Waikato Helicopter Tours

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.

The Waikato offers a mixture of picturesque coastlines and stunning farmlands. Experience the magnificent feeling of flying over some of New Zealand’s best scenery, whether it’s the breathtaking coastlines, including the surf famous black sandy beaches of Raglan, the untouched beauty of the rugged west coast, or flying above the Waikato river trails. Take a ride with our experienced helicopter pilot, Sam. He has close to 2,500 hours of flying of highly skilful agricultural and commercial operations. The HQ Rotor Work base in Kihikihi currently operates an AS350, a stable, high performance helicopter with comfortable seating for 5 passengers ideal for this type of work.

We specialise in exciting and inspiring New Zealand photography workshops, tours and expeditions with effective photography guidance from a New Zealand professional landscape photographer with 20 years' expertise. Wherever you are on your photographic journey we work with you to become a more skilful and confident photographer. Our photo workshops will take you on a journey through the natural wonders of this awe-inspiring country, while also providing guidance and instruction from a New Zealand professional nature photographer with 20 years' expertise. From generous and relevant photography instruction to quality private lodgings and fine New Zealand cuisine, we are committed to providing a premium experience which is second-to-none.

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.

This permanent exhibition features images and costumes from the film ‘Ka Whawhai Tonu’ – ‘Struggle without end’ directed by Michael Jonathan. Come in and visit the exhibit and immerse yourself in the local history of this story today. Please note the film has an M rating, hence parental supervision is recommended when viewing this exhibition with young children.

Exhibition on now until Monday, January 26, 2026. Rūaumoko: Restless Land is our new and exciting interactive touring exhibition from Te Papa. Experience elements from Te Papa’s Te Taiao Nature zone that combines cutting-edge science with mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) to explore the powerful, natural forces that continuously shape Aotearoa. Te Papa and the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake have teamed up to promote natural hazard awareness and preparedness through this exhibition. It introduces Rūaumoko to illustrate the forces of nature and presents a wero (challenge) for visitors to learn about natural hazards and ways to be prepared in our communities and at home.