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37 Best Stops Between Mount Maunganui and Nelson
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Mount Maunganui to Nelson?
The direct drive from Mount Maunganui to Nelson is 457 mi (736 km), and should have a drive time of 15 hrs 30 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Mount Maunganui to Nelson, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Wellington, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Blenheim, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, and Picton, as well as top places to visit like Rainbow Springs Nature Park and Te Pa Tu - The Gathering Place, or the ever-popular Te Aroha Mineral Spas.
Visiting Mount Maunganui or Nelson? See our Mount Maunganui Trip Planner and our Nelson Trip Planner.
457 mi
Total Distance
15 hrs 30 mins
Drive Time
37 stops
Cities / Attractions
Top cities between Mount Maunganui and Nelson
The top cities between Mount Maunganui and Nelson are Wellington, Rotorua, Taupo, Tongariro National Park, Blenheim, Westland National Park (Te Wahipounamu), and Picton. Wellington is the most popular city on the route. It's 7 hours from Mount Maunganui and 8 hours from Nelson.
1
Rotorua
Rotorua, located on New Zealand's North Island, is famous for its geothermal activity and rich Maori culture. The town features attractions like Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley with its bubbling mud pools and the impressive Pohutu Geyser. Visitors can also explore a living Maori village and the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute.
91% as popular as Wellington
5 minutes off the main route, 6% of way to Nelson
2
Taupo District
Taupō District is a territorial authority district in New Zealand. It covers 6,333 km² of land, and a further 610 km² of lake area, including Lake Taupō, New Zealand's largest lake, and Lake Rotoaira. Wikipedia.
30% as popular as Wellington
3 minutes off the main route, 13% of way to Nelson
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3
Tongariro National Park
National park
Tongariro National Park, the 4th national park in the world, is a significant protected area known for its cultural and natural importance. It was gifted to the nation by Te Heu Heu Tukino IV, a Tuwharetoa chief, in order to preserve sacred lands from settlement and damage. This act formed the core of New Zealand's first major public reserve and led to its UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1991 due to its unique landscape and cultural significance.
8% as popular as Wellington
21 minutes off the main route, 21% of way to Nelson
4
Westland Tai Poutini National Park
National park
Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a breathtaking expanse that includes the famous Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, extending from the coastline into the mountains. Encompassing 115,000 hectares of high peaks, glacial lakes, and swift rivers, this park offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, fishing, canoeing, hunting, and horse trekking.
14% as popular as Wellington
6 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Nelson
5
Wellington
Events
Seasonal Fireworks
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city located near the southernmost point of the North Island. Known for its picturesque waterfront, sandy beaches, and colorful timber houses dotting the hillsides, Wellington offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The iconic red Wellington Cable Car provides access to the Wellington Botanic Gardens from Lambton Quay. As 'Windy Wellington,' it's famous for its strong winds due to its location on the Cook Strait.
Most popular city on this route
7 minutes off the main route, 45% of way to Nelson
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
6
Picton
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Picton, a picturesque town on the north coast of New Zealand's South Island, serves as a gateway to the stunning islands and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds. The area is home to attractions like the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and EcoWorld Aquarium, which houses native wildlife. Nearby, visitors can explore the Queen Charlotte Track with its coastal forests and scenic ridges. Additionally, Picton is an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts due to its proximity to the renowned Marlborough Wine Region.
6% as popular as Wellington
8 minutes off the main route, 87% of way to Nelson
7
Blenheim
Blenheim, located on New Zealand's South Island, serves as a gateway to the renowned wineries of the Wairau Valley. The town is home to the Marlborough Museum, which showcases the history of winemaking and early Polynesian settlement in the region. Additionally, visitors can explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, housing a collection of World War I aircraft curated by filmmaker Peter Jackson.
8% as popular as Wellington
1 minute off the main route, 88% of way to Nelson
Best stops along Mount Maunganui to Nelson drive
The top stops along the way from Mount Maunganui to Nelson (with short detours) are Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ, and Wellington Cable Car. Other popular stops include Te Pa Tu - The Gathering Place, Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave, and Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest.
1Leon L — Google reviewSteve W — Google reviewRui M — Google reviewPegah S — Google reviewEm D — Google reviewLara G — Google reviewF T — Google review•
Te Aroha Mineral Spas
Mentioned on
Spa
Spas & Wellness
Te Aroha Mineral Spas is a renowned destination on New Zealand's North Island, celebrated for its soothing hot pools that have attracted visitors for over a century. This spa complex offers an intimate experience with private rooms featuring showers and changing areas, making it an ideal retreat for couples or families. Booking online is straightforward, although it's important to note that at least two adults are required per reservation for safety reasons.
Wife & I had a wonderful time at this spa, complete privacy (romance package!) with neat spacious room for changing & shower (+toilet). Staff were great and arranged everything for our session & we loved it!
You can control the temperature of the water & turn on/off bubbles in the tub. Highly recommend visiting atleast once for a relaxing & peaceful time 😇
Dilip ( — Google review
Honestly, I don’t like giving a low score or negative feedback, but I wasn’t particularly impressed with the spa. The sealed room felt too small for my family of three and offered no view. Additionally, there wasn’t enough space for changing or storing clothes. At $129 per hour (plus an extra charge for a towel), it’s not cheap. As other reviewers have mentioned, the water didn’t appear clean, with noticeable fragments, such as what looked like sawdust or dead skin, floating in it.
On a positive note, the staff were friendly, and the nearby Domain is quite attractive.
Really enjoyed the spa here. The large wooden barrels were lovely and comfortable, as was the waft of essential oils in the air and the cool breeze perfectly offsetting the temperature of the water, which we were able to set to perfection. Would have rated it 5 stars if all the staff were friendly (not just the younger ones), there was no loud buzzer jarring us back to reality at the end (the blue light would do) and if the plants were real. Overall though, a lovely experience and highly recommended. We didn't upgrade to the Valentine's day package, and it was still great.
Service and staff were fantastic! Staff big on client safety which was great to see.
Great place to Relax and recharge, and very Private, love the ability to self regulate the temperature of the water. Definitely coming back soon.
Draw backs... no hair dryer available and the buzzer was a little frightening after a lovely quiet dip...lol
It is a great location for a weekend relaxation. The showers, toilet and the changing rooms are very clean
The entry price is reasonable as well. We enjoyed both outdoor spa and pool. The Te Aroh domain is great as well. It is convenient as there is a cafe close by.
Had one of the last sessions of the day.
The location is gorgeous situated on the domain whereas if we had an early booking we would’ve explored the domain.
It is a run down place, tacky with some of the ornaments on the window sills.
Not much information is given on the minerals in the spa. Usually you get abit of information and background so you know what you’re sitting in and its benefits. Having an in person interaction would have elevated the experience.
Nevertheless, we had about an hour in the spa where we can control the bubbles and temperature which we loved! The booking also includes a private change room including toilet and shower which was also another bonus.
With the price, we’d expect at least towel service just like other spas we’ve been to but there is an extra charge.
Staff are friendly and welcoming.
Overall, was an interesting experience but will not be returning.
We stopped here on the way, and since I adore thermal springs, I simply couldn’t drive past without trying it. But to be honest, I was a little disappointed. The water didn’t feel completely natural — there were some sanitizing additives that took away from the purity of the experience.
The room itself was quite small and stuffy, with no drinking water inside, so I had to step out and drink straight from the tap. And to top it all off, the session ended with a loud, jarring sound that had absolutely nothing to do with relaxation.
A moment I wanted to love… but it didn’t quite live up to the magic I hoped for.
Amazing!! After a day of cycling this was exactly what we needed! We booked a private spa for 30 minutes. It was spotlessly clean and the staff were very friendly and helpful. They showed us to our spa room and showed us how everything operated, including some safety info. Highly recommend visiting, especially if you are cycling or hiking in the area!!!
4.7
(1362)
4.5
(133)
Boundary Street, Te Aroha 3320, New Zealand
2Maja P — Google reviewA T — Google reviewCarol A — Google reviewBenjamin M — Google reviewAli M — Google reviewSam S — Google reviewG K — Google review•
Rainbow Springs Nature Park
Mentioned on
Permanently Closed
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Rainbow Springs Nature Park, established in 1932, is a popular destination in New Zealand for encountering native wildlife, particularly the iconic kiwi bird. The park is dedicated to conservation efforts and offers interactive experiences such as the Kiwi Encounter shows and a live kiwi foraging exhibit. Visitors can also enjoy attractions like the Big Splash rides and a dynamic Bird Show featuring exotic species.
What a wonderful adventure.
We arrived early to beat the tour buses & crowds. It was so worth it.
Got to walk the park at our leisure & see the exhibits without the crowds was a treat.
Got see the birds getting fed & the Kiwi exhibit was fantastic. ❤️
Fed the fish & the ducks.
If you can, arrive early for the best experience. Let’s you see the critters without fighting for a view. Feeding time is a treat.
Staff are VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE & friendly. I learned so much.
The exhibits & enclosures are well described & presented.
Park is easy to navigate. Parking is no problem.
I’m going back again in 2019.
We also hit the mountain & did the. Luge & it was a blast.
Glen S — Google review
I loved the park because of its variety of display. You can see different animals with little descriptions about them. Water splash is very entertaining for adults and kids. And my favorite, I got a chance to see Kiwi birds.
Wasn't so happy that, I admit it was my mistake, to accept the offer of seeing the park myself, by the cashier lady, rather than having a guide . Few spots were closed for public and that was also not mentioned when purchasing ticket.
Definitely recommend going on the free guided tour if its your first time as you learn so much and is quite interesting. They have play areas and interactive learning spots located throughout to keep the kids busy on the way through. The big splash ride was cool but all the speakers throughout no longer worked which was very disappointing. The cafe was average tidy and nicely decorated but bathrooms were not cleaned often enough and the food was overpriced and just okay. They offer free shows through out the days which are quite interesting and fun for the kids.
This place is lush, a little paradise with tones of things for a family to see and do. I added on the hatchery tour and was not disappointed, we got to see two eggs ready to hatch, one had its little beak poking back and forth out of a small opening that it hd already made. This can take up to 5 days to fully hatch. Then we went through another room and they had a baby kiwi, held by one of the staff behind the glass, with another keeper feeding him meat. The most adorable thing ever. We then went through the enclosure to the darker area where there were three separated adult kiwis, moving about searching for insects. Fantastic. I then proceded to walk around to see the birds and eptile areas, it was a good display and the animals did not dissapoint. They have a cafe and gift shop and also very modern and clean looking toilets which is always a pleasent treat.
Awesome wildlife park in Rotorua with some unique features. The walk through the redwoods, aviaries and trout pools is the same as it ever was. They have added 'playscapes' along the way which is great to keep kids busy with physical activities and hands-on games. There's also an area with various water experiments to keep little minds busy. The jewel in the crown is, of course, the kiwi house where you can learn about the national bird and eventually (hopefully) see some for real in the nocturnal house. Beyond this there is a playground (currently undergoing refurbishment but still a small area to play in) and the 'Big Splash' ride by the cafe which is doesn't cost any extra but is looking a bit tired - the drop at the end is still a thrill tho.
Fun for the whole family. Some cheeky wee birds and relaxed reptiles. The waterfall makes for great photos. We managed to get a glimpse of the kiwi too.
A really lovely animal park, with an unmissable tour of the kiwi hatching centre. The information signs for each animal were much more fun and engaging than your typical animal park/zoo, which was good. We also enjoyed the (short but sweet) bird show and the log flume ride very much too. You'd be hard pushed to spend more than 3 hours here, but in that time there is plenty to keep you occupied!
If my review and photos were helpful to you, please give me a thumbs up 👍🏼 Thanks!
