Spent 2 days and nights here March 2025 and did 2 Burn the Breeze horseback rides for experienced riders. The accommodations were clean and comfortable and along the river. The meals provided were varied and home cooked with produce grown on the premises and were quite delicious. The staff was friendly and helpful and went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. Our horseback rides were great fun and the horses were wonderful, well trained and responsive. It was a learning experience to ride using Natural Horsemanship and ride without bridles and bits. Miss T was a joy to ride and did many lopes through gorgeous scenery.

Our stay was amazing. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. The food was awesome. The scenic rafting tour was beautiful, and our guides, Finn and Tom, were great.

Accommodating is an understatement! We booked a family river rafting cruise, however with me being 20 weeks pregnant at the time, the lodge informed us that per the NZ law I am not allowed to get on a raft, however they immediately had alternative activity options lined up for us and we chose a tour around the neighbouring landscape with e-bikes. What a blast! And this is saying a lot as we had our 3-year old with us which the staff made an effort to accommodate with a toddler bike seat and toddler helmet. They also packed us a lovely picnic to have halfway through our journey. Overall the staff were friendly and accommodating from the minute we arrived and entertained all our toddlers questions and comments :). It is quite the drive to get to the lodge but the views are worth it and the sound of the nearby waterfall makes it feel even more special. Husband and toddler also enjoyed use of the hot tub which had a view of the river. The accommodation is backpacker style but there are options for those (like us) wanting an en-suite bathroom. The bedding is also hotel quality and incredibly comfy. We were there in Autumn so it was cool but heating in the room is sufficient. Definitely a place for nature lovers and people who like to socialise. The restaurant is so cozy. I read about the amazing food that Miranda whips up but I was still blown away. There was plenty of food at dinner and breakfast time and it was super delicious. So definitely something for those that like more luxury than pure backpacker life. There is a communal kitchen if you want to cater for yourself. We didn't use it but seemed clean and tidy. We will be back again when my parents visit from overseas!

This was a delightful place to stay. The food was absolutely amazing. The best vegetables I have ever had. We went for the rafting experience. It was a great adventure. Hazel made the experience so much better! She was funny, very experienced and we always felt safe. Wonderful place!!

Best service, friendliest, most welcoming hosts & staff, and amazing food anywhere. A beautiful natural spot by the Rangitikei River too!!

We want to go back!😍 We experienced the most tranquil and stress free stay. The Valley is both picturesque and breaktaking, the food was 'to die for' and the staff go above and beyond to cater to your needs. I highly recommend adding this stay to your travel itinerary. Thanks again Janey and staff. We will definitely be back for a longer stay in the future! Cam and Chris.

An amazing authentic country lodge with outdoor activities - we had an incredible time whitewater rafting and also horse riding around the beautiful landscape. The food is mostly homegrown and the dinner we had was the best food we had in our stay in NZ. The lamb shank and creamy mash with fresh raspberry crumble was divine. Janey and her team provide a bespoke service and tailor your stay to your wishes. Cannot recommend enough!

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.

What a fantastic day out. Well organised but relaxed start to the trip. Good H & S briefing. Then followed one of the best jet boat rides we have ever had. A good walk up to the Bridge To Nowhere. Lunch stop there with Ken giving a good run down on why the bridge was built why the settlement of this area failed. Ken’s delivery all day was good with much of it first hand family experiences. Then back to the boat - short trip and it the start of our canoe leg. A great blast - all to soon back at Pipiriki. Can only recommend this tour and the slick operation run by Josephine & Ken.

I love everything about Whanganui River Adventures. I took the jet boat from the Bridge to Nowhere while doing Tour Aotearoa bike route in March. From booking the boat, getting picked up at the landing and staying in their cabin, everything was smooth, and everyone was helpful. The boat ride was a highlight, it’s a beautiful part of the world. And they made it even better by making our food order halfway through the ride, so burgers were ready when we arrived. The cabin was clean and comfy, great facilities: bike wash, hot shower, coin laundry, kitchen stocked with pans/pots and utensils. Great business and amazing staff!

My husband and I cycled the Mountains to Sea route. The jet boat ride from Bridge to Nowhere down to Pipiriki was just magical. We loved the extra information provided by Thomas. It helped give more context to the landscape we had cycled through. Following this, we stayed a night on their campsite, and this was lovely. The whole team is super helpful and friendly. Facilities were great, yummy food and flat tent sites. All this set us up well for the fabulous ride down the river road to Whanganui. Thank you 😊 🙏

Cycled to Pipiriki from Whanganui via the Whanganui River Road. My friend and I were met by smiling, friendly faces, and we were instantly made to feel welcome. We stayed in a cabin for the night, and the beds were a little hard for my liking, but I still managed a decent night sleep. The sound of Ruru all night was amazing! Sparking clean facilities, a little store with everything you need and nothing you don't. There was also a little takeaway shop that was selling cooked meals like fish and chips (open days/times vary, so it pays to check its operating during your visit) Highly recommended! Will absolutely stay here again ⭐️

Awesome small camp ground. A number of cabins, powered sites and tent sites set around a large grassed area. Excellent amenities in what was once an old school. I would definitely recommend this place to stay. This is an ideal spot along the Whanganui River.

After our Tongaririo crossing was cancelled two days in a row due to the weather we were at a loss of what to do in this area of the North Island. Luckily for us we found this gem of a company and activity. Everyone was incredibly friendly and knowledgable- especially Thomas our guide for the day. A thrilling hour long jet boat tour up the river and a 40 minute walk through the park to the bridge to nowhere where you stop for lunch, the company provide hot drinks and biscuits, and time for photos. Thomas also provided a very interesting talk about the history of the bridge. Repeat the journey back to base. There is the option to canoe back the last 10km- which we wanted to do- but alas the weather/wind was still not on our side! If you are in the area I would highly recommend!

What a fabulous business, I got greeted by name at Mangapurua Landing. I had cycled there from Whakahoro. Experiencing the river in the jet boat was an amazing experience and a very cool way to finish a bike ride. At the campground I got greeted again by my name, given a tour of the place. I also order dinner. Brilliant service for a hungry cyclist. The cabin bed was super comfortable, I had a very good sleep

I am not a skier but members of my family are, Turoa can be a bit of a lottery according to them; sometimes there is snow, sometimes not and sometimes it can be quite icy. The general facilities are nothing special but not bad either with relatively simple cafeteria food at the base of the slopes. The slopes themselves, when the snowfall is decent allow for decent skiing.

We went here July 12 and they were close. We were still able to play with the snow! thank you for the free experience.❤️ We will definitely go back here

Not the best weather today but kids still had fun on the sleds, big thanks Herne (from Taranaki) for your excellent service at the sledding slope.

Amazing experience as a first timer! Cafes and facilities are great.

Beautiful place to visit with family especially during the winter snow season

A huge disappointment. We usually visit Whakapapa but decided to try Turoa this time, and the sledding was a letdown. The slope was too shallow, so you kept getting stuck, and there was no magic carpet (the conveyor belt lift) to take you back, so you had to walk the entire way, dragging the sled each time.

Had a lovely meal upstairs at Freddie’s cafe the other day. Took my young children skiing up the lifts and they’ve done a fantastic job pushing the snow to form tracks. A shame the weather isn’t playing ball but we had a great time regardless.

