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34 Best Stops Between Blenheim and Waitomo Caves
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Blenheim to Waitomo Caves?
The direct drive from Blenheim to Waitomo Caves is 364 mi (585 km), and should have a drive time of 12 hrs 58 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Blenheim to Waitomo Caves, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Wellington, Tongariro National Park, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, and Picton, as well as top places to visit like Seymour Square and Blenheim isite Visitor Information Centre, or the ever-popular Yealands Estate Winery.
Visiting Blenheim or Waitomo Caves? See our Blenheim Trip Planner and our Waitomo Caves Trip Planner.
364 mi
Total Distance
12 hrs 58 mins
Drive Time
34 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Blenheim and Waitomo Caves
The top cities between Blenheim and Waitomo Caves are Wellington, Tongariro National Park, Westland National Park (Te Wahipounamu), and Picton. Wellington is the most popular city on the route. It's 7 hours from Blenheim and 6 hours from Waitomo Caves.
1
Picton
Mentioned on
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
1 minute off the main route, 3% of way to Waitomo Caves
2
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
3 minutes off the main route, 53% of way to Waitomo Caves
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3
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
3 minutes off the main route, 53% of way to Waitomo Caves
4
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
22 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to Waitomo Caves
Best stops along Blenheim to Waitomo Caves drive
The top stops along the way from Blenheim to Waitomo Caves (with short detours) are Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington Cable Car, and Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Other popular stops include Wellington, Queen Charlotte Track, and Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Café.
1Roxanne L — Google reviewBarry H — Google reviewShmulik S — Google reviewLisa A — Google reviewSusan S — Google reviewTroy T — Google reviewWiehan K — Google review•
Yealands Estate Winery
Winery
Food & Drink
Wineries & Vineyards
Yealands Estate Winery offers a delightful tasting experience with passionate staff like Billy who take the time to explain the wines and highlight their subtle differences. Visitors can enjoy a cheese platter and then take in spectacular views along the scenic white road. Many travelers stumble upon this beautiful wine estate by accident, finding picturesque picnic spots, an incredible lookout point, and the opportunity to sample fantastic wines.
The most beautiful vineyard estate in NZ with stunning 360 views and delicious wine. My wife and I did a tasting here while on our honeymoon and had an amazing experience with Katie and Billy! Our experience included a private tasting in a beautifully decorated shipping container turned tasting room at one of the high points on the estate which added an incredible vibe to the whole thing. Both Katie and Billy were very knowledgeable and tasting with them was a blast. I highly recommend stopping here while in the Marlborough region.
Colleen T — Google review
We came to the cellar door the day after our elopement and Billy made us feel so special, and honestly made the experience of the winery for us! He is extremely knowledgeable, funny and personable and we could not be happier with the service we received! The drive around the property was very worth it as well!
This is the one of, if not the best experience we have ever had at a vineyard. The prices are amazing from $8-$10 per glass a platter won’t set you back much at all. But the service, smiles from amazing staff and the chance to drive around the vineyard (we did it with a bottle of wine 😜) these guys clearly know they have an amazing facility and wine but choose not to rob you to enjoy their facility. To say I’ll be back, of course. But I’ll make sure to support their wines even more so in the future.
Thankyou to the team for making our SI trip.
An amazing place, it's a shame we didn't plan the day to also go there for a meal or something similar, because their entire environment is so beautiful and maintained at a high level, so I'm sure everything is like that with them.
My friend and I had an amazing wine tasting with Sally and Billy! They both made us feel welcome and were very generous to try to meet our needs. We laughed a lot and learned a lot about the various wines Yealands has to offer. Highly recommend visiting! Will definitely come back!
Five stars for the White Road Tour and the generosity of Yealands to let us drive through their estate. Four stars for the charming wine server and the snacks. Three stars for the wine.
My wife and I were just passing through the area on our travels around the south island and decided to take a last-minute stop off at Yealands. What a great decision it was! It's such a beautiful drive around the estate and the wine tasting session was amazing. Billy was an absolute legend and really went above and beyond for our first ever tasting. His knowledge and passion for wine were incredible. Thank you for such a great experience that we won't forget!
We stopped off at the Yealands completely by accident while road tripping along the South Island between Christmas and New Year. Drove out of the little town of Seddon, after stopping for fuel and refreshments, on a road named Seaview road, assuming it was a short drive to a lookout point, but was surprised when driving onto the most beautiful wine estate, with picturesque picnic spots for the public, an incredible lookout point and the chance to sample some fantastic wines! Definitely worth a visit if you are ever in the area! Lovely people working at the cellar and top quality wines!
4.8
(112)
5.0
(128)
Cnr Seaview and Reserve Roads New Zealand Seddon, Blenheim 7285, New Zealand
2Clark G — Google reviewRex T — Google reviewBruce K — Google reviewRavi L — Google reviewKieran I — Google reviewShirish P — Google reviewCavan J — Google review•
Seymour Square
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
Seymour Square is a charming park in the heart of Blenheim, New Zealand. It boasts a historic Clock Tower and fountain war memorials, making it a significant historical and cultural site. Visitors can start their exploration at Seymour Square and then follow the walkway to discover Pollard Park and Riverside Park, eventually reaching the tranquil Taylor River Reserve with its lush greenery and native flora. For those seeking more adventure, a half-day walk to Taylor Dam and lake is an option.
Beautiful gardens with plenty of seats to sit on in the sun and enjoy your beautiful sunny day in Blenheim. Beautiful clean toilets as well.
Lee C — Google review
Lovely park, plenty of seats, no tables. Pretty flowers and a nice fountain which the seagulls were making good use of.
Had a lovely experience here with my wife!😃Very clean, beautiful and excellent views,surrounded with amazing flowers 💐 of all sorts ❤️Definitely a great place to be in Blenheim! Worth visiting 🤩
For a simple square, there is much history here. The park dates to 1957 when The Square was named in honor of half of the land partnership of Henry Seymour and Alfred Fell that held title to the land upon which The Beaver (the original settled name of Blenheim) was built. The land was used by local farmers for stock grazing.
