Off The Beaten Track - Cottage on Waimai

Raglan Boat Charters is located at the Raglan Wharf on Whaingaroa Harbour, the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, 40 kms from Hamilton and approx 150kms from Auckland, Tauranga and Rotorua. About our Cruises: Departing Raglan Wharf aboard the Wahinemoe to explore the charm of Whaingaroa Harbour – cruise past large conservation reserves, farmland and fishing villages. You will see marine wildlife and ancient limestone rock formations, and listen to fascinating tales about the history and culture of this very special area. Your friendly skipper and crew will take great care of you and make sure you have a magical experience. The sunset cruise is the best and its extremely rare on the west coast to find such an excellent viewpoint.

Thundercross Valley Dirt Bike Park provides a totally unique experience. You can book a lesson with an experienced coach & try out the delights of dirt biking in a safe and friendly environment. Set in 750 acres of stunning, rolling countryside, the Park is a popular destination for visitors from all around the world, including first-timers, advanced riders, adrenaline seekers and families alike. No licence or experience necessary. When hiring one of our bikes full protective gear provided, as well as available to hire when riding your own bike. We look forward to welcoming you at the Park soon.

Inspired by the European Aufguss, we run guided sauna and ice bath sessions. In groups of up to 12, participants have chance to cool off in a cold shower and ice bath before entering the sauna for the first round. The facilitator will then explain the outline of the session. Then, with peaceful music playing, the first 15 minute round begins, with water mixed with essential oils being added to the rocks, creating scented waves of heat that wash over you, as the facilitator waves around a towel. Between the sauna rounds, there is 5-7 minutes where participants are welcome to rinse off in the shower before going into the ice bath. See our schedule to book into one of our sessions or hire the sauna and ice bath.

Challenge yourself to scramble, rock climb and abseil the cascading waterfalls all whilst experiencing the magic the canyon has to offer. The ancient lava flow is surrounded by native bush and natural beauty. Following your experienced and passionate guide, you will navigate your way through many obstacles, including waterfalls, pools and boulders, ensuring that your adrenaline levels are high. All of the guides are qualified, friendly, professional and highly experienced, guaranteeing you will always feel safe and comfortable. Throughout the trip, the guide will explain to you facts about the flora, fauna and history of the area. All equipment, photos and instruction is provided with free pick up and drop off available from Raglan.

UP Surf Coaching is all about providing high quality surf coaching for those that want more than a one off experience. Our aim is for you to actually feel like a surfer at the end of one of our surf courses – ready to surf on your own with confidence. On the 'Become a Surfer' course you will be equipped with all the skills and knowledge you need. Group sizes are always 6 or less people - you get a lot of personal attention and have space to move around without a huge crowd all around you. The course progresses in stages from mastering the basics in the whitewater, using your rails and starting to focus on surfing across small waves, then getting you out the back to catch bigger unbroken waves. You'll be surprised how fast you progress.

Come on an electric adventure along the majestic Waikato Te Awa, New Zealand's longest river! Join us for a curated 1-3 day experience on Te Awa 'The Great New Zealand River Ride' or Waikato River Trail. This incredible journey begins or ends at the northern trailhead, just an hour's drive from Auckland Airport in Ngāruawāhia, and takes you through key attractions such as The Hamilton Gardens, The Velodrome, and Cambridge before concluding or commencing at Lake Karapiro. Choose from our carefully crafted packages that include everything you need for a seamless Mighty Waikato River experience. From bikes to kayaks, thrilling jet boat rides, delicious meals, accommodations, and transportation – we have it all covered. Welcome to River Riders.