**Mount Ruapehu and Sky Waka: A Journey Above the Clouds** Mount Ruapehu, located in Tongariro National Park, is one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. As the country’s largest active volcano, it offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural significance. One of the best ways to experience this majestic peak is through the Sky Waka gondola, a world-class attraction that provides a breathtaking journey above the rugged alpine terrain. The Sky Waka, operating year-round, ascends high above the volcanic slopes, offering panoramic views of cascading waterfalls, ancient lava flows, and the sweeping expanse of Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gondola’s large, comfortable cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows make it easy to immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty, no matter the season. In winter, the gondola transports visitors to Whakapapa Ski Area, New Zealand’s premier skiing destination, while in summer, it provides access to hiking trails and the chance to explore the mountain’s unique volcanic features. At the summit, visitors can enjoy a meal or hot drink at the Knoll Ridge Chalet, one of the highest cafes in the country, while taking in the dramatic alpine views. Adding to the experience, the staff at Mount Ruapehu and Sky Waka are known for their warmth and hospitality. They ensure a seamless and enjoyable adventure, sharing insights about the mountain’s geology, Māori cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Mount Ruapehu and the Sky Waka gondola offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of New Zealand’s volcanic wonderland.

First climb Mt Ruapehu (2797 m) in winter, from the southern side (Toroa Ski Field). It was harder than I thought. The last 600 m is very steep, and the average slope angle is larger than 40 degrees. You must be fully equipped. When taking photos, you should be very careful as nowhere is flat (you must stick your ice axe deeply into snow and ice, use it as a post to stop your feet sliding). Unfortunately, I lost my phone near the peak somewhere.

The highest mountain on north island in NZ. Definitely a must visit as it is the spot for mort tourists. It's about 5 hours drive from Auckland. Make sure to travel on a sunny day to get the best views at the Peak. We visited the skiing section of the mountain. There are charges if you would like to go higher up the mountain for skiing or site seeing.

Always eager to see how much snow is on the mountain when we head past every month or so. The Desert Rd is straight in places & windy in others. Don't speed, you will more than likely get a ticket if you go over 100kph in a vehicle (90kph if you are towing something). First views of Ruapehu are when you head north from Taihape.

Even out of season it is worth going up the mountain for the views. I was in luck in that there had been an early snow storm the previous week, so even though it is May, and everything is shut up the mountain (Sky-Waka Gondola was shut on 26th April, to re-open Kings Birthday - maintenance etc - would have loved to of gone up), there was fresh snow up at the base, so my daughter who had not been to snow for 13 years could enjoy the experience. In season parking can be hard to find (have been up other times), and if conditions are bad it is 4x4 or with chains - or of course it can even be closed. Road conditions are posted on-line on the websites, and on Met Service - weather, when clicking on mountains, and Whakapapa Ski Field - it shows mountain conditions, road conditions etc. Useful to check, as the road had been closed just days before I went up. In season there is skiing of course, food and other services. Enjoy.

Worth the trip up to Whakapapa ski field for the views alone, some great walks along the way. Halfway between the village and ski field there is a large vehicle pull over area you ca get some great pics.

You will fall in love with this place...just amazing views 😍 ❤️ ♥️ ✨️

Our group of 12 canoed down the river staying at the Bridge to Nowhere Lodge on our second night. What a welcome respite from a drizzly day to have hot showers & comfy beds & a red wine while we shared our stories. Mandy & Joe were superb hosts & made us all very welcome. Love the beautiful view overlooking the river. I would definitely recommend !!

Ben shared the gorgeous Wanganui River with us today on The Bridge to Nowhere Tour. Fabulous trip and what a down to earth and professional tour company these guys are. Knowledgeable and super friendly. Impressive kiwi caring and sharing. You simply must take the drive and book in with this team. Thanks Ben , that was magic. :)

We had a fantastic time at both the lodge and doing the 2 day walk and canoe package. It was great having a shorter canoe trip option down the river and being able to stay at the lodge which was comfortable and tidy. Everyone was very helpful and the option to bring your own food was great. Highly recommended

Fantastic time on the jet boat and canoeing. Joe was very knowledgable on the history of both the Bridge to Nowhere and the river itself. We really enjoyed the canoe ride. We were able to be independent and go at our own pace. Their dog, Buck, was also one of my personal favorite parts.

What an amazing place!! Camped there while canoeing down the river such wonderful hosts. Who dried our wet sleeping bag. I want to come back one day, by jet boat, and stay in the lodge. Your hospitality is amazing.

We arrived late via canoe with a large group. We stayed in beautiful cabins with the most comfortable mattresses ever! The self catering kitchen at the camp site had everything we needed and the showers were awesome. A really beautiful location, waking to birdsong and view over the river is something I won't forget in a hurry. Thank you so much for having us.

Great lodge after a day paddling. We we're fortunate to have the place to ourselves (group of 18) so could spread out across a lot of rooms. Staff assisted with driving stuff up from the river, provided a bar thru the evening and a massive spread for dinner and continental breakfast in the morning. The lodge features great views, a range of bedroom options, fully catered, pigs chooks ducks dogs and a cat (Blackie) to enjoy watching. The place was clean, comfortable, hot showers and flushing toilets, great views, an epic hearty meal and friendly staff. I'd recommend staying a day and chilling there if you can, we didn't have enough time to fully appreciate it.

Hi! Had an amazing time with Adrift today! Thanks for having me! Our group was led by Stew and Kenny. It was very comforting to have both in our group as you could tell safety was always first and everything else was a close second. Kenny brought so much of his upbringing, culture and knowledge into the tour from beginning to end and you could tell he was extremely skilled at his craft and brought a lot of good energy wisdom and talent to the trek. Was so glad to be a part of his group. Stew was awesome as well — being a quiet yet essential group leader also, scouting and breaking trail ahead. Safety was always first and everything else was a close second. Everything else being fun, friendship, fellowship, and the freedom of the hills. I highly recommend Adrift without reservation. Thank you again and take care! Kia ora.

We had an incredible day hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing with ADrift. Our guide, Kenni, was awesome, highly professional, and provided all kinds of insights, not only about the area we were walking through but also about Māori customs and culture. Stewart was also fabulous!! We were also lucky with the weather: ideal temperature, barely any clouds, and a glorious sunny day. Without a doubt, ADrift is a very professional company and one we would highly recommend.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is absolutely breathtaking, and doing it with Adrift made it even better. Our guide Kenny was incredible — not only a skilled tour guide but also one of two Māori park rangers. His deep knowledge of the land, stories about its cultural significance, and respect for the environment added a layer of meaning that made the hike truly special. Kenny kept us safe, supported, and inspired the whole way, while still making the day fun and memorable. From emerald lakes to volcanic craters, the views were unreal — and having a guide who connected us to both the landscape and its heritage was priceless. If you’re thinking of hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, I can’t recommend Adrift enough. And if you get Kenny as your guide, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.

Had a wonderful time hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and our guides (Kenny and Matt) were super supportive and provided lots of information and history on the area. As someone who has had experience hiking, I would recommend going with the guides as they will be able to direct anyone through the unpredictable weather conditions!

We were so happy to do the crossing on 15-10 with Adrift! If we would have done it ourselves (we doubded if we should) we wouldn't have made it over, cause of the quick changing weather at the moment. Even though we had a nice day (it was a window in time, cause it rained for 6 weeks), we got caught in a blizzard, but guides Kenny and Ty professionally led us through. There was still some snow on the track, which they provided gear for but we didn't end up using. Would definitely recommend to book with them! Unforgettable experience!