Beautiful small scale nature park. Great way to kill a few hours touring NZ. The kiwi encounter was very informative, however make note that you are not permitted to take photos or record video in the hatchery. If you are hoping to get a photo of the iconic bird live, you will not be able to. The additional cost you pay for this tour supports the program and sustainablity of the brown kiwi population.
4.3
(1739)
4.0
(2162)
192 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015, New Zealand
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3Umabdulrahman A — Google reviewKimberly H — Google reviewKaren R — Google reviewAmy L — Google reviewGabrielle R — Google reviewTony C — Google reviewBree H — Google review•
Te Pa Tu - The Gathering Place
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Te Pa Tu - The Gathering Place is a captivating cultural experience that immerses visitors in the rich traditions of the Maori people. Nestled within a stunning forest village surrounded by majestic Tawa trees, this attraction offers an enchanting evening filled with music, dance, and delicious seasonal cuisine known as kai. As you gather around blazing bonfires in a natural amphitheater, you'll be treated to performances that change with each season according to the maramataka, or Maori lunar calendar.
I’ve visited here twice - once in 2019 and again this month. I was disappointed the first time - most of those leading the tour didn’t seem like they wanted to be there, and it felt a bit half hearted. I also felt a little like I was tolerated, not welcomed, and sensed an arrogance from some people we encountered. This time was totally different. There was an amazing sense of warmth in the family’s welcome, and I sensed an incredible pride in their effort to show the world their culture. Their performance was the best I have seen anywhere (in any culture) - boy this family can sing! They are all incredibly friendly , engaging and intelligent. The food was stunning - a huge improvement over my last visit. I learned from our table host, Waitangi, that her father, the chief, took over after Covid. He has created something special here now, and is doing an amazing job as not only chief and host, but as a father - his children were incredibly gracious, welcoming and brilliant hosts as well as outstanding performers. Fantastic and very emotional experience. A must do when visiting Rotorua.
Shaun ( — Google review
No matter what I write, I won’t be able to truly express how much I enjoyed being here.
This place is a cultural institute, school, and mini village dedicated to introducing visitors to the Māori people — the indigenous people of New Zealand.
It’s a large venue that requires prior booking. The staff warmly welcome you and explain the Māori culture, followed by a traditional performance featuring expressive movements and chanting that carry deep meaning.
Then, the team takes you on a tour near the hot volcanic rocks, ending with a luxurious international buffet dinner that includes all types of meats, chicken, seafood, desserts, and ice cream.
This center is considered one of the top tourist attractions when visiting Rotorua.
This was an experience of a lifetime. We started being greeted by the chief in a traditional Māori custom. We then ventured off to learn more about their culture, ancestry and ways of living. It was very hands on allowing guests to participate in their martial arts and other activities. The best part of this was after when the family who runs Te Pa Tu entertained us singing and dancing the Haka and other traditional songs. Their passion for their culture is immediately shown and is beautiful to witness. Afterwards, we were treated to a feast - which was no joke. They say they’ll feed you a lot which is an understatement. This was a FEAST with many appetizers, three meats, a variety of sides and an array of dessert. As someone who is a foodie, even I couldn’t keep up. I did have dietary restrictions of no seafood or pork which were happily accommodated by the staff an really only covered a small portion of what was offered. We booked the tour for 7:30pm and got back at 11pm. It was a really late night for us. This is a not-to-miss attraction. It was the best thing I’ve done in New Zealand hands down and one of the top travel moments I’ve ever had. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
This was an amazing experience! A great introduction to Maori culture and history. They make it a fun process and include guests in the experience. From the time they picked us up on the bus to the drop off, it was high energy and a great time! Thank you Sam for starting it off and to Dennis for finishing it on a high point!!! Great performers! Amazing voices! All the performers did a great job but the family with Emerson, Elisa, their brother and uncle were so strong together.... beautiful!!! The food was wonderful!!! Plenty to eat, great variety and beautifully presented! My whole family loved it! Would do this again for sure! Well worth the money!!!!
I have had the absolute joy of experiencing Te Pā Tū twice. The first time, I thought it to be so good, that I planned my family vacation around coming back, so that they too, could bare witness to Te Pā Tū's incredible performances, games and kai (food). The passion of the staff and artists is infectious and I found myself grinning ear to ear both times. Te Pā Tū feels like a big family that welcome you with open arms. I very much enjoyed participating in traditional Māori games and it was wonderful to see everyone get involved. Big Baz, you are a talented musician, people should pay just to simply hear you sing. Tiaana, as always, thank you for being a wonderful host. I count down the days until I am back on the doorsteps of Te Pā Tū. Kia ora!
We were picked up from our hotel by a shuttle and then continued by bus to the Maori village. We were welcomed with a ceremony. There were various stations where we spent 10-15 minutes learning about Maori culture. There were also canapés, which were very tasty. After finishing the stations, we were led to a foyer with a small stage. The things we learned at the stations were presented by our hosts in the "right way". The Haka was incredibly captivating. It's amazing how strong and overwhelming individual voices can be. Afterwards, we were invited to take our seats in a large hall and were served dinner. We were entertained very nicely at the end, with our hosts singing songs from different countries.
A truly unforgettable experience. It was one of the best cultural experiences we've ever had. A must-do when visiting Rotorua. A truly enriching experience for broadening your horizons about other cultures.
This establishment offers a wonderful immersion into Maori culture, and the extended family here is exceptionally welcoming and kind. It is an excellent venue to experience the Maori way of life, including their customs, entertainment, and cuisine. The dinner, in particular, is outstanding.
Great experience! A open culture that is willing to teach patiently and kindly. We loved all of it. The performances were powerful and you could feel the emotion of their words. Food was amazing! Lots of it too!
THE ONLY THING NEGATIVE id say is do not buy the wine package!! We paid $65 per person for the wine pass, but staff have to many people to serve so you end up paying that for 1 glass of wine that is not worth that much. Because there is no indication we bought the wine package, we got a bill for our drinks at the end that was $90. I explained we purchased the package and so they didn’t charge again but $90 for all of us was a lot cheaper then the package we bought.
4.6
(956)
4.5
(4626)
1220 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua city, Rotorua 3040, New Zealand
4Chethiya R — Google reviewYK C — Google reviewVasile O — Google reviewRH E — Google reviewWillem L — Google reviewValeriy P — Google reviewSteve A — Google review•
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
Mentioned on
National forest
Nature & Parks
Forests
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is a picturesque redwood forest in Rotorua, New Zealand. It offers walking, biking, and horse-riding trails with convenient toilet facilities. The forest features majestic Californian redwoods reaching over 70 meters in height and beautiful native trees. Planted in the early 20th century, these redwoods have thrived and grow even faster than in their native habitat. The extensive network of mountain biking trails makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Absolutely gorgeous experience. Lots of amazing and Beautiful trails to walk, various lengths so you can plan the day putting well. Moderate level of fitness required. Breathtaking views at one point. Lots of animals. There are even horse tracks and biking tracks also. Decent parking. Visitors centre here also. It's also the access area to the redwoods tree walk.
Gingerbeardclown — Google review
Absolutely stunning experience! Walking high among the giant redwoods felt peaceful and surreal. The forest smells amazing, and the views from the bridges are beautiful. I went for the night walk — the lights and soft music made it feel magical, almost cinematic. It’s a bit pricey for the length of the walk, but totally worth it for the atmosphere and photos.
The hiking trip was a great experience, made even better by the clear and easy-to-follow signage along the trails. The signs not only guided the way but also provided a range of walking options with different time durations, making it convenient to choose a route that suited our pace and preference. The variety ensured that both casual walkers and more seasoned hikers could enjoy the area comfortably.
We went just after a coupe of days of non-stop rain and personally was worried it will be ruined but found it just as exiting and quite fresh and alive due to the rain. Well worth the visit and highly recommended, even our 4 year old really enjoyed it.
There are several trails to select from. We walked the Green Trail which is a 5k loop. There are steps to get to the scenic overlook, but not too difficult. Throughout there are benches to rest and enjoy the peaceful forest. The trek is all about the towering Redwoods and worth the excursion.
We loved walking through the forest in the late afternoon with the sun piercing through. There was hardly anybody in the forest. Make sure to visit the creek, its stunning! Ample parking nearby and great signage so it’s hard to get lost!
Google Maps Review (short version):
⭐ 5.0 — “A magical forest that comes alive at night.”
When darkness falls, the forest doesn’t sleep — it glows.
Hundreds of gentle lights shimmer among the redwoods and ferns,
turning the night into pure enchantment.
Absolutely unforgettable experience. 🌌
We just did the half hour red route after doing the tree walk. Well worth strolling past the giant trees, there is a small rise, but all easy well marked trail: nothing too strenuous.
4.8
(4534)
4.7
(5275)
Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3074, New Zealand
5Ben S — Google reviewJonny J — Google reviewAilsa — Google reviewJ N — Google reviewShaun L — Google reviewNicky H — Google reviewEd — Google review•
Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ
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Nature & Parks
Cultural center
Te Puia in Rotorua, New Zealand is a Maori cultural center and geothermal preserve that offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Spanning 60 hectares, it features the impressive Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, which erupts around 20 times a day. Visitors can choose between day and night experiences, with the latter offering an enchanting atmosphere under the starry sky.
We did the Te Pu combo and what an incredible experience! Well worth it! The guided tour to see the Kiwis and the Gysers was a brilliant start, then the buffet dinner was absolutely delicious, such a range of food to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences! The cultural display was stunning, so interesting to learn immersively about the Māori culture. Then onto the Gyers and light show at the end, which was a stunning end to a wonderful evening. This honestly is a do not miss
Ciara L — Google review
Te Puia is an absolutely stunning and fascinating place — the geothermal landscape, the geysers, and the deep Māori heritage make it truly unique and worth visiting. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the cultural spirit of the place is unmistakable.
However, the guided tour was quite disappointing. It felt overly long and slow-paced — 90 minutes, with at least half of that time spent standing around without much happening. While I fully understand that the tour is an important source of income for the Māori community, visitors also value their time and expect an engaging, well-structured experience.
Several people in our group clearly lost interest, which is unfortunate because Te Puia has so much to offer.
Suggested improvements:
• Shorten the tour to 45–60 minutes, focusing on the most interesting and meaningful parts.
• Add more interactive or live elements — demonstrations, Q&A sessions, brief performances, or moments for guests to engage directly.
• Consider offering two options: a standard tour and a premium cultural experience, so guests can choose the depth they want.
• Train guides to keep the storytelling dynamic, with more energy and interaction.
The place itself is extraordinary — it just deserves a tour program that matches its beauty and cultural significance. With a few thoughtful changes, Te Puia could easily become one of the most memorable experiences in New Zealand.
What an amazing experience! Our tour guide Hunter was fantastic and shared loads of interesting information about his people and culture.
It was so good to see the arts institute and the people keeping Maori culture alive. The geysers also put on a spectacular show for us, going off multiple times while we were there. We also got to see some Kiwis for the first time!
Then in the evening, the buffet was great, especially the Hangi cooked food! Then the cultural performance at the end was incredible.
Well worth the money as we had a blast for several hours!
Ka pai!
An absolutely amazing and informative day!
As two uk tourists who had never been to a geothermal area, and had only been in NZ for 3 weeks, this was the perfect place to learn about the geothermal activity in the area and how the people there view it.
We did the Tuku Iho trail, which was a perfect length of time, we saw everything and getting to eat the sweetcorn cooked in the hot pool was definitely one of the best parts. Paul our tour guide was so great, obviously very passionate and knowledgeable, chatted with us while we walked between sites, and really clear with his descriptions. It’s quite a lot of walking and not too much stopping (although we stopped by the hot pool while cooking/eating for 30 mins, and you could’ve sat for 15 mins while we watched the geysers), so be aware if walking for most of 3 hours would be too much for you.
Overall, an amazing day! Would recommend to anyone wanting to see the geothermal stuff as well as learning from someone who’s connected to the area.