Between 1865 and 1875, the Garibaldi Cricket Club formed a rough cricket patch here and eventually, football made its debut when Blenheim beat Waithol, 2 goals to 1.
In 1920, the oak tree was planted in the northwestern corner by the Price of Wales (later Edward VIII) and in 1928, the WWI Memorial Clock was unveiled. In 1945, cherry trees were planted along the eastern perimeter to commemorate the end of the war with Japan.
Today, the site is used for the Marlborough District's commemorative services. It is also the central place of celebration in the life of the town, such as the focus for festivals, markets and parades.
It's a lovely walk on a sunny day and today was definitely a sunny day. Picnic or just wander. It's fab.
Lovely place to have lunch or to relax. Walking distance from town. Beautiful flowers and gardens. The toilet facilities are very clean. There is also a fountain feature but on my visit it was not working. The footpaths is wheelchair friendly. I saw many people sitting in the grass and having chats with their mates. Lots to do trees for shade and benches too.
This park is absolutely wonderfull, lots of lovely flowers gardens with the most lovely looking flowers this time of year. The clock tower has been well looked after as has the water fountain. This would be a great place for a picnic with all the shade provided by the trees
Excellent small park right in the heart of the city.
The Seymour Square is such a wonderful space in the heart of Blenheim city with delightful flowers, a central fountain and well manicured lawns.
I was fortunate enough to meet the gardener who looks after this lovely space. He said he has been doing this for 28+ years; the pride in his work was evident.
Neat little park - we stopped here for a break from driving, plenty of open spaces, super clean and park benches to sit on. There is a toilet block which was clean and tidy if you should need them.
4.6
(349)
4.4
(157)
37 Seymour Street, Blenheim Central, Blenheim 7201, New Zealand
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Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3Victoria N — Google reviewRavi L — Google reviewSniedze P — Google reviewJennifer H — Google reviewAna G — Google reviewNoeline — Google reviewMary B — Google review
Blenheim isite Visitor Information Centre
Mentioned on
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
The Blenheim iSite Visitor Information Centre has undergone significant improvements over the years, now boasting a modern and stylish outlook. The center offers helpful staff who provide valuable recommendations for local wineries, scenic spots, and activities such as dolphin encounters. Visitors can also receive assistance with booking tours and activities like wine tours by bicycle. The center features a small souvenir shop and ample parking for vehicles. Guests have praised the friendly and knowledgeable staff members for their exceptional customer service, making trip planning stress-free and enjoyable.
Highly recommend stopping at this isite location if you have any questions or want ideas about things to do in the area. Phillipa, Emma, and Anna were incredibly helpful in providing first-hand info on the walking/cruise options I was considering. I'm confident what I chose to do tomorrow will be amazing. Phillipa booked the cruise for me as I found the Cougar Lines website difficult to use. Thank you!
David V — Google review
I would highly recommend these guys. They organised are itinerary and everywhere we went was fabulous. We had absolutely no issues with tranfers, times etc. They are very professional and patient. Would definitely use again.
Blenheim i-site has come a long way in terms of improvement. I remember 10 years ago this place was not fully equipped to cater for information seekers. However, now the place look very modern and presentable with stylish outlook. There is a small souvenir shop inside. Staff is very helpful. Lot of stuff has moved online but it is good to check with them about hiking and sightseeing stuff. Lot of parking spot for vehicles.
Excellent organization by I-site staff and in answering my many queries for a 5-day self-guided walk with bag carried and accommodation pre-booked-.
Highly recommend the itinerary booking/scheduling service! Saved so much time, effort and cost in arranging our Queen Charlotte Track experience for 3 adults including track transfers, accommodation, track passes etc. One stop shop, hassle-free service. Staff were friendly and responded promptly. Faultless service. Will definitely be recommending to others.
The best i-SITE in the South Island!
I've visited twice, and both times, the staff were incredibly attentive and kind. They made me feel truly welcome and well taken care of.
Thank you, team!
Very friendly helpful staff
Thanks
This was an excellent stop for us. The lovely lady (I think her name was Addie) was so helpful. She recommended local wineries that are kid friendly, called them to make sure we could visit. She marked our map with scenic spots and recommendations. She got us booked on a dolphin encounter for the next day that we probably would have missed out on if she hadn't. She was really friendly and helpful and we are so grateful for her kindness and enthusiasm. It's a lovely isite with lots of information available and a gift shop.
4
Picton
Mentioned on
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
1 minute off the main route, 3% of way to Waitomo Caves
5Mattias H — Google reviewAlison H — Google reviewMark L — Google reviewTamara S — Google reviewRay N — Google reviewHugh R — Google reviewWild B — Google review
Edwin Fox Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
Maritime museum
The Edwin Fox Museum is a captivating maritime museum that showcases the history of an 1853 teak vessel, which served as a merchant ship, transporting troops, immigrants, and convicts. This 160-year-old ship offers visitors the opportunity to step aboard and experience the scale of the vessel while learning about its intriguing past. As one of the world's oldest surviving merchant sailing ships and the only one that transported convicts to Australia, it provides a unique insight into maritime history.
Really interesting museum with a preserved 19th-century ship you can walk through. The displays are informative, and the staff were very friendly and helpful. A unique and worthwhile experience — definitely recommend stopping by if you're in Picton!
Sanjula — Google review
A fascinating deep dive into the history behind the Edwin Fox - a historic ship that served many different purposes for over a hundred years. The exhibits are quite detailed and it's surprising that the community collected all this historic info about a ship that had at one point been abandoned.
