Blue Tui Shuttles

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.

Te Awamutu Space Centre is an inspiring educational attraction for all ages. Experience the world of space and astronomy through displays and interactive activities. Our centrepiece exhibit is a small but fascinating collection of artifacts from the American and Russian space programmes. You'll find informative displays about the Universe, the history of space exploration and scientific research. Use the interactive screens to see what's in the night sky, tour the Solar System, create your own orbital systems and more. Watch videos, ask us questions and just hang out chatting about space. See our website for details and opening hours.

The Te Awamutu isite Visitor Centre is part of New Zealand's official nationwide Visitor Information Network. Plan your stay in Te Awamutu with our friendly isite team. With four mountains of fun and lakes right on our doorstep, we offer fantastic walks with an abundance of birdlife. Try Maungatautari After Dark to experience native bush at night and hear the kiwi's call. New Zealand National Fieldays is just a 15 minute drive from our place at Mystery Creek Event Centre. Our rural farming community, mixed with walking and cycling tracks, Boutique Bed and Breakfasts, shopping and events. Come and visit.

Real Native offers an immersive, self-guided farm and forest hiking adventure through pristine South Waikato landscapes adjacent to the Pureora Forest Park. Explore lush rainforest, giant podicarp forests, hidden waterfalls and the striking Buried River as you hike through a private working farm rich with birdlife and history. With a thoughtfully prepared menu's, bespoke adventurers lodgings, Real Native is an unforgettable, soul-nourishing New Zealand experience for couples or groups up to 10.

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.

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.