Celebrate the outdoors this spring with inspiring journeys across the mighty Waikato

Nature Escapes

Plan Your Nature Escape

Plan your journey with our digital map, showcasing each of Waikato’s nature-based attractions. Explore their locations, see how they connect, and create your own itinerary, whether for a day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer adventure.

Download our map

escape into nature map

Special Deals & Offers

Make your spring journey even more rewarding with these exclusive offers.

The Sculpture Park at the Waitakaruru Arboretum

Learn about Nature Journaling and Botanical Watercolour

Expires on 21 September 2025
Come and learn the creative art of Botanical journaling and watercolour. Sandra Morris is running a fun day at the park where you will create your own masterpieces. The morning session is Botanical Journaling and the afternoon session is Botanical Watercolour - book both for a special discount. Numbers are limited so don't miss out.
The Sculpture Park at the Waitakaruru Arboretum

Exciting New Exhibition

Expires on 28 October 2025
See The Forgotten Forest exhibition featuring works by Nathan and Destine Hull. Their works will be featured in the Rock Garden, Gallery and also available at the Ruru Nest Kiosk. All works are available for purchase so don't miss out - check out the website for more details.
Woodlands Estate

Woodlands Wanderer Scavenger Hunt

Expires on 6 October 2025
This unique and interactive experience will awaken your inner explorer as you work together to solve clues and complete the challenge. Gather family, friends, or even your co-workers for a fun day out — and be in the draw to win a special prize if you can solve the final puzzle. $55
Hamilton Gardens

My Gardens Annual Pass

Expires on 11 September 2026
Experience a whole year of unexpected delights at Hamilton Gardens, where a variety of Enclosed Gardens transport you through diverse cultures and eras! A MyGardens Pass is the best way to get unlimited access to the Enclosed Gardens at Hamilton Gardens. Get a full year of entry for just $50! Hamilton rate payers can register to receive a MyGardens Resident Pass for FREE. Unlike any botanical garden, our unique attraction is rated among the top 3 things to do in New Zealand.
Hamilton Gardens

Buy one get one free on Audio Guides!

Expires on 6 October 2025
Purchase an audio guide for just $5 extra with your entry to Hamilton Gardens and receive a second audio guide free! Just click 'Get This Deal' and purchase your audio guide with your ticket (or on its own with a MyGardens Pass). You can also get this offer in person when you enter Hamilton Gardens. Just mention this 2-for-1 deal when you purchase an audio guide at our Visitor Centre. Bursting with over 4000 years of history and cultural significance, Hamilton Gardens offer far more than meets the eye. While strolling through the meticulously curated landscapes may already be a feast for the senses, there's an entirely new layer of discovery waiting to be unveiled through the lens of an Audio Guide.

Every Journey Tells a Story

Be inspired by what others have discovered and share your own story with us using #SpringInWaikatoGardens