A must visit especially if you want to learn about your ancestors and how they came to New Zealand. Very interesting and lots of information about the ship that bought many of our ancestors to New Zealand. Interactive, good for kids and very interesting video. Worth spending at least an hour looking through. Staff were very knowledgeable and keen to help. Good variety of merchandise for sale.
A small museum dedicated to the preservation (rather than restoration) of the Edwin Fox ship. Museum features friendly staff, several panels displaying information about the ship and seafaring of the era, numerous nautical artefacts, as well as paintings and models of the ship in her prime.
The ship itself is located in a separate building, and was unfortunately closed to visitors during our visit. Despite this, we could easily examine the exterior of the ship. Well worth a look if you happen to be in Picton, my visit left me curious about the damage caused by ship worms.
Wow this was a gem we didn't expect. A lovely museum full of stuff, a really interesting short movie about the Edwin Fox - and seeing a real 1853 convict ship in real life is one of those once in a lifetime things! Well worth the entry fee. Thankyou .
It may not seem like much from the outside but this quite an interesting museum with well researched and well organized exhibits.
The centerpiece is of course the ship Edwin Fox itself. But the story behind the ship how it came to be, what it was involved with during its heyday and through its subsequent demise as an ocean going vessel to become a stationary hulk was endemic of sail ships of that era. The information presented was extremely educational.
Very impressive museum and highly recommended.
Really nice museum capturing an important part of New Zealand history and world maritime history.
A really nice film about the restoration.
Thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Edwin Fox. The small museum is well laid out and very informative, going through the entire history of the ship. The 40-ish minute film is interesting and great watching, however I think it should be in a separate room to the exhibits as it can be distracting. Having the opportunity to walk on the actual ship at the end is fantastic and unique. Worth the $10 discounted Bookme entry fee (book in advance) to experience and learn about an amazing piece of history. I spent around 2 hours there.
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6
Queen Charlotte Track
Mentioned on
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
When embarking on an adventure along the stunning Queen Charlotte Track, visitors can enjoy delectable, freshly made packed lunches to fuel their journey. These can be arranged by inquiring at the reception upon arrival, ensuring a delightful and convenient experience while exploring the picturesque surroundings.
4.7
(914)
Marlborough Region 7282, New Zealand
7Adam B — Google reviewHariklia N — Google reviewSwantje V — Google reviewElisabeth B — Google reviewBen C — Google reviewMatthew P — Google reviewToby L — Google review•
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne
Mentioned on
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne is an extraordinary wildlife sanctuary located just a short drive from Wellington's bustling city center. This eco-park spans 225 hectares of lush, regenerating forest and serves as a haven for native species, including rare birds, lizards, frogs, and unique plant life.
If every city and every town had something like this, it would be a better place. Wonderful immersion in the true nature of a place. The song, the scent. The plants, the birds, the endemic species and the protection and value of them. Well done Wellington. Spectacular. - this is what real progress looks like. - and the locals love it so much that there are hundreds of volunteers. - our guide Paula was one of them. She made the walk even more fascinating and was very knowledgeable.
Suzie D — Google review
We joined the After Dark Tour at Zealandia, hoping to spot a kiwi in the wild — and we quickly learned that “wild” really means wild here.
The tour was really well organized, there was one guide for a group of 12 people (plus a volunteer assistant), and everyone got a small communication device to hear the guide clearly, along with a red-light torch to avoid disturbing the wildlife. The walk itself lasted around two hours, and once it got completely dark, it truly felt like an adventure in the forest.
Of course, with group tours, you always depend on the people you’re with — sometimes that can affect the overall experience — but our guide Emily and volunteer Allison were both fantastic. They were knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely cared about what they do. Huge thanks and respect to them and to everyone working or volunteering at Zealandia — what they’re doing here is amazing.
As for the wildlife, we knew from the start that seeing a kiwi (or anything at all) would be a matter of luck, and that’s exactly how it went. We heard a few kiwis calling in the distance, and right at the very end — just when I had stopped expecting it — the group spotted one! Unfortunately, I only caught a glimpse for less than a second (typical, right?). We also saw a Ruru owl, which is apparently quite rare, a tiny Hamilton’s frog, and a couple of Tuatara — real “living fossils.” Other than that, most of the birds we saw were ones we’d already come across during our travels in New Zealand.
Overall, it was a unique and well-run experience, but I have to admit I left feeling just a little underwhelmed — maybe just a bit bitter about not seeing more of the kiwi. Objectively though, the team did everything they could, and the unpredictability is part of what makes it authentic. Still, even as a non-profit experience, the $120 per person felt a bit steep for what it was.
An incredible and peaceful walk through nature. Exploring the eco sanctuary at dusk felt magical the sounds, the birds, and the beautiful surroundings made it such a memorable evening. We did the tour call Zealandia by Twilight. Learning about Zealandia’s mission to restore Wellington’s wildlife and bring native species back to the region made the experience even more meaningful. Our guide Sofia was amazing and knowledgeable and everything felt so calm and special. We even ended the night with a cup of delicious kawakawa tea the perfect way to wrap up the evening.
We did the evening tour at Zealandia with Emily being our guide and Claire as a spotter. It was amazing! Emily had such a wonderful energy, you could tell she really enjoyed what she was doing and Claire was just the best spotter! We learnt a lot about the history of the sanctuary, saw lots of different birds (even a kiwi! Yay lucky us!) and some more wonderful animals (don’t wanna spoil too much). And we had the chance to come back for free the next day, which was really cool, to explore the sanctuary during the day time and go find some more of its inhabitants.
Would totally recommend!
A great park with several hiking paths and lots of birds! A great place to get away from the city and enjoy listening and seeing birds. This is an old water catchment area turned into a wildlife sanctuary. It is surrounded by a tight fence to prevent (non-native) mice, possums, cats, weasels, etc from entering, so that native birds can flourish here. We saw and heard lots of blackbirds, tui, and kaka. There is also an area where tuatara can be spotted. Good visitor center at the gate with maps and souvenirs.
