Te Awamutu and Surrounds

Don't Miss:  

1. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
2. Te Ara Wai: Journeys
3. Te Awamutu Space Centre
4. Rose Gardens
5. Pirongia Township
6. Te Awamutu Museum
7. Walk around Lake Ngaroto
8. Visit Lake Serpentine 

Nestled in the background is Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, where ancient native forest and fauna can be found in New Zealand's only inland ecological island. Walking enthusiasts will enjoy the many walking trails on offer around the township, such as the Lake Ngaroto wetlands, the native bush-clad mountains of Pirongia and the nearby Yarndley’s Bush. 

The area has a rich history with several significant Waikato War sites, including one of the most famous at Ōrākau just outside Kihikihi. Te Ara Wai Journeys, a free self-guided tour of culturally significant sites throughout the Waipā district, offers a great way to explore places of local and national importance. A great place to start your journey or visit afterwards, Te Awamutu’s museum showcases the history of the area and houses Uenuku, an important taonga (treasure) of the Tainui people. More recent heritage is also on record with regularly changing displays.

Te Awamutu also boasts some great shopping options, with boutique clothing stores, antiques and more on offer. Te Awamutu cafes and bakeries are ideal for a lazy lunch such as the award-winning Viands Bakery in the street of Kihikihi. The summer farmer's markets provide the perfect opportunity to sample some of the locally grown produce and you can pick your own berries straight from the bush at one of the Blueberry farms from November to March. 

Just south of Te Awamutu is the small town of Kihikihi, known for its speedway and polo grounds, which hosts events such as the Kihikihi International Horse Trial.

The area also offers many unique experiences including the chance to visit a lavender farm. Pirongia hosts the annual Pirongia Craft Day with upwards of 7,000 visitors flocking to the village each year.

How far to:

• Hamilton: 30kms, 30 mins
• Waitomo: 45kms, 40 mins
• Rotorua: 100kms, 1 hour 40 mins

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