TOURS AND WALKS AROUND CAMBRIDGE
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, Cambridge is blessed with accessible green spaces, well-maintained paths and breathtaking landscapes — all just minutes from town. Whether you're seeking a peaceful morning wander, a family-friendly loop, or a more challenging hike with elevated views, you’ll find a trail that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with nature.
60 Minute Ecological River Cruise
Experience a jet boat ride along the Mighty Waikato River
Waikato River Cruise
Enjoy a leisurely Waikato River cruise up the mighty Waikato River, taking in the sights as your driver also shares with you the stories of the area. This 60-minute tour takes you upstream through the narrow Cambridge gorge, whilst capturing a glimpse of stunning waterfalls, fish and birdlife. Along the way, you will also learn about the history of the river, all from the comfort of one of our jetboats. But don’t worry, no spins, unless you ask for one or two spins. In addition, you will visit the base of the Karāpiro Dam and power station. The Waikato’s best kept secret, come and see for yourself, in conclusion, you will be very impressed.
Trips are available between the hours of 10am and 6pm.
Need to travel to Riverside Park, where CAMJET departure
Adults (18 – 64 yrs): $139.00
Seniors (65 yrs+): $130.00
Teens (15 – 17 yrs): $85.00
Children (4 – 14 yrs): $60.00
Family deals are also available for (2 adults & 2 children): $330
Minimum 2 adults.
P 07 823 3456
E bookings@camjet.co.nz
W camjet.co.nz
4 Dominion Avenue, Cambridge
Ancient Forest Guided Tour
Join one of our knowledgeable and engaging guides on easy, gently graded walking tracks. They’ll help you spot North Island robins, tomtits, kākā, tūī, bellbirds, hihi, tieke, fantails, kererū and wētā. They’ll introduce you to some of our local plants and trees and share stories about the history of this ambitious conservation project.
You’ll learn about the translocation programs that recently introduced kōkako and rifleman to a forest where they can thrive. Sanctuary Mountain® is now home to an estimated population of over 1000 kiwi.
This leisurely paced tour takes place in striking pest-free native forest dominated by towering tawa, rewarewa, pukatea, rimu and a wide variety of characteristic ferns. You will stand at the foot of a mature northern rata in the heart of the sanctuary and see the coalesced mass of roots that form the trunks of these magnificent trees.
You’ll listen to the birdsong, take in the majesty of our indigenous forest and try to spot the numerous bird species that call the maunga their home. Spend time in the clearing where cheeky New Zealand forest parrots – the kākā – like to hang out, then take an optional walk up the viewing tower for a unique perspective of the forest canopy from above.
These tours are generally with small groups. At the end of your tour, your guide can provide you with ideas of where in the forest to explore next, depending on your interests, or you may want to wander back for a cuppa at the Visitors Centre or bring your own snacks to sit and contemplate the beautiful ngahere.
By booking on this tour, your contribution helps Sanctuary Mountain® continue to protect the rare and endangered species that live wild on Maungatautari. A complimentary Sanctuary Explorer Pass is included, and we invite you to continue exploring the forest at the end of the tour.
Please check at least 10 minutes before your tour at Manu Tīoriori visitor centre.
Here you will pick up your Sanctuary Explorer Pass and visitor guide map and receive instructions as to where to meet your guide.
This is a 75-80 minute guided tour that usually finishes in the heart of Te Tūī ā Tāne southern enclosure. If you have limited time your guide may be able to accommodate a circular walking tour.
P 07 870 5180
E info@sanctuarymountain.co.nz
W sanctuarymountain.co.nz
99 Tari Road, Pukeatua
Ballygelvar Bespoke Waikato Equestrian Tour
Ballygelvar Bespoke Tours and Accommodation offer a premium and unique half-day tour of the Waikato equestrian scene.
Tour can include;
Access to world-class thoroughbred studs, polo stables, show jumping, and racehorse trainers.
Getting up close to stallions, brood mares, and foals at the renowned Windsor Park Stud.
Watching racehorses, polo ponies, and show jumpers training.
Eventing Olympic gold medalist & World Champion, Vaughn Jeffries, training the top riders of the future, including Ben Weir, who is currently the leader in the National Young Rider Championship.
Visiting John-Paul and Nina Clarkin’s polo stables. New Zealand’s best polo player and the women’s world champion, and see their polo ponies in training, their breeding mares, foals, and stallions.
Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre and
Chele Clarkin, local specialist in equestrian jewellery.
Tour pick up is at 8am from Cambridge Town Hall and dropped off at approximately 1pm.
Closed toe shoes are required
This tour is unsuitable for persons with mobility problems.
Bookings are essential and may take a day or two to be set up, they also can vary as we have to work in with training schedules and events that individuals might be away at.
We can personalise tours as well.
The tour is mainly outdoors and is weather-dependent. You may need a raincoat if the weather is incremental.
Ballygelvar also offers boutique rural B&B Accommodation in picturesque Maungakawa, just minutes outside Cambridge.
NOTE: It is $600.00 for the tour for 1 – 4 people. i.e. If only one person is on the tour it is still $600.00. It takes a lot of planning with all the different entities to make it a marvellous experience. Wednesday is the only day the tour is available. We can discuss having more guests on tour if required.
Example of Tour
8.00am
Pick up at Cambridge Town Hall8.10am
Cambridge Jockey Club – watch race horses train on the track8.45am
Marsh Racing – Racehorse trainers9.15am
Hamilton vets – Equine Hospital10.00 am
Vaughn Jefferies – Coaching showjumping or Takapoto Show Jumping team training10.55am
Lilypad Cafe coffee – break for coffee/bathroom11.15am
Windsor Park Stud – Thoroughbred stud, stations, foals, mares, and facilities12.00pm
Mystery Creek Polo – Polo ponies training – stables12.30pm
Chele Clarkin, Equine jewellery specialist1.00pm
TownHall or (Alpino) – Lunch (Optional, and not included in price)
P 027 289 9386
E belinda@ballygelvar.nz
W ballygelvar.nz
100A Maungakawa Road, Cambridge
Bike Hike Stay – Discover Our Backyard
Bike, hike, encounter, experience, explore: there’s no limit to your choices for adventure in New Zealand. Bike Hike Stay are local tour operators based in Cambridge, but travel New Zealand with you to discover its beauty. From 1-day adventures to 14 day + tours, Bike Hike Stay offer:
Guided tours (Set or customised to fit your requirements)
Shuttle service
Attraction bookings
Personalised advice and expert local knowledge
Whether you are looking for a unique cultural experience or an enriching discovery of our natural wonders by foot or bike, a customised tour package can be created to suit your individual needs.
Your hostess Greta brings her wealth of local knowledge and experience to every tour. Discover the best of the Waikato with Bike Hike Stay!
P 027 255 7225
E greta@bikehikestay.co.nz
W bikehikestay.co.nz
Cambridge
BK Tours, Transfers and Shuttle Service
Personalised tours and transfers, Central North Island, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Taupo, National Park. We will show you more for less from our 6 seater coaches with your own personal guide and driver
Airport transfers Auckland and Hamilton (price on enquiry)
With over 17 years of experience, Graeme’s vast knowledge of local attractions and activities allows him to provide you with an expertly guided tour of the region.
Cambridge Distillery Tasting Room
Cambridge Distillery is the passion project of a couple of good mates, full of good ideas. For all the grand ideas, they just want to make a good gin. Cambridge Distillery are James and Will
Seeking a more family-friendly lifestyle, shorter commutes and a greater sense of community, James and Will moved out of the big smoke with their families to the picturesque town of Cambridge, in the heart of Waikato, New Zealand.
They didn’t start out with a plan to become distillers. But their fondness for the town and its people cultivated the idea of making gins that would remind them of their new home – using botanicals foraged from amongst the many gardens, lakes and woodlands of their community. Sensory memories – a lasting reminder.
“We feel Cambridge has given us so much that we aim, in some small way, to enhance its story and for The Cambridge Distillery Co. to become a very small, but very enjoyable, part of its history. Our endeavour is to produce spirits that remind you of a certain place, a terroir, a homestead? Premium spirits, each with their own distinct taste and provenance.”
Tasting room open at 92 Alpha Street, Cambridge, during the following days and hours. All other times by appointment.
Saturdays and Sundays 12pm – 4.30pm
*Please note, Cambridge Distillery is an off-licence and set up for bottle sales and tasting samples of spirits. Only those over 18 are able to participate.
