The Costumes of Ka Whawhai tonu mātou - Ake, Ake, Ake

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.

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.

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. 

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.

Arrive at Hamilton Airport and depart on a magnificent journey over the Waikato Countryside. You will never see a view of the New Zealand West Coast like this from an aircraft. The vista from your aircraft is breathtaking and awe inspiring. 1. Scenic flight to Raglan. 2. Guided air tour of the local sights. 3. Landing at Raglan for you to explore the local sights. 4. Scenic flight to Hamilton. 5. Free coffee at Momento AeroCafe. 6. Guided air tour of the local sights.

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.