Awesome hike with a great guide. Though we didn’t need a guide to navigate the route, have a guide that could explain the culture significance and history made the day complete. The beauty of the hike is surreal.

Really glad we booked a tour through Adrift to do the Tongariro Crossing hike! The guides were super friendly, kept us on pace, gave tips for navigating different terrains, and shared neat stories and history of the landscapes. Highly recommend booking and buying the lunch as it makes the entire experience very convenient and the lunch is substantial with snacks to eat along the way.

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

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.

Great experience. The whole set up is amazing. Everyone in staff so helpful and a great laugh. Will do again 5 days next time. It's fun playing submarines on the 50/50

It was amazing seeing all the nature the service was just amazing and if you do canoeing I say jump in on the last day .

We scheduled a booking for the Whanganui river. Karen was really helpful making the booking. Eventually, expectations of poor weather led to the need to reconsider. Karen gave really responsible advice and worked hard to ensure our trip could proceed safely. In the end, we were a bit concerned about our young daughters and our own inexperience. Karen was extremely helpful with the Canoe Hire AND the DOC cancellation. Unfortunately we didn't get to review the actual experience, but our customer service experience was worth a review. We're planning on rescheduling next summer. :)

Lovely family with kids and dogs really homey atmosphere. During the canoe debrief they made us coffees and homemade bread. We were very impressed! The canoe and all the equipment were in great condition and they picked us up right on time at the end of the trip to bring us back to our campervan. Thanks for the great experience guys, our arms are still sore from all that paddling! 🤣

Epic adventure. Team that sorted us out made sure we had all the info ahead of time, gave us some good training and gear and boats were super reliable. Home for a few days lol. As for the journey itself, the whole thing was just unreal, not what you ever really get to see. Alot of it was just flat paddling as the river was pretty low apparently. Some good rapids along the way that had some stress going for a minute but my partner and I managed to make it down without coming out of the boat once 😉 Highly reccomend.

These guys are great! Friendly service and they were even kind enough to invite our group for Christmas dinner when we arrived. Coffee was served on the day before we hit the water and chocolate muffins were waiting for us when we finished our journey! It’s the small things that count! I definitely recommend them!

Well organised canoe hire and transport company. Staff were knowledgeable and clearly had plenty of experience running the hire co plus knowledge of the river and weather forecast. Answered many a question I had leading up to the trip. All equipment in good nick and had everything we needed. On time and safety conscious, thorough briefing which helped us on the river! Error on my part, but they resolved a late notice accom date change easily and took the time to ensure all dates were correct. We stayed at theirs the night before we started the river trip. The top accom block has a king bed pvt room and 8 bunks, with 1 bthrm. I'd recommend this if it's still available. There's a larger toilet block near there which most of us didn't find until the next morning so hunt it out so there's no queueing for a toilet while someone is showering. The lower bunk rooms have power and sleep 8 in a room. Hopefully in time an additional shower block could be set up, we would've appreciated this for our size group even if we had to pay a bit more to stay to cover the cost. Portaloo down at the lower shed where you can pack and unpack your barrels are probably the worst smelling toilets I've come across in a long time. Didn't see staff to tell once I'd used it at the end of the trip, but could do with a clean and regular service! Otherwise, a great experience.

Loved our adventure in Taumaranui with the Forgotten World Adventures team for our Rail Trail River Combo! Lovely friendly people, well organised. Very knowledgeable and fun and interesting stories about the history of the railway line and the district. Yummy morning tea and lunch. Then a wonderful trip in the jetboat with Paul down the Whanganui river! What an awesome day!!!

Everything was well organized. All the staff were very friendly and helpfull. The food and cakes were excellent! Our tour leader Ray had a great knowledge of the area and it's people. He also a lovely sense of humor! We loved going through tunnels, over bridges and stay in Whangamomona. Paul who took us up the Whanganui river in the jet boat was a skilled driver who knows the river inside out. We even saw the blue ducks!! To top it off we went to Blue Duck station. An amazing place!! Thank you so much for the epic experience!! Thea Ris

It was bucket list tick, and worth it. The countryside I went through on the golf cart was soul soothing, just beautiful. The company was A1. There were a few unplanned events, they were handled so well. Action was decided promptly and the support for each other from the staff was wonderful to watch. Thankyou, I had a hoot.

A friend and I recently did the Republic 1 Forgotten World rail tour and I have to say it was one of the absolute best experiences of our lives!! We stayed the night at the Forgotten World Motel as we were traveling down from Auckland and though it is an older motel, it had everything we needed for a two night stay. But from the motel to the rail tour to the shuttle ride back at the end of the tour the most memorable thing was the staff, especially Awhi, who’s kind gesture made her an absolute legend in our eyes! Everyone was absolutely brilliant and accommodating in every way! I would strongly recommend this experience to not only international tourists, but also to kiwis alike! A great way to see farmland, countryside and native bush. But one piece of advice would be, take a warm jacket because those tunnels are chilly!

The Republic Cart Tour is outstanding. Everything ran like clockwork and the food provided was very much appreciated and tasted wonderful. The staff who travelled with us were very informative and humorous. The bus trip while necessary was long on a very windy road, but the rail cart trip made up for it. Many thanks. .

Excellent tour, we learnt so much of the history of the areas we visited, enjoyed the interaction with other tour members and the guides. We saw parts of New Zealand that we never knew existed and would not have visited except on this trip. The Guides were excellent, meals were tasty and Well prepared. We recommend this tour for all.

Where to start ??? Staff 100% ,Scenery 12/10 , railcruise experience 10/10 , staff talks LEGENDS. HIGHLY RECOMMEND Doing this !!! Cheers to Rihana , Logan and Conner.....THEN onto the Jet boat ???? WELL WHAT AN EXPERIENCE . It's NOT close to the walls thrills , instead a fast cruise down and back up the Legendary Whanganui River

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.

Better than Hobbiton? No. Just as good? Absolutely! You’d be crazy not to do both tours. We were never rushed — it was detailed, immersive, and so full of passion. It didn’t feel scripted at all; you could really feel the genuine love and enthusiasm throughout the entire experience.

We (2 adults, 2 kids) stumbled across the Hairy Feet Tour near Waitomo completely by chance, and we’re so grateful we did — it was absolutely amazing. The moment we arrived, the beauty of the place swept us away. We were warmly welcomed in the tour office, which is decorated with so much love and detail that you instantly feel the passion for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings films. The tour itself was a one-of-a-kind experience unlike anything we’ve done before. Suzie guided our small group of eight across her family farm, where many scenes from The Hobbit and the Rings of Power series were filmed. But even without the movie magic, the landscape is breathtaking. We also learned a lot about the rock formations and local plants. Suzie led the tour with so much enthusiasm and attention to detail that we honestly didn’t want it to end. She shared wonderful stories about the farm and the filming process, and we were amazed the whole time. You can truly feel how much she loves the movies, and she took plenty of time to help us get great photos. We’re incredibly thankful and happy that we discovered this special place, and we wish every traveler could have this experience. For all the effort and the wonderful tour, the price is more than fair. Fantastic — simply outstanding!

We absolutely loved visiting Hairy Feet Waitomo! Suzie and Warrick were both excellent hosts! Suzie was our guide and she was very knowledgeable about the area and it was so cool to see their family’s farm and film locations. This location is stunning and the views are incredible. You can tell that she’s a huge fan too! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful property with LOTR/Hobbit fans!