E info@TheCambridgeDistillery.co.nz
W thecambridgedistillery.co.nz
92 Alpha Street, Cambridge
Dairy Farm Tour
From Pasture to the Milk Factory - The Waikato Dairy Story
Visit a working Cambridge Dairy Farm and listen to the story behind producing New Zealand’s liquid gold.
1 hour Tour timed to suit milking, ideally 2.30pm. Introduction to farming practices, 600 Fresian and Jersey Cows. Closed during the winter drying off season.
Tours are available in English or Spanish and operate by appointment
February – May tour operates at 6.30am
Option to feed calves during August and September
Reservations are required. A request for booking should be made at least 24 hours in advance instead.
$55 Per Adult (Minimum 2 paying adults)
$25.00 Per Child (9-16 years) Under 8 years is free
Children only with an accompanying adult.
Close out period approx. 15 May – 22 July
Optional calf feeding may be included in August – September
Torus are generally at 2.30pm July – February
February – May 6.30am
You will need to travel to the farm gate located 10 minutes' drive from Cambridge
Health & Safety: Closed-toe footwear is mandatory. This is a multiple-hazard area, and you will be required to follow the health and safety instructions at all times. Some of these hazards included (but not limited to mud, uneven surfaces, electrical fencing, animals and machinery). This is a walking tour; please advise of any mobility issues before booking.
There is no toilet on the farm; please make sure to do a toilet stop in town before arrival.
Hamilton Gardens
Hamilton Gardens is a must-see attraction all year round, offering 45 hectares of gardens and parklands to explore. Uncover the delights of 18 beautiful and inspiring Enclosed Gardens, each with stories spanning 4,000 years. From ancient Egypt to a 21st-century Concept Garden. 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.
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.
In the over 45-hectare parklands, there’s something for everyone, no matter your age or interests – Discover a range of walking trails, explore a delightful array of perfect picnic spots, browse the Hamilton Gardens shop, or savour a meal at the Hamilton Gardens Café with a scenic view over Turtle Lake. Every turn reveals a delightful new surprise that will leave you in awe, discovering historical sculptures and points of interest with cultural, social, or political significance, all scattered throughout Hamilton Gardens.
Admission to the Enclosed Gardens requires a paid entry fee; Hamilton residents and children under 16 years of age are free. Find out more here.
The Enclosed Gardens are open to the public 364 days of the year (closed 25 December). The rest of the Hamilton Gardens site, including the playground, Turtle Lake, and Outer Gardens are open 365 days of the year.
Enclosed Gardens and Gallagher Visitor Centre are open daily from 10.00am – 6.00pm.
Hamilton Gardens Café is open from 9.00am to 4.00pm weekdays, and from 9.00am to 5.00pm at weekends.
Carpark gates are open daily from 6.15am to 9.00pm.
P 07 838 6782
E hamilton.gardens@hcc.govt.nz
W hamiltongardens.co.nz
Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton East, Hamilton
Hobbiton Movie Set Experiences
CHOOSE YOUR HOBBITON™ MOVIE SET EXPERIENCE
Join us on a journey through the unequivocal beauty of the farmland, as we escort you around the Movie Set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made here.
Join us and experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.
Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey on a short bus ride through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will escort you on a shared walking tour around the movie set, showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how movie magic was made here.
Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home.
Designed and crafted by the renowned creative teams behind the film trilogies, Bagshot Row offers an authentic glimpse into the charming dwellings of Hobbits going about daily life in the Shire. Your guide will lead you through one of two Hobbit Holes offering time to explore the detailed interiors, with each home designed to create an identical experience.
Continue along the pathways past The Millhouse, across the double-arch stone bridge and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will enjoy a complimentary, exclusive beverage from our Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Experience the magic of the Hobbiton Movie Set with one of the daily departures from The Shire’s Rest. This is a 2.5hour fully guided tour including transport to and from The Shire’s Rest
Price:
Adult (18 years old and over): $120.00
Youth(11-17 years old):$60
Child (0-10 years old): $0
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Lunch Combo 3 hours
Experience the taste of the Shire with a delicious buffet lunch served in the Party Marquee. The painted canvas exterior, vibrant bunting and colourful lanterns mean visitors are immersed in the festival magic of the movies. The Party Marquee is adjacent to The Green Dragon Inn with garden bar seating overlooking the Hobbiton Movie Set providing an exquisite view for all guests. Your meal is served buffet style from a specially themed table setting to dine family style with your group. This fully guided tour takes 3 hours approximately.