The park itself is great, lots of info boards to read. The arts building is definitely worth a visit, it’s interesting to learn how their arts are made and to see the culture being supported with new apprentices all the time. Also a great gift shop if that’s something you like!
We saw the geysers errupting and the mud pools bubbling away so can’t complain. Not too busy in the park - end of November when we visited.
A truely wonderful experience and a must for visitors to not only Rotorua but to New Zealand and the magnificent islands. The beauty is how New Zealand has embraced the Māori culture and rich history. This experience includes everything from traditional dancing show to seeing the springs to a lovely buffet dinner. The attraction is only a 5 minute drive from town centre so is easy to reach, but make sure you book tickets in advance!
Enjoy
This is a must do if you visit Rotorua. From understanding Māori traditions, craft education, geothermal geysers, and kiwi conservation through to a fantastic cultural experience with song, dance and a haka. And yes if you are lucky you will get to see one of the kiwi birds in their nocturnal house. Our guide Ngahuia was excellent and was passionate about telling her tribe and ancestors story. A fantastic couple of hours.
Highly recommend a visit and make sure you book tickets in advance and ones that include the cultural performances.
Afterwards we visited the Pataki Kai cafe for a panini and drinks. Nice end to the visit.
This experience was fantastic. We did the Te Po combo. The guided tour through the school was so much more than I thought it would be. I learned a lot and I love the idea behind the school. Its such a lovely concept. The dinner was also great. I wasnt expecting much but the food options were plentiful and everything was so delicious. Cultural performance was stunning and fun and beautiful all at the same time. Seeing the geyser at night was beautiful. So peaceful and pretty. I highly recommend doing this option and taking in all the culture and history. Everyone who works at Te Puia is very passionate about their Mouri heritage. Thank you
This was an excellent 2-hour combo experience, which consisted of 3 parts: Māori arts and craft (with an introduction to the different schools and art forms), the valley of the geysers, and the dance performance. We also got to see a kiwi! It was well paced. Informative. The show was spectacular and we had wonderful views of the geysers. Also, the shop had the best NZ souvenir selection we saw in New Zealand.
4.5
(8507)
4.4
(6031)
20 Hemo Road, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
6Elaine L — Google reviewGary — Google reviewNeha N — Google reviewJames N — Google reviewThe N — Google reviewValleydoll — Google reviewNeil “ — Google review•
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Cafe
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is an unspoiled and protected destination that boasts the world's largest hot spring, set in lush natural surroundings. This diverse adventure takes you through contrasting landscapes, from magnificent coasts and beaches to sprawling farmlands and geothermal wonders. The journey includes hikes through volcanic terrain, spiritual walks in lush forests with large kauri trees, and treks across active volcano zones.
Amazing experience, beautiful walk through an amazing array of geothermal features. The whole walk is very well signposted, the track well maintained and you can tailor the walk to your level of fitness and ability using their bus.
Definitely include the boat trip if you can. You are taken across the lake and see several places impossible to get to on foot. Plus the commentary given is tremendously informative
Enzedgasman — Google review
A must-see experience!
A beautiful walk through nature’s wonders — from emerald green to sky-blue pools, steaming geysers, and bubbling hot water you can actually feel beside the path. The smell of sulfur is strong, but it’s all part of the incredible experience. Absolutely worth it!
Lucky for beautiful spring weather and early morning small crowd. Lovely moderate hike down to the boat dock with multiple documented view points of the steaming vents and springs in the valley along the way. Peaceful yet awesome views of what the 1883 eruptions did to the original valley and lakes and the vegetation that repopulated the valley. Ryan gave us a great commentary and boat viewing tour of the crater lake and its steaming vents - a must do to add to the hike. Bus options for those not up to the full hike.
It was an absolutely amazing experience.
The walk with multiple viewing points and their relevance and history was brilliant to learn.
The boat ride was so informative and a delightful experience. Staff were supportive, informative, and helpful.
Fascinating and beautiful. Well organised. Great staff. Do all 3 walks (only about a relatively easy 3.6k) and the boat trip to complete the experience with a close up view of a geyser in action. A fabulous half day. Don't miss it.
The lake cruise is so worth it! Absolutely stunning being out on the water. The walk to the lake was also amazing - stunning landscapes and scenery all throughout.
Really interesting site. Walking involved...but not strenuous. There are 3 trails to walk...choose one to your abilities.
Fascinating walk down the volcanic valley. The guide had a great overview of the area and the history and pointed out the different fauna and flora as well as the details of the volcano and its history.
The return journey was by bus which was great as it would have been a steep climb back to the visitor centre.
4.6
(2574)
4.6
(1853)
587 Waimangu Road, Rotorua 3073, New Zealand
7Catie C — Google reviewMeinard L — Google reviewVicky W — Google reviewEranga A — Google reviewFiorella M — Google reviewBramwell S — Google reviewElysia K — Google review
Matamata Visitor Information Centre
Tourist information center
Souvenir store
Visitor Centers
Such a lovely lil' visitor center in a cute town near Hobbiton. There are many maps, pamphlets, and souvenirs. You can also mail postcards here. The exterior of this building is amazing, too, especially if you love Hobbit homes. 🏡
Justine B — Google review
Lovely information centre :) they had maps, hobbiton merch, the whole centre was themed on a hobbit house :)
Love the vibe of this area. Went here after Hobbiton Movie Set to meet up with friends and family for dinner. While we waited we took pictures around and enjoyed the small town feel. Area was chill and I might have seen a few hobbitsesss walking about. Love the "Welcome to Hobbiton" sign (dumb of me to forget to take a pic). Great experience!
My 2 grandchildren were curious about the contents of the building. We found an excellent range of tourist products. We were not there to shop but I was impressed by the range and the presentation. One staff member offered the girls a free balloon or sweets, after checking with me that it was okay,which was very kind.
provide a comprehensive, impartial information and booking service for Matamata, Waikato and New Zealand for accommodation, activities, attractions and travel bookings.( Hobbiton tour tickets😀)
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday – Sunday & Public Holidays: 9:00 am – 4:00pm
Closed Christmas Day
Building very cute
Good attention
I was hoping to see someone for the tour (there is a table for this but haven’t seen anyone)
Lovely souvenirs but those you can find in Amazon I was hoping for something more special
In front of the hobbiton sign
Lovely little town
With a great central business district, with great restaurants pub and cafes, visiting the Hobbiton movie set was a delight and the food there was great too. But be warned weary travellers! Be warned of the cave troll that operates the Information site. The trolls name is Gail and she’s a witch that weaves a web of deceit. She will claim there is only one taxi in town to take you to the hobbit city.
She will call a number and identify herself by name- soon after a scam taxi will arrive and demand 30$ a person - or 120$ for a ten km ride- there only. Gandalf only knows what the goblin taxi driver will charge for a ride back. We had the taxi drive us to our rental and just drove ourselves. 13$- One of us had to stay sober at the Green Dragon pub but it was worth it. Lovely experience overall but don’t let yourself get scammed by Gail the troll or her goblin henchman taxi driving friend. Those two are working together and we didn’t trust them. There are lots of other taxis available. A stain on an otherwise lovely day.
Matamata visitor centre:
After booking the online ticket,take it from a kind staff and wait a hobitton shuttle bus at out of the centre. Let's go to the hobitton movie set
8Elizabeth R — Google reviewDaniela C — Google reviewJeremy D — Google reviewRoland — Google reviewAnqi — Google reviewPeter B — Google reviewIlayda E — Google review•
Waikite Valley Hot Pools
Mentioned on
Swimming pool
Nature & Parks
Hot Springs & Geysers
Nestled in a serene valley, Waikite Valley Hot Pools offers an unforgettable experience with its mineral-rich waters sourced from the renowned Te Manaroa Spring, New Zealand's largest single source of boiling water. As you soak in one of the six pools, ranging from 30 to 41°C, you'll be surrounded by lush geothermal ferns and the soothing sounds of nature. This hidden gem is perfect for families and friends alike, providing a tranquil escape year-round.
Arrived as soon as open and very popular place.. excellent experience, loved all the pools, had heaps of rain & couldn't fault the atmosphere..Very clean & tidy.. Nice size changing rooms, they have open lockers or pay to secure personal items.. Highly recommend this place, will return again..
Mark W — Google review
Beautiful spot. Amazing thermal pools with adjoining campground. Daily charge includes access to pools - multiple times if desired.
Really cool to see the origin spring and amazing atmosphere to relax and try out the different temperatures of the six pools 🥰 make sure you do as the signs say: never go in alone and stay hydrated! we made a drinking pause several times but after we were there the whole afternoon we had a bit of circulation problems, so maybe it wasn't enough 🫠 but apart from that we had a great time there and really enjoyed it - glad that we did it and would definitely recommend it 😊👍🏻
We visited several hot pools on our trek North and Waikite Valley was the hottest and the most "natural" in it's relationship to the environment. A very pleasant stay and a bargain at $79 for a powered site and all the hot soaks you could wish for
An absolute must place to visit, lovely hot pools and a variety of temperatures. Another must is to walk up the track, 10 minutes to see the source of the boiling water 98 degrees.
I’ve been here several times and usually had good experiences, but today was really disappointing. The water was really dirty and disgusting, and although the staff kept checking the temperature, they never seemed to notice or address the cleanliness. On top of that, a group of people were speaking loudly and being disruptive the whole time, yet no staff member stepped in to manage it.
Compared to another famous hot pool, which often has even more travelers and even large tour groups, the water there is always ok, and staff will remind guests to keep noise down if needed. This pool itself is good, but the management has some serious issues to improve.
Also, there are only two shower rooms in the ladies’ area, which means you often have to wait outside. That’s really inconvenient and wired design.
Very disappointing 3 pools available 2 are knee deep and the last one is waist high. Pools are very dirty. Don't waste your time going.
Breathtaking atmosphere and warm spring water, what more could you want.. event though It was a rainy day on a weekday, there were still quite a few people came 11am onwards. Lockers are easy to use, and the cafe seemed nice. Will be back for sure 😊
4.6
(1915)
4.5
(1340)
648 Waikite Valley Road, Waikite Valley 3077, New Zealand
9Alison T — Google reviewRaihah R — Google reviewAroha R — Google reviewLynda — Google reviewBianca H — Google reviewJing Y — Google reviewMichael B — Google review•
Te Waihou Blue Spring (Whites Road entrance)
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Hiking area
Scenic Walking Areas
Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway), Whites Road entrance offers a mesmerizing experience with its stunning blue and green water, surrounded by hillsides and regenerating bush. The well-maintained track provides photo opportunities and a chance to spot trout in the clear spring water. The walk, approximately 9km round trip, takes about 4 hours including stops. While some parts can be narrow and there are steps, it's an easy walk overall.
absolutely stunning! 🌿💧 The water is crystal clear with the most beautiful shades of blue and green, and the walk along the river is peaceful and refreshing. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy nature. The track is well maintained and easy to walk, suitable for all ages.
Highly recommend visiting if you want to experience one of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural places. Truly magical! ✨
Bansi P — Google review
An amazing walk. Took us 3 hours there and back with half hour for lunch. The river is crystal clear and the colours stunning - a hidden gem. The walk is easy a farm track and wooden walkway in places plus some stairs running alongside the river.
Visited Te Waihou Blue Springs in September 2025 and it was one of the most beautiful natural spots we saw in New Zealand. The colour of the water is absolutely unreal, crystal clear with a vibrant blue and turquoise hue that looks almost magical. The clarity is so incredible that you can see the plants and pebbles beneath the surface perfectly. No wonder this spring supplies some of the world’s purest drinking water!
The walking trail is peaceful and well-maintained, with plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way. We took our time strolling, stopping often for photos because every corner looked stunning. The reflections of the trees and sky in the clear water created a calm, dreamlike view. The sound of running water and the surrounding greenery made the whole experience so soothing.
