Kawerau District

Geothermal Wonders and Hot Springs

The Kawerau District is home to some of the most spectacular geothermal attractions in New Zealand, with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and natural hot springs dotted throughout the landscape. Visit the Kawerau Geothermal Park, a unique attraction that showcases the power and beauty of the earth's geothermal activity, with walkways and viewing platforms that allow visitors to get up close to the bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. Relax and unwind in the natural hot springs at the Maurie Kjar Memorial Pool, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, or take a dip in the thermal waters of the Rautahi Pond, a secluded swimming hole surrounded by native bush.

Lush Forests and Outdoor Adventures

The Kawerau District is blessed with an abundance of lush native forests, offering endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks. Explore the stunning Tarawera Forest, a vast wilderness area with a network of walking tracks and mountain bike trails that wind through towering trees and past cascading waterfalls. Take a scenic drive along the Tarawera River, stopping to admire the breathtaking views of the river gorge and the surrounding mountains, or visit the Kawerau Putauaki Wetlands, a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of native birds and plants.

Rich Maori Heritage and Cultural Experiences

The Kawerau District has a rich Maori heritage, with a strong connection to the land and a deep respect for the natural environment. Visit the Rautahi Marae, a traditional Maori meeting house that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the culture and traditions of the local iwi (tribe), or attend a cultural performance at the Kawerau Community Centre, showcasing traditional Maori song, dance, and storytelling. Learn about the history and legends of the area at the Kawerau Museum, which features exhibits on the town's industrial past and the role of the Maori people in shaping the region's identity.

Adventure Sports and Adrenaline Activities

For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, the Kawerau District offers a range of adventure sports and activities that will get your heart racing. Try your hand at white-water rafting on the Tarawera River, one of the most exciting and challenging rafting experiences in New Zealand, or go jet boating through the narrow gorges and rapids of the Rangitaiki River. Take a scenic flight over the stunning volcanic landscapes of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, or go skydiving above the lush forests and sparkling lakes of the region.

Accommodation and Dining

The Kawerau District offers a range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from cozy bed and breakfasts to self-contained holiday homes and camping grounds. Stay in a luxury lodge overlooking the geothermal wonders of the Kawerau Geothermal Park, or pitch a tent in the heart of the Tarawera Forest and fall asleep to the sound of native birds and rushing waterfalls. Sample the region's delicious local produce at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area, such as the popular Kawerau Bakery or the Tarawera Cafe, or visit the Kawerau Farmers' Market to stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables, and artisanal goods.