Price from 1 December 2023:
Adult (18 years old and over): $158.00
Youth(11-17 years old):$98.00
Child (0-10 years old): $0
Evening Banquet Tour
Experience the Movie set as you have never seen it before with a guided tour at dusk. Making the most of the remaining day light, your guide will escort you through the 12-acre site, before heading to the Green Dragon Inn and dining room where you are treated to a banquet feast. 4.5 hours approximately fully guided tour.
Tour Included:
*A Fully guided tour of Hobbiton Movie set at dusk
*Your first Hobbit South farthing beverage upon arrival in The Green Dragon Inn
*A two course banquet feast served inside The Green Dragon Inn fit for a Hobbit
*Additional drinks available to purchase Throughout the night
*A lantern-lit through the movie set under moonlight
Price:
Adult (18 years old and over): $230
Youth(11-17 years old):$177
Child (5-10 years old): $119.00
Infant (0-5 years old): $0
Second breakfast Tour
You’ve already had breakfast, but what about second breakfast? Be the first on the Movie Set and enjoy a hearty breakfast spread served inside their newest venue, the Millhouse. Selected weekend departures available now. 3.5 hours approximately fully guided tour.
Tour Included:
A fully guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie set
A visit to The Green Dragon Inn with your first Hobbit South Farthing beverage upon arrival
*Second breakfast spread in The Millhouse featuring continental and hot items.
* Coffee and tea served inside The Millhouse during second breakfast.
Price:
Adult (18 years old and over): $180.00
Youth(11-17 years old):$114
Child (5-10 years old): $64.00
Infant (0-4 years old): $0
P 07 888 1505
E office@hobbitontours.com
W hobbitontours.com
The Shires Rest, 501 Buckland Road, Matamata
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is an ancient, predator-free forest right here in the Waikato. The Visitor Centre is located on the Southern side of the mountain, just 30 minutes drive from Cambridge.
At 3,363 hectares, Sanctuary Mountain is by far the largest pest-proof fenced project in the world. Be amazed at the ancient trees towering majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and bathe in the diversity of sights and sounds within the sanctuary. You will come away enriched and enlightened by this spectacular environment.
Guided Tours
The best way to explore Sanctuary Mountain is by guided tour. Join one of their experienced guides on an informative tour as they share with you the stories behind the project and some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. You could spot tuatara (a prehistoric reptile and the last survivors of an order of reptiles that thrived in the age of the dinosaurs), the checky kākā or takahē (a unique flightless bird and conservation survivor).
A private night tour is a truly magical experience and introduces you to the night-time world of Sanctuary Mountain’s ancient forest. Departing at dusk, you will marvel at the twinkling lights of glowworms, discover by torchlight the wētā who venture out at night in search of food and listen for the calls of spotted brown kiwi and ruru.
Find out more about guided tours HERE
Self-Guided Walks
Grab a Sanctuary Explorer pass and explore over 5km of walking tracks in our Te Tui a Tane (Southern Enclosure) at your own pace. The tracks are ideal for those who love walking in nature, watching birds, and identifying the many species which call Maungatautari home. Check for guests in the wētā motels, spend time in the clearing where kākā often visit, or take an optional walk up the viewing tower, offering a unique perspective from within the forest canopy.
Sanctuary Mountain is a not-for-profit charity. By visiting Sanctuary Mountain, you’re supporting the vital work of this world-class conservation project and contributing towards keeping this wildlife thriving for another generation.
Kiwi Guardians at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
Sign up for the Department of Conservations Kiwi Guardians, an activity programme for kids to learn about nature and earn cool rewards and medals.
Other Tracks and Access
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari has been recognised as a public reserve since 1912. Located on the northern side of the Mountain on Hicks Road is the Northern Enclosure. This is a public reserve and is completely open to the public to enjoy year-round. The path to the northern enclosure is roughly 1.5km on mountain terrain and includes some steep areas. Please be careful when venturing into this area.
Please note the Sanctuary Visitor Centre is located on the Southern side of the mountain on Tari Road. Please consider this when you are planning your day trip to the maunga.
The Wairere Traverse (Over The Mountain) Track is open from the northern side and takes approximately 5 hours to complete, north-to-south.