It’s an easy and relaxing walk suitable for all ages, just remember to wear comfortable shoes. We visited in early spring and the weather was perfect — cool, bright and not crowded.
Te Waihou Blue Springs is a true gem for nature lovers and photographers. You can’t help but be amazed by its beauty. A must-visit stop if you’re traveling around the Waikato region!
The walk itself is great. It gets busy so if there's been rain expect alot of mud and bring extra shoes and/or clothes to change into if you're not waterproofed lol. There's toilets along the trail as well but the one in the middle of the trail about 3kms in is out of order. They also aren't maintained so bring loo paper with you and hand sanitiser should you need to go. Water is freezing if you dare take a dip.
The amazing blue springs offer an easy walk with two different entrances. We chose the Leslie Road access and found the footpath to be very well-maintained, so much so that our shoes stayed clean and mud-free.
The water is incredibly clear; if you look closely, you can spot native fish swimming. It's also mesmerizing to watch the waving seaweed, which almost looks like a mythical water creature moving with the current. The area provides plenty of spots for a picnic and for taking beautiful photos.
Can't believe this place is real!!
We parked at the car park that's a bit further away from the main area of the blue springs, which was about an hour walk one way. It's quite easy and mostly flat but not really covered, so make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen! It's totally worth to walk along the river side to the main area, it's just unbelievable how clear and beautiful this water is!
The views were amazing and the water was supremely clear !! I went in from the Whites Road entrance. So, it was a 2-3km walk along the trail before reaching the other end where the viewing platform is. Make sure you come when the weather is good. Some parts of the trail can get muddy when wet.
Lovely hike with nice blue river! Did not know another access point existed for a much shorter hike. Nevertheless, the views along this longer hike were great!
4.7
(660)
4.5
(221)
Whites Road, Putāruru 3483, New Zealand
10Ringa E — Google reviewPaul K — Google reviewNicky H — Google reviewNuclearranger — Google reviewMike H — Google reviewLara G — Google reviewJulian H — Google review•
Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Tour agency
Nestled in the Taupo Volcanic Zone on New Zealand's North Island, Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave is a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Accessible by boat or ferry, this geothermal wonderland boasts vibrant rock formations, steaming geysers, and bubbling mud pools set amidst lush native bush. Visitors can wander wooden pathways through the surreal landscape and even descend into subterranean caves with stunning rock formations.
Thoroughly enjoyed my visit. Surreal environment and scenery. I really loved that it was completely natural with beautiful native forest surroundings. There is clearly a lot of effort put in to keeping it so stunning and keeping weeds out. Truly magical. I also enjoyed eating at the Cafe afterwards and buying some souvenirs for family at home. The staff were friendly and helpful. I'm so glad I chose this geothermal park!
Raewyn J — Google review
Amazing place! This is the only geothermal park where dogs are allowed (on a leash only). It is a self-guided walk that is approximately 2 km, accessible via a short 2-minute boat trip. The price is very fair.
A well structured board walk experience after a small boat ride to the geo-thermal area across a small water area. The majority of the walk is on formed timber walkways and has handrails in place. There are also a couple of areas on small sections of earth walkways. Total walk time is about 90 mins. All of our group (3 family members) were happy we attended. Staff on-site were very friendly and helpful.
This was such a cool stop. We had already been to some geothermal areas so I wasnt sure how different this would be. It was stunning! The trails were lovely and an easy walk. You can go at your own pace. The boat takes you to and from the island on demand. We left and were picked up within minutes. Bring water because it is warmer than youd think walking around the trails, even on a cooler day. I heard about this place on the radio and Im so glad we added it to our drive.
We loved this.
It's a journey somewhat. Once you park you can buy a ticket and then immediately proceed to the boat landing. This will take you across a very small lake to the walkway.
The paths are very well kept.
The geological items consist of mud pits, geysers, boiling water, flows, and quite a bit of foliage.
Highly recommend, a full loop will take something like 90 to 120 minutes if you go slow, it's not super huge.
A truly stunning and unique place! Beautifully set up with wooden walkways that guide you through fascinating volcanic activity — bubbling mud pools, steaming sulphur baths, colorful mineral deposits, and even small glaciers. The whole area feels alive with color and energy.
The experience starts with a short boat ride across the lake — the only way to reach the park. It’s such a special way to begin the visit, and we were the only ones on the boat, which made it feel even more peaceful and exclusive. Once you’ve bought your ticket, you can take the boat across at your own pace. When you’re done exploring, just ring the bell on the other side, and the boat comes to pick you up again.
The walk itself takes about 1.5 hours and is easy to follow, but the best part is how quiet it is. We saw maybe 20 people in total and spent most of the time completely on our own. A magical and unforgettable experience — highly recommended!
Absolutely incredible place that simply begs to be visited in New Zealand.
Here, geothermal fields and mountains feel like nature’s own spells — impossible to forget and impossible to resist. Bubbling mud pools wink at you playfully, warm rivers glide past like silky ribbons, and the quiet caves wrap you in an embrace so gentle and deep that a part of you happily stays there forever. ❤️
An excellent collection of geothermal features surrounded by lovely woodland, and in an attractive valley. The very short shuttle ferry across the lake runs on demand and takes no time. Staffed today by two enthusiastic and friendly guys. Respectable food available for a quick lunch. Relatively quiet on the Sunday in November when we visited, this place deserves to be more popular.
4.7
(1986)
4.5
(1172)
494 Orākei Kōrako Road, Taupo 3083, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
11Thomas W — Google reviewNatalie B — Google reviewDavid B — Google reviewAlison B — Google reviewFlorjan C — Google reviewLuke M — Google reviewLaureen L — Google review•
Sanctuary Mountain - Maungatautari
Mentioned on
Ecological park
Nature & Parks
Islands
Sanctuary Mountain - Maungatautari, also known as the 'floating mountain,' is a vast mainland conservation island in New Zealand. It offers three enclosures featuring wetlands, old-growth forests, and native birdlife. The area provides various hiking trails suitable for families, from challenging hikes to gentle bushwalks. As one of New Zealand's largest eco-sanctuaries, it serves as a predator-free haven for endangered native species like kiwi and kaka.
This was a Must Do and finally everything came together and we managed to go . Thanks to Rosie for the short guided tour explaining just SOME of the reasons Maungatautari was entirely fenced . This Sanctuary is all self funded so every tour/self guided walk, food, gifts and $$ spent go back to the Sanctuary. Please Go do this the tracks are great , we'll maintained , lots of great information. Highly Recommend Sanctuary Mountain.
Brian M — Google review
Amazing place! The team here is so passionate about protecting NZ’s native wildlife, and the guided walks are first class. A must-visit if you want to see the beauty of our forests and learn how we can help protect them. I will be back in late spring for sure.
This is an incredibly gorgeous and serene place to visit! We had a very knowledgeable tour guide and learned so much. There was a lot of birds to spot and different walking trails you could follow. The night tours are best for people interested in nocturnal creatures like arachnids and insects. You will definitely need comfortabke shoes and a reasonable amount of fitness if you're wanting to keep up with a tour - the walk is all uphill.
Great experience with our special guide "Lyn of Tawa"; very knowledgeable and tolerated my endless cheeky questions. Staff could not have been more friendly. Birdsong seems to be a given but catching them in photos is let's say "challenging" :)
This ecological preserve and trust is absolutely breathtaking and that applies to both its size and what can be seen within. The people who run the visitor center are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, and can answer any question you could possibly have and them some. The land is surrounded by 26 miles of predator proof fence, so the wildlife inside is protected and thriving. We saw so many birds enjoying the space, even some endangered ones- a surprising and hopeful sight. Highly recommend. Donate on top of the admission fee, if possible.
A beautiful place to visit! Abundant bird song (and sightings) and lush green undergrowth. We did the Te Raki and Te Tonga tracks over the mountain which were a great little adventure (comparable to a DOC “tramping” track).
Nice spot. Definitely like what they are doing with the place & being my first time going there not knowing what to expect. Almost had it to myself arriving early. Wasn't expecting to pay that much to see it though. Tbh thought it was more a donation & not $32. But that wasn't a worry.
We journeyed from Mid Atlantic US. This was well worth the travel. Imogene was our guide. Our tour was highly educational and completely enjoyable as Imogene has a sense of humor about the sometimes shy avian residents. The fence, its size and its monitoring including volunteer involvement was truly impressive. Saw several birds, was able to identify more with our birdsong app with the NZ download which added approx. 60 bird calls. Fun to watch as they darted around the canopy. Binoculars are helpful and comfortable shoes a must. All in our party easily completed the walk. Visitor’s center is educational and fun as well.
4.8
(732)
5.0
(200)
99 Tari Road, Pukeatua 3880, New Zealand
12Neil F — Google reviewS V — Google reviewCSchady89 — Google reviewLancia — Google reviewNuclearranger — Google reviewScheinen B — Google reviewZhikai G — Google review•
Aratiatia Rapids
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Aratiatia Rapids is a stunning natural attraction located near the Aratiatia Dam. The rapids are created when the dam gates are opened several times a day, releasing a powerful rush of water into the river below. Visitors can witness this breathtaking display of nature's force and beauty from various vantage points along the Aratiatia Rapids Track. The sight of millions of liters of water surging through the rugged landscape is truly awe-inspiring.
Every day, there are a few times that the water gets released from the dam to the river. You can check the schedule on their website, as it is subject to change.
By coincidence, we made it just a few minutes before their last scheduled release, and so happy we witnessed that. It is incredible that so much water gets released, and just in a matter of a few minutes, the water rises so much.
Incredible experience!
Stephen — Google review
We filmed the rapid from both ends then spliced it together. It was a great sight to see the dam release. Hope you enjoy it.
These are an area of New Zealand river rapids downstream from the dam for the Aratiatia Power Station on the Waikato River. The rapids are extremely dangerous. With the station in operation, several times a day, the Aratiatia dam gates are opened, which restores the rapids to their normal operation. There are several lookout points to observe the rapids which is a popular tourist attraction. Advisable to go early to avoid crowds and the heat as well. Uneven terrain, lot of walking. Toilets available. Cafe available. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Beautiful place. Lots to see. Parking space is that easy to find in parking area.
A piece of advice: Show up early. The bridge and the view points can get very busy and, although it wasn't true during my visit, I can only assume parking can also be difficult during the peak tourist season.
With that said, this is a great stop on the way to any number of other sites or activities in the area and it's pretty amazing to witness the landscape change once the doors are opened.
A fantastic morning watching the release of the the gates to let some water out and down the rapids and rocks
They release it 3 times a day.
It’s such a sight to see and the water is so green.a car park and this is also where you can go jet boating and dam cruise.
A must see. It’s free to watch the release and alarms go off.
It's not really a natural wonder it's actually the runout after a dam. We were lucky enough to catch them opening this.
If you are on your way on a scenic drive, it's worth the 15 minute stop.
Be sure to carefully check the time and location (and give yourself an extra 15–20 minutes) so you can walk to the next viewpoint after the first parking spot, because it offers the best views in both directions.
Freedom camping is allowed in self-contained vehicle across the damn with cafe selling nice coffee beside the carpark with awesome view in the evening.
4.7
(1666)
4.6
(1250)
630 Aratiatia Road, Rotokawa 3378, New Zealand
13Michael K — Google reviewStace — Google reviewVaughan F — Google reviewGech D — Google reviewKapeli — Google reviewHarry K — Google reviewEvangeline T — Google review•
Huka Prawn Park
Mentioned on
Restaurant
Nature & Parks
Huka Prawn Park, located just 10 minutes north of Taupo, is a unique aquaculture venture and tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the prawn farm's hatchery and nursery to learn about the breeding process. The park offers a variety of water-related activities such as paddle boats, prawn fishing, feeding trout, riding water bikes, and more.
