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Create amazing memories here!
Scroll down to uncover a fantastic list of day trips you can take from Ripples Retreat!
"Looking for a hassle-free getaway in a luxurious cabin situated in a central rural location? Stay HERE!"

"This is the best central hub to discover the North Island from"
Whether you are looking for a beautiful destination for your honeymoon or a fun family getaway, Ripples Retreat has activities for everyone. From the adventure wonderland of Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton, to the unexplored yet beautiful West Coast beaches and beyond.
Ripples is the perfect central hub to explore from, and there's so much to do that our guests don't want to leave! Book at Least 3 -14 days here.
We are very passionate about our local area, so please feel free to message us for recommendations of places to visit on your unforgettable stay!
But best of all you can spend quality time at Ripples enjoying the complimentary kayaks and sea buscuit in one of the few swimmable rivers in the area. Wild swimming anyone?
Hobbiton
Under 2 hrs drive
Take an exciting day trip through Waikato's rolling green farmland to the magical land of Hobbiton.
And you can also visit Hairy Feet Waitomo - just next door to get your LOTR's fix!
Many of our guests are choosing to use Ripples Retreat as their luxury base to explore many of New Zealand's most popular tourist attractions.
West Coast beaches
Scenic Daytrip
A trip down to our rugged West Coast is a wonderful way to spend the day. There are stunning views of Mt Taranaki from the many beaches and we highly recommend a walk from Tongaporutu to the 3 sisters at low tide. The West Coast beaches are a 50 minute drive from Ripples Retreat Check out our map to plan a multitude of daytrips from here.
Waikawau Tunnel
In 1911, three men manually dug the Waikawau tunnel to provide access to Waikawau beach, enabling farmers to transport cattle to the market.
Explore our map to organize various day trips from this location.
Marokopa
Scenic Daytrip
Located in a picturesque rural area surrounded by lush farmland and off the beaten track vistas, Ripples Retreat offers a central location for exploring the beauty of rural New Zealand. With a network of rural roads, visitors can enjoy scenic day trips that pass by waterfalls, caves, and black sand beaches without being surrounded by crowds of tourists. Check out our map to plan a multitude of daytrips from here.
Hobbit Film Tours
Hairy Feet Waitomo
2 minutes up the road, Suzie from Hairy Feet will take you on a intimate tour under the stunning Denize Bluffs where "An Unexpected Journey" was filmed in 2011. You don't need to be a LOTR fan to enjoy this stunning location tour.
Tours need to be booked in advance.
Fishing
0-40 minutes away.
The Mangaotaki is a beautiful river to fish, flowing through some spectacular limestone country between high cliffs with an extensive length of easily accessible fishing water, well-suited to all fishing methods.. Season Oct-Jun and All year round 5 minutes drive downstream from the bridge.
Whitecliffs walk
Scenic Daytrip
Whitecliffs is stunning coastal walk 1. 25 hours drive from Ripples. the beach section of this 6.5 km walk along spectacular bluffs and sheer cliffs.
The walkway takes you over farmland to Mount Davidson, the Whitecliffs Conservation Area and the Waipingau Stream. Depending on the tide, you can return to your starting point by following the stream to the coast and walking along the beach.
Forgotten World
Rail Carts 1.25 hrs drive
Delve into the mystic charm of the Central North Island’s Forgotten World,
This abandoned rail line adorned with 24 hand-built tunnels and over 90 bridges, takes you on a journey through this remote wonderland. You can also return by jetboat through the Whanganui gorge.
Cycling Timber Trail
1hr to the Timber Trail
Experience the thrill of the Timber Trail bike ride, a must-do adventure just over an hour away! Convenient shuttles will whisk you away to either Piripiri or Ongarure, allowing you to focus on the excitement ahead. For a more tranquil journey, discover peaceful country roads surrounding Ripples Retreat.