Find out more HERE
P 07 870 5180
E info@sanctuarymountain.co.nz
W sanctuarymountain.co.nz
99 Tari Road, Pukeatua
Sanctuary Mountain® at Night (Private Guided Tour)
Join us in exploring the magical night-time world of Sanctuary Mountain® Maungatautari with our experienced guides leading you in search of nocturnal forest wonders. Marvel at the twinkling lights of glow-worms, see the brilliance of the undersides of silver fern fronds and gaze up at the stars from the top of the tower on a crystal clear night, away from the bright lights of the city.
The 2 hour tour begins approximately 15 minutes before sunset. We can supply you with torches and it’s a gentle, slow walk on easy graded tracks.
We will search by torchlight for spiders, millipedes, beetles and the many species of wētā that venture out at night in search of food.
Discover the important role Maungatautari has as a stronghold for kiwi and listen for their calls and the calls of ruru. In spring and summer, you might be lucky enough to see tiny long-tailed bats along the treeline at dusk or to hear the nocturnal calls of kākā.
Please note this is a private tour, scheduled by request only with a minimum of 48 hours notice at a time and day that accommodates your plans. A minimum charge of $319.00 (for up to 4 people) is required for this tour to operate.
For every booking thereafter the below prices apply with a maximum group size of 10 people per tour.
Extra Adults $79.50
Extra Concessions (Valid for NZ; Supergold, Community Services, or Student ID cardholders) $65.00
Extra Children (5 – 16yrs) $43.50
Extra Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) $200.00
** Children up to 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
** Start and finish times of this tour are affected by seasonal variances, please click here for location specific guidance on sunset and dusk times.
** Bookings need to be made at least 48 hours in advance and are subject to availability and weather conditions.
To book your tour and for enquiries please contact the Sanctuary Mountain visitor centre on 07 870 5180 or reception@maungatrust.org
A minimum age of 10 years is recommended.
P 07 870 5180
E info@sanctuarymountain.co.nz
W sanctuarymountain.co.nz
99 Tari Road, Pukeatua
Takapoto Estate – BYO e-Bike Tour and Morning Tea
Takapoto Estate – BYO e-Bike Tour and Morning Tea, 90 Finlay Rd, Maungatautari, 10am-12pm.
Takapoto Tours are a great way to discover the lush eco-sanctuary beyond the equestrian and event areas. Perfect for garden lovers and green fingers, or anyone who’s simply curious to see what makes Takapoto Estate so special.
Discover the beauty and dedication behind the Takapoto Estate’s 199ha young forest, home to over 800,000 native plantings like Ratas, Tawa, Nikau, and Rewarewa. The Estate’s eco-initiatives include careful plant selection, thriving native species, and the prominence of over 5,000 Kauri trees.
Join our knowledgeable guides as they take you through Takapoto’s conservation journey, from pest control techniques to sustainable gardening practices. Learn about organic methods that protect the environment while gaining tips for sustainable gardening that you can implement at home.
You can experience the tour in one of three ways: bring your own car, e-bike, or explore on foot. Tours last between 2 to 3 hours, with some options including morning tea (details available upon booking). At the end of each tour, you can also opt for a Takapoto Estate wine tasting.
Please note: your own e-Bike is essential for this tour. For groups of 10+ wishing to hire e-Bikes, please contact us on info@takapto.co.nz
For all information visit: takapoto.co.nz/takapoto-tours
P 027 388 5920
E info@takapoto.co.nz
W takapoto.co.nz/takapoto-tours
90 Finlay Road, Maungatautari
Takapoto Estate – Self-Drive Tour with Morning Tea
Takapoto Estate – Self-Drive Tour with Morning Tea, 90 Finlay Rd, Maungatautari, 10am-12pm.
Takapoto Tours are a great way to discover the lush eco-sanctuary beyond the equestrian and event areas. Perfect for garden lovers and green fingers, or anyone who’s simply curious to see what makes Takapoto Estate so special.
Discover the beauty and dedication behind the Takapoto Estate’s 199ha young forest, home to over 800,000 native plantings like Ratas, Tawa, Nikau, and Rewarewa. The Estate’s eco-initiatives include careful plant selection, thriving native species, and the prominence of over 5,000 Kauri trees.
Join our knowledgeable guides as they take you through Takapoto’s conservation journey, from pest control techniques to sustainable gardening practices. Learn about organic methods that protect the environment while gaining tips for sustainable gardening that you can implement at home.
