What kind of explorer are you?
If you're looking for inspiration for your next adventure, you've come to the right place.
Tohu Whenua is a free itinerary to places around the country where you can soak up history where it happened. Whether on foot, waka or wheels, Tohu Whenua has something for every explorer.
Dive into the quiz to find out what kind of explorer you are and get recommendations for your next trip.
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You’re captivated by tales of the past and love uncovering the human stories that shaped Aotearoa. Museums, historic towns, and cultural landmarks are your playground.
A few Tohu Whenua sites you'll love:
- Fyffe House at Wai o puka - Built on piles of whale vertebrae, this house is a rare remnant of the whaling industry and reveals the lives of early European families in the area. Explore the house, and check out the animated stories gifted by Ngāti Kurī.
- Arrowtown - Discover the Chinese Settlement, soak up the Lakes District Museum and Art Gallery + don't miss out on the award winning cafē and restaurant options in the gorgeous tree lined streets.
- Brunner Mine - By the 1880s, Brunner Mine was the largest coal producer in the country and you'll need to allow at least an hour to discover the mining history on info panels that are found throughout the historic brick factory, coke ovens and coal wagons.
- Kororipo Heritage Park - Home to the iconic Stone Store, Kororipo Pā (the seasonal home of Chief Hongi Hika), Kemp House (NZ's oldest standing building) and Te Ahurea - an interactive pā site set along the banks of Te Awa o Ngā Rangatira, the River of Chiefs.
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Adventure is your middle name! You love active exploration, whether hiking through rugged landscapes, biking historic trails, or climbing to breathtaking views.
For you, every journey is about more than just the destination, it’s about the experience. You relish the sound of gravel underfoot, the scent of fresh mountain air, and the satisfaction of conquering a challenging trail - while soaking up history where it happened along the way.
A few Tohu Whenua sites you'll love:
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Rākaumangamanga Cape Brett - The stunning (and challenging) 8-hour hike - or 35 min water taxi - will bring you to this spectacular destination that has been a point of arrival for early waka and seaplanes alike. You can even stay at the former lighthousekeeper's house.
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Otago Central Rail Trail - A Kiwi classic, the Rail Trail is a 152km journey that travels the wailway line that once connceted isolated communities in Central Otago to Dunedin. Scenery, rural hospitality and big open skies.
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Ōtūwharekai: Hakatere Heritage - Set amidst the dramatic landscapes of Hakatere Conservation Park, this site is the gateway to Ōtūwharekai Ashburton Lakes; an area of outstanding cultural importance to Ngāi Tahu.
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Ōkārito - Kayak the ancient lagoon for a breathtakingly close experience with over 70 species of native birds, take your pick of beautiful scenic walks (the Ōkārito Trig Track is our favourite) and book a night at the Ōkārito Schoolhouse, built in 1901.
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You feel most alive by the water. Whether kayaking along ancient Māori trading routes, sailing through the Bay of Islands, or exploring coastal pā sites, you connect with history through the rhythm of waves and waterways.
A few Tohu Whenua sites you'll love:
- TSS Earnslaw - An iconic experience for all ages, this 90 minute cruise on Lake Wakatipu will take you to Walter Peak High Country Farm where you can book a guided farm tour or horse trek, and enjoy a gourmet bbq lunch or dinner.
- Ōkārito - Book a kayak or eco boat tour of the ancient Ōkārito lagoon to get a breathtakingly close experience with over 70 species of native birds including the rare kōtuku/white heron that often feeds here.
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Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway - Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy clifftop views of the sea and mountains.
- Huriawa - Book a Māori waka experience for two hours on the Waikouaiti River where you'll be immersed in the customs, stories and traditions of the past. Spend time at Ohinepouwera Spit where a 200-year planting plan is underway to replace exotic species with native plants. Perfect for families and groups of all sizes.
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You’re all about creating shared memories and making history fun. Whether you’re picnicking in a historic park, exploring an interactive museum, or wandering through a cultural site, you’re drawn to places where history comes to life in fun and accessible ways.
You seek experiences that inspire curiosity in every generation, from storytelling sessions about Aotearoa New Zealand's past to hands-on workshops where explorers of all ages can try something new. Outdoor adventures like easy bush walks or guided heritage tours are perfect for creating shared memories while uncovering the stories behind the scenery.
Tohu Whenua sites you'll love:
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Pompallier Mission and Printery - Just a few steps from the beachfront, try your hand at book binding activities while on the Pompallier Printery guided tour.
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Otago Central Rail Trail - Not only will the rail trail get you and your fellow explorers outdoors, this is an experience with opportunities to soak up history around every corner. The 152km ride has several entry points along the way with some sweet swimming spots and great country pubs.
- Pūtaringamotu Riccarton House & Bush - Discover 600-year-old trees and lush native bush, via the flat accessible pathways. The bush is home to native birds, insects and geckos, so keep an ear and eye out for kererū, korimako, pīwakawaka, and riroriro.
- Historic Reefton - Mountain biking, milkshakes and more! Reefton was the first place in the southern hemisphere to supply electric street lighting and it now offers a great mix of galleries, gift shops and a chance to dig with the "bearded miners."
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