Done really well. Great walking paths expecially round the lake and suspension bridge.
A bird watcher dream
Saw a few birds and the walk was nice.
Worth the cost (maybe to help the conservation effort but spenny park where yiu aren't garenteed to see the wildlife).
Did see somthing out of the ordinary.
The inital walk was tranquil, then we spotted seven butter-yellow ducklings resting nestled in the grass and undergrowth near the water's edge, close to their mother duck. This peace shattered when a huge, iridescent drake landed violently on the bank, driven by a blind, primal urge to dominate. The mother duck instantly turned into a whirling fury of feathers, fighting for her life and the lives of her brood, but the drake was relentless. In a fit of frustrated aggression on the dry bank, he struck one chick, flinging it high into the air, and violently drove another one deep into the dense undergrowth.
Realising she couldn't fight the brute and protect the scattered ducklings, she made a desperate calculation. She beat her wings hard, launching herself into the air with a loud, distracting cry, flying low and fast toward the opposite bank. She carried the drake’s immediate focus with her, allowing the remaining ducklings to dive and dart into the safety of the thick sedge.
Landing raggedly on the far shore, the mother duck waited, watching the monstrous drake finally lose interest. Slowly, over the next agonising minutes, all seven tiny forms emerged from the reeds and waddled across the open water to wait there, but the brutal price of the wild had been paid. Great park for more wild wildlife.
One of the best reserves in the entire country. Coming here is genuinely one of my favorite things to do ever (which is saying something) and you see so many things here. For example, as of writing this, on my latest trip we saw 7 tieke, 4 Hihi, 8 Kaka, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Tuatara, and many, many Shags and Kereru. Such a beautiful part of the country. If you're going on holiday to New Zealand then this is 100% a must visit. If you haven't been yet please go. Also please donate to them if you can. They do so much amazing work for our native Taonga, and are such an amazing organization. I would love to work with these amazing birds when i get older. Love this place so much. (All
photos attached were taken by my Dad).
Incredible place. The work they’ve done here is amazing.
If you like birds at all this is an absolute must to check out.
Probably the best birding area
I’ve ever walked around
4.7
(5774)
4.6
(2984)
53 Waiapu Road, Karori, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
8
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
9Karthik 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
10Nesh 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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11
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
12S 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
13J-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
14Sarah 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
15Cathy M — Google reviewAlex L — Google reviewLorraine C — Google reviewNelly K — Google reviewSimon H — Google reviewJohn S — Google reviewVicky B — Google review•
Cobblestones Museum
Museum
After school program
Event venue
Heritage preservation
Store
Wedding venue
History Museums
Excellent museum, beautifully maintained. We spent a good 2 hours here. Lovely staff. Well worth a visit.
Moya C — Google review
What a wonderful, interesting museum! I popped in for a qyick passing by visit and left hours later - so much to see and do! I was enthralled the whole time! Julie, at reception, was very knowledgeable and helpful. I highly recommend.
My husband and I renewed our vows in the Cobblestone Museum Church on the 13th of September this year. It was an absolute dream communicating our wishes to Julie Mcghie (the Museum Co-ordinator). She always replied to our (many) questions in a timely and warm manner. We can’t think of anything that Julie and the team could have changed to improve the experience! They were incredibly helpful throughout the whole planning process and the ceremony itself went very smoothly. Sending a massive thank you from Germany!
Great place for all ages to visit. Lots of interesting facts and things to see about the History of the Settlers. Beautiful and Peaceful. A must see. 😊
Such a wonderful little museum! Great for schools, families & people just interested in how we lived 100 years ago. The family home that would've housed 10 children was a real eye opener!
Really enjoyed our visit. Great insights into the lives of early settlers. We spent a couple of hours here. Recommended.
Great labour day weekend event, some cool cars there too. More food facilities would keep people there longer.
Really interesting place to visit when in Greytown! They are always adding new exhibits and great to see how things use to be and learn a bit of history about what life was like when people arrived in the region!
4.4
(32)
4.5
(99)
169 Main Street, Greytown 5712, New Zealand
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16Samundra 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
(1804)
4.7
(448)
Otaihanga Road, Otaihanga 5036, New Zealand
17A. 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
18Angel 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
19Korie — Google reviewKelvin T — Google reviewFelipe F — Google reviewTeAtarangi M — Google reviewPsyckers D — Google reviewLestine C — Google reviewKiri C — Google review•
Owlcatraz Native Bird and Wildlife Park
Permanently Closed
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Bird watching area
Wildlife park
Nature & Wildlife Areas
$25 for the animals, $30 if you include the glow worm cave. A fantastic experience, the staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable and it's a great chance to see native NZ owls up close. Absolutely worth the visit!
Scott M — Google review
An 11 out 0f 10 experience! a must if you are ever in or passing Shannon. The glow worms are awesome and fascinating. Ross and his staff have really out done themselves A+
Exceeded expectations. I expected a small place but there was enough to do and see to occupy a few hours. Good variety of animals and perfect for families with young children
It was way too expensive for what it has to offer. The guide tour is short and shows only plants and a few owls.
The picnic area was nice. There's a pony, peacocks and guinea pigs.
We are new to this area so going to owlcatraz was such a great experience was a little different to most animal attraction getting greating by staff but all in all was really good tour guides were fantastic great for the children as my nephew loved the fact he could fead the animals 👍
Fantastic place with plenty to see. All the animals are friendly including the eels. Staff are amazing and do the group tours professionally and are amazing with the children.
Certainly recommend the guided tour, even with children. It is great value for money.
Amazing, friendly staff. Janette and her staff offer a fantastic opportunity of a life time which is to be able to walk through the Ruru (Morepork) enclosure with nothing between you and the magnificent birds. The Farm yard friends are so cute. Thanks again 🙂
Fabulous service, wonderful people and very interesting facts and stories on the tour. Recommend!
