Sanctuary Mountain Rongoā rākau – an introduction to Māori herbal medicine

Step through the pest-proof gate into another world, where an ancient forest tower majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and the air is filled with birdsong. Explore the Sanctuary at your own pace or with an experienced guide who will help you spot the wildlife, including kākā, takahē, tuatara, kiwi, tīeke and more. Relax in the clearing or take an optional walk up the 16-metre observation tower, offering a unique perspective from within the forest canopy. Sanctuary Mountain is located in the heart of the Waikato, and as a not-for-profit, every visit helps make our conservation efforts possible. So come and share the mauri and mana of Maungatautari. You will come away enriched and enlightened by this spectacular environment.

Experience Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. Continue along the pathways past The Millhouse, across the double-arch stone bridge and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will enjoy a complimentary, exclusive beverage Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.

Unique opportunity to visit the Karapiro Dam and see some of the amazing native bush and bird life in the Cambridge River Gorge. Ideal for you and your whole family, anyone who likes adventure, fun, speed or scenery. Speeding up the Mighty Waikato in a 450 hp V8 Jet Boat is going to get the heart pumping, adrenaline flowing and the faces smiling. If you are a thrill seeking adrenaline junkie then this is for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a game of golf, followed by a browse round a picturesque town and a latte, or a visit to the close by Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings, then give the team at Camjet Cambridge Jet Boat Tours a call and we can have a quiet cruise up our beautiful river.

Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum is situated in Waipā district, within Waikato. A touchpoint for visitors to learn local history, social development and bi-cultural collaborations between Māori and settlers from 1823, through amazing objects and engaging stories. Understand the reasons why British soldiers invaded the Waikato 1863, the locations, who was involved, and its impact on the Waipā communities that are still being felt today. Do you know about Te Ara Wai Journeys? Start your journey with us. We also have our collections online.

Upon the setting sun, your experienced guide will take you through the pest-proof fence to experience the nocturnal forest wonders. Marvel at the twinkling lights of glowworms, see the brilliance of the undersides of silver fern fronds and gaze up at the stars from the top of the tower on a crystal clear night, away from the bright lights of the city. Search by torchlight for spiders, millipedes, beetles and the many species of wētā that venture out at night in search of food. Keep an eye out for the many native birds coming in to roost and discover the Sanctuary's important role as a kiwi stronghold as you listen for their distinctive, piercing calls along with the two-pitched call of the ruru (morepork).

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an aspiring pro, our forge is the perfect place to shape hot steel into a one-of-a-kind creation you can take home. Located in the beautiful Waikato countryside, this is an all-weather activity - rain or shine, it’s always a great time to get forging. Plus, all classes are fully catered, so you can enjoy delicious refreshments while you work. Our team of skilled blacksmiths, led by Rob - one of New Zealand’s few time-served blacksmiths with over 30 years of experience - are passionate about sharing their craft. With their combined expertise, infectious enthusiasm, and friendly Kiwi humour, they create a welcoming environment where every class is memorable.