A magical experience - truly the heart of the Hobbit! This tour was absolutely incredible - easily a 12/10. Suzie is one of the warmest and most genuine guides we've ever met. She brought every Hobbit filming location to life with so much passion, humor and insider knowledge, and shared beautiful stories about what it was like when the production team was on the farm. On top of that, she gave us wonderful insights into the land, the animals, the native plants and the history of the area. You can feel her deep connection to this place in every moment. It made the whole experience unforgettable. We recommend this tour to absolutely anyone - even if you're not a Hobbit fan. It's pure magic. Warm greetings from the German couple with the Maui campervan who wanted to stay overnight 😇 - Vivian & Thomas

THE tour for Tolkien nerds. Susan who runs it is knowledgeable and entertaining. Of all the tours , this one stood out. Totally worth it! It's also just beautiful, so non Tolkien fans would also have a good time for the views.

Beautifull location where you can learn a lot about how the Hobbit is filmed. The people of the farm are really enthusiastic and warm.

This tour was a major highlight of our trip to New Zealand! Suzie was an amazing guide! You know she’s given this tour a million times, but she treats it like the first time. She was so enthusiastic and engaging. She had great stories about the filming process and such fun behind the scenes insider knowledge. She even took the time to take individual photos of everyone in our group reenacting many of the scenes from The Hobbit. The attention to detail in the tour was incredible. Suzie had printouts of the various scenes from the films and even had props hidden around the grounds for photo ops. If you are a Lord of the Rings fan, you must do this tour! And even if you’re not a fan, it’s worth it just to see the amazing landscapes. Highly, highly recommend!

I can really recommend the Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tour. our group had just four adults, which made it feel very relaxed and special. Unlike the more touristic caves, we were actually allowed to take our own photos here, which was great. Our guide was local and super knowledgeable. His father had already explored these caves, and their family helped make sure the caves were not turned into a mine. That makes the whole experience feel even more special. There are two caves to explore, one wet and one dry, and both are amazing in their own way. Even the short walk from the van to the cave is beautiful and totally worth it. At the end of the tour our guide also shared us his best pictures, even one taken from his front door. Overall, it was an authentic and unforgettable tour. Highly recommended!

Highly recommended! The best glowworm cave we have ever visited. We have seen glowworms in a few different locations before in Australia. However, the tour with Spellbound truly exceeded our expectations. The boat ride was amazing, and we were allowed to take photos with a very specific setting and without the flash; then everyone put their cameras away, just to enjoy the magnificent 'sky full of stars'!! It was truly magical🤩🤩🤩. Thanks to our very kind and knowledgeable tour guide Ross!🥰

Spellbound is the perfect name for this amazing tour. Five star from start to finish. Huge thanks to Dave our guide who was friendly, professional and patient, explaining so much and entertaining us with his great knowledge and enthusiasm. The Glow worms were incredible as were the caves and fantastic boat ride. An absolute highlight of our holiday. Thanks to all concerned 😊

My girlfriend and I really enjoyed our tour with Spellbound. Our guide Ross was very easy-going and gradually shared a wealth of interesting information throughout the experience. Everything was also well organized, and we especially appreciated the sense of intimacy within the small group – something that has become quite rare in tourism these days.

Visited Spellbound Glowworm Caves in September 2025 and it was one of the most enchanting experiences of our trip! Unlike the larger Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Spellbound offers a smaller, more personal tour with fewer people, which made it feel truly special and peaceful. Our guide was fantastic, knowledgeable, friendly and passionate about the caves and their history. The highlight was the boat ride through the glowworm cave. Drifting silently beneath thousands of glowing blue lights was absolutely magical , it felt like floating under a starry sky deep underground. The glowworms were bright, plentiful and close enough to really appreciate their beauty. We also explored a second cave filled with incredible limestone formations, stalactites and fossils, making the experience even more fascinating. Everything was well-organized, from the van transfer to the safety instructions. The pace was relaxed, giving us time to take in the surroundings and ask questions. Visiting in early spring was perfect, cool, comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Spellbound truly lives up to its name, it’s mesmerizing, intimateand unforgettable. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a more immersive and peaceful glowworm cave experience in the Waitomo area. A definite highlight of our New Zealand adventure!

An unexpected tour cancellation leads to an incredible adventure! Facing a last minute tour cancellation by another tour operator, we sought out an alternate Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour. Expedigo Tours and Transfers were prompt in replying to our message and answering all of our questions about what the tour covered, the costs, and availability. We were met the next morning by Matt who did an excellent job as our guide throughout the day providing info on the area and making a couple of special stops along the way - no spoilers here! Our Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour took place at Spellbound - a charming private farm with acres of rolling green hills and photographic farm animals in addition to some of the most exceptional glowworm caves. Ross took over as our cave guide and his knowledge of the glowworm caves, their formation, the topography of the region, and the importance of the caves existence was impressive. The tour first includes a walk above ground to see how the underground caves impact the land above, then you explore an active glowworm cave on foot to see glowworms up close. Next you board a boat for a long ride through the caverns - first time through you can take all the photos and videos you want (Ross helped everyone set up their cameras/phones to the best settings!) and the second time through (yes, you get TWO rides!) all devices are put away and you are left to nothing but your eyes and ears to experience the true magic of the experience - the glow of the lights, the sound of rushing water, the soft drops of water that periodically surprise you, and the slight breeze that pushes you through the caves. A truly magical experience! After a quick tea break, you will learn about local animals that lived in the area and then set off to explore another cave system. Spellbound gives you multiple ways to experience the glowworms, the caves, and the area and the small group size is perfect so you are never crowded or rushed. Expedigo did not disappoint in booking us on a tour that we will never forget!

Please book your glow worm experience with Spellbound! It was absolutely perfect. The area is beautiful. Doug was a fantastic tour guide. Pictures and words do not do this tour justice. You can take as many photos as you like here. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.

We had a great day with these guys, our guide Emrys was really nice, knowledgeable, ensured safety but also allowed us freedom and fun. We did the 4 hour trip, abseiling, black water rafting, caving and rock climbing. We were a group of just 6 (which I believe is the largest group they allow) and this was great as much smaller than the big tour company groups which meant a more personal experience and more time in the caves with the Glowworms as not having to wait around for loads of people to complete the abseil etc. before doing the trip I was worried that we weren’t going into the more famous cave but this was unnecessary worry as we had so much time in the caves with the glowworms and the caves were covered in them! Back in 2008 when I was lay in NZ I did this trip with one of the ‘big’ companies, and I loved it, but this experience was better and this is hugely down to the smaller group size. Would definitely recommend.

A really amazing adventure experience with a great guide, Liz. It starts with some very clear instructions and practice on how to abseil. Then it was abseiling into the cave, 30 meters down. It's a little scary at first but completely fine once you know your weight is supported and you're not going to fall! Then tube upstream through the cave to see the glow worms which were amazing. Tube back downstream for more thrills. Rock climb back out of the cave. We were given a snack to eat down in the cave which was a nice treat to warm up! Plus squeezing through two rock formations which was fun! The price was excellent for all the activities. We were deciding on whether to go and see any of the other caves around this area - having had such a cool and awesome cave and glow worm experience here. If you want the beauty of a limestone cave then you definitely must see Ruakuri cave as well as doing this adventure! Lots of photos were taken by our guide which was included in the tour price, so that was a pretty cool bonus for the memories. Overall: Highly recommended!!

