the bottom of the falls. It’s not very far and the views are spectacular! You need non slip shoes. You can walk back up the stairs or go across the bridge at the bottom and take the path back.
This is one of the prettiest water falls I’ve seen so close to a town with little to no walking
Terri Griffin — Google review
A must stop in Whangarei! Carpark and public toilets, then checkout the waterfall from the viewing platform. Take a 5 minute stroll down to the bottom to get the full view of the waterfall. Plenty of picnic tables throughout to use. The walkway is mainly stairs, but it is an easy walk. Swimming is not recommended
William Lin — Google review
Amazing spot, huge waterfall right next to the road. You can walk around and chill. We enjoyed it.
Andreu — Google review
Breathtaking, impressive falls. Bigger than I expected! Great parking and very well maintained walking tracks. Beautiful, rich rainforest. Easy 10min loop, good for kids, families etc. Longer half day walk option.
Toby Ricketts — Google review
Yes itbwas raining and wet but it eas still worth the walk down to the bottom of the falls and just seeing the awesome sight of the falls.
Certainly glad we made the decision to go there, the path down is easy to walk, a little wet but still an easy walk.
If you are ever in the area its definitely well worth stopping and having a look.
Peter Smith — Google review
Our second journey to Whangarei Falls, distinct from our post-cyclone Gabriel visit, presented the falls in a gentler flow, yet still beautifully lively for the late summer season. Opting for a leisurely hour on the Sands Road Trail, we commenced at the Whangarei Falls loop in a clockwise direction, transitioning to the Sands Road Trail at a scenic water crossing at the falls' base. Despite the summer's scant rainfall, the falls didn't disappoint, maintaining a graceful cascade. The trail began with a gentle incline, moderating to a pleasant path that led us across a picturesque suspension bridge to the river's southern bank. The day blessed us with splendid weather, enhancing our walk alongside the river and over a cleverly designed fence-step system for easy passage. Midway, we looped back to the Falls trail, concluding our exploration at the now more accessible carpark near inviting picnic tables. This spot remains a favored destination for its breathtaking vistas and varied hiking experiences, promising more adventures on the Sands Road Trail in future visits.
Mark B — Google review
A-MA-ZING! Easy walk to the fall, a few tables and space for a picnic, a path that transports you to a peaceful place enclosed by trees and butterflies. ⚠️ it is a swimmable place but be cautious and respect it’s magnitude. If you’re unsure, follow the locals - don’t adventure by yourself.
Debbie SC — Google review
Beautiful falls. We did the Falls Loop Track and it was very nice. It is a easy walk and took about 30 minutos with a lot of stops for photos and to contemplate the nature. Defined recommended.
Yuri C. — Google review
Lovely walk from the town Marina up to the falls!
Walking through pristine old and young Kauri forest. Falls can be observed from all sides as there is a little loop trail available. Parking on top of the falls recommended especially for older and handicapped people who need wheelchair access.
Elly Beinhorn — Google review
A very great spot for a family. It was my first time but I love how you wouldn't expect mother nature just not far from town.
One thing that you should know is that when it is high season. There are not many car parks around so you may park away and walk to the place.
Sita Karawakul — Google review
Whangarei Falls is an absolutely breathtaking natural wonder! The serene beauty is truly mesmerizing, creating a perfect atmosphere for both relaxation and exploration. It’s undoubtedly a destination that everyone should experience! The cascading waters and lush surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Landi — Google review
Just a short walk from the parking area, towards the bush(not the beautiful cemented path on the left). There are some steps down, so it is not accessible by wheelchair. However, there is a view from the top of the falls for those who can't do the walk. And it's beautiful! It's worth the stop, and visit! Swimming isn't recommended here. However, we did see someone swimming there.
Lameez Khan — Google review
+ Beautiful, almost straight out of a fairly tale
- No swimming 🚫
• if you climb behind the waterfall, be careful it is VERY slippery ⚠️
Raven Skiauteryte — Google review
This place was a beauty beyond. I loved the fact we were able to get close to the fall itself and took pictures. It wasn't a good day for me in general, I wasn't feeling well, and the trek down to the bottom of the falls and then back up was beyond exhausting for me. Especially coming back up, took thrice the time it took to get down. But that all went away when I looked back at the pics we took and the memories we made in that serene place 🙏
Vinah Mauigoa — Google review
The area above the falls is well looked after with lots of green space and new trees planted with picnic tables in the area. A good path down to the bottom of the falls and then up the other side. Well worth a visit and right by the parking area.
Sylvia McKenzie — Google review
Beautiful morning walk to bring in the New Year! Whangarei has a lot of little gems you just have to look for them 😉 I took the quick route which would have been a 5-7 minute walk to get to the falls, given that you’re not stopping and looking at the falls from all angles/lookouts. It looks well taken care of. There are toilet facilities and places to sit and eat. Quite nice 😊 I think I don’t remember if you can eat right next to the waterfalls. Pls be a good visitor and take your rubbish with you ☺️
E M (EM) — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(1267)
6 Ngunguru Road, Tikipunga, Whangārei 0112, New Zealand