Things to do in Te Urewera
Discover the best attractions and experiences Te Urewera has to offer
Historic Monuments
Te Urewera holds deep Tuhoe cultural heritage with sacred sites and traditional gathering places that tell the story of the region.
Ruatahuna Marae
A central Tuhoe marae in Te Urewera, a hub of gatherings and Tuhoe heritage.
Murupara Marae
Traditional meeting grounds where visitors can glimpse local iwi customs.
Museums
Learn about Tuhoe history, Te Urewera myths, and the landscape through small interpretive centers.
Aniwaniwa Visitor Centre
Exhibits about Te Urewera, Tuhoe culture, and the natural history around Lake Waikaremoana.
Murupara Information Centre
Local displays and stories about the Te Urewera region and its communities.
Religious Monuments
Sacred spaces and community centers that play a key role in Tuhoe spiritual and cultural life.
Ruatahuna Marae
A significant Tuhoe gathering place with ongoing cultural activities.
Murupara Marae
A living center of Maori spiritual and community life in the Te Urewera area.
National & Theme Parks
Wild, pristine landscapes and iconic trails that define Te Urewera’s wilderness.
Te Urewera National Park
Protected wildlands with ancient forests, lakes, and rich Tuhoe heritage.
Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
A premier Great Walk through forest, along lakeshores, and into remote bays.
Neighborhoods
Gateway towns and communities that serve as entry points to Te Urewera.
Murupara
Gateway town at the southern edge of Te Urewera, with easy access to the park.
Ruatahuna
Small Tuhoe community at the heart of Te Urewera country.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Te Urewera’s beauty without needing paid activities.
Hike parts of Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
Explore short segments or viewpoints for free and soak in the scenery.
Picnic and swim at Lake Waikaremoana shores
Enjoy a lakeside day with family-friendly spots and clear water.
Gastronomy
Taste Māori flavors and simple, fresh regional fare.
Traditional Māori hangi experiences
Taste a hangi meal prepared in Tuhoe communities.
Local freshwater fish dishes near the lake
Savor simple, fresh preparations using lake fish.
Nightlife
Evenings in Te Urewera are serene and star-filled.
Stargazing by Lake Waikaremoana
The clear night skies over Te Urewera are perfect for star watching.
Evening storytelling at a marae (when hosted)
Quiet, cultural evenings around a fireside with Tuhoe hosts.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and community events showcase Tuhoe heritage.
Tuhoe cultural performances
Occasional traditional performances celebrating Tuhoe heritage.
Kapa haka evenings in local towns
Live Maori singing and dance in welcoming community spaces.
Sports
Active travelers can explore the region through its outdoor venues.
Hiking the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk
A rewarding trek through forest and along the lake’s edge.
Kayaking on Lake Waikaremoana
Calm waters and scenic shoreline ideal for paddling.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and less-visited trails reveal Te Urewera’s solitude.
Aniwaniwa Falls viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint along the Waikaremoana road with forest scenery.
Aniwaniwa River and forest trails
Quiet backcountry trails through temperate rainforest.