We had an amazing tour with Tim in the morning. He did a great job explaining us all about the geology of the caves, the animals which live inside and of course the adventures we came across. We loved the moment the glowworms start to shine. He made us feel safe at every moment but at the same time like little cave-explorers. Well worth the money!!

Wow what An amazing tour! This is easily the most inclusive and action packed black water cave rafting tour in the region. 4-5 hours of absailing, rock climbing, black water rafting and cave exploration. Our guide Kat was exceptional and very experienced in caving, she was a treat and made a fun day very special! This adventure tourist would recommend to anyone! A+++

Really nice and adventurous experience for me. Totally love it and recommend! Almost 4 hours down in the caves, thousands of Glowworms, absolutely fantastic guide (Krys) with sense of humour 👍thank you for perfect day.

Just a seriously incredible tour with Will. The light beams streaming through the canopy into the canyon, the glow worms reflecting off the cavern waters, the black water rafting through the caves - all were truly magical. We cannot recommend Kiwi Cave Rafting enough!

I went on this experience on the 11th April and absolutely loved it! I got out of my comfort zone and faced my fear of heights through completing some abseiling and climbing. Our guide Kat was amazing and so knowledgeable about lots of history aspects of the cave and about the glowworms. She made me feel at ease and less afraid to complete each task while always having a smile on her face! I would 100% recommend anybody to do this, doesn’t matter how fit you are!

Simply amazing. Such a fun way to go caving and what an amazing experience seeing the glow worms in the caves via the river. Floating is fun. The rapids are awesome but the tour guides made the trip. Chicago was heath and safety on the trip but gave great chat and was really nice. Locky fresh outta high school was knowledgeable and a great guide for a virgin.

This was easily one of the coolest things I have ever done. Crawling through caves, floating down underground rivers, jumping backwards off waterfalls, and then drifting under a ceiling of glowworms that looks like a galaxy… absolutely unreal. The guides were fun, safe, and very supportive the entire time. The wetsuits kept us warm and the whole experience felt like a full adventure from beginning to end. 10/10... A true bucket list experience you can only find in New Zealand. Do not miss it.

Absolutely amazing experience, we did the 5 hour black abyss tour. I was worried about the time but it went by quickly. Highly recommend it, it is a little physical but manageable. Our guides were amazing. Aaron and Harry were fun and hilarious Aaron was a ball of energy like I have never seen before and it made it a fun adventure. We got to rappel down to the cave, jump into a underground river, float around, see glow worms, and climb up some water falls to the exit. Absolutely must do when visiting.

Had a great time on the Abyss tour with our guides Kallie (sorry, might be spelling wrong) and Aaron! The tour involves absailing into the cave, a short zipline, black water rafting in cold water, as well as walking through lots of cold water (the wetsuits help, of course!) You get to see lots of glowworms, it's so cool! If you're looking for an intense and awesome experience, I would recommend the Abyss tour!

Myself and 4 teenagers (aged 13-15) went on this adventure and had an unforgettable time. Our guides were amazing, check in staff were friendly. One of the best experiences you can do in New Zealand. Thanks for having us.

Thank you to Alex, Leo and Owen, our magnificent fun guides on the adventure of a lifetime at The Legendary Blackwater Rafting Company in New Zealand … We were expertly and safely guided and entertained on journey down under, into the dark mysteries of Earth, back in time surrounded by 35,000 year old limestone caves which were magical ally lit by glow worms guiding us as we floated on tyre tubes down Blackwater streams looking up at what looked like a glow worm lit Milky Way above our heads … Sublime, Devine Adventure

The tour guides are amazing! It's hard to add much to the incredible experience you will receive from the caves themselves, but the tour guides managed to make this tour perfect! My 2 friends and I did a 3pm Black Water tour on a Thursday. I wish I had caught the name of the guides, but the red head lady, the bearded man, and the short haired aussie are awesome!! 10/10 would do again. Book this tour!

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves with a tour group, and I wanted to share my experience. While it may be a bit of a journey from downtown Auckland, the adventure truly felt worthwhile. Before entering the cave, a photographer captures special moments for souvenirs. They do this because photography inside the cave is not permitted, primarily to protect the delicate habitat of the glowworms. It also helps support the local economy through tourism. I have to admit, the photos can sometimes be a little cheesy, but there’s no pressure to buy them. Once inside the cave, our guide warmly explained the importance of not touching the rock formations, as this could harm the unique ecosystem surrounding the glowworms. When the lights went off, the sight was nothing short of magical—glowworms twinkled like stars above us, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The walk was about 800 meters, so wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes is essential, especially since the ground can be quite slippery. At the end of the tour, we boarded a boat to exit the cave, and we were kindly reminded to keep our voices low to preserve the peaceful ambiance. As we emerged from the cave, a gift shop awaited us, which was a nice way to wrap up the visit. I found a lovely Christmas ornament there, and the prices were quite reasonable. Additionally, you can retrieve the photo taken before the tour, which is a nice touch. Overall, I found the experience to be quite fascinating and uplifting, connecting with such a unique aspect of nature.

An awe inspiring experience. Impressed with the professional moving deliverance of the presentation our guide Shawnee shared with us all. She connected well with international and local visitors with her humour, warmth and knowledge. As soon as it ended we wanted to go through again....in case we had missed something. We didn't want it to end.

Fantastic experience, great activity to do with the whole family, the cave and the river are beyond expectations and all the scenery walks around are something everyone should do at least once. Guides were super friendly and knowledgeable the place is super clean and they have everything to make it a lifetime experience. Thank you.

Good tour of the cave with Taylor who took us through the history and culture. No photos or video allowed until the very end due to respecting culture. The cave before the glow worm section is very ornate and interesting but it’s the glow worms that everyone comes to see. It was fascinating to see the worms and the light that they omit but the publicity photos do kind of over estimate the brightness of the glow. That’s said we enjoyed it. The boat handling via a series of ropes takes some doing. It does get busy so recommend booking tickets in advance if you can. Cafe, restaurant, parking and the obligatory gift shop as well.

Great set up. Interesting guides. Large cafe and gift shop. Parking down a huge slope! We did walking and boat tour to see the glow worms. Loved it but had manage so many stairs in the almost dark.

This is by far one of the best and most unique excursions that we have done during our various travels. The guides were all very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the tour. We were a little nervous about the water being too cold but you are in so many layers, including an optional fleece under your wetsuit, that you dont even notice! Definitely a must do while on the North Island.

When on holidays I make it a point to visit caves, as such I've seen heaps. As far as formations go, I can only remember one that had less to offer. Then there are the few minutes that you're under the glow worm ceiling. And for that the cave would deserve 3 stars, maybe 4 on a generous day. BUT. The experience is way overpriced, I have visited 5+ star caves for half the entrance fee. The guide was unmotivated and didn't even try to hide it. The caves are overcrowded. They are pretty short and with a tour starting every 10 minutes you can basically see and hear the tour in front and behind you. Outside the actual tour. The toilets were disgusting. The restaurant terrible, I can honestly say it was the worst meal I had during my 4 weeks in NZ. And by the way the photos you see online and in the brochures are not what you will see.

