Local Activities & Attractions - Things To See & Do

Waitomo Glow Worm Caves - 1 hour 15 minutes drive

Take a guided tour though Just the world famous Waitomo glow worm caves just over an hours drive away from Spot X and discover New Zealand own unique Arachnocampa luminosa. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their luminescence and expert guides will provide you an  informative commentary on the Caves' historical and geological importance. http://www.waitomo.com/waitomo-glowworm-caves.aspx

WAITOMO BIG RED New Zealand's ultimate quad bike adventure! Experience action and exhilaration as you ride through bush, mud, over farmland and caves. Spectacular views and scenery. The best fun on 4 wheels!

ALTURA HORSE TREKS, GARDENS & WILDLIFE PARKS Discover the award winning 5 acre country garden, 20 acre wildlife park or take a horse trek over some of New Zealand's most beautiful farmland.

WOODLYN PARK - KIWI CULTURE SHOW Waitomo's Woodlyn Park offers a taste of Kiwi Culture with its daily Kiwi Culture Show and unique Waitomo Motel accommodation.

WAITOMO WALKS AND SCENIC RESERVES Explore Waitomo on foot and take in the natural flora and fauna on one of the many superb walking tracks in the area.

WAITOMO MUSEUM OF CAVES The Waitomo Museum hosts a comprehensive collection of items relating to the unique cultural, biological and geographical history of Waitomo Caves.

New Zealand's Army Museum - 1 hours drive

"The coolest place in New Zealand" according to Charlie and Nadines son Jack! http://www.armymuseum.co.nz/

Take a guided tour  and discover New Zealand's military history, learn the campaigns of the NZ Army, and reflect on how conflict has shaped our nation or  just peruse the Research Centre library and archives.

The Army Museum at Waiouru is part of a living Army environment next to the Waiouru Army Base, a unique fortress-like building which resembles a castle with a moat, in the middle of central North Island.

Tarrangower Golf Course - 10 minutes drive

Voted New Zealand's best golf course in 1994, Tarrangower Golf course in Taumarannui is still rated as one of the country's top courses. Those who visit find they quickly develop the habit of returning to enjoy the courses quiet beauty.  http://www.middle-of-everywhere.co.nz/attractions/golf.htm

Nearby there is also the highest course in the country at Whakapapa village below the ski fields. Within an hour more less  there is also the Ohakune course, the Waimarino Course and the Turangi Course - basically enough courses to play somewhere different everyday of the week within an hour!

Tongariro Crossing - Tongariro National Park - 30 minutes drive

Amongst the many scenic water within an hours drive from Charlie and Nadines is the world reknown "Tongariro Crossing". With breathtaking scenery you will not be alone up the mountain during summer months with hundreds of people from all across the globe making the crossing daily. http://www.tongarirocrossing.org.nz/

For a local guide who is a friend of Charlie and Nadine see http://www.peteoutdoors.co.nz/ and if you are the adventurous sort then you may be interested in trying some of the other activities he offers such as caving, abseiling, or mountain biking!

Kayaking - Next Door, no driving!

Paddle down the Whanganui River through the Whanganui National Park under the expert guidance of the Blazing Paddles team who have a stretch of water for all levels of ability and experience from beginners to experts. http://www.blazingpaddles.co.nz/index.html