Explore the purest of springs, visit an eco-sanctuary and sample the finest cheese and flavours of the Waikato region.
Overview
Join us for a sensory nature and flavour trail around the heart of the Waikato region. Our morning begins with a journey to the South Waikato for a gentle walk along the banks of Te Waihou river that leads to the famous Blue Springs producing some of the clearest and purest water in New Zealand. We find a tucked away pocket of nature to enjoy a hot brew with a view and some morning tea.
Waikato is a region renown for it's dairy farming and local produce, so it's only natural that we visit a local cheese maker to sample some of the best cheeses in New Zealand. Multi-award winning cheesemakers Over the Moon Dairy are small in size but huge on creating unique flavours.
A visit to the largest mainland ecological island in New Zealand is a must when in the Waikato, and we've got a special experience lined up for you. Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is home to our rarest birds and the forest is pristine. You will feel as though you have entered an ancient, pre-historic world. Hear all about this incredible conservation project and enjoy an unforgettable forest lunch under a native canopy at a secret location.
Our afternoon is rounded off with a visit to the largest organic blueberry orchard in the southern hemisphere. Sample blueberry delights (blueberry wine anyone?!) or enjoy a really great New Zealand coffee while we take in the views over the orchard. This tour is for nature lovers who enjoy explore a region by foot and flavour!
To make a booking, please email hello@natureandnosh.co.nz,
call +64 204 1305060 or book via the button to the right.
Details
$390 per person
Fully-inclusive, guided experience
Runs: Monday - Sunday (subject to availability)
Departs: 8am from Hamilton
Returns: Approx. 4.30pm to Hamilton
Duration: 8.5 hours
TWO guided short walks
Walks: 3 hours total
Grade: Easy
Note: A minimum of 4 people are required for this tour to run - Private option for 2 pax is NZD$500 per person
Amazing Experience
"I had such a fun time on the Nature and Nosh tour with the team! They had so much knowledge to share about everything, especially in the bush that you wouldn’t of known if you were by yourself. I learnt so many cool things that I can take away from this experience! I’m also so glad I could discover the amazing food in the area! So spoilt! Overall they were so welcoming and we had many great laughs! They always had a smile on their faces and was happy to answer any questions. I highly recommend this tour and would 100% do another one! Thanks Nature and Nosh!"
-Shelby (Auckland)
Inclusions
Return transfers from Hamilton (we can collect from your central city accommodation) in comfortable and spacious transport with air conditioning.
Professional local guide with local knowledge and stories leading the way
TWO guided short walks
One visit to Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari (eco-sanctuary), your entry is a conservation contribution to the project and is included
Forest feast with local flavours under a native canopy
Walk along the banks of Te Waihou Blue Spring
Cheese tasting at Over the Moon Cheese
Blueberry artisan flavours - taste a suite of products from Monavale bluerberries
Morning and afternoon tea
What's not included
Personal hiking gear such as boots and day packs, water bottles. We do have some day packs and walking poles available to lend out.
Other important information
This trip includes two short walks, you must have a basic level of fitness, but do not need to be a hiker or have experience in the New Zealand bush to join. The tracks are mostly metalled and well-maintained.
We walk in most weather (as long it is safe to do so), so please come prepared for all weather with warm layers, a rain jacket and good covered walking shoes.
If we do need to postpone due to severe weather, we will offer an alternative date for the experience (or a refund).
Grading
Grade
Easy
3 hours walking total - gentle with some incline at times.
Carrying a small day backpack for your personal gear such as water, camera, warm jacket and a rain jacket.
Track conditions
The track surfaces on these two walks are well-maintained and suitable for beginners.
Note: This itinerary should be seen as a guide only and is subject to change at any time due to elements outside our control.