4.4
(151)
4.0
(97)
44 Margaret Street, Shannon 4821, New Zealand
20V._. 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
(3259)
4.5
(506)
1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
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21Eliana 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
22Tess H — Google reviewJasdeep B — Google reviewBrenda C — Google reviewKrazy I — Google reviewEranga A — Google reviewPaul W — Google reviewChris O — Google review•
New Zealand Rugby Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
Specialty Museums
The New Zealand Rugby Museum, located in Palmerston North, is a captivating destination for sports enthusiasts and rugby aficionados. It houses an extensive collection of rare rugby artifacts and offers detailed insights into the emergence of New Zealand's All Blacks as a dominant force in the sport. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, historical memorabilia, and even try their hand at rugby skills.
A beautiful place. It not only teaches you about rugby, but you can also see what the clothes, accessories, etc. were like years ago. It's interesting, and everything is very well maintained.
Lisi S — Google review
Awesome museum run by a lovely man who loves a good yarn!
So much history and knowledge in one place, along with a rugby simulation area.
Top notch, would recommend
Incredible collection of historic artefacts associated with the inception of NZ rugby and the evolution of their team over time! Really well displayed in chronological order with detailed descriptions. Would have preferred more variety of items in their gift shop, but that does not take away from an excellent museum and a must visit for any rugby fan!
Expected more. Displays were good, but not enough room to show anything from 2011 on. Was confusing as to where the Rugby Museum was as another museum in the same building.
Where do you go when on a rugby tour? Why the NZ Rugby Museum. Very quaint and educational. I thought I would have been bigger as well as at larger city considering its New Zealand’s Top Sport.
Located Palmerston North. Open 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week. Adults $15 child $6 , card and cash payment ( no pay wave)(Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day, Good Friday)
The New Zealand Rugby Museum contains New Zealand's biggest and most comprehensive collection of rugby memorabilia and records, including some of the world's rarest rugby artefacts.
Test out your rugby skills - kicking, tackling, leaping, sprinting and pushing - in the 'Have a Go' area.
Amazing museum, endless information and unique memorabilia. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate it's infectious. We really enjoyed our time there.
Love Rugby 🏉 or not, it's a must see. No Springboks Rugby jersey to see, though.
Love Rugby, have to see it!
4.5
(448)
4.3
(199)
326 Main Street, Palmerston North Central, City Centre 4410, New Zealand
23Macca — Google reviewFraser B — Google reviewTruis O — Google reviewDavid F — Google reviewKevin A — Google reviewRebecca H — Google reviewGreg B — Google review
Tui Brewery (Tui HQ)
Brewery
Food & Drink
Bar
Cafe
Conference center
Event venue
Went to a wedding recently in the flagon room. Right from the start with booking, the venue staff were amazing. The food was simply spectacular. The potato gratin was really the best I've ever had, the ham and salads were brilliant. Atmosphere was great as well.
For any function, this venue should be considered with good parking, and easy access for less able bodied people.
Jodi M — Google review
Really nice venue with lots of grassed areas and shade on a hot day. The iconic Tui tower is looking in dire need of some TLC before it gets condemned. Food was a bit average which is a shame because it's a great spot to visit.
We had a great lunch with friends last weekend. The pub and get quite busy however we were able to get a table upstairs immediately. It’s nice and quiet up there - perfect for catching up. The food was very good - we had two steak sammies, lamb roll, steak and chicken burgers and a chicken salad - almost one of everything on the menu! Service was excellent, with not too much of a wait and the tap beers very good. Being Tui, there are all manner of quirky things on the walls and tucked into corners.
Visited the Flagon Room function venue as part of a large rail excursion group. Front-of-house team worked really hard to cater for a larger group than expected: their efforts are the reason for the second star. Perhaps better event management would have prevented the last-minute surprise.
Around 250-ish people waited in a very slow queue to choose from a single buffet table with one platter/bowl of each dish. Food was listed as 'Kiwiana gourmet'. I'm told the prawn-and-ginger dumplings were mid at best. Nowhere were we asked about dietary needs or allergies. If one of the staff hadn't offered to get the kitchen to prepare me a serve of a different meat, my $45 ticket would seen me eating boiled potatoes and steamed vegies. That extra arrived promptly, and was tender and tasty, but wasn't fully heated through. My double-serve of boiled vegies were cooked to my liking, but very plain & others in our group found them under-done. The aioli zhushed them up nicely, but couldn't disguise how dry and pasty the potato was. It was clear a second serving wasn't on offer.
The other annoyance was the 'free drink' included in the ticket price: the only non-alc option was Coke. I had to pay for a lemonade.
Colour me unimpressed. Friendly, professional and hard-working staff hampered by lousy management and business planning. Definitely not worth what we paid for.
Friendly staff, good choice if seating indoors and out. Well priced tap beer. Pulled pork pizza and fried chicken were quick to be served and good, tasty accompaniments with the beer
A great cafe in an amazing location. Lovely food and the most beautiful surroundings and atmosphere you could wish for. Indoor and outdoor dining.
We spent a Friday evening here and loved it. I think their double cheeseburger is THE PERFECT burger, all great flavours and well put together, not messy!
Amazing hospitality from Tayla, the ultimate bar manager with a wealth of information about the Tui Brewery. She is a national treasure!
Really enjoyed the museum, hilarious history (and stretched-truths)! I'd love to come back and spend an afternoon out in the huge beer garden.
Things have wound down a bit since the epic marketing campaign of the 2000s but Tui HQ is definitely worth visiting, a really special spot.
Can’t miss this classic brewery if you’re in the area! The food is great and the brewery tour is everything you want it to be. Nice garden to walk around with games to play and fun decor in general. If you have the kids with you maybe skip the tour but lots of space for them to run around outside while you’re having a pint.
The store is pretty pricey but has some unique stuff.
