Explore the Best of the Waikato

CHECK OUT THE BEST LOCAL SPOTS

From iconic gardens and glowworm caves to boutique cafés and country trails, Moifaa Farm is perfectly placed to explore it all. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a touch of Middle-earth magic, there’s something nearby for everyone.

Local Nature & Nearby Beauty

The Waikato is full of hidden gems and natural beauty, tranquil gardens, shimmering lakes, and the kind of countryside charm that invites you to slow down and breathe.

Aerial view of a small town with a central lake, surrounded by trees with fall foliage, residential houses, and commercial buildings, set against rolling hills and mountains in the background on a sunny day.
Scenic landscape with a large body of water, small islands with trees, a bridge crossing the water, and rolling green hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
An aerial view of a tall waterfall cascading into a pool, surrounded by dense green trees and forest.

Visitors Top Picks

A decorative fountain featuring a cherub on top, with water cascading into a basin supported by four lion sculptures, in front of a white villa with arches and a red-tiled roof, surrounded by trimmed hedges and potted plants.

Hamilton Gardens
- 15 mins

Explore one of New Zealand’s most celebrated attractions. Hamilton Gardens takes you on a journey through time and culture, from the serene Japanese Garden of Contemplation to the playful Surrealist Garden and the romantic Italian Renaissance Garden. Perfect for a morning stroll or afternoon picnic by the river.

Visit Hamilton Gardens
A tiger lying on the forest floor with trees in the background.

Hamilton Zoo
- 25 mins

Set among rolling farmland, Hamilton Zoo features over 600 native and exotic animals. The giraffe and cheetah enclosures are guest favourites, and the zoo’s peaceful walkways make it perfect for families.
There’s an onsite cafe, playground, NZ Native Bird enclosures and we recommend checking out the feeding schedule to get the most from your visit.

visit Hamilton Zoo
A Hobbit-style house built into a hillside with a round wooden door and garden outside, surrounded by flowers and greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Hobbiton
- 45 mins

Step into the Shire and experience the magic of Middle-earth. The hobbiton Movie set invites you to explore the lush pastures, see the Hobbit holes up close, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Tours run daily, but booking ahead is essential.

visit hobbiton movie set
Aerial view of a waterfall cascading into a green pool surrounded by lush forest on a cliffside.

Bridal Veil Falls
- 1 hour

Walk through lush native bush to discover one of the Waikato’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Bridal Veil Falls cascades 55 metres into a misty pool below, with easy viewing platforms at the top and bottom of the track. A scenic and rewarding stop on the way to Raglan.

Visit Bridal Veil Falls
Outdoor patio seating area with wicker chairs, glass tables, and large white umbrellas, overlooking a green field and cloudy sky.

Zealong Tea Estate
- 10 mins

Discover New Zealand’s only tea plantation at Zealong Tea Estate. Take a guided tour through the manicured fields, enjoy high tea overlooking the gardens, or sample award-winning teas in the elegant restaurant. A peaceful and beautifully presented local gem that everyone loves!

visit Zealong Tea Estate
Gray modern building with a colorful Mountain-shaped logo and the words "Mystery Creek" on the front, set against a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Mystery Creek
- 10 mins

Home to the iconic Fieldays and a wide range of concerts and exhibitions, Mystery Creek Events Centre is one of New Zealand’s most dynamic venues. Surrounded by rolling countryside and just minutes from Moifaa Farm, it’s the region’s hub for events of every kind.

visit mystery creek event centre
Scenic view of a large blue lake with small islands and a forested shoreline, a bridge crossing the lake, and rolling green hills and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Lake Karapiro
- 15 mins

Enjoy the serenity of Lake Karāpiro, a picturesque lake set among forested hills. It’s ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or cycling along the scenic Te Awa River Trail. The calm water, native birds, and nearby cafés make it a favourite spot for both relaxation and recreation.

visit Lake Karapiro
Aerial view of a town with a central church, surrounded by colorful autumn trees, a body of water, residential homes, and commercial buildings with hills in the background under clear blue skies.

Cambridge Town
- 10 mins

Known as the “Town of Trees and Champions,” Cambridge blends small-town charm with style and energy. Stroll through boutique shops, visit local art galleries, or enjoy coffee beneath the plane trees. Weekend markets, friendly locals, and leafy streets give Cambridge its timeless appeal.

visit Cambridge town
Indoor velodrome with cyclists racing on the wooden track, empty spectator seats on the side, and bright overhead lights.

Avantidrome
- 10 mins

Watch New Zealand’s elite cyclists train or take a ride on the world-class track yourself. The Avantidrome combines cutting-edge facilities with a welcoming community atmosphere. Adjacent walking and cycling trails make it a great stop for active travellers.

visit The Avantidrome
Group of people on a boat inside a dark cave with glowing blue mineral deposits on the ceiling.

Waitomo Caves
- 1 hour, 15 mins

Venture underground to see the world-famous glowworms of the Waitomo Caves. Take a gentle boat ride beneath sparkling ceilings or choose an adrenaline-filled black-water rafting tour. Above ground, the surrounding countryside and nearby Kiwi House are just as memorable.

visit Waitomo Caves
A coastal view with a sandy beach, turquoise ocean waves, green hillside, and a few parked cars along a winding road.

Raglan
- 1 hour

Relaxed, creative, and beautifully wild, Raglan is a coastal gem known for its surf, art, and local food scene. Wander the boutique shops, enjoy fish and chips by the water, or simply soak up the laid-back vibe. A scenic drive from Moifaa Farm, perfect for a day by the sea.

visit Raglan
A bird with outstretched wings landing on a feeding station among lush green foliage.

Maungatautari
- 25 mins

Explore one of New Zealand’s most inspiring conservation projects. Sanctuary Mountain is a predator-free reserve where rare native birds and ancient forest flourish. Gentle tracks wind through towering trees alive with birdsong, offering a glimpse into Aotearoa’s beauty.

visit Mount Maungatautari

Find More To Explore

Looking for more ideas on where to eat, shop, or wander? The Waikato is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Browse these local guides for food, experiences, and day trip inspiration:

Waikato NZ
love the centre
camridge nz

“Be sure to leave time to explore the local Bootleg Brewery which makes a mean Rhubarb Cider. We will definitely be back to stay again.”

- Melissa | AirBNB | June 2023