Ngāruawāhia & Gordonton
In the North Waikato bush-clad mountains make way for rugged coastlines and the mighty Waikato River as it makes its way to the sea, while small towns and villages dot the landscape with an eclectic lineup of shops, cafes and churches
Destination Ngāruawāhia & Gordonton
There’s no shortage of things to do in North Waikato. Walks, historical sites and the small towns that dot the landscape are full of character and colour. Life moves at a slower pace here and the locals are welcoming.
How far to:
Hamilton: 18 kms, 16 mins
Auckland: 108 kms, 1.2 hour
Zealong Tea Estate
Nestled among the rolling green fields of the Waikato region is the Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand’s only tea plantation.
If you’re a tea lover, you’ll love the Discover Tea experience the plantation offers. Learn how tea is made and all about its history during the 90-minute tour, and be treated to a traditional tea ceremony.
Visitors can also enjoy lunch or high tea at the Camellia Tea House with stunning views overlooking the tea estate.
Hākarimata Ranges Walks
The Hākarimata Scenic Reserve, near Ngāruawāhia, 10km northwest of Hamilton in the North Waikato region, is a great place to see New Zealand’s majestic kauri trees and find stunning views of the region. Nestled in the Hākarimata Ranges, the reserve boasts some of the best Waikato walks.
Wander along the Hākarimata Kauri Loop Track to a grove filled with the majestic native trees, accompanied by tui and kereru that chirp merrily overhead; take on the Hākarimata summit track, a three-hour walk to the top of the ranges or opt for the waterworks track, a 60-minute, 1km return walk to an old dam, built in 1922.
Also worth a look is the 30-minute Hākarimata Rail Trail, an easy 1.5km walking and cycling track suitable for buggies and wheelchairs that follows the route of the former Ngāruawāhia/Glen Massey railway.
Cornerstone Alpaca Farm
Experience the kiwi alpaca lifestyle at Cornerstone Alpaca Stud in North Waikato. Conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Auckland and a short 10-minute journey from Hamilton, this scenic alpaca farm welcomes visitors to enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience. Take part in a 90-minute Alpaca Farm Tour, where you can interact with friendly alpacas, feed them, and capture beautiful photos or opt for a shorter Alpaca Feeding trail. Then enjoy a bite from their on-site café.
Woodlands Historic Homestead and Gardens
Immerse yourself in history and timeless charm at Woodlands Historic Homestead and Gardens in Gordonton. Explore the historic homestead and stroll through the exquisite Victorian-themed gardens, which have a 5-star Garden of National Significance rating. Take a self-guided tour of Woodlands Estate, where you’ll discover captivating stories and memories from the heart of Gordonton’s rich history. Don’t miss the opportunity to admire impressive trees such as New Zealand’s largest Eucalyptus, the finest Liriodendron in the Waikato, an American Ash, and a Juniperus Chinensis.
Te Awa River Ride
Te Awa River Ride begins in Ngāruawāhia and keen cyclists can ride alongside and over the mighty Waikato river on the iconic green Perry Bridge onwards to Hamilton Gardens. This is an easy 2 hour ride and a wonderful way to view the Waikato river.
Check out Riverside Adventure's shuttle service, which is available to pick up and drop off adventurers at Te Awa River Ride.
Taupiri Sunflower Farm
Taupiri Sunflower Farm is a picturesque location near Gordonton, offering a vibrant burst of colour and natural beauty. Known for its beautiful sunflower fields, the farm provides a stunning backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Visitors can wander through the sunflower fields, capturing the breathtaking scenery and enjoying a peaceful escape.