24Gurpreet 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
25Steve W — Google reviewEric W — Google reviewSally T — Google reviewKJ S — Google reviewJames E — Google reviewNiall H — Google reviewMaria C — Google review•
Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Mentioned on
Visitor center
The Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre is the perfect starting point for your adventure in the park. Located near Whakapapa Ski Field, it provides up-to-date information on hiking trails and wildlife viewing spots. The knowledgeable staff offer valuable advice, such as weather conditions and trail closures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The center also features informative displays on local skiing, geothermal areas, and Kiwiana, making it an ideal stop for families and hikers alike.
National Park visitor centers are my absolute jam. I love speaking to the park rangers, looking at maps, checking out the gift shop, and seeing what they have in the way of a museum. The clean and fully functioning bathrooms are always a bonus, too. We left with some freeze dried meals, some postcards, and most importantly, a clear idea of which hiking routes to take during our short time visiting the park. 🥾
Justine B — Google review
A conversation with the Super helpful staff helped us make the best use of our time here. Tons of information on the history of the area presented in a museum like setting complete with a video presentation room. Clean, indoor toilet facilities. There is a large selection of topographical maps and literature available for purchase.
Friendly, helpful staff helped us plan the best day hikes in the park for the shifting weather conditions.
Informative displays on the local wildlife and plants.
Clean toilet facilities.
The visit centre have so many historic stories and they can give you so much help 👍
Amazing journey through beautiful landscapes all around us, and the destination being above all of them… that’s Ruapehu !
What a beautiful location and amazing visitors center, tons of helpful info for hikes and trails and volcanic information
The Staff at the centre are amazing!
They gave solid advice for the northern circuit treck, after a days hiking in torrential rain & cold gale winds from waihohonu hut they gave me warmth & a place to change from my soggy mess. It was needed and appreciated, please don’t underestimate the weather. Seek advice.
The centre is awesome, super informative with a lovely shop to buy some bits you may have forgot.
Bravo 🙌 😘
Amazing views , highly recommend to explore .
4.6
(1348)
4.6
(501)
Whakapapa Village State Highway 48, 3951, New Zealand
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Mentioned on
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a renowned 19.4km track that offers an extraordinary journey through a volcanic landscape in New Zealand. It starts at Mangatepopo Valley near Whakapapa and takes about 8 hours to complete, allowing hikers to witness old lava flows, active craters, emerald lakes, volcanic peaks, and breathtaking panoramic views amid the Tongariro volcanoes.
4.8
(2245)
New Zealand
27Elijah — Google reviewGraham F — Google reviewAlice H — Google reviewThilal P — Google reviewBruce J — Google reviewQi W — Google reviewMona B — Google review•
Tongariro National Trout Centre
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Aquarium
Located just outside of Turangi, the Tongariro National Trout Centre is a must-visit destination for families and fishing enthusiasts. The center features a native freshwater aquarium, a freshwater history museum, and a trout hatchery. Kids aged 5 to 16 can enjoy trying their hand at fishing in the children's pond filled with rainbow trout.
It was a great activity for kids to try rainbow trout fishing. Their school holiday kids trout fishing package was great experience. Depends on your expectation, waiting time can be vary , depends on how many volunteers angler on duty. Also kids waiting queue. Adult require to pay entry fee for extra to accompany with their kids as you don’t want to miss the photo moment and enjoy the delicious trout your kids/ grandkids caught fresh out of water. They can either packed them with ice for you bring home to cook OR smoke and filet for you for FREE to eat in house ( outside the sitting area ). Drinks and ciabatta loaf are available for purchase. A good track walk to see wild trout ( buy a trout food for $5 ). Self tour and enjoy the environment. Online booking for time slot/date are recommended! Free parking and short walk to the centre.
Monica L — Google review
We went on Sunday afternoon with a big group of 15. It was quiet which was nice, the museum and aquarium was cool. There is lots to see while you walk around
Set in lovely Native bush setting includes an easy bush walk with views of rainbow trout in their natural settings. Very helpful staff, although I didn't go into the centre ($22 an adult) due to time constraints. Car park is locked at 4.00
Did the kids fishing package-$60 which was good fun and they prepped and smoked the small fish the kids caught which was tasty.
$22 entry fee per adult however which I find overpriced as there isn't a huge amount to do here unless your watching your kids fish.
Friendly staff.
Tongariro National Trout Centre is a worthwhile stop, especially for families with kids. It is located 3 km from Turangi town centre along the Tongariro River. It could also be a refreshing stop for nature lovers and curious minds as well. It offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s freshwater ecology, with native fish displays and a well-curated aquarium featuring species like Giant Kokopu and Koaro. The hatchery tour and museum provide insight into the history of trout fishing in the region, making it both educational and engaging.
Kids especially love the fishing pond, where they can catch and even smoke their own rainbow trout, an experience that’s both memorable and delicious. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the riverside walk adds a peaceful touch to the visit.
The trout are numerous (like thousands!!). It's fun watching the kids fish and actually catch them with the instructors, natural setting, and BUY the fish food on entry. $5 per bag but what happens when you feed the wild trout is a lot of fun. We should have bought at least 3 bags (1 each). For fantastic photography and video, have one person feed the trout from the platform whilst another watches through underwater viewing area. They are HUGE and go crazy .... brilliant!!
Great place to bring the kids for a bit of education in aquatic life. It's not very big but you could easily spend an hour or so here. Highly recommend getting some fish feed - the trouts seem to love them.
The aquarium section is small but filled with native fish which is nice to see.
Definitely pay it a visit if you're around the area.
Went there for the school holiday program - fishing: from providing all the tools to smoking the fish for you
It was great and the advice on fishing was easy to understand for kids.
There were a few places to explore at the center as well.
