Top Things to do in Thames
- 1. RAPAURA Watergardens
- 2. Hauraki Rail Trail Thames
- 3. Goldmine Experience
- 4. The Butterfly and Orchid Garden
- 5. Miranda Hot Springs
- 6. Kauaeranga Visitor Centre
- 7. Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum
- 8. Burke Street Wharf
- 9. Thames Historical Museum
- 10. Thames i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Top 10 Things to do in Thames, New Zealand
Discover the best top things to do in Thames, New Zealand including RAPAURA Watergardens, Hauraki Rail Trail Thames, Goldmine Experience, The Butterfly and Orchid Garden, Miranda Hot Springs, Kauaeranga Visitor Centre, Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum, Burke Street Wharf, Thames Historical Museum, Thames i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.
Restaurants in Thames
1. RAPAURA Watergardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 208 reviews
A mature property, which has evolved over more than 45 years, Rapaura Watergardens offers something for everyone; native trees, ferns, seasonal flora, lily ponds, meandering walks over lush green lawns, Bridges and streams, garden sculptures by an award winning artist and a relaxing bush walk to a cascading waterfall, ‘The Seven Stairs to Heaven’.
Reviewed By HoneyandPaul - Gold Coast, Australia
Easily accessible from Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula, this place is a Must See. There is a great restaurant which you should visit before your walk through the Watergardens, and you will enjoy the food as the Chef is Swiss-Trained. The Gardens are very well kept with plenty of wonderful vistas and the seven steps Waterfalls are great for photographic enthusiasts. $15 per person for the watergardens which is great value. Don't Miss This Place..It Is Great.
2. Hauraki Rail Trail Thames
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 92 reviews
The Hauraki Rail Trail is only 1.5 hours from Auckland and passes through Thames, Paeroa, Waihi and Te Aroha. The trail is a family friendly and is an easy grade one ride, suitable for all ages and abilities. A true sense of pioneering hospitality and mouth-watering food can be tasted along the way, fare to satisfy the most ardent explorer. The Trail also passes through the Karangahake gorge known as one of New Zealand's 14 wonders.
Reviewed By Stoney41 - Auckland Central, New Zealand
Great trip! Would recommend Sherpa shuttles plus Miranda hot Springs holiday park. 11 people completed this from age 6years to 40 something. Everyone managed. Stopped for cheese platter and Devonshire teas. Kids were amazing and we had no problems. Would recommend to other families!
3. Gold Mine Experience
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 64 reviews
Reviewed By Damian L - Norwich, United Kingdom
We were the first to arrive, the guide who was there at the time let us wonder around and talked to us about some of the items that were on show and what we were looking at. After we had a look around and watched the video, we were taken on the guided tour into the mine. It is only a 10-15 minute walk through the mine but the guide was extremely knowledgeable and very friendly and welcoming to all in the group. You only need to spend about an hour here to see and do everything but it is well worth it. Gives you an excellent and fascinating insight into some of the history of mining in and around Thames. Would recommend for all the family.
4. The Butterfly and Orchid Garden
Overall Ratings
4 based on 106 reviews
Reviewed By Sandra R - Hamilton, New Zealand
I believe there are new owners and it has made a positive difference. The 2 preschoolers loved the butterflies. I didn’t bother to use my camera this time as it hates the tropical atmosphere but the phone was fine. A great place for a break and a short activity for kids.
Overall Ratings
4 based on 149 reviews
Reviewed By Brian T - Auckland, New Zealand
The hot Springs are soothing and restful, especially the smaller ones tucked away.
The larger pools can be busy at times, yet never overcrowded when we've visited.
If you're camping nearby at one of the many campsites or van sites, a visit to Miranda can soothe some overworked muscles.
6. Kauaeranga Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By JrMushroom - Austin, Texas
I recommend driving here and stopping at the visitor center for info before choosing/commencing the hikes. Be forewarned that the drive in is very rough for a small car, and it takes about 40 minutes to get to the end of the road, each way.
7. Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By Anthony Evan L - Blountville, Tennessee
The mineral shop is particularly popular with visitors and there are some specimens that may be of particular interest to those interested in the geology of the gold deposits. The shop is attached to the School of Mines which was an important educational institution during the gold mining era and beyond. This is explained during tours of the buildings, which are being restored.
8. Burke Street Wharf
Overall Ratings
4 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By paullegate - Luton, United Kingdom
Burke Street Wharf is a short distance from Thames Town Centre and overlooks the Firth of Thames, it was originally called Thames Wharf and was one of many in the immediate vicinity at the time of the gold rush days. Although there is not much left of the wharf it is still worth a visit and a good photo opportunity.
9. Thames Historical Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By Anthony Evan L - Blountville, Tennessee
This museum benefited greatly when it was chosen for the Television series about restoring small museums around New Zealand by Brigit Gallagher in 2016. A thorough restoration and redesign of the displays has resulted in a facility well worth visiting. Check on the opening hours.
A special feature is a set of models of old historical buildings which have been constructed using kauri timber by Ted Eagans. His craftsmanship is outstanding and he has done this from photos of buildings which sadly don't exist any more and without the help of any drawings. Really remarkable. But this is only the beginning of a treasure trove!
10. Thames i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By Jared S - Thames, New Zealand
There is not a lot of information. It is quite a small information centre, but they do have helpful, friendly staff.
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