We had a lovely late lunch with my family at this bustling spot. Even though there was a long queue to order, the prawns we enjoyed were cooked to perfection and came with delicious soya sauce and sweet Thai chili sauce—an excellent portion for 3 of us with a 1 kg of prawns. My kids had picked their food from the kids' menu which looked great and we also tried the garlic bread, which was truly delightful. The staff were polite and friendly, making our experience even better. While the wait time was a bit longer and the men's restroom could use some attention, everything else left us with a fantastic first impression. Overall, we had a wonderful time dining there.
Augustine T — Google review
We ordered 500g of prawns. Please be aware it is not enough for 2 people, so please order other food as well. Food was good overall and staff were friendly and professional. It was not busy when we visited, but there are plenty of seats to house loads of people.
All the staff members were friendly and attentive, which made our visit even more enjoyable. The prawns were perfectly cooked and practically melted in our mouths. The pita garlic bread was definitely a standout for me, and the salad with its well-balanced dressing was absolutely spot on.
Parts under construction yet enough to keep ine busy. Family did the tour and spoke well of the experience. Did grab a coffee but no food. Coffee was good. Activities were plenty and a good variety. Take the togs with from the start 😀.
Prawns aren't fresh, garlic and butter Prawns has a weird taste. Hot chips really good. We didn't get water for our table, used to go here a faws time and service really good but not the same
Was skeptical about the prawns, oh how wrong I was....
They were cooked to perfection, half cooked with garlic butter OMG.
Staff super friendly place is super clean and tidy.
Clean toilets 👌
Ordered the 110, 1kg platter. Close to 40 percent of the prawns were soggy and not firm. A sign of not the freshest specimen. The prawn fishing were great years ago, now operating in their breeding pond shed. Handful of prawns in each pool. Hardly anyone caught any while we were there . Compare to before its now steps backwards. For the price they charge for the experience, Its a rip off.
Service is excellent. This restaurant is set by the river side and have a good view. There is both indoor and outdoor seating. There is a photo spot as well as a hot foot bath. The waiter had a bright smile and was friendly. Will come round to check on our dining experience and ask how he could make it better. The prawns were fresh and juicy. The garlic butter was great! The prawns here have a large head and small body so the meaty portion can be small. We love the garlic pita bread! The prawn bisque is rich, creamy and prawny. Fish and chips were fried crisp and light. The batter is not too thick so you can taste the sweetness of the fish. The brownie is very rich. The chocolate explosion cake is spongy and moist. It’s a pity that it lacks the chocolaty taste. Else the paring is great! Since the food, ambience and service are all great! I would highly recommend this place!
4.0
(2409)
3.9
(1307)
200 Karetoto Road, Wairakei, Taupō 3384, New Zealand
14Susan A — Google reviewPam M — Google reviewMercPri — Google reviewGillian A — Google reviewPaul W — Google reviewCameron H — Google reviewGeorgie W — Google review•
River Valley
Mentioned on
Hotel
Outdoor Activities
Nestled in the heart of the Manawatu-Wanganui region, River Valley Lodge is not your typical hostel. It offers a range of adventurous activities such as white water rafting, hikes, and a unique gold mining era-inspired river crossing. The lodge provides various accommodation options from backpacker-style bunkrooms to luxurious ensuite double rooms, making it an ideal base for exploring the central North Island.
I recently booked an 8-day riding holiday, and it was truly a memorable adventure. The breathtaking scenery, reliable horses, and wonderful guides made every moment enjoyable. We were blessed with perfect weather, allowing both people and horses to swim in the river. The food was not only delicious and healthy but also plentiful. Our guides even surprised us with delightful treats now and then, which added a special touch. On our last day, we had an exhilarating white-water rafting adventure led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide. Each evening, dinner was a joyous occasion where guests and staff came together to relax, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company after a long day outdoors. The exceptional warmth from everyone involved made the trip truly special.
Yveline C — Google review
Spent 2 days and nights here March 2025 and did 2 Burn the Breeze horseback rides for experienced riders. The accommodations were clean and comfortable and along the river. The meals provided were varied and home cooked with produce grown on the premises and were quite delicious. The staff was friendly and helpful and went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. Our horseback rides were great fun and the horses were wonderful, well trained and responsive. It was a learning experience to ride using Natural Horsemanship and ride without bridles and bits. Miss T was a joy to ride and did many lopes through gorgeous scenery.
Our stay was amazing. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. The food was awesome. The scenic rafting tour was beautiful, and our guides, Finn and Tom, were great.
Accommodating is an understatement! We booked a family river rafting cruise, however with me being 20 weeks pregnant at the time, the lodge informed us that per the NZ law I am not allowed to get on a raft, however they immediately had alternative activity options lined up for us and we chose a tour around the neighbouring landscape with e-bikes. What a blast! And this is saying a lot as we had our 3-year old with us which the staff made an effort to accommodate with a toddler bike seat and toddler helmet. They also packed us a lovely picnic to have halfway through our journey. Overall the staff were friendly and accommodating from the minute we arrived and entertained all our toddlers questions and comments :). It is quite the drive to get to the lodge but the views are worth it and the sound of the nearby waterfall makes it feel even more special. Husband and toddler also enjoyed use of the hot tub which had a view of the river. The accommodation is backpacker style but there are options for those (like us) wanting an en-suite bathroom. The bedding is also hotel quality and incredibly comfy. We were there in Autumn so it was cool but heating in the room is sufficient. Definitely a place for nature lovers and people who like to socialise. The restaurant is so cozy. I read about the amazing food that Miranda whips up but I was still blown away. There was plenty of food at dinner and breakfast time and it was super delicious. So definitely something for those that like more luxury than pure backpacker life. There is a communal kitchen if you want to cater for yourself. We didn't use it but seemed clean and tidy. We will be back again when my parents visit from overseas!
This was a delightful place to stay. The food was absolutely amazing. The best vegetables I have ever had. We went for the rafting experience. It was a great adventure. Hazel made the experience so much better! She was funny, very experienced and we always felt safe. Wonderful place!!
Best service, friendliest, most welcoming hosts & staff, and amazing food anywhere. A beautiful natural spot by the Rangitikei River too!!
We want to go back!😍
We experienced the most tranquil and stress free stay. The Valley is both picturesque and breaktaking, the food was 'to die for' and the staff go above and beyond to cater to your needs.
I highly recommend adding this stay to your travel itinerary.
Thanks again Janey and staff. We will definitely be back for a longer stay in the future!
Cam and Chris.
An amazing authentic country lodge with outdoor activities - we had an incredible time whitewater rafting and also horse riding around the beautiful landscape.
The food is mostly homegrown and the dinner we had was the best food we had in our stay in NZ. The lamb shank and creamy mash with fresh raspberry crumble was divine. Janey and her team provide a bespoke service and tailor your stay to your wishes. Cannot recommend enough!
4.8
(201)
5.0
(107)
River Valley Lodge 266 Mangahoata Road, RD2, Taihape 4792, New Zealand
15Gurpreet K — Google reviewLee L — Google reviewEugene T — Google reviewNesh K — Google reviewMatt _ — Google reviewCampbelljanelucy — Google reviewCaleb M — Google review•
National Army Museum
Mentioned on
Army museum
Museums
The National Army Museum in New Zealand offers a comprehensive look at the country's military history, covering conflicts from the Colonial NZ land Wars to more modern engagements. The museum features outdoor displays as well as interior exhibits showcasing small arms, medals, large vehicles, artillery cannons, dioramas, photographs and paintings. Visitors can expect to spend several hours exploring the extensive collections and learning about various historical periods and peacekeeping efforts. Families will find engaging activities for kids, including dressing up in Kids HQ.
Fantastic museum! My kids enjoyed it too. Very well kept, lots to look at and enjoy. Kids HQ was great and the clipboards with iSpy for the kiddos was fabulous too. Lovely little Cafe on site with gift shop which we couldn't help but grab a few lovely souvenirs to take back to QLD Australia to remind us of home. 10/10. Family Pass $35, well worth it.
Stevie G — Google review
We had a fantastic time at the NZ Army Museum with our family! The museum was well-managed, and although we were a bit late for the guided tour, the exhibits were still engaging. One suggestion for improvement could be offering discounted prices for visitors who miss the guided tour. Our kids thoroughly enjoyed wearing the uniform costumes and taking photos around the tanks – the setup outside was particularly impressive! The interactive elements and displays were great for families. Overall, a wonderful experience, and we'd definitely recommend it to others.
Made an impromptu visit to the museum without expecting much and it turned out to be a fruitful visit. The museum is a nice stopover between Whakapapa and Napier : there is a cafe and petrol station nearby.
The museum itself presents a narrative of the NZ army and its history in context with world history with some highlights of its role in global conflicts abroad such as the two World Wars and modern wars. There are plenty of exhibits and dioramas presented throughout and the guides were engaging.
There are some hardware within the museum and outside for some photo opportunities as well.
We’ve been past this place numerous times but was always in a rush and often just a quick stop to the gift shop, cafe or toilet break. Made an effort to venture into the museum and it was simply an eye opener. Lots of history of the different wars that took place including some original items during that era. Great place for the kids as well to soak in all the knowledge and nothing gruesome so perfect for all ages. Lots of parking available at the rear and some at the front. Cool little gift shop and a very well equipped cafe for a quick feed and drink. There are display of tanks etc outside where the kids can climb and take pics.
Bought a smelly balls from here. It is a very nice and well-kept place to learn about New Zealand’s soldiers and history. The displays are easy to follow and show real stories, medals, and uniforms. The memorial wall is touching and makes you stop and think. There is also a café and a shop inside, which is handy if you are on a long drive. The place feels peaceful and respectful, and it is good for families, kids, and visitors of all ages. A great stop if you are passing through Waiouru.
Love this place, stope here on the way back to Wellington every couple of months.
Love the history of NZ's military. Well laid out, lots of interesting things to see.
Great area for the kids to dress up and play.
Cafe is great and its a great stop traveling north or south.
Staff are great and the tickets are reasonably priced.
Amazing history with beautiful and compelling displays. Second time visitor (first time was early 2000s, has been upgraded since then). Busy cafe, nice little gift shop, and facilities are clean.
A fantastic place to learn about New Zealand's military history, from its early days as a colonial outpost right up to present-day conflicts.
Inside, you'll find impressive dioramas and a great collection of military hardware. Don't forget to take a walk around the grounds outside, where you can see some of the larger tanks on display.
When you're ready for a break, the cafe offers a delicious selection of baked goods, and the gift shop has some excellent souvenirs to remember your visit by.
Overall, it's a great place to visit. History buffs (like myself) could easily spend the entire day here, getting lost in the detailed accounts.
4.6
(3501)
4.5
(235)
State Highway One &, Hassett Drive, Waiouru 4861, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
16
Ohakune Old Coach Road
Mentioned on
Outdoor Activities
Biking Trails
Explore the Ohakune Old Coach Road in New Zealand and delve into the country's railway heritage. This historic route was once a crucial transportation link between two railheads on the North Island main trunk line before they were connected in 1908. Today, it forms part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail, providing an enchanting multi-terrain path for cycling and walking enthusiasts. With its rich history and family-friendly appeal, it offers a delightful experience for all visitors.
4.7
(223)
Manawatū-Whanganui Region, New Zealand
17Eliana C — Google reviewPaul T — Google reviewGreer C — Google reviewPamela — Google reviewLucy T — Google reviewNoel J — Google reviewEranga A — Google review•
Te Manawa Museum
Mentioned on
Art museum
Museums
Te Manawa Museum, located in Palmerston North, has been a cultural center since 1971. It offers a diverse range of exhibits and events that celebrate art, science, and heritage. The museum features contemporary art, social and natural history displays, as well as interactive family activities. Visitors can explore the gallery showcasing captivating photography, paintings, and crafts by both local and international artists. With regularly changing displays alongside permanent exhibits, every visit to Te Manawa is unique.
