Location: Waikato Region
Top Things to do in Waikato Region
The 10 Best Museums in Waikato Region, North Island
Waikato (/ˈwaɪkɑːtɔː/ or /ˈwaɪkætoʊ/) is a local government region of the upper North Island of New Zealand. It covers the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupo District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.
Restaurants in Waikato Region
1. Topadahil Art Studios
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
View fine art by contemporary French/New Zealand artist Guity Evelyn. Her unique home/studio has stunning views overlooking Wharekawa Harbour, unspoilt Opoutere Beach and the Wildlife Sanctuary.Guity's unique paintings and distinctive style exude a blend of The Coromandel with hints of Provence. These reflections of where the Pacific meets the Mediterranean express a character all of their own. Add to this a boldness of colour and Guity's affinity for both the figurative and abstract and you have a complete palate, which has made her works sought by International and Australasian collectors. **Well Signposted** Topadahil Art Studios is only 3km off Pacific Coast Highway SH25. **Only 10min From Whangamata - 25 min from Pauanui - 1 hour from Whitianga - and 2 hours from Auckland or Rotorua. - Check us out on Destination Coromandel's video - https://youtu.be/k80Rx7fmhEg
Reviewed By RaglanSteph - Walsall, United Kingdom
I visited Guity while on holiday at Whangamata. Not only does the studio enjoy the best views around, but Guity is a fabulous artist. I stayed there for hours discussing many topics of mutual interest and came away with some truly unique artwork which grace the walls of my house and which I will always treasure.
2. Te Awamutu Space Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 145 reviews
An inspiring educational attraction for all ages. Experience the world of space and astronomy through displays and interactive activities. Our centrepiece exhibit is a small but fascinating collection of artifacts from the American and Russian/Soviet space programmes. You'll also find informative displays about the Universe, the history of space exploration and scientific research. Use the interactive screens to see what's in the night sky, tour the Solar System, create your own orbital systems and more. Watch videos, ask us questions and just hang out chatting about space. We also have a small space shop featuring new and secondhand items.
Reviewed By Greatdayout2020
Had a great trip to the SpaceCentre. The kids loved it and so did the adults. The virtual reality was amazing. A real find.
3. Deciduus & Santie
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Deciduus & Santie is a boutique gallery in Tirau, South Waikato showcasing the work of artist Santie Cronje and a curated collection of fine art, ceramics, photography and indoor plants. We proudly support handmade and NZmade. Visit us in the old red cottage midway up the hill.
Reviewed By 161shelly - Te Awamutu, New Zealand
Deciduus is a wonderful blend of art, plants and crockery, all made by NZ artists and beautifully curated by an artist called Santie Conjie who has amazing taste and the ability to create a space that is both exciting and delightfully peace-filled. I don't drive through Tirau without stopping here and usually leave with a little something!
4. Taupo Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 227 reviews
Reviewed By DonaldC106 - Braemar, United Kingdom
A quirky little museum with excellent exhibits giving a really good insight into the history of Taupo. I use the word quirky as one of the exhibits is a 1960’s vintage 2 berth caravan kitted out with period fixtures and fittings. The traditional Maori meeting house with wonderful carvings is the main exhibit and first thing you see on entering the building and the award winning Chelsea Flower Show garden exhibit from, I think, 2004 was an unexpected surprise. The lady on reception was charming and helpful
5. Waikato Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 364 reviews
Haere mai! Welcome to Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato. Perched above the mighty Waikato River, this world-class museum and art gallery is the artistic and cultural heart of the Waikato. Visit us to experience visual stories and guided activities that bring our art, history, culture and science to life through an inspirational programme that aims to challenge and inspire you. Open daily 10am-5pm.
Reviewed By D7543NEandread
We had an 18 month old we needed to entertain on a rainy day during a visit to Hamilton. A lot of the activities are for older children but the kids area kept him entertained for hours.
6. L'Arte
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
Reviewed By PGNZ - Waipukurau, New Zealand
Still a great place to visit. Great for Coffee and Food and fun to wander around the arts and crafts. Almost always buy something for the Garden
7. The New Zealand Timber Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
8. Classics Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 276 reviews
Something Classic for the Whole Family! A classic car museum with something to cater for every member of the family. Come and have a look at the cars of yesteryear which are sure to bring back memories. We have over 60 cars on display and an extensive collection of petrol memorabilia - signs, tins, petrol pumps, pedal cars and vintage pin ball machines. Plenty of free parking onsite. We have a 1950's diner in the building too! The Jukebox Diner, serving American classics, modern fare, child friendly options and of course great coffee!
Reviewed By akmcbean - Cambridge, New Zealand
Drove past the Classic Car Museum for years thinking “we must go in”. Finally took kids during school holidays and what a lovely surprise it was. Beautifully presented and very clean. Full of history and interesting pieces even for the non-car enthusiast. 5 Kids aged 4-11 and all really enjoyed the experience. Diner had a lovely variety of a la-carte and cabinet meals. Good selection and prices for kids food. Play area for little ones and a cool car for the older kids to sit and play in. Well done Classics Museum.
9. Firth Tower Estate and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 70 reviews
Reviewed By neilandvicki2018 - Whitianga, New Zealand
Great museum and gardens, I would definitely visit this place. Plenty of parking ,you can even get power sites if you have a motorhome or caravan quite cheap for the sites, museum is donation only
