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.

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.

Take a class with one of the world’s best - Gail Jones NZPFA (NZ), AIFD (USA), PFCI (USA) Master Florist, 2nd place at Interflora World Cup, International Designer and Head Referee Interflora World Cup China. A unique opportunity to enjoy some time & create a dried flower treasure to take home. Exclusive flowers dried, colored and treated on the property. Gails of Tamahere has been in operation for 38 years & has 6 acres of landscaped gardens, fully operational restaurant (by appointment). An absolute destination for weddings and functions, is an iconic spot for your dream event. This year an opportunity arose to reintroduce the floral schools as quality flowers became available.

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.

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.