Super friendly staff. It was free, lots of activities for kids and adults. Really great for family outing.
Recommended Santa Cave.
Lena K — Google review
This place is absolutely fantastic! One of my favorite features is the playground, which is filled with colorful equipment and fun structures. However, it's a bit disappointing that it's designed specifically for younger children—if I could, I would be playing in the dark room and building a brick wall right now! I understand the need for age restrictions to keep the little ones safe and happy, but it still feels a bit limiting. Despite that, the overall atmosphere of the area is vibrant and welcoming, making it a wonderful spot to visit and enjoy the surroundings.
The art museum wasn't exhibiting big collections when I visited, but it was well curated and inspiring
Free entrance, quiet during weekday morning. Highly recommended.
What an eye-opening experience! I learned much about NZ bird populations along with the long-finned eels. I love the diligent work to restore the kiwi! Thank you.
Wonderful amazing place kids loved it were visiting palmerston north was a great edition to just shopping
Great place to take kids, interactive and the playground at end is great. Our kids enjoy stopping here
Excellent (free admission) museum with natural history, educational and outdoor displays worth an explore. Upstairs has the Rugby Museum (paid admission), and special exhibitions. Additionally, there is an art gallery with special exhibitions that change seasonally.
Te Manawa (Māori: The Heart) is a museum, art gallery and science centre in Palmerston North, New Zealand. It is operated by the Te Manawa Museums Trust, a charitable trust incorporated on 20 August 1999. From that date, the Trust assumed responsibility for art works and heritage assets transferred to its care but held on behalf of others.
4.6
(1063)
4.5
(241)
326 Main Street, Palmerston North Central, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
18V._. P — Google reviewDonna N — Google reviewHans D — Google reviewIvy S — Google reviewChris C — Google reviewLuis L — Google reviewNeil B — Google review•
The Victoria Esplanade
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
The Victoria Esplanade is a beloved inner city park in Palmerston North, New Zealand, spanning 19 hectares along the Manawatu River. It boasts stunning gardens, bird aviaries, nature trails, and a large duck pond. Visitors can enjoy free barbecue facilities and a children's paddling pool and playgrounds. The park also features an onsite cafe serving delicious treats and drinks. Additionally, there's an extensive miniature railway offering rides on weekends and holidays for a small fee.
Absolutely stunning park with lots of trails for walking/ bike paths.
It would take days to discover everything.
Rose gardens were phenomenal.
Clean & Safe for walking as a woman.
The river ads a nice touch.
Go because you won’t regret it.
Sarah T — Google review
I go there so many times! It’s perfect for picnics. The flowers in spring and summer are so colourful. It brings me a peace of mind! If you take your time to carefully explore the park, you will love it even more. I’d definitely recommend you going there on a nice sunny day for a stroll. There’s also a cafe! Many sitting areas and birds enclosures.
Kids and I had so much fun. We went on the train ride. Visited the well manicured Rose garden. The place was absolutely clean, people were friendly. So much to do at 1 spot. We loved it. Well maintained playground.
Fantastic park worth while going to .
Also great train ride adults and children going through Bush
There's something for everyone here from train rides, nature walk trails, river walkway, beautiful botanical garden, bird sanctuary, birdwatching, picnic spots, lots of shady trees, mini golf and playground. This place is great if you are planning to spend a couple of hours outdoors.
I have visited the Esplanade countless times over the years whenever I am in Palmerston North. This beautiful park has such a variety of trees, flowers, plants and native bush. It’s an absolute delight to stroll along its many pathways and the close proximity to the river only adds to the appeal. Palmy residents and visitors are so fortunate to this beautiful peaceful facility to enjoy at any time of year. 😍
Good quality park. Well maintained. Great for a light walk with your dog.
Worth a stop and wander. Great work from gardening maintenance team at Palmerston North District Council. Wildbase recovery and avairies are a treat to see for free. I enjoyed using my Photography skills for Birds at Wildbase recovery. #palmyproud
4.7
(3255)
4.5
(506)
1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
19Peter K — Google reviewSimon B — Google reviewM S — Google reviewCathryn S — Google reviewAyesha S — Google reviewBridget M — Google reviewGeoff Z — Google review•
Lake Virginia
Mentioned on
Lake
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Lake Virginia, also known as Rotokawau, is a picturesque park located just 4 minutes from the town center, offering a tranquil escape with its level walking track around the lake. The area boasts a variety of birdlife and plants to admire, making it an ideal spot for families to enjoy a leisurely walk or have a picnic while feeding the ducks.
Awesome walk around the lake to feed the ducks, swans, geese and more! Bonus points to anyone that spots the turtles in the lake. Have a stroll through the winter gardens too! It's all amazing!
Fish4anotherday — Google review
Lovely, very well maintained small size lake. Popular with walkers and joggers. Nice vegetation with lots of paths, all around.
You could say, it's romantic too.
Always good values. Lots of waterfowl. Great gardens. Shadey well-maintained walkway. Walk-through Avery. Wintergardens. Enchanting.
Beautiful gardens, especially with Autumn colours. Very family friendly.
Very fond memories from my childhood of this park... and I was not disappointed some 50 years later. Still plenty of ducks and a couple of large swans. A fun encounter as they came out of the lake wanting food.
The Winter Garden was beautiful... and loved the Christmas theming.
What a magical place for walks picnic with family etc etc. Beautiful walk around the lake well maintained clean tidy. Just love going for walks around here. Lovely winter garden and bird sanctuary. Must visit when you are in whanganui.
Virginia Lake is an excellent place to wind down, whether that be a walk around the lake, or a stop at the nearby coffee shop further up the bank. There are numerous wildlife living in and by the lake, many of which will come up to you. The greenery is well-kept, and it is a pleasure to see as you walk around the outskirts of the lake.
A really delightful place for either a short or longer walk around the lake. Beautifully peaceful
4.7
(91)
4.6
(434)
St Johns Hill, Whanganui 4500, New Zealand, USA
20Chris T — Google reviewAndrew K — Google reviewChristopher P — Google reviewVinay P — Google reviewAaron J — Google reviewEugene E — Google reviewMike M — Google review•
Durie Hill Elevator
Mentioned on
Transportation service
Sights & Landmarks
The Durie Hill Elevator, a unique attraction in Whanganui, New Zealand, is the only one of its kind south of the Equator. Built in 1919 to provide easy access to the Durie Hill Garden Suburb, this underground elevator offers visitors an exciting way to explore the area and enjoy breathtaking views.
We have visited this location twice, as it was definitely worth a re-visit to Whanganui after some years away.
The Durie Hill Tower and Elevator are probably the first places you think of when you think of Whanganui. They are both stunning, giving views of the city and nearby Tasman Sea.
The elevator takes you down to the bottom but the views from the top are neat as they are.
Straan W — Google review
The walk through the tunnel towards the elevator is well lit with changing colours. The elevator itself is still an experience not to be missed. Nice to know it is run by paid staff now.
Lovely views of Wanganui city and the river from the rooftop.
Even though I live but a stone's throw away from this incredible transportation attraction, I haven't visited it for some time.
Here's some picture updates of this must see one-of-a-kind in NZ...from the top anyway.
We were naive and didn't look up their operating hours (showed up 8 mins to closing), but the operator was very friendly and let us walk down to the bottom before taking the lift back up as his last ride of the day.
Worth the stop here if you're passing through as the experience in the tunnel is quite unique — especially if you're the only party there. This is one of two community-servicing elevators left in the world, and the ride is very affordable!
Nice experience with the short tunnel with colourful lights. Durie hill lift is very old school but very well maintained. Nice view from the top. Worth visiting if you haven’t been there. Prefer to park the car at the car parking close to the river bridge and go for a short walk and enjoy the tunnel walk and hill view.
Cool view overlooking the town. Fun for kids to walk the tunnel with the lights
A great place to climb to the top and view the Whangnui river of to the Sea, and surrounding area. Wonderful for photos. The platform at the top is open, but fenced. Probably a dozen parking spots at the foot of the tower
This is a real kiwi hidden gem.
Well worth a look if you are a visitor to Whanganui. The Elevator is one of only two in the world and was built to allow a new garden suburb to be developed in 1919. A real social experiment. At the top of the ride is the suburb worth a few minutes exploring especially the different building styles of the 1900s to 1930s.
It's only a couple of dollars ,the staff are passionate and knowledgeable.
Photos are taken from the WW1 tower at the top of the elevator ride
4.6
(706)
4.4
(413)
42 Anzac Parade, Tunnel Entrance - Upper Landing is at 2 Blyth Street, Whanganui 4500, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
21A. C — Google reviewAdam — Google reviewMelissa L — Google reviewJane T — Google reviewMuhammad A — Google reviewLisa P — Google reviewMike T — Google review•
The Alpaca Place
Permanently Closed
Sights & Landmarks
Farm shop
Ranches
The lady giving the tour was incredibly knowledgeable and always answered any questions asked in a way everyone could understand.
The alpacas are fun and were very easy for my 11 year old daughter to walk round with.
Would recommend it to anyone, a must do.
Martyn B — Google review
If you like animals "the alpaca place" is a must. The animal are nice funny and realy soft. The tour take 1h30 m. You can feed alpaca, wolk whit them and discover interesting stories about them. We are realy enjoy the alpaca !
Be sure to book online in advance before visting this great tour of an Alpaca farm.
Liz and Cheryl are very kind and knowledgeable regard the history of the Alpacas.
We got to meet both the male/female Alpacas and their young which are super cute.
The best part was feeding time!
If you like Alpacas in anyway defiantly do this tour😃
My husband and I had a wonderful time on this tour! The alpacas are adorable and the tour was extremely informative - we both felt like this was time and money well spent.
The Alpaca Place is great. Deserves so much more than the 3 google stars. See Trip advisor for a good idea of the sort of experience you will have. Its a fantastic tour. We have gone on to do business with the wonderful women from The Alpaca Place and now own our own Alpaca. We've been very impressed with the service from being straight out tourists, through to potential buyers, and onto a full delivery service of our purchased alpaca which took a full day of their time at a very reasonable price.
Liz gave a very informative and interactive tour for us. It was a great experience as we've never been to an alpaca farm before. We got to feed and pet the alpacas while understanding quite an extensive history on the cute animal, normally confused with its relative, llama. It's a recommended place to go.
Thanks for the great tour Liz and Sheryl, thoroughly enjoyed it, Ella loved your 'awesome alpacas', so disappointed I didn't buy her one. Highly recommend, especially for kids, my ten year old adored it. So much knowledge about alpacas, their history and industry.
This was so much fun and informative. We got to walk alpacas and hug them and learn all about them, a really cool day out
4.4
(34)
4.5
(261)
365 Bluff Rangitumau Road, Masterton 5871, New Zealand
22Angel P — Google reviewBhawana J — Google reviewNadine N — Google reviewYY X — Google reviewJamie F — Google reviewZac Z — Google reviewMark D — Google review•
Levin Adventure Park
Park
Nature & Parks
Playgrounds
Amazing park. Brilliant for children. The park has everything that you need from flying foxes, swings, slides, everything. Perfect place to stop if you are out and about on a road trip or just running chores around town with the kids. Amazing park and a must go if you have children.
Benjamin O — Google review
Like one of the best parks ever 😍🥳🤘
Me and my three daughters always stop in for park play when traveling down from Auckland too catch the ferry too Picton or when getting off the boat too travel back home, I always say that I wish they had this park in Auckland lol it's beautiful, colorful, so many options and there's separate age group objects suitable for the babies and ages going up 😊 the entire park is amazing, it's drawing and the primary too intermediate age group objects are super cool too
Amazing place withs lots of play options for all ages . This have picnic area dog are and community kitchen . We had amazing day here today . Thanks
Great place to stop during road trips. Kids get to stretch their legs, play basketball, swings, slides, you name it, they have it. Adults can purchase coffee (ice coffee was amazing)
Toilets lovely and clean.