I did the 4-hour Lost World tour, and it was honestly one of the best experiences ever! The 100m abseil was absolutely wild and when you land inside the cave, it feels like stepping into a scene from Kong vs Godzilla if u ever watched it, so epic! The reception staff were super friendly, and our guides Shaun and Joel were just awesome — couldn’t have asked for better! If u visit waitomo this is a must visit.

Best adventure ever! My 13 year old son and I had the most incredible afternoon completing the half day tour (we will be back for the full day without question). A must do!! We also did the blackwater rafting and this was our favourite activity hands down. Huge thanks to the guides who made the experience incredible!

This was one of the most thrilling and exciting experiences I’ve ever had! The 100-metre abseil down into the cave was absolutely breathtaking. I joined the 4-hour trip — it was very safe, and the instructors were fantastic and made everyone feel well taken care of. Highly recommended!

The Lost World Half day tour was absolutely incredible. One of my best travel experiences ever! Joel and Erin our guides were just fantastic. I felt really nervous before the abseil down but they were both so calm and reassuring I felt really at ease the whole time. It’s such a unique way to see the glow caves. The 30m ladder climb at the end was a bit brutal on the hands so would recommend taking some gloves with you. Other than that they give you everything you need and really look after you. Thanks for an amazing experience!

An unforgettable experience, made perfect by our guides Joel and Shaun. Their expertise and great humour made the entire tour. Absolute legends!Amazing photoes and videos!!Perfect weather,perfect cave,perfect guides!!!!

I did both the Haggas Honking Holes in the morning and the Lost World Half-Day Adventure in the afternoon, and both were absolutely incredible experiences. Nick was really helpful and easy to coordinate with, and my guides Joel and Hagan were fantastic - knowledgeable, fun, and clearly experienced, which made the tours even better. Everything ran smoothly, felt adventurous but safe, and was just a great time overall. It was recommended to me by a friend, and I’ll definitely be recommending it to more of mine!

Waitomo adventures is an exhilarating, engaging and thrilling experience! If you crave adventure, something so exotic that you feel as if you have entered another world, then do not hesitate to book this tour. I found the tour to be highly unique and memorable. However, it is quite the physical challenge and can really humble you! The staff at Waitomo are exceptional. I especially enjoyed my guide who was very attentive, chill, kind, positive and always willing to give me a helping hand. I did this adventure, The Lost World, 22 years ago, and I can say that this time I enjoyed it even more thoroughly. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy in 2003, but this time was absolutely amazing and special.. The scenery down in the cave is surreal and like nothing you have ever seen before! It’s hard to say which part I enjoyed the most because it all was so beautiful and so unique. It would be unfair to say one moment stood out over another. The abseiling part is actually the easiest and least scariest part. Things can get a bit rough when you’re having to climb slick and muddy rocks but thanks to the industrial strength boots Waitomo Adventures provides it does help. However, you do need to be in fairly good shape to comfortably complete this adventure. It is not easy but the rewards far outweigh any discomfort or pain you may feel during the journey. I can guarantee you that you will leave with a sense of personal accomplishment once you see the light at the end of the cave. Overall 5/5 experience and perfect to those looking for something a bit extreme and exotic! I’ll be back again 🙂🥝🌿

Amazing place! The team here is so passionate about protecting NZ’s native wildlife, and the guided walks are first class. A must-visit if you want to see the beauty of our forests and learn how we can help protect them. I will be back in late spring for sure.

This is an incredibly gorgeous and serene place to visit! We had a very knowledgeable tour guide and learned so much. There was a lot of birds to spot and different walking trails you could follow. The night tours are best for people interested in nocturnal creatures like arachnids and insects. You will definitely need comfortabke shoes and a reasonable amount of fitness if you're wanting to keep up with a tour - the walk is all uphill.

Great experience with our special guide "Lyn of Tawa"; very knowledgeable and tolerated my endless cheeky questions. Staff could not have been more friendly. Birdsong seems to be a given but catching them in photos is let's say "challenging" :)

This ecological preserve and trust is absolutely breathtaking and that applies to both its size and what can be seen within. The people who run the visitor center are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, and can answer any question you could possibly have and them some. The land is surrounded by 26 miles of predator proof fence, so the wildlife inside is protected and thriving. We saw so many birds enjoying the space, even some endangered ones- a surprising and hopeful sight. Highly recommend. Donate on top of the admission fee, if possible.

A beautiful place to visit! Abundant bird song (and sightings) and lush green undergrowth. We did the Te Raki and Te Tonga tracks over the mountain which were a great little adventure (comparable to a DOC “tramping” track).

Nice spot. Definitely like what they are doing with the place & being my first time going there not knowing what to expect. Almost had it to myself arriving early. Wasn't expecting to pay that much to see it though. Tbh thought it was more a donation & not $32. But that wasn't a worry.

We journeyed from Mid Atlantic US. This was well worth the travel. Imogene was our guide. Our tour was highly educational and completely enjoyable as Imogene has a sense of humor about the sometimes shy avian residents. The fence, its size and its monitoring including volunteer involvement was truly impressive. Saw several birds, was able to identify more with our birdsong app with the NZ download which added approx. 60 bird calls. Fun to watch as they darted around the canopy. Binoculars are helpful and comfortable shoes a must. All in our party easily completed the walk. Visitor’s center is educational and fun as well.

Dave is doing an awesome job keeping this amazing place running with almost all of his earnings. He is a true legend and he is living his dream making others dream. Loved this place and recommend all the people to visit this place that has a lot of knowledge and the virtual reality is great.

This was absolutely fabulous! We have all been raving about how fun an experience we all had - I honestly cannot recommend highly enough. Was a great experience for adults and kids alike. Dave has done a truly awesome job of curating a space that is incredibly kid friendly and super interactive plus interesting for the adults too! Costs $12 per adult, $8 per child and free for under 3 - so cheap and so worth it plus includes a cool VR experience too. We spent about an hour and a half here and honestly could have spent longer. Definitely pop in, you won’t regret it!

What an incredible accident treasure we happened upon after missing our turn off. Loved all the space info and the amount of live screens with data blew our minds. We were even lucky enough to be able to look through a sun telescope and see sun flares. Totally recommended

After months of encouragement/pestering from my 7 year old space mad boy we decided to come here as a family ( he had been before and had always wanted come back with the rest us to show us around). It may not be as fancy as some museums but you can tell it has been put together with a lot of passion and imagination. There is a huge amount of relevant information that is really well laid out and easy to follow, which is an aspect that has been overlooked in many museums I have been to. There is also a lot of interactive screens, interesting space memorabilia and a huge array of space books (as a mechanic I fell in love with the collection of Haynes Manuals on the space equipment, I could have read them for days) The VR show is really well done and is a must do also. I loved the fact that there is a lot geared towards kids including the opportunity to earn badges for doing quizzes and other trivial type worksheets. Great way to spend a few hours with the kids if they are into space and a great place for adults to expand their knowledge and their minds. Really enjoyed this place and we will return. Booking in online isn't necessary but it is appreciated if you do.

We had a fantastic day here, stayed for about two and a half hours. There is so much to do we could have easily stayed longer!! Will definitely be back, thanks Dave for sharing all your knowledge with us!!

Amazing place to visit, great service. Was a parent helper for a group of young primary school kids, really enjoyed and explored so much. Virtual reality was a breathtaking experience.

Such an awsome experience the VR headsets and the Lego displays were our favourite part. Highly recommend if you have children who are into learning about space.

