Cambridge is full of hidden gems and world class attractions. Read on to discover some of our key adventures and attractions
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is an ancient, predator-free forest right here in the Waikato. The Visitor Centre is located on the Southern side of the mountain, just 30 minutes drive from Cambridge.
At 3,363 hectares, Sanctuary Mountain is by far the largest pest-proof fenced project in the world. Be amazed at the ancient trees towering majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and bathe in the diversity of sights and sounds within the sanctuary. You will come away enriched and enlightened by this spectacular environment.
Whilst you can go it alone, we recommend a guided tour as the best way to explore Sanctuary Mountain. Their experienced guides take you on an informative tour and help you spot the endangered species, flora and fauna. A private night tour is a truly magical experience where you will marvel at the twinkling lights of glowworms, discover by torchlight the wētā who venture out at night in search of food and listen for the calls of spotted brown kiwi and ruru.
Kayak Tours - Twilight Gloworm or Daytime Canyon
Daytime Canyon tour – a relaxing (and family-friendly) adventure where you paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream, through the spectacular canyon that has been carved out by water over hundreds of years, and over the submerged Horahora village.
Twilight Glow worm kayak tour – starting late afternoon or early evening, enjoy spectacular sights you can only experience by kayak. Paddle slowly through the Pokaiwhenua canyon and, when darkness falls, be guided by the magical titiwai – New Zealand glow worms – on either side, then drift back to base under the stars.
Both Providers are Adventure Safety Certified
A walkers (and runners) paradise
No matter where you stay in Cambridge, there will be a walking track nearby – lakes, rivers and wetlands included. We have over 22kms of off-road walkways and tracks that vary from easy, flat walks to the more strenuous. We recommend calling into the Cambridge isite to pick up a map for these fabulous walkways. Or you can view and download a MAP HERE but you need a large printer! The Te Awa River Ride is also popular with walkers and runners and runs from Karapiro in the south, through Cambridge, towards the velodrome and beyond, ending in Ngaruawahia!
Camjet - ecological or adrenalin options
Speeding up the mighty Waikato in a 350hp V8 Jet Boat is going to get the heart pumping, adrenaline flowing and faces smiling. A unique opportunity to visit the Karapiro Dam, see amazing native bush and wildlife. Ideal for whole families, work group, friends and anyone who likes adventure, adrenaline, speed and pristine scenery. 15,30 or 45 minutes options
If you prefer something a bit more relaxing – take the ecological tour . Enjoy the stunning and breathtaking scenery and learn about the history of the region. A scenic sightseeing cruise tailored for the customers on board. If requested, it can include some slides and spins. Discover the native birds and fish that live in this river ecosystem (60 minutes)
The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum
The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum provides an Art-in-Nature experience with over 100 sculptures and installations within one of New Zealand’s largest outdoor galleries. Its 2km trail winds amongst a landscape of ponds, cliffs, rocks and thousands of trees created from a former derelict quarry. The park offers opportunities to interact with nature in creative ways.
The Arboretum has been in the process of development since 1991 and was formed from derelict land. Sustainability of nature and art are the driving forces of the park and it’s trees are now protected long-term for carbon sequestration.
This 42 acre hillside site provides panoramic vistas over the fertile Waikato valley. The site contains intimate tree-enclosed spaces and interesting landforms including towering cliffs, rocks, a stream, many ponds, and small waterfalls. More than 20,000 trees and shrubs have been planted, representative of flora from many parts of the world.
Cycling in and around Cambridge
Cambridge is “cycling central”, with spectacular road rides, world class bmx and pump tracks, mountain biking, the Te Awa River Ride and track cycling at the national velodrome. No one else does it better!
Best of all, when you visit Cambridge, you can ditch the car and explore the town by bike. Cambridge is bike friendly, relatively flat with a compact town center. With wide cycle-friendly footpaths, 22kms of green belt, cycle lanes, 40km main street zone and the Te Awa River Ride to help you get around safely. There are numerous bike racks to lock up to, and the local cafes and retailers are well accustomed to bikes parking up nearby.
Our full guide to cycling in Cambridge can be found below.
Our top tips
- Make Cambridge your base for 3-4 days to make the most of your visit. Spend time exploring Cambridge, and take a couple of trips to nearby attractions such as Hobbiton, Waitomo, or even Raglan & the Mount – it’s all under an hour away
- BOOK your dining before arriving – Cambridge is popular!
- Spring and Autumn are particularly stunning times to visit in this Town of Trees
- View our “What’s On” guide for when you visit – www.cambridge.co.nz/events
What else do we recommend?
- Take in a movie at
- Visit the
- Ride like a champ at the world class indoor track –
- Checkout harness racing at
- View our Spa and Retreat options for some pampering
Where to stay
We have accommodation for every budget and requirement – click on the links below to view options
Need help?
Destination Cambridge can assist with
- Booking your accommodation and activities
- Transport and tours
- Customised packages
- Free Maps & Brochures
- Recommendations on where to eat and shop
- Events guide & management
- Finding any information about Cambridge
Contact us
- Visit us at the Cambridge isite
- Call 07 823 3456
- Email info@cambridge.co.nz
