Attractions
Within an hours drive of the Lodge there are too many things to see and do - to list! We have featured just a few below.
Rainbow Springs - Kiwi Encounter
Set amongst the native trees and beautiful forests of Rotorua, Rainbow Springs Nature Park offers a fun-packed and educational experience for the whole family.
Maungatautari Reserve
A sanctuary for populations of many of our most endangered species such as birds, skinks, geckos, frogs, bats and insects.
Sculpture Park
Discover more than 50 sculptures and installations within one of New Zealand's largest outdoor galleries along the 2 km long nature trail.
Hobbiton Village
Our motto is that Karapiro is in the middle of nowhere yet the centre of everywhere. It could be said we're in "Middle-earth" given our proximity to Hobbiton Village!
Stay in the famous and luxurious Lake Karapiro Lodge that Sir Peter Jackson uses when filming at Hobbiton Village!
One Hour's Drive to NZ Beaches
Lake Karapiro is smack-bang in the centre of the North Island - within an hour's drive of both the East and West Coasts of New Zealand.
On the Eastcoast lies a number of beautiful world-class white sandy beaches offering great surfing, sun and a playground for fishermen. The closest of these beaches is Mt Maunganui. On the rugged Westcoast lies Raglan Beach with its wild surf and black iron sands.
Local Restaurants
We can recommend the following three establishments:
New Zealand Wineries
New Zealand has become internationally recognised for its excellence in wine production and wine tours are becoming a popular New Zealand past-time. There are a number of renowned vineyards in the Waikato and many more in neighbouring regions.
Horse Studs Tours
Stroll through the immaculate Farms, steeped in history and view the stallions, witness the breeding operation and depending on the time of the year interact with mares and foals.
More Information on:
Cambridge
Cambridge is a quaint tree-studded town full of charm and character... only 20kms from the Lodge [20 minutes drive]. A great place for coffee, dinner or a stroll through the shops.
Hamilton
Hamilton is a beautiful city through which the Waikato River runs... 45kms from the Lodge [30 minutes drive].
Karapiro
Karapiro is located right in the centre of New Zealand's North Island and is considered a very special place on Earth by locals and visitors alike.
Nearby Maungatautari Ecological Reserve is a 'must-see'. The reserve consists of a fully fenced 3,400 hectare area encompassing the top part of the mountain - created to eradicate (introduced) mammalian pests and predators forever! The reserve now boasts a diversity of indigenous plants and animals previously not seen in our lifetime. Guided tours of the reserve can be arranged (from $20 per head). Free transfers courtesy of the Lodge.
Rotorua
Rotorua, world-renowned for its geothermal activity ...70kms from the Lodge [55 minutes drive]. Below are just a few of the many activities that Rotorua offers.
Waitomo
Waitomo is world-renowned for its famous glow-worm caves and black water rafting. Waitomo is 80kms from the Lodge [1hour drive].
Mt Maunganui
Voted one of the best beaches in the World, this popular surf beach boasts white sand and clear water ...65kms from the Lodge [50 minutes drive].
NZ Culture
The Waikato region has strong Maori connections. Visit the famous Tamaki Maori Village ...experience the wonderful spirit and culture of our Maori peoples... 75kms from the Lodge [55 minutes drive].
Guests’ Comments
“Thank-you for a lovely lunch at your wonderful lodge, and that lovely view has to be seen to be believed. We all came away saying what a wonderful place you have.”
Busy Bee Garden Group