You can experience the tour in one of three ways: bring your own car, e-bike, or explore on foot. Tours last between 2 to 3 hours, with some options including morning tea (details available upon booking). At the end of each tour, you can also opt for a Takapoto Estate wine tasting.
Personal transport required for the convoy across Takapoto Estate.
For all information visit: www.takapoto.co.nz/takapoto-tours
Takapoto Estate – Walking Tour with Morning Tea
Takapoto Estate – Walking Tour with Morning Tea, 90 Finlay Rd, Maungatautari, 10am-1pm.
Takapoto Tours are a great way to discover the lush eco-sanctuary beyond the equestrian and event areas. Perfect for garden lovers and green fingers, or anyone who’s simply curious to see what makes Takapoto Estate so special.
Discover the beauty and dedication behind the Takapoto Estate’s 199ha young forest, home to over 800,000 native plantings like Ratas, Tawa, Nikau, and Rewarewa. The Estate’s eco-initiatives include careful plant selection, thriving native species, and the prominence of over 5,000 Kauri trees.
Join our knowledgeable guides as they take you through Takapoto’s conservation journey, from pest control techniques to sustainable gardening practices. Learn about organic methods that protect the environment while gaining tips for sustainable gardening that you can implement at home.
You can experience the tour in one of three ways: bring your own car, e-bike, or explore on foot. Tours last between 2 to 3 hours, with some options including morning tea (details available upon booking). At the end of each tour, you can also opt for a Takapoto Estate wine tasting.
*Please Note: A moderate level of fitness is required for this walking tour which takes place over varied terrain. Bookings essential.
For all information visit: www.takapoto.co.nz/takapoto-tours
P 027 388 5920
E info@takapoto.co.nz
W takapoto.co.nz/takapoto-tours
90 Finlay Road, Maungatautari
Tautari Wetland Highlights Tour
Nestled in the valley below the visitor centre is the Tautari Wetland, protected by both a QEII covenant and our pest-proof fence. This picturesque wetland habitat is a safe haven for two of our taonga species. This intimate tour provides a wonderful opportunity to see these unique animals in the wild and is a great experience for all ages.
One of our knowledgeable guides may take you through the tuatarium in search of the well-camouflaged tuatara as they bask near the entrances to their burrows. Tuatara are the sole surviving members of an ancient group of reptiles found only in New Zealand.
You may also observe the endearing and very rare takahē and possibly see them receiving a supplementary fee. This large, flightless bird helped shape the future of conservation techniques in New Zealand.
By booking on this tour your contribution helps Sanctuary Mountain® continue to protect the rare and endangered species that live wild on Maungatautari.
Please note this tour has seasonal availability and restrictions:
Viewing of tuatara is reliant on seasonal temperature variations and, like us, they prefer to be tucked up inside their burrows during the winter months of June-August.
Viewing of takahē may be restricted during their breeding season October-January.
Please check in at least 10 minutes prior to your tour at Manu Tīoriori visitor centre.
This tour is 45-50 minutes long. Please allow 10-15 minutes to walk to and from the wetland enclosure.
Please check at least 10 minutes before your tour at Manu Tīoriori visitor centre, where a face covering is required (unless medically exempt). Children under 12 years will not be required to wear a face covering.
Here you will pick up your Sanctuary Explorer Pass and visitor guide map and receive instructions as to where to meet your guide.
This is a 45-50 minute guided tour that usually finishes in the heart of Te Tūī ā Tāne southern enclosure. If you have limited time your guide may be able to accommodate a circular walking tour.
P 07 870 5180
E info@sanctuarymountain.co.nz
W sanctuarymountain.co.nz
99 Tari Road, Pukeatua
Te Awa River Ride – the Great NZ River Ride
An enjoyable safe way to explore beyond the town
Cambridge is at the heart of the world-class 65km Te Awa River Ride. The longest concrete trail in NZ, Te Awa winds its way from Ngaruawahia through to Lake Karāpiro on a 3m wide smooth concrete trail, boardwalks and bridges. Taking in stunning views and parts of the Waikato River never before seen by the public, the Te Awa River Ride is achievable for all ages and abilities by bike or by foot and as many kilometres as you like!
