Canopy Camping Escapes | Rua Hiwi Hut

Exhibition on now until Monday, January 26, 2026. Rūaumoko: Restless Land is our new and exciting interactive touring exhibition from Te Papa. Experience elements from Te Papa’s Te Taiao Nature zone that combines cutting-edge science with mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) to explore the powerful, natural forces that continuously shape Aotearoa. Te Papa and the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake have teamed up to promote natural hazard awareness and preparedness through this exhibition. It introduces Rūaumoko to illustrate the forces of nature and presents a wero (challenge) for visitors to learn about natural hazards and ways to be prepared in our communities and at home.

Te Awamutu Space Centre is an inspiring educational attraction for all ages. Experience the world of space and astronomy through displays and interactive activities. Our centrepiece exhibit is a small but fascinating collection of artifacts from the American and Russian space programmes. You'll find informative displays about the Universe, the history of space exploration and scientific research. Use the interactive screens to see what's in the night sky, tour the Solar System, create your own orbital systems and more. Watch videos, ask us questions and just hang out chatting about space. See our website for details and opening hours.

Our morning begins with a journey to the South Waikato for a gentle walk along the banks of Te Waihou river that leads to the famous Blue Springs. We find a tucked away pocket of nature to enjoy a hot brew with a view. Waikato is a region renown for it's dairy farming and local produce, so it's only natural that we visit a local cheese maker to sample some of the best cheeses in New Zealand. A visit to the largest mainland ecological island in New Zealand is a must when in the Waikato, and we've got a special experience lined up for you. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is home to our rarest birds and the forest is pristine. Our afternoon is rounded off with a visit to the largest organic blueberry orchard in the southern hemisphere.

Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum is situated in Waipā district, within Waikato. A touchpoint for visitors to learn local history, social development and bi-cultural collaborations between Māori and settlers from 1823, through amazing objects and engaging stories. Understand the reasons why British soldiers invaded the Waikato 1863, the locations, who was involved, and its impact on the Waipā communities that are still being felt today. Do you know about Te Ara Wai Journeys? Start your journey with us. We also have our collections online.

We've crafted a limited series of off-the-beaten track escapes with our team of local guides. Each escape features a collection of their favourite day tramps and foodie experiences in either the Waikato or Coromandel. Take on the great outdoors with one of our experienced local bush guides. Exclusive tastings, meet the maker and peek behind the closed doors of our passionate artisans. Think gourmet cheese, wine, ice-cream, cooking classes and more. Tramping options for all levels. Charming country and water front boutique accommodation options. Limited to small groups of 6-10. Coromandel Gourmet Hiking Escape. West Coast Adventure.

The Te Awamutu isite Visitor Centre is part of New Zealand's official nationwide Visitor Information Network. Plan your stay in Te Awamutu with our friendly isite team. With four mountains of fun and lakes right on our doorstep, we offer fantastic walks with an abundance of birdlife. Try Maungatautari After Dark to experience native bush at night and hear the kiwi's call. New Zealand National Fieldays is just a 15 minute drive from our place at Mystery Creek Event Centre. Our rural farming community, mixed with walking and cycling tracks, Boutique Bed and Breakfasts, shopping and events. Come and visit.