Would recommend spending 1-2 hours there
4.4
(332)
4.4
(276)
257 State Highway 1, Rangipo 3382, New Zealand
28Lex P — Google reviewLara G — Google reviewGraham F — Google reviewEvgeniia G — Google reviewS R — Google reviewAndrew B — Google reviewKara S — Google review•
Tokaanu Thermal Pools
Mentioned on
Public swimming pool
Nature & Parks
Nestled on the southern shores of Lake Taupo, Tokaanu Thermal Pools is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. This charming spot features both private and public mineral pools, catering to families with a dedicated children's area that maintains a cooler temperature. After soaking in the therapeutic waters, take a leisurely stroll along the Tokaanu Thermal Walk, where you can explore the mesmerizing natural thermal landscape filled with steaming mineral pools and bubbling mud pots.
I recently visited the Tokaanu Hot Pools (Dec16/17.24) and it was such a wonderful and relaxing experience! The private hot pools are a perfect retreat, offering warm, soothing mineral water that leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The staff were friendly and welcoming, ensuring everything was clean and well-maintained.
The setting is tranquil, surrounded by nature, making it an excellent spot to unwind. The public pools are spacious, and the temperature is just right for a relaxing soak. If you enjoy history, you’ll also appreciate the cultural significance of these pools, which have been a part of the local heritage for centuries.
Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of New Zealand!
J. B — Google review
I always come here when need a hot soak whether In the in the public pool (with family and friends) or in the private pools (when i want to get away from crowds) I always enjoy swimming in the Tokaanu hot pools, they have pools of varying heat 🥵 from warm to scalding hot 🔥 for everyone.
The private pool here is an amazing experience of natural hot springs — as if the earth itself is whispering warmth into your skin, wrapping you in a quiet, blissful embrace. ❤️
Great walk around the thermal area before a soak in a private pool. The infrastructure is a little dated, and the stoney pathway into the main pool was a bit sharp on bare feet.
The worst hot pools in New Zealand 💩
We bought 4 tickets to the private pool and paid 56$ for a room with a small pool and no shower. The place clearly needs a cleanup - there were hair and dirt in the water, and overall the place didn’t look clean.
The staff didn’t tell us how much time we have, and there were no signs (including in the private pool room) how much time you can spend in the private pool. No clocks either - you MUST feel the time I guess. The announcement about the timing was absolutely unclear - we couldn’t understand a word. And when we are about to leave, a very rude lady knocked at the door and yelled at us that we are 20 mins over our time, and that people are waiting (why she didn’t come early or when our time was up??? - I have no idea). She was SO UNPROFESSIONAL! She requested me to leave the room now (I was almost naked and covered only with a towel) and change in my clothes in the toilet. I was almost kicked out of the room. That was the most terrible service I have ever had in New Zealand. I don’t recommend this place and never want to visit it again.
Arrived 4pm on a cold, overcast Friday, paid for a private pool. The staff are friendly polite, and there were quite a few people coming for a swim/soak. Reception area looks inviting, well kept, tidy and modern. Would be good if they are able to freshen up the private pools as paint is peeling, and mirror tarnished so not visually appealing. Having said that, the price is relevant to condition of the private pool. We really enjoyed our soak. 25 minutes was perfect. Thanks
A beautiful spot beside the river, surrounded by mud pools and hot springs. Extremely friendly people and beautiful private pools filled with water heated naturally underground.
Be sure to check out the easy little walk around the mud pools next door, and stretch out after a private soak in the main public pool.
It's a little slice of Aotearoa's own heaven
Lovely staff, clean private pool, and beautiful walk nearby. 20 minutes was plenty, and the staff gave us a reminder over the loud speaker so it was easy to know when our time was up.
4.3
(1243)
3.9
(267)
Mangaroa Street, Tokaanu 3381, New Zealand
29Elena Z — Google reviewAnthea W — Google reviewHui T — Google reviewTiina S — Google reviewAmber P — Google reviewCarol D — Google reviewMichael B — Google review•
Nevalea Alpacas
Sights & Landmarks
Baby clothing store
Clothing store
Farm
Knit shop
Men's clothing store
An Unforgettable Alpaca Experience
Our family's 90-minute alpaca adventure was the highlight of our trip! Booking online saved us money ($59 adults/$49 kids vs walk-in prices) and guaranteed our spot - highly recommend as walk-ins aren't always available. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the wonderful world of alpacas!
The experience included:
Hand-feeding these gentle, fluffy creatures (their soft noses tickling our palms!)
Walking two alpacas** through breathtaking farm scenery (family pass includes 2 alpacas)
Cuddling adorable baby alpacas- don't forget your camera for perfect selfies!
Learning alpaca facts and how their fiber becomes luxurious clothing
Making felted alpaca soap- a fun craft and special souvenir
Browsing the farm shop with beautiful handmade alpaca products
What made it exceptional:
✓ Knowledgeable, passionate guides
✓ Perfect 1.5-2 hour duration (arrive 10 mins early for safety briefing)
✓ Stunning photo ops at every turn
✓ Thoughtful touches like the felted soap craft
✓ Discounted online booking prices
For families, couples or solo travelers, this is a must-do activity that's both educational and incredibly fun. The alpacas' personalities will charm you, the scenery will relax you, and the handmade products (we bought the softest alpaca wool hat!) make perfect mementos.
Final tip:Wear farm-appropriate shoes, bring your camera, and come ready to fall in love with these amazing animals! We'll definitely be back - maybe next time we'll try the morning tea picnic option!
Joanne L — Google review
We were more than happy to have that opportunity to visit this Alpacas 🦙 farm. The CUTEST thing during our 1 week holiday! They were so soft, so calm, created so much joy for all our family members! Highly recommended to visit!
I can’t believe I almost passed up cuddling baby Tux.