Short sections from Cambridge include:
Cambridge to Karāpiro (8km) – access via Leamington Rugby Club on Carlyle Street
Gaslight Theatre to Velodrome (3.5km)
Velodrome to Hooker Rd (7.5km)
Gaslight Theatre to Hamilton (15.5km) – access via Alpha Street
The Sculpture Park and Waitakaruru Arboretum
The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum is a former quarry that has been transformed into a 17.5-hectare arboretum with more than 20,000 trees from around the world. The rehabilitation started in 1991. Along the 2km-long nature trail, you will discover more than 100 sculptures and installations within one of New Zealand’s largest outdoor galleries. All of our sculptures are NZ-made, and some tell thought-provoking NZ stories.
Sustainability of nature and art are the driving forces of the park. Formed from derelict land, its trees are now protected long-term for carbon sequestration. The park promotes sustainable creative inspiration.
The park is a not-for-profit environmental and cultural enterprise that provides visitors with an intriguing walk that sparks creative ideas for all ages. This art-in-nature experience aims to inspire imaginations, nourish inquisitive minds, and provide for creative learning in an accessible wilderness environment.
Open Daily 10am to 5pm
15yrs plus: $15.00
5 – 14yrs: $5.00
Book through the park’s website www.sculpturepark.co.nz
Annual passes are available for $45/adult.
UNCONFINED
Our riddle-solving team game can now be booked directly through our website (Book Now Team Game), providing two opportunities daily 9.30am and 2pm for a group to play the game.
This game is suitable for social clubs, extended family get-togethers, corporate events, and Christmas parties. As you walk around the park, you will see a few locked boxes – the game is an outdoor variation of the popular Escape rooms. It requires a minimum of 4 adults and enables participants to enjoy the whole park.
Minimum of 4 adults
Maximum of 20 people
$35/adult/ $20/child (under 16)
P 07 824 0733 or 0275 670 996
E sculpturepark1@gmail.com
W sculpturepark.co.nz
207 Scotsman Valley Road, Tauwhare
Tieke Golf Estate
Tieke Golf Estate
Described by golfers as a truly unique riverbed masterpiece. There is nothing like it in New Zealand.
Along the banks of the mighty Waikato River is New Zealand’s latest golf experience.
Tieke Golf Estate was opened to visitors in 2022 and has quickly become one of New Zealand’s most sought-after golf experiences.
Crafted out of sand from the original riverbed of NZ’s mightiest river. Tieke uses the natural river sand, fine fescue turf, creeping bent grass putting surfaces, and a sensational design to provide a wonderful golfing experience for all levels of golfer. Tieke provides a special blend of links and private valley golf, leaving a feeling that you are the only golfers on the course.
Tieke Cafe, Bar & Restaurant
Experience Tieke Café & Bar, the hidden culinary gem of the Waikato, offering spectacular views overlooking Tieke Golf Estate and featuring a menu curated by award-winning chefs Kerr and Ladbrook.
We are open to the public daily for breakfast, lunch and snacks including both cabinet and menu selections. So, whether you’re meeting friends, celebrating a special occasion, or hosting a business gathering, Tieke provides the perfect setting.
P 07 843 6287
E info@tiekegolf.co.nz
W tiekegolf.co.nz
72 Lochiel Road, Rukuhia
TreeChurch and Gardens
The TreeChurch is a place of quiet contemplation and celebration – we request that all visitors treat the area with the same respect they would any other Church or private garden.
Children are welcome but need to be supervised, especially around the beautiful ponds and trees.
The Gardens are wheelchair accessible.
There is no food or drink for sale at the Gardens. You are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the Gardens, anywhere except inside the TreeChurch itself.
No dogs (other than assistance dogs) and no smoking, please.
The TreeChurch and Gardens are open to the general public on Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
Groups (minimum 10 people) and private events by appointment only – please Contact Us for a booking.
Admission: Adults $20
Child 5 to 14 years $10
Family up to 2 adults and 2 or more children $50
Pay with cash or NZ Debit card (Eftpos) as you enter, no need to book.
P 021 813 861
E info@treechurch.co.nz
W treechurch.co.nz
119 West Road, Ōhaupō
Nestled on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, Cambridge is blessed with accessible green spaces, well-maintained paths and breathtaking landscapes — all just minutes from town.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful morning wander, a family-friendly loop, or a more challenging hike with elevated views, you’ll find a trail that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with nature.
CONTACT US
T. 07 823 3460
E. cambridge@cambridgechamber.co.nz
Level 1, Suite 6 National Hotel
47 Alpha Street, Cambridge 3434,