Great place for a picnic for families, kids and dogs.All are fenced and can be freed with hands.
Excellent for a stop off for the kids. Easy parking and open the back doors and watch that pent uo energy get quickly spent. Get em to run when they pull up the flying fox to the start, thatll wear em out for the next leg of your trip!!
Great for kids playground and can book for birthdays with toilet facilities. Have events for family in the weekend with plenty of space and korhanga. Shopping across the road in the main street. Pity the small 🚂 rides weren't working.
Using Google Maps to remember my home town 20 years ago as a child, as a Brit, who eventually went back. The adventure park was brilliant then and is more or less the same as it is now. Epic way for a kid to grow up, I can confirm the memory stays with you forever.
4.7
(2330)
5.0
(121)
93 Oxford Street, Levin 5510, New Zealand
23Samundra R — Google reviewNeil F — Google reviewWade N — Google reviewSkyla K — Google reviewLord G — Google reviewMariana V — Google reviewAnson A — Google review•
Southward Car Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
Specialty Museums
The Southward Car Museum is a treasure trove for automotive enthusiasts and history lovers alike, showcasing an extensive collection of over 400 classic cars and motorcycles that span from the 1800s to modern times.
A real look back at the automotive history, when vehicles had such individual looks, even a total copper body vehicle. Motorbikes, planes, but mostly cars.
Also a cafe, huge parking area and a great feel about the place , so well maintained.
Roger B — Google review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I had the absolute pleasure of visiting the Southward Car Museum in Paraparaumu, and I must say, it exceeded all expectations. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was struck with awe at the sheer size, scale, and beauty of the collection. It truly felt like walking through a living timeline of automotive history.
The museum houses an extraordinary variety of vehicles—ranging from some of the earliest models that shaped the beginnings of motoring, through to iconic classics, racing legends, luxury cars, and even rare motorcycles. Each piece is immaculately preserved and displayed with care, and I was amazed at how close you could get to these works of engineering art. You don’t just see cars; you experience the innovation, stories, and history behind them.
What impressed me further was the thoughtful way the museum is organized. Every turn revealed something unique, whether it was a vintage Rolls Royce, a finely detailed American classic, or a quirky car with a fascinating backstory. There is a sense of wonder at every corner. The sheer diversity of the collection makes it enjoyable not only for car enthusiasts but also for anyone who appreciates history, craftsmanship, and culture.
The museum itself is spacious, well-lit, and easy to navigate. Staff members were welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the collection, adding even more richness to the visit. It’s not just a car museum—it’s a celebration of human creativity and progress.
Southward Car Museum is a true treasure of New Zealand. I left feeling inspired and amazed, and I would highly recommend it to anyone—locals, tourists, families, or solo travelers. It is more than worth the visit.
Absolutely incredible collection and well worth the visit. We had the place to ourselves on a weekday morning. Took our time to look at both floors and the mezzanine. The place is awesome. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
We had a great day at southwards today. So much to see and all the new interactive stations were so informative and entertaining. I last visited over 12 years ago and the manager remembered my visit (for all the right reasons) and his team were very welcoming and helpful. The new additions to the fleet were great to see also.
We had fun learning about Lens life and his adventures.
What an amazing place to go. So clean and tidy. Amazing presentation and display of our automobile history. An amazing job and story from Sir Len and Lady Vera. The legacy lives on today. I would highly recommend.
Awesome place to visit, been here many times ever since I was a kid, now in my 50s. The one thing I'm not happy about though, is the fact that quite a few of the cars & motorbikes that are there, are ones I grew up with, LOL! I must be getting old!
Fun for the family especially on a rainy day, so many cool cars to see, and stories about them and the founder.
Great place for someone who want to have a slice of vintage cars.. and the beauties
4.7
(1802)
4.7
(448)
Otaihanga Road, Otaihanga 5036, New Zealand
24Sarah K — Google reviewL S — Google reviewKhin M — Google reviewJusenn C — Google reviewJoanne L — Google reviewAbhishek ( — Google reviewAnton A — Google review•
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café
Mentioned on
Wildlife park
Nature & Parks
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café is a charming animal farm and petting zoo nestled in the picturesque Akatarawa Valley. Visitors can enjoy tractor rides, feed the wildlife, and explore the natural beauty of the surroundings. The reserve offers a delightful opportunity for both adults and children to interact with friendly animals in a well-maintained environment. While some find the café's offerings satisfactory, others appreciate its rustic charm.
I love this place. Not much animal but the interaction and environment is beautiful. My family enjoyed it. They have a lot of birds. The tractor ride is cool, feels like back home. There is heaps of parking space, animal food is monitored so if you get there late you won't be able to get the food as the animals are already full. Be careful it might be slippery if it got wet. It will be better to go there with your picnic basket and enjoy the time. We went there for just two hours and it is not enough😁
Elna B — Google review
A Wonderful Family Day Out at Staglands!
We had an amazing time at Staglands – it's such a cool spot for a family adventure. From the moment we arrived, it was clear the staff really care about both the animals and the visitors. They were friendly, helpful, and created a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
One of the highlights was the fire pit where we got to roast marshmallows – a simple but magical touch that the kids absolutely loved. The café was another pleasant surprise: delicious food and great coffee made it a perfect stop to refuel.
The only downside is the road getting there – it’s a bit rough and winding, so take your time. But honestly, the drive is worth it for the experience that awaits at the end. Staglands is a gem, and we’ll definitely be back!
Great place for families and friends to go to! So many cute animals! Lovely walk as well, took us about 2 hours to complete since we stopped to greet all the animals
Only issue I had was not even Staglands' fault, there were lots of kids I saw chasing after animals and touching them when they clearly didn't want to be touched like seriously??
I’ve visited Staglands twice, and both visits have been fantastic! The reserve is beautifully maintained, with lovely bush walks and plenty of animals to see. The café is a perfect spot to relax with delicious food. My child especially loves feeding the animals and cuddling the rabbits. Between the wildlife, the scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect day out. Can’t wait for our third visit!
We went to the place last Mother's day, it was such a fun and memorable experience. The weather was perfect, and we got to see so many amazing animals up close. Walking through the different exhibits. We fed them and took some great photos. It was a day filled with laughter, discovery, and great memories.
Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café is an absolute hidden gem in Upper Hutt, offering the perfect blend of tranquility, animal encounters, and Kiwi hospitality. We arrived quite late in the afternoon but even with limited hours, the experience was magical. The family-friendly atmosphere is undeniable peaceful pathways winding through native bush, friendly farm animals (goats, deer etc
) eager for gentle pats, and beautifully maintained aviaries.
Though the main café was closing, the self-check-out process was incredibly smooth and hassle-free. This thoughtful touch meant we didn’t feel rushed and could still soak in the final moments of serenity. What truly warmed our hearts, however, was meeting the owner.Their genuine kindness and passion for Staglands shone through in just a brief chat. We made a promise right then to return for a full day trip and we absolutely intend to keep it!
First visit to Staglands on Father’s Day with family. A beautiful spot to spend the day together. Parking was a bit tricky at first, but everything else was fantastic. The winding road is worth it for the stunning views. A must-visit!
This was an excellent experience for all ages. Anyone from young kids to adults will enjoy walking around. They have a variety of animals from sheep to goats and emus to interact with. There are also a number of very curious birds. You can buy bags of feed for $3.50. It is well worth it.
4.7
(2108)
4.5
(659)
2362 Akatarawa Road, Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt 5372, New Zealand
25
Pinnacles Track
Outdoor Activities
Geologic Formations
Hiking Trails
Pinnacles Track is a unique hiking trail in New Zealand, featuring massive stone pillars that stand out from the surrounding rocky terrain. Shaped by a stream over thousands of years, these imposing rock formations offer a one-of-a-kind experience for hikers exploring the North Island. The Reserve offers three distinct routes for visitors to explore, making it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty and geological wonders.
4.6
(189)
Wellington Region 5772, New Zealand
I'll never travel to Nelson without this trip planner again
26J-Ho C — Google reviewJT — Google reviewAlexander W — Google reviewNico B — Google reviewPia P — Google reviewAndreas A — Google reviewNicola H — Google review•
Wellington
Mentioned on
Ferry terminal
Transportation
Ferries
Wellington's ferry terminal is a bustling hub, so it's wise to arrive early to secure a seat or a good spot in line for the ferry. There are plenty of food options on board, including breakfast and lunch in the lounge. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring easy boarding for both passengers and vehicles. The journey from Picton to Wellington offers pristine sights from the upper viewing deck, with clean amenities and comfortable seating throughout the vessel.
It is a beautiful and charming city with a casual and relaxed vibe. Beaches, gardens, and scenery with a vibrant restaurant, cafe, and pub culture.
David W — Google review
#NZ 04 2024 FamilyTrip#
A good experience, used ferry to crossover from North island to South island. All workers and procedure runs well, everything well managed. Just follow the instruction when booked online.
There are meals inside ferry.
Can choose & pay according to own choices. Else, just sit at any seat provided.
Just.. Toilet not well maintained.
Need to have cleaner & fix faulty doors.
Easy boarding with a vehicle to head to the South Island . Staff are exceptionally trained , very efficient & friendly.
The ferry departed on time and arrived at the Picton terminal precisely on schedule .
Amenities and restaurants were clean throughout the vessel . Seating ample & very comfortable.
I spent a fair bit of the trip on the upper viewing deck & thoroughly enjoyed the pristine sights along this remarkable trip.
Highly recommended for great service & reasonably priced value .
Brilliant service and an excellent way to enjoy the trip across the straight while taking in some of NZ's best scenery. Booking the plus lounge is worth every dollar.
It is pricy but on a good day you get spectacular views on the sands. People and staff was friendly and professional. You wait a little between check-in and being loaded on the ship. Don’t come too early, if you are there by check-in time or a little before it is absolutely fine.
Relax and enjoy. I was surprised that prices for e.g. coffee on board were rather reasonable.
Ferry was on time and everything went smooth - we can recommend it.
Nice and very helpful and friendly staff. They took us all though we came too later and all gates have been closed already!! Thank you interislander company for this treat, we appriciated it very much! Awesome view especially in the sounds- lots of dolphins around that day. Quietly atmosphere on the boat (sitting and food area) and super helpful interaction on the boat while our cruise. Warm meals available! Thank you for a awesome nice very warm hearted kiwi experience!
Our experience at the terminal and the ferry itself was quite pleasant. Fast and efficient service and a large selection of food and driks.
When travelling from Wellington to Picton on the water you’ll love the old school style and convenience of the MV Kaitaki. This is a roll-on/roll-off ferry built in 1995.
It has a great covered in viewing area and good bar with plenty of PowerPoints for working on your lap top.
A simple but well prepared menu and super well trained staff make this a really enjoyable trip. Relax and enjoy.
4.1
(273)
4.2
(4570)
Wellington Ferry Terminal, 1 Aotea Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
27S V — Google reviewFrancesandfrancis — Google reviewNadia S — Google reviewCatherine A — Google reviewCohen S — Google reviewDranod — Google reviewPamela J — Google review•
Wellington Cable Car
Mentioned on
Transportation service
Transportation
The Wellington Cable Car, the only operating funicular in New Zealand, has been in service since 1902. It provides stunning panoramic views of the city and offers a visit to the historic museum. A must-visit attraction is Te Papa, an interactive national museum showcasing the stories of Aotearoa New Zealand. After riding the iconic cable car, visitors can enjoy breathtaking city views while indulging in ice cream at the top.
An Absolute Wellington Essential Iconic Views & Easy Access!
