Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum

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.

Haere mai! Welcome to Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery. Perched above the mighty Waikato River, this world-class museum and art gallery is the artistic and cultural heart of the Waikato. Visit us to experience visual stories and guided activities that bring our art, history, culture and science to life through an inspirational programme that aims to challenge and inspire you.

From ancient Egypt to a 21-century Concept Garden. Admission to the enclosed gardens requires a paid entry fee for visitors who live outside of Hamilton, with children under 16 years of age free. Unlike any botanical garden, our unique attraction is rated among the top 3 things to do in New Zealand and is in the top 1% of attractions globally on TripAdvisor. Discover the magic of Hamilton Gardens with one of our tours. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a returning visitor, this immersive journey unveils fascinating tales, discovering the cultural significance woven into every petal and pathway.  Or opt for an Audio Guide to enjoy a narrated journey through the ages and across the continents, exploring at your own pace. 

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).

We've crafted a limited series of off-the-beaten track escapes with our team of local guides. Each escape features a collection of their favourite day tramps and foodie experiences in either the Waikato or Coromandel. Take on the great outdoors with one of our experienced local bush guides. Exclusive tastings, meet the maker and peek behind the closed doors of our passionate artisans. Think gourmet cheese, wine, ice-cream, cooking classes and more. Tramping options for all levels. Charming country and water front boutique accommodation options. Limited to small groups of 6-10. Coromandel Gourmet Hiking Escape. West Coast Adventure.

Blastacars is not your typical go kart experience. Our karts are Kiwi made and have been developed here for over 25 years. With powerful karts and a custom track surface we are all about drifting sideways. With up to 12 racers on our 220 metre track in our 390cc karts you are in for a adrenaline pumping experience! We have different speeds for different needs. Children need to be 1.2 metres or taller to race. We also have a paraplegic kart. We not only have kart racing, we also have BBQ areas, party areas, vending machines, arcade games and other free games. We are open 10am till 10pm weekends and public holidays and 12pm to 10pm weekdays. We are closed on Mondays. So come to Blastacars and get sideways!