Morrinsville River Walk

Welcoming Guests Through Our Doors Since 1872. Woodlands Estate was established as a 98,000-acre estate purchased from The Crown by The Piako Swamp Company for 2/6 (25 cents) an acre. The Homestead, restored to its former glory, was initially built as a Manager's residence between 1875 and 1881. It is primarily made of Kauri and still features some original weatherboards and roof iron. Woodlands Estate is looked after by a not-for-profit trust, with the gardens being well-maintained by the Waikato District Council. The overall historic and aesthetic value of the homestead and gardens has been maintained thanks to generous donations and voluntary time. The Trust extends its gratitude for the generous support of the community over the years.

Visit the Zealong Tea Room and indulge in our Signature High Tea, curated with a selection of hand-crafted gourmet sweets and savouries, or choose from our seasonal lunch menu. Enhance your experience with the perfect pairing of Zealong tea to - whether you prefer a refreshing green, a floral oolong, or a bold black, all our teas are 100% organically grown on-site and proudly made in New Zealand. All served with breathtaking views of the Estate’s rolling tea terraces and landscaped gardens. Make your visit even more memorable with a traditional tea tasting ceremony or a guided tour of our certified organic tea plantation.

Relax and unwind in our private wooden tubs filled with naturally silky mineral water that flows from the Mokena Geyser. Each mineral spa is in a private room with changing area and en suite for ultimate relaxation. For your comfort you can adjust the temperature of the spa. Treat someone special to our Birthday Package or Romance package with all the added extras including a candlelit room & take home gift. Indulge in a beauty or massage treatment at the recently opened Domain House Beauty. The facility is set at the base of Mount Te Aroha in the beautiful Edwardian style Te Aroha Domain. For your safety remember to always bring a friend, there is a minimum of two adults per spa.

With a stunning section of land in a rural settlement outside Hamilton, Lavender Backyard Garden has grown from scant to lush. “We are so proud of our work that’s made our empty fields, once full of grass, into our little dream”. This abundant block is now not only a bustling Pick-Your-Own (PYO) Blueberry and Lavender Farm, but a ‘Backyard Garden’ where anyone can come to sit down and relax among the fields of lavender with a cup of coffee and tasty blueberry and lavender foods. Lavender Backyard Garden developed their own natural aromatherapy items by using their lavender essential oil. Only a 10 minute drive from central Hamilton.

Located in the historic spa town of Te Aroha, Tintype Central is New Zealand's only portrait studio specialising in the wet plate collodion process, a 19th century method of development that predates film photography. Meticulously crafted on plates of glass or aluminum, each portrait is a unique piece of art resonating with depth and character, reflecting the beauty of imperfection and the rich tones of silver. Whether you're looking to commemorate your visit to Te Aroha, honor your whakapapa, or simply experience a piece of history, this is your chance to own a portrait like no other, one that transcends the digital age and brings the artistry of photography back to its origins.

Join other LGBTQ travellers on our 12 day Highlights and Hot Spots Tour. Experience the highlights and iconic locations of New Zealand and meet some of our trusted local partners who are eager to welcome you into their lives. You’ll enjoy gorgeous Waiheke Island with a local Maori guide who offers an in-depth perspective into Maori culture, marvel at our unique and gorgeous glowworms with a passionate cave enthusiast, and learn about our farming heritage on a private farm. You’ll experience the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua and the wild and stunning natural beauty of the South Island. New Zealand Awaits is proud to take care of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender travellers. Travel with us and know you're in good company.