No trip to Wellington is complete without riding the iconic Cable Car! It’s a charming, efficient, and quintessential Wellington experience that delivered exactly what we hoped for: stunning views and seamless access to the Botanic Garden.
The journey itself is delightful. Boarding at the historic Lambton Quay station (easy to find!), the bright red car smoothly ascends through the cool hillside tunnel before bursting out to reveal breathtaking panoramic views over the city, harbour, and surrounding hills. It’s a short ride (approx. 5 minutes), but the vistas unfolding as you climb are genuinely special. We loved spotting landmarks like the Beehive and Te Papa from above. Great photo ops throughout!
The top station is more than just a viewpoint. It houses a small but interesting Cable Car Museum(free entry!) detailing the history, which we enjoyed. The real bonus? You step out directly into the stunning Wellington Botanic Garden.It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the lush trails, Lady Norwood Rose Garden, Peace Garden, and Space Place observatory (tickets required). You can easily spend hours wandering down.
Key Tips for Visitors:
Frequency:Runs every 10 minutes, very reliable. Check latest times online.
Tickets:Use the Snapper card (common on Wellington buses) for the cheapest fare, or buy a single/return ticket at the station. Consider a combo ticket with Space Place if interested.
Best Seats: For the best views downhill, try to get a forward-facing window seat.
All-Weather Fun:A perfect activity even on wet or windy Wellington days (it's covered!).
Walking Back:Many people ride up and enjoy a scenic walk down through the gardens highly recommended!
Accessibility: Modern cars and stations are wheelchair accessible.
The Wellington Cable Car is efficient, scenic, historically charming, and the perfect gateway to the beautiful Botanic Garden. It offers incredible value and iconic views packed into a short, enjoyable ride. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local showing friends around, it's an absolute must-do and earns its status as a top attraction. 5 stars! A highlight of our Wellington visit.
Joanne L — Google review
It is a funicular railway in Wellington, New Zealand between Lambton Quay, the main shopping street in the central city, and Kelburn, a suburb in the hills overlooking the central city and Wellington Harbour. The cable car route rises 120 m over a length of 609 m. The trip takes about 5 minutes each way and is a very popular ride and place at the top, lots of tourists and locals. You can get to the summit by car or public transport as well. Plenty of free parking available at the summit. Toilets available at summit and base. Cafes and restaurants available. At the top you can visit the cable car museum, botanic gardens. Lots of people here, careful with personal belongings. Easy terrain, lot of easy walking. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Beautiful place. Lots to see. Lovely place for picnic. Great place for photography. You can also walk down safe tracks from the summit to the city terminal like we did. Cable car fees payable.
This local cable car is a historic Wellington icon and a must-try experience when visiting the city. It not only takes you to the entrance of the Wellington Botanic Garden, but also offers a beautiful scenic view of the city as you ride uphill.
At the top, you’ll find a viewing deck with fantastic city panoramas, the Cable Car Museum, and a café that serves great coffee — a perfect spot to relax and take in the view.
For a return fare of just $10 NZD, it’s an affordable and enjoyable way to experience one of Wellington’s classic attractions. Highly recommended for both locals and tourists exploring the city!
Very cool - right in the middle of the city (Lambton Quay shopping and business area - CBD). The entrance to the ticket booth is tucked into an alleyway. I came upon it unexpectedly whilst walking around . Runs every 10 minutes. Lovely views on the ride up with commentary.
Nice little coffee shop at the top. Had a delicious cappuccino and a tasty treat. Enjoyed the great views. I decided to walk back down through the botanical gardens on well laid, paved paths passing through clearly marked gardens. Highly recommend. Marvelous children's playground along the way.
I saw signs while at the top for the observatory but didn't have enough time to check it out.
I recommend to buying a one way going up as it's very easy and simple to purchase your return if you decide to ride down instead of walk down.
Give this delightful adventure time, don't be in a hurry. There's also a public bus at the top of you want to go elsewhere.
It was a shite day weather wise but who cares when you have such a lovely visual experience going through the tunnel. The views were spectacular from the top. Beloved the museum/shop also.
Staff might want to smile and be a little friendly. 😃
Always a great ride on the cable. Friendly team and easy to navigate the station.
I went recently to specifically see the winding room in action as they were doing an open day was really cool to see and learn how it works from the team who look after and drive the cars.
A typically wet and cool day, the gardens are a stop I'll be back for.
The museum and food well worth the stop. Keep an eye out for pickpockets, nearly broke the toes of a dude trying to steal my gopro. They operate in pairs/groups. Only place in my entire trip I ran into this.
Great smooth ride to the top.You can get off and walk around the little township. Cafe near the cable car is great. The museum of the historic the cable car was fantastic.
4.5
(6909)
4.3
(6724)
280 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
28Karthik V — Google reviewSwapna R — Google reviewFrancesandfrancis — Google reviewNicky H — Google reviewCoco F — Google reviewKevin N — Google reviewRiccardo R — Google review•
Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Mentioned on
Museum
Specialty Museums
The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa is a must-visit attraction in Wellington, offering free admission to its extensive collection. This national museum showcases natural history, cultural exhibits, and fine arts across six levels. Visitors can explore interactive displays and national treasures, including indigenous Maori exhibitions and the national art collection. Notable attractions include a colossal squid specimen and an earthquake simulator.
We had one day in Wellington and the weather was gorgeous so I wasn’t particularly keen on spending time indoors at a museum. We do love museums though so we thought we’d check it out and I’m so glad we did. The gallipoli exhibit was the best that I’ve seen, it’s something that should not be missed. The exhibit has been done in conjunction with Weta Workshop who did Lord of the Rings. Amazing doesn’t even cover it.
The entire museum is quite interactive with a lot of interesting things for both kids and adults.
A visit to this museum should not be missed
Natasha R — Google review
Great experience. The strong point of this museum is their story telling ability. The Anzac war effort in Turkey has been so well exhibited. One of my favourite museums. Highly recommended.
I had an absolutely fantastic time visiting the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington! The war exhibition was incredibly moving and well-curated, offering deep insights into New Zealand’s military history with engaging displays and detailed narratives. The nature exhibition was equally impressive, showcasing the country’s unique biodiversity in a way that was both educational and visually stunning. I particularly enjoyed learning about the Māori way of living, which was presented with respect and authenticity, providing a rich understanding of their culture, traditions, and history. Overall, the museum is a treasure trove of knowledge, beautifully blending interactive exhibits with informative content. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Wellington!
If you love museums and history, this is an absolute must-visit when you’re in Wellington, New Zealand. The museum offers an impressive collection showcasing New Zealand’s natural history, from its unique plants and animals to fascinating exhibits on the country’s connection with earthquakes and volcanoes.
One of the highlights is the earthquake simulator, which gives you a firsthand experience of what an actual earthquake feels like — both educational and memorable. Before you leave, make sure to head up to the roof deck for a beautiful view of the Wellington Harbour and parts of the CBD.
A well-curated and engaging museum that’s perfect for visitors of all ages — a great way to learn more about New Zealand’s unique environment and heritage.
Best musuem I have ever been to. It was stunning. All the information and hands on parts were so cool. We went to the main floor to kill some time before our check in and were blown away by how interesting everything was. Went back the next day (tickets are good for 48hrs) and went through the rest. While we were there, the Gallipoli exhibition was on display. I was blown away by the detail in the large sculptures. This musuem was a great way to end our trip to the north island. A beautiful place and we learned so much. Thank you
Wonderful National Museum. The exhibits are some of the best, very realistic and well maintained. The cultural section of the museum showcased the impressive skills and history of The Maori. The Gallipoli exhibit was informative and captured battles and wartime conditions in an accurate, thoughtful manner. This museum is one of the best we've had the pleasure of visiting. Well worth the trip.
A great place to learn about the history of New Zealand. Exhibits were thoughtfully laid out and well presented. The Gallipoli war exhibit had some very realistic, larger than scale figures that depict the emotions and agony during wartime. They have lockers for rent to store your bag. I thought 2 hours would be enough time to see everything, but ended up taking 3.5 hours going at a steady pace. I learned so much about New Zealand.
One of the things that impressed us most about New Zealand is the incredible attention to detail in organising everything a visitor might encounter — and the museums are no exception. Te Papa is an essential experience for anyone passing through Wellington. It doesn’t just tell the socio-cultural history of the country, but also its natural history, local fauna and flora, with numerous interactive installations. What I love most is when a museum literally “puts things in your hands” — artefacts, objects, faithful reproductions — so you can truly understand what you’re looking at instead of just seeing items behind glass.
We really appreciated the floor dedicated to climate change and the country’s geothermal and seismic evolution, as well as the floor focused on social issues, cultural globalisation, and social inclusion.
4.7
(25144)
4.7
(14421)
55 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
29
Mount Victoria
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Lookouts
Mount Victoria is a suburb in central Wellington, New Zealand, named after the 196-meter hill to the east. The residential area is situated on its north-western slopes. It offers stunning panoramic views of Wellington city, the harbor, and Cook Strait. There are various tracks for hiking and mountain biking that lead up and around Mount Vic, with a lookout track leading to the top for breathtaking views of the entire city.
4.6
(3049)
Wellington, New Zealand
30Nesh K — Google reviewAlfredo — Google reviewBernard S — Google reviewNicky H — Google reviewPatty M — Google reviewCornelius B — Google reviewJess L — Google review•
Wellington Botanic Garden
Mentioned on
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Wellington Botanic Garden, established in 1868, spans 61 acres and offers a variety of attractions for visitors. It features native bush, a tropical greenhouse, seasonal beds, and colorful floral displays. The garden provides numerous walking routes suitable for families or solo explorers seeking a peaceful retreat from the city.
Outstanding garden with really beautiful flowers. The walkways are clean and easily accessible.
Many of the flowers are from the Southern Hemisphere and so for visitors from the rest of the world, it's a really unique experience.
Special mention for the bees and birds who aren't really that afraid of humans.
A must visit of you love flowers.
Karthik V — Google review
It is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of the city. It has lovely walking paths, themed gardens like the Rose Garden and Begonia House, and great views from the Cable Car. Free entry, family-friendly, and perfect for nature lovers.
A sunny day took us to the top of the hill by cable car for the second time in two days. Besides the beautiful view of the city and the bay, the gardens offer the opportunity to stroll and relax in an environment where nature predominates. Plants unique to this country, such as kauri, and flowers of many types are also present. The little ones also have the opportunity to learn the names of some plants, such as the aromatic ones used in cooking. The rose garden is a sight to behold. The pond with its waterfall and a few ducks is also lovely. Not to be missed. Free access.
With its connection to Te Ahumeranga hill and beyond, the Botanic Garden is like a lung situated right next foor to Wellingtons Central Business District and it's main arterial highway. There are a good number of activities in the park ranging from the Cable Car connecting to Lambton Quay the Cable Car Museum a scenic café a collection of observatories including the Space Place all the way to the Rose Garden and childrens' play areas. On a sunny day it is a delight to stroll here.
What a beautiful place to walk around. We were short on time and the day we went was the nicest of the days we had in Wellington. We did not get to see everything but what we did see was stunning. The amount of beauty was amazing. The flow of plants is perfect. I do wish to go back and see more. So much to enjoy
A wonderful place to explore and appreciate NZ's diverse flora. Excellent signage and facilities with access to the visitor centre, cable car and Fragrifert perfumery.
Always well worth a visit when going to
Wellington, especially taking the cable cart up and then walking down back to the CBD. The rose garden is a must see but not in bloom yet at thus time of year (spring).
A beautiful walk to take, not too strenuous either and the walking paths are very well maintained. The botanic gardens offer a wide range of native plants and flowers with a large flower garden that makes for fantastic pictures! Would highly recommend!
4.6
(10004)
4.5
(3714)
101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
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