Hobbiton was amazing! Beware though, it books up months in advance, so definitely book way ahead of time. For the tour itself, the Shire is stunning - it has truly breathtaking landscapes and gardens. Our tour guide Mira was fantastic and provided a lot of great LOTR facts. The complimentary drink from The Green Dragon Inn was very tasty and you can buy bottled drinks from their gift shop exclusive to Hobbiton. We wanted to do the Evening Banquet Tour but it was booked up so we did the day tour which was still great. We got lunch at the cafe after which had lots of tasty options. Walking through the houses was also a very special treat since it’s only been open since 2023. Overall, we are so happy we got to experience this!

Visited the Hobbiton Movie Set in September 2025 and it was a truly magical experience, a must-visit for any “Lord of the Rings” or “The Hobbit” fan! Even if you’re not a huge fan of the movies, the beauty and charm of this place will win you over instantly. From the moment we stepped off the bus and saw the rolling green hills dotted with colorful hobbit holes, it felt like stepping straight into Middle-earth. The guided tour was excellent — our guide was enthusiastic, funny and shared plenty of behind-the-scenes stories about how the movie set was built and filmed. Every detail was so well preserved, from the tiny mailboxes and laundry lines to the perfectly maintained gardens. The whole area looked exactly like it does in the films, only even more vibrant in person. We took tons of photos and every corner was picture-perfect. The weather in early spring was ideal, fresh air, blue skies and blooming flowers all around. The highlight for us was enjoying a complimentary drink at The Green Dragon Inn, which completed the magical experience. Everything was well-organized, from the ticketing to the bus transfer and tour timing. The staff were warm and welcoming, adding to the overall charm. Hobbiton is pure movie magic brought to life, charming, beautifully maintained and full of heart. Whether you’re a Tolkien fan or just love scenic spots, this is an experience you’ll never forget! Recommended 👍

Absolutely amazing!! Just magical and enchanting. The tour guide, Rob, was very knowledgeable, funny, kind, and super friendly as well. The hobbit holes are so incredibly detailed and well kept, it’s all very impressive! You get to go inside a hobbit house and take photos in it and see all the rooms, very cool. And a complimentary drink (I recommend the stout), just wow! I’ll definitely go back if I am ever in NZ again.

We did the behind the scenes tour and it was a truly magical experience. Our tour guide (Hayden) was enthusiastic, friendly, funny and very knowledgeable! We knew we were in for a good one when we saw his lotr tattoos! Hobbiton massively surpassed our expectations and The Green Dragon was a lovely cosy pub! The spread for the meal was really excellent and the food was absolutely delicious. My wife is a vegetarian and was very happy with the fried Tofu provided for her. It was a real treat to walk around the workshop seeing designs on the wall and the craftspeople in action working on fixing and repairing pieces for the hobbit holes. If you love Lord of the Rings this is an absolutely unmissable experience.

What am awesome experience. BOOK IN ADVANCE!!! I booked my nighttime banquet 6 months in advance and almost did not get a spot. You will not regret the banquet. Loved our tour guides, having the place practically to yourself (small group), actually going into a Hobbit hole and seeing the entire inside set up. And ending with dinner and an amazing lantern walk back to the busses.

Forget Disneyland, this place is the most magical spot in the world! Walking through the site is like stepping straight into Middle-earth. It’s so surreal; the whole experience is something you have to experience. I visited Hobbiton twice during my trip to New Zealand and each time it was just as enchanting. If you ever get the chance to visit, I absolutely cannot recommend it enough! It’s a must-see for any fan of the movies or anyone who just loves breathtaking scenery. Plus, they even give you a free mug at the end of the tour, which is a lovely little bonus! Honestly, it’s 100% worth it…such a special place. Just go!!!!! :)

A Truly Magical Experience at Hobbiton Movie Set We recently booked our tour of Hobbiton, and I can confidently say that the experience exceeded all expectations. Unfortunately, our flight to Auckland was delayed, and the traffic on the way to the set was much heavier than anticipated, causing us to arrive late. However, when we contacted the team, they were incredibly understanding and kind. They assured us that we'd still be able to take the full tour, and they made sure we had a complete, unforgettable experience. Hobbiton itself is already a magical place, with its lush landscapes and charming hobbit holes, but what really made our visit extraordinary was the warmth and charisma of the staff. The team’s enthusiasm and passion truly elevate the magic of the place, and it’s clear they love what they do. Their friendliness and dedication made all the difference and helped create a truly immersive experience. I would absolutely visit again and highly recommend anyone to make the trip to Hobbiton. It’s an enchanting place, and with the amazing people who work there, it's an experience you won’t forget!

Well worth a visit, the lake is lovely with little ducklings currently. We went into the enclosed garden (paid entry) and it was worth it. Stunning design and so fun to explore! We took a lunch break before heading back in. We ended up spending 5 hours there with my senior parents. Plenty of seats along the way to rest and sights and floral displays to photograph. Bring your power bank! One tip - Make sure you head to Mansfield Garden then to Picturesque Garden to follow the story. The cafe has menu and items in the cabinet. Highly recommend the apple feijoa smoothie! Parking was easy. A great experience and highly recommended!

Hamilton Gardens is one of the few places in the city that’s truly worth spending some time exploring. Each themed garden may not be a perfect replication of its cultural origin, but they do a great job showcasing the key elements within the limits of the space — from the pavilions and traditional structures in the Chinese Garden to the tatami-style layout in the Japanese Garden. I’ve visited many times — sometimes with friends, sometimes with family, and sometimes just by myself. Even within the same garden, the scenery can feel completely different depending on the season, which is part of the charm. It used to be free, but now non-residents need to purchase a ticket. Staff at the entrance will ask where you’re from and sell the appropriate ticket, and there’s a check at the gate before entry. The whole park is medium-sized. You can do a quick walk-through in about 30 minutes, or spend half a day strolling slowly through each garden. It’s a wonderful spot for families, offering both relaxation and a bit of education. A solid 5-star recommendation.

Such an amazing place with amazing spaces. A joy to wander around. You could easily spend the whole day here, there is so many wonderful sights to see. A photographers dream! The eatery has great food when you need to refuel. Well worth the entry fee.

Beautiful place with various gardens from multiple cultures. I was fascinated by the aesthetic and the upkeep of everything. Highly recommend checking this place out for a casual stroll. Admission fee was about NZ$20 You could spend up to a few hours here depending on if you just want to see all the gardens or just relax.

I have been to quite a few gardens all around the world. This one is now my favorite. So much to see and experience. So well laid out. Highly recommend a visit. 3hrs allowed us to walk the entire garden at a leisurely pace.

The Hamilton Gardens truly took me by surprise. I didn’t expect such a wonder — so full of unexpected diversity. The way each garden is shaped by its own culture and country feels absolutely unique, something I’ve never encountered before. Everything is beautifully cared for, charming, and delightfully unusual. And now, in spring, the blossoms add their own magic — a touch of fragrant mystery drifting through every corner.❤️

My wife dragged me here because we couldn't check-in to our hotel as early as we arrived. I'm really glad she did! It was a lovely walk around, plenty to see, and not overly crowded. I appreciated the variety of gardens and how each is unique. There are two little ice cream shops for kids of all ages, including husbands. If you're passing through, or just want a cool place to walk around and relax, I highly recommend stopping by here.

