Yarndley’s Bush

Home to one of the largest remaining Kahikatea, Yarndley’s Bush provides a great family friendly walk near Hamilton and Te Awamutu.

The forest is nestled amongst the rolling farmland north of Te Awamutu, with an impressive 14 hectares of Kahikatea stands, some over 35 metres tall.

A hill leads down to the an easy boardwalk which meanders through the giant trees to a canopy tower which provides a bird’s eye view of the forest below and a perfect spot to stop for a picnic, before looping back around.

Great for bird watching, the forest attracts the likes of fantails, grey warbler, tui, pigeons, finches and rosella, while the small stream running through the stand is home to native trout, eel and koura.

Please Note: Many of the walking trails in the Waikato region do not allow dogs. Hamilton & Waikato Tourism recommend checking with the local council before taking your dog on any of the trails in the region.

Pricing

Free

Proximity to Town:

30 minutes drive from Hamilton

Activity Duration:

30 minute loop walk

Track conditions:

Mostly boardwalks with some gravel sections.

Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens

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. 

Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery

Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery

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Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari

Sanctuary Mountain Explorer Pass

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.

SkyCity Hamilton

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Cambridge Museum

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Nature & Nosh Tours

Custom Hiking Tour with Nature and Nosh Tours

We have a great selection of day hikes in the North Island we can customise into a unique tour itinerary for your group or family. We also have great relationships with many local artisan food producers and love incorporating some tasting into your tour. Our boutique lodges, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts have charming hosts that extend that warm kiwi hospitality. Our tracks include coastal walks, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, springs - the diversity is unparalleled. Whether you are looking at a two day visit or a two week visit, we can work some magic on an itinerary just for you.

All things to do

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