Te Awamutu and Surrounds

There’s plenty of modern bustle about Te Awamutu (which in English means “The Rivers End”), but the farming-based area also proudly displays its agricultural roots. While away some time visiting Te Awamutu’s stunning rose gardens or the nearby attractively quaint village of Pirongia, with cafes, crafts and clydesdales.

Beautiful bush walks for all ages and abilities are within easy reach in Te Awamutu township both at Maungatautari Ecological Reserve to the east of the area and at Mt Pirongia itself to the west. Nearby, Wharepapa South has some of the best rock climbing in New Zealand and Lake Ngaroto is a favoured sailing spot.

The area also has a wild side to its past, and history is everywhere you look. It was the scene of one of the most famous battles of the Waikato wars – at Orakau just outside Kihikihi.

Te Awamutu’s museum showcases the history of the area and houses Uenuku, an important taonga (treasure) of the Tainui people. More recent heritage is also on record with the True Colours exhibition, telling the story of local musician’s Tim and Neil Finn, who formed Split Enz and Crowded House.

Wherever you go in the area, the getting there will be part of the fun as you are rewarded with fine views of the picturesque rolling Hamilton & Waikato countryside.

How far to:

Hamilton: 30kms, 30 mins
Waitomo: 45kms, 40 mins
Rotorua: 100kms, 1 hour 40 mins