Absolutely stunning place to visit! We went to Bridal Veil Falls with family and kids, and it was an unforgettable experience. The walk to the falls is easy and beautifully maintained, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful nature sounds. The viewing platforms at different levels give breathtaking views of the waterfall — truly picture-perfect! It’s safe and family-friendly, with plenty of spots to stop, rest, and take photos. A must-visit if you’re exploring the Waikato region — nature at its finest!

Impressive waterfall! There is a small parking lot and then a beautiful walk through a rainforest to take you to the top of the waterfall in less than 10 minutes. The views are gorgeous! There are wooden steps to a middle viewpoint and then to the bottom. We loved it! Come on a cloudy day to appreciate the colors!

Nice place. Only a 5-10 mins stroll from the car park. There’s 4 different viewpoints, the bottom one is probably the best but it’s 235 steps down and back up again, although not overly strenuous. Waterfall was raging after all the recent rains.

This place is quite the gem and one of the highlights when visiting Raglan. A short relaxing walk through the forest followed by an option to view the waterfall from 3 different vantage points. Getting to ground level will be challenging for those with physical limitations as it’s a steep decent and climb back up to the car park. Viewing it from the top is already very majestic. Going to the base of the waterfall is definitely worth the effort if you are up for it. I got a good appreciation of the size and beauty of the waterfall from there. Highly recommended if you are in the area.

Bridal Veil Falls, also known as Wairēinga, is a stunning natural attraction located just 20 kilometres from Raglan Beach, making it an ideal addition to your travel itinerary if you're exploring the area. Surrounded by lush native bush, the falls drop an impressive 55 metres over a basalt cliff into a tranquil pool below, creating a breathtaking and peaceful setting. The site is free to visit, making it accessible for everyone. However, please note that dogs are not permitted, and personal promotions or campaigns are also restricted to preserve the natural beauty and serenity of the area. The walking track to the falls is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, with several viewing platforms offering different perspectives of the waterfall—from above, mid-level, and base. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a quiet escape, Bridal Veil Falls offers a serene experience away from busy city life. The sound of cascading water and the surrounding greenery create a calming atmosphere perfect for relaxation or reflection.

It was a great experience for us. Me and my wife really enjoyed the short walk. I am not that good at hiking or long walk but we didn’t get much tired of the stairs.

A family friendly, well maintained walk. The first section of the trek takes you through lovely native bush and you come out at the top of the falls with 2 viewing platforms, you can then walk down the stairs to a mid-way viewing platform and then right to the bottom.

Bird life, clean paths, range of shaded and non shaded areas. Flat walking track, perfect for any fitness level. Great place to watch the sunset

A sunny spring day at the end of September. Beautiful place to chill and have lunch with the kids. Awesome play areas for toddlers thru to bigger kids. Ice cream shop and cafe. Public toilets. Free parking.

Enjoyable walk around the lake, not too much foot traffic. Track looks maintained and taken care of. Stopped to feed the ducks but a Tuna come up to eat instead :)

We are SO LUCKY to have this asset in our city. Whether you are looking for somewhere to picnic, need a great playground, feel like an ice-cream, want to spend time in nature- or seeking a lovely walk- Hamilton Lake has it all.

Beautiful place for weekend outing with your family. Suddenly you feel like you are in Dubai.. because of the palm trees!

The children's playground I'd fabulous and offers children a safe place to play and exercise. There is a closed off area for smaller children to safely play.

Great venue for dragon boating event. Clean, tidy. Lots of grass. Good toilet facilities.Nice playground for kids.Thank you Tron!

Hamilton Zoo is a fantastic place for families and animal lovers. The enclosures are spacious and thoughtfully designed, giving the animals room to move and making the experience feel natural. The highlights include the big cats, giraffes, rhinos, and the incredible aviary walk-through. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about conservation. Keeper talks are engaging and give you a deeper understanding of the animals and the zoo’s work. The grounds are well-kept, easy to walk, and there are plenty of shaded areas and picnic spots to relax. It’s not overcrowded like some larger zoos, which makes the visit more enjoyable and peaceful. A great balance of education, conservation, and family fun—definitely worth a visit if you’re in Hamilton.

This was my second visit, and I had a great time again. The grounds are quite large, so I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. I really love zoos, so I always take my time to look carefully at how the exhibits are designed and to make sure the animals don’t look bored. I was surprised to see so many peacocks freely roaming around right near the entrance, but they seemed very used to people and were quite friendly.

Spent a few hours here, my daughter had a blast. Wouldn't mind returning to see the tiger as we never got the chance too since there were so many people in the viewing window. In my eyes it was well worth it. Zoo keepers seem to take great care of the animals.

Had a fabulous family day out and were lucky enough to enjoy two of the animal encounters the zoo offers. Both our encounters and general viewing experiences were top notch. We got to see a variety of the animals being fed, playing, and living positive and enriched lives.

A wide variety of animals. All animals seemed healthy and with a reasonable amount of space and activities to do. I'm very torn over the chimps because most of the time they just don't look active or happy. We paid extra to do a lemur encounter as we have done in the past and it's a reasonable price to see the lemurs up close and hand feed them. The interaction is on the lemurs terms and the keepers have interesting information on their behaviour and hierachy. The takeaway is that all lemurs are now endangered due to deforestation in Madagascar (citified). For the animal encounters I recommend buying tickets in advance online to ensure you have enough for your party. The zoo entrance is a separate fee. Wear the shoes as stated on the ticket. You'll need good walking shoes anyway as the grounds are massive. The addition of a nice cafe at the entrance, improved parking and several wee playgrounds around the zoo have all improved the zoo immensely.

My daughter and grandson absolutely enjoyed a Sunday morning spent at the zoo. Loads of cute animals with play grounds in-between which was great for me to have a breather lol it's definitely a must do for the family. Thank you Hamilton zoo for the great experience, we'll be back

We loved Hamilton Zoo, even on a rainy day it was a really fun experience. We had half the displays to ourselves, given that not many people were out braving the weather. Totally worth it though, such a nice relaxed environment and the animals all appeared to be in good health! Definitely recommend the trip here

Beautiful black sand beach. Great shells and beautiful scenery. Nice rocks on the south end that create tidal pools at low tide. We had a great time exploring. Nice changing facilities, toilets, and showers at the car park and also down at the beach.

We visited Ngarunui Beach from Hamilton and it was absolutely worth the trip! There was plenty of parking which made things stress-free, and the beach itself was stunning. The ocean was so refreshing, the atmosphere so peaceful, it was exactly what I needed to unwind and clear my mind. An amazing spot to relax, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of the coast. Definitely recommend!

Amazing beach. You can do surfing and have a quite big car park. Dont stop at the first car park you see and go to the 2nd park. You can do surfing and sea bathing. I saw there is small place where they give surfing lessons with surf board

This is a stunning beach with its black sand and. on the day we visited, its wild surf. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t great so didn’t get to spend as much time as we would have liked looking around.

Ngarunui Beach is a must-visit if you’re near Hamilton. This beautiful, well-maintained beach offers a clean and relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding. It’s also an ideal spot to catch a stunning sunset. In short, a fantastic place to visit!

Beautiful black sand beach and a great day trip from Auckland or Hamilton.

Absolutely stunning place! The view from the top has to be one of the best scenic landscapes for any beach in NZ IMO. There are multiple carparks here and the walk to the beach goes down via a tarmac rd so the walk back can be a little tiring if one is not used to climbing gradients. There were plenty of surfers here and from what I saw no swimmers, you would have to be skilled to swim safely at this time of year.