Exploring The Waitangi National Estate

Looking for an activity that offers something for the whole family this summer? Then why not head to the Waitangi National Estate and Treaty Grounds. This 500h park has something for everyone: whether you are interested in the origins of our country at the Treaty Grounds, a mountain biker, a foodie, golfer, or someone who enjoys coastal nature walks or running – no matter the weather.

Perhaps the best-known part of the Waitangi Estate is the Treaty Grounds. In this 4- hectare historic precinct, families can explore New Zealand’s most important heritage place and buildings, alongside modern, interactive museums with hands-on activity sheets for kids that are designed to spark curiosity and get them engaged. You can join an informative and personable guided tour with one of our friendly and expert guides or explore at your own pace. Enjoy sweeping views that make the setting as memorable as the experience itself and take the time to relax with an ice cream on the expansive grounds or enjoy a fresh barista coffee, meals and refreshments at the on-site café, sporting beautiful keyhole views of the coastal Bay of Islands.

Not only do we do immersive daytime experiences, but the Treaty Grounds also has your evenings covered too! Our Hāngī and Concert package is perfect for the whole family, where everyone can indulge in the delicious flavours of a traditional hāngī and be entertained by high energy Māori cultural performance that will leave your family talking about it for weeks. https://www.waitangi.org.nz/book/hangi-and-concert

If your family is more adrenaline fuelled or need to burn off some extra kid energy, then visit the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park with its shop, café and newly opened track garnering rave reviews. No bike? No problem they can rent you a conventional or e-bike and all the gear to get you going. Visit https://ridewaitangi.nz/

Those golfers among you tempted to sneak away for a few holes, are also well catered for. The 18-hole Waitangi Golf Course has some of the best views of any golf courses in the country and is surprisingly good value with 9-holes starting at $40 for visitors. Clubs and golf carts are also available to hire. Contact the Waitangi Golf Club for more information https://www.waitangigolf.co.nz/

Horse Treks ( https://horsetrekn.co.nz/ ) and bush walks / runs are also available on the Waitangi National Estate. The newly revamped Haruru Falls Track leads from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds through to the Haruru Falls, a distance of 5km each way (allow 1.5 hours one way). This beautiful bush covered track is one of the most popular walks in the Bay of Islands and follows the Waitangi River crossing a large mangrove board walk before bringing you to the striking curved Haruru Falls. Alternatively, you can park at Haruru Falls end and either do the track from that end or just enjoy scenic views of the falls which is beside the car park. Whatever your interest, there is something for everyone at the Waitangi National Estate this summer.

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