In the heart of Aotearoa, where whenua meets wairua, stories are not just told – they are shaped, carved and etched into form. One artist whose mahi speaks directly to the soul is Stevei Houkamau, an extraordinary Uku (clay) artist whose work honours whakapapa, identity and connection to atua and whenua. I met Stevei 15
From Earth to Art: Celebrating Māori Clay Art with Stevei Houkamau Read More »
As travellers and tangata whenua (people of the land), we believe it’s important to not just see the landscapes, but to understand the history that shaped this land. For us, sharing the story of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is part of that journey. The Treaty of Waitangi, or Te Tiriti o Waitangi, is one of
Waitangi Treaty: A Turning Point in Our Aotearoa – New Zealand Story Read More »
The Waikato region is full of surprises and three of its most memorable areas are Hauraki, Matamata and Coromandel. Together, they showcase some of the best Waikato highlights from the gold-mining history and dramatic landscapes of Hauraki to Matamata’s rolling farmland and the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set and finally the coastal beauty and creative spirit
Hauraki, Matamata & Coromandel: Discover Waikato’s Coastal & Countryside Charm Read More »
In the middle of the Waikato region, the towns of Tirau, Putāruru and Tokoroa may be small, but they’re full of unique charm that makes them great places to stop on a road trip. Each town has its own flavour from quirky art and cafés to handy bakeries, trails and sculptures that tell local stories.
Tirau, Putāruru & Tokoroa: Explore Hidden Gems in the Waikato Read More »
The heart of the Waikato region isn’t just rolling farmland and mighty rivers, it’s also home to Hamilton and its surrounds, where city culture, coastal charm, heritage towns and Māori history all come together. From the buzz of Hamilton city, with its cafés, galleries and gardens, to the laid-back surf town of Raglan, this part
Exploring Hamilton & Surrounds: From City to Coast in the Waikato Read More »
The Waikato region is a dream for cyclists, whether you’re after a short scenic ride or a multi-day adventure. With riverside paths, old railway lines and trails weaving through farmland and bush, there’s something for every level of rider. There are so many biking trails still left to discover but the ones we’ve already explored
Best Biking Trails in Waikato: Ride Beside Rivers and Rails Read More »
The Waikato region is one of the largest in Aotearoa – New Zealand, stretching from the volcanic plateau around Taupō to the lush farmland and bush of the Waikato basin, and out to the Kaimai and Pirongia ranges. With such a wide landscape, it’s no surprise the region is home to an incredible variety of
Best Hiking Trails in Waikato: From Peaks to Pure Springs Read More »
I’ve been lucky enough to visit glowworm caves all over Aotearoa – New Zealand, and it never ceases to amaze me how in awe you become. The way the cave ceilings transform into a sky of living stars is truly mesmerising. The Waitomo Caves in Waikato are just as spectacular and perhaps the most famous
Waitomo Caves:lowworm Magic in the Heart of Waikato Read More »
Tucked away in the heart of the Waikato near Putāruru lies one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Aotearoa – Te Waihou (The Blue Springs). Famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, this spring has become a must-see for anyone travelling through the central North Island. The water here is so pure that around 70%
Te Waihou – The Blue Springs of Putāruru: Crystal Waters & Scenic Walks Read More »
Deep in the rolling green hills of the Waikato lies Hobbiton Movie Set, the place where the Shire was brought to life. What started as a film location for The Lord of the Rings has become one of Aotearoa’s most beloved attractions, drawing fans and curious travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re a
Hobbiton: A Cinematic Journey into Middle-earth Read More »