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.

Carved out of a hillside, this 42 acre former hard rock quarry has been transformed into a magnificent park with collections of trees and shrubs from around the world. The dramatic landscape provides the setting for the more than 70 sculptures on display - the park is the most extensive outdoor sculpture gallery in New Zealand. Featuring three new curated exhibitions per year, the park is open every day of the year. All weather walking tracks (sturdy shoes recommended) and ample parking; most sections accessible by wheelchair. The self-guided tour of at least 2km, provides a full-on sensory experience.

Have fun all year round in this modern, outdoor complex set among the green tree ferns of the Te Aroha mountain. There are three separate outdoor pools to enjoy. Take the plunge and cool off in the 20 metre heated pool. Watch the kiddies play in the toddlers pool then sit and watch the sunset from the inviting waters of the outdoor spa. Experience the waters in the No. 2 Bath House. From here, you are minutes away from shops, restaurants and galleries. Explore the network of walking and biking tracks or wander around the museum and learn about the cures of yesteryear. Make a day of it and picnic in the beautiful Edwardian Domain. So, for an intimate getaway or an eventful family excursion, come and indulge yourself in Te Aroha.

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.

Set on 5 acres, Hadleigh is accessed down a rural lane, the setting belies its proximity to the city’s, renowned Hamilton Gardens and busy night life. We were particularly drawn to the areas natural beauty, as was Peter Jackson when he chose to film his magical Hobbits near here. However, it was the mighty Waikato River, woodland walks and verdant fields that drew us in. This new ‘Hadleigh’ is really quite superb, there are 2.5 acres of stunning gardens which featured in the prestigious House & Garden publication, a garden we are proud to share. The Arron Haddocks designed Lodge on the grounds offers refined accommodation for garden lovers and those who seek tranquillity from busy lives.

From its source at the blue springs to where it enters the Hauraki Gulf, Te Waihou winds its way gently northwards. Your guide will take you on a tour of the historic town of Te Aroha where you will learn about some of the rich culture, history and wild geology of the area. The tour then travels to Waiorongomi to where a gold mining settlement used to thrive. Once at your departure point on the Waihou River you will be given expert instruction on how to navigate your kayak down the river safely. This section of river flows mainly through rural land, don't forget to look up and take in the majestic views of the mountain range a truly fantastic sight from the river perspective. Keep a sharp eye out for the wide variety of bird life.