Central Motor Lodge

Visit the Zealong Tea Room and indulge in our Signature High Tea, curated with a selection of hand-crafted gourmet sweets and savouries, or choose from our seasonal lunch menu. Enhance your experience with the perfect pairing of Zealong tea to - whether you prefer a refreshing green, a floral oolong, or a bold black, all our teas are 100% organically grown on-site and proudly made in New Zealand. All served with breathtaking views of the Estate’s rolling tea terraces and landscaped gardens. Make your visit even more memorable with a traditional tea tasting ceremony or a guided tour of our certified organic tea plantation.

Welcoming Guests Through Our Doors Since 1872. Woodlands Estate was established as a 98,000-acre estate purchased from The Crown by The Piako Swamp Company for 2/6 (25 cents) an acre. The Homestead, restored to its former glory, was initially built as a Manager's residence between 1875 and 1881. It is primarily made of Kauri and still features some original weatherboards and roof iron. Woodlands Estate is looked after by a not-for-profit trust, with the gardens being well-maintained by the Waikato District Council. The overall historic and aesthetic value of the homestead and gardens has been maintained thanks to generous donations and voluntary time. The Trust extends its gratitude for the generous support of the community over the years.

Embark on a captivating Zealong Tea Tour that blends sensory discovery, education, and cultural immersion. Enjoy a visually engaging presentation that explores the history of tea in New Zealand, the unique story of Zealong Tea Estate, and the artistry behind our tea production. Guests can also opt to experience a traditional Tea Ceremony and tasting of five of our internationally award-winning teas.

Join other women on an active exploration of New Zealand’s South Island. Kayak turquoise waters along golden sand beaches, float under glowworms in a stunning cave adventure, hike to immense glaciers, fly into the remote mountainous wilderness and hike to your jetboat ride out, and kayak iconic Milford Sound. Add on a glacier heli-hike, paragliding, canyoning and so much more. If you love getting out into nature and want to squeeze as much into your New Zealand adventure as possible, then this trip is for you. Join us and create some truly exceptional memories on this 11 day trip. New Zealand Awaits is proud to take care of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travellers. Travel with us and know you're in great company.

Located in the historic spa town of Te Aroha, Tintype Central is New Zealand's only portrait studio specialising in the wet plate collodion process, a 19th century method of development that predates film photography. Meticulously crafted on plates of glass or aluminum, each portrait is a unique piece of art resonating with depth and character, reflecting the beauty of imperfection and the rich tones of silver. Whether you're looking to commemorate your visit to Te Aroha, honor your whakapapa, or simply experience a piece of history, this is your chance to own a portrait like no other, one that transcends the digital age and brings the artistry of photography back to its origins.

This is a woodland park where imaginations are inspired, creative exploration encouraged and mental and physical health restored. A place for the whole family or groups of friends to enjoy together - a great destination to meet up with others. It has many layers of interest to engage a diverse range of people. A destination that contributes significantly to the region by attracting national and international visitors and that also serves the local community and Waikato businesses as an outstanding venue for meetings, promotions, and staff training. A rehabilitated quarry site where care of the environment is a core driver.