Highly recommend stopping at Nevalea Alpacas and learning all the incredible characteristics of these adorable animals. Leonie was very accommodating and answered all our many questions about Alpacas and their experience farming them. We were staying nearby for the weekend (group of kiwis), all loved the experience. We thought the walk involved with the “ultimate experience” might be more than we wanted, but it’s just a slow gentle climb uphill at own pace with an Alpaca buddy to lead. Even if you’re not the fittest, this is fine. Facilities are good, gift shop full of things to choose from. I’m obsessed with my Alpaca socks!
It was such an amazing experience! I get to walk with an alpaca, feed them, and pat them. I also gained some knowledge about them. Thank you for the wonderful experience!
Love it! Came to visit here from Finland and worth it! Alpacas are so cute and well cared for! Lovely owner!
I found Nevalea by driving by on the way to Mount Ruapehu and saw the Alpacas in the front paddock. I booked in to walk an alpaca which was a really nice walk with Prescott. The alpacas are super soft and so curious coming up to say hello as we walked around. I got to feed some of the alpacas and hold a baby alpaca that was only a day old. I'd definitely recommend checking out Nevalea and going for a little walk with the alpacas.
Great place for a group visit. We did walk and feed experience. Friendly and welcoming staff, great shop
Thousands of alpagas in wonderful valleys. We did the alpaca experience and had so much fun! The team was very nice and gave many explanations.
4.8
(257)
4.7
(90)
5446 State Highway 4 Ongarue, Taumarunui 3996, New Zealand
30Craig H — Google reviewHoward R — Google reviewJoanne M — Google reviewVix A — Google reviewClaire T — Google reviewJesse R — Google reviewWalter D — Google reviewEdwina O — Google reviewTaju U — Google review•
Timber Trail
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Cycling park
Outdoor Activities
Timber Trail is an 85-kilometer mountain bike ride through the Pureora Forest Park in New Zealand's central North Island. The trail offers a unique experience, taking riders deep into ancestral Maori lands and showcasing the region's natural beauty with moss-covered trees, clear rivers, and diverse birdlife. The route follows old logging roads and features thrilling suspension bridges. There are various overnight options available for those looking to extend their adventure. Additionally, shuttle services are provided for convenience.
Awesome experience, track is well looked after and beautiful scenery! Did it over two days on MTB. It's at a decent level that basically most with a bit of experience can give it a go, even the 'not so frequent anymore cyclists' like me 😅 Pretty cool 😎
R M — Google review
A definite must do for all riding enthusiasts. Was our second time completing the trip over 2 days, and our party included first time riders. They loved it.
With the ride being predominantly downhill it's possible for most fitness levels and beginner skills.
Great experience although I think you need to be clearer on the bike hire options. When I hired a 'Suspension Bike' it wasn't made clear that is just front suspension. I see now you reference the full suspension bike as 'FS'. For a first time user that needs to be clearer and I suffered on the bike ride because of it.
You couldn't ask for a better Kiwi experience. The mountain biking was at a good level that anyone with some experience could do it at their own pace. We used our E Bikes which made the up hills alot more fun. The first day was a little more technical but just take your time if unsure and the second day was easier riding with great long downhills and beautiful scenery. There is so much bird life we saw Kaka, Wood Pidgeon in big numbers. There are glow worms aplenty if you go exploring at night time in the Bush. The bridges are awe inspiring and there is even a small tunnel on the spiral. Prepare for all weather. Take a first aid kit just incase. But mostly it's just pure fun. Thanks to all the volunteers that keep the trails safe, if you could please fill in the Big dips on the second day haha almost had me over the handle bars and the blackberry on the last 4km needs cutting back. Xox
Another breathtaking part of New Zealand. Absolutely brilliant trail for running and cycling.
Wicked journey. So much to take in and enjoy. We had sunshine and rain and enjoyed both. The lodge in the middle is a welcome and restful place to enjoy time with others also. Shuttle drivers were awesome as well. Kia Ora to all involved.
Fantastic spot. Stayed at Piropiro Campsite and did the 6kms to Maramataha Suspension Bridge and back on an off-road electric scooter, about 1.5 hours return.
The track runs along the road for a small way at the beginning. But it quickly enters bush and the safety and quietness of the forest.
The track is a mix of smooth compact dirt and larger stones, with lots of ruts and bumps to navigate.
Note - the best place to park is actually further along Piropiro Road at Maramataha Carpark. Head southwest at the intersection. Continue past Camp Epic for about 500 metres.
A must-do for trail enthusiasts. I'm definitely doing this one again! Beautiful sights, great trails.
I did the trail over 2 days with mates, camping overnight. Highly recommend the experience.
We started off with a shuttle service from Camp Epic (apologies we were late who would of thought we would get fogged in, held up by road works heading into Ongarue, then on the final 1 way bridge we gave way to a huge truck with forestry machinery - then Paul rang to check on us) we met a great bunch of adventure seekers, stayed at Camp Epic which was fantastic, we also got to chat with Bill Holloway (No.1 track extraordinaire track maker) on his Kubota tractor on the 2nd day. This would have to be New Zealand's top mountain bike trail ride that caters to all fitness levels (we did it on ebikes - thankfully) the scenery is breath taking, the constant chatter of bird life was exceptional, the trails are maintained up to a high level and in top condition. To learn about the timber pioneers, their families & machinery through to the tramways that bought the timber out, the suspension bridges are a marvel to behold especially when you look down and see the remnants of the timber bridges that held trams with logs what clever clever people. The work that has gone into these trails is exceptional with a story to be told all through the ride which gives a deep appreciation of the hard yakka of the timber workers, what a tough life! We came away in awe of those that have created a visionary story that we could enjoy - a simple 'thankyou' does not seem to suffice but THANKYOU!
One of the most scenic cycle trails in the North Island. We done the first 20 km from Pureora.
4.8
(51)
5.0
(147)
Pureora Forest Park / Timber Trail, Manawatū-Whanganui 3997, New Zealand
Planning a trip to Waitomo Caves?
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