Top Things to do in North Island
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The 6 Best Natural History Museums in North Island, New Zealand
Discover the best top things to do in North Island, New Zealand including Dinosaur House, Waitomo Caves Museum, Puke Ariki, Woodlands Historic Homestead, Gardens and Function Centre, Mangere Mountain Education Centre (MMEC), Mercer Museum.
Restaurants in North Island
1. Dinosaur House
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 25 reviews
The Dinosaur House is a small museum which is run by dinosaur enthusiasts Ian & Sarah Moore. The Museum contains an amazing collection of dinosaur displays and fossils. Housed in a beautiful 1922 heritage building in the centre of the historic town of Raetihi. It is a traditional museum using the beauty and majesty of more than 100 specimens to show the public the exciting and wonderful world of fossils and dinosaurs. You’ll be transported back to prehistoric times to explore our carefully curated exhibits which will expand your mind.
Reviewed By YorkshireTeabag
Really well done. Friendly hosts truly knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. Some great items such as the actual costume worn by Sam Neill in Jurassic Park III. Highly recommend for all ages.
2. Waitomo Caves Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By carlenemabeym - Omokoroa Beach, New Zealand
Amazing information - very well presented and extremely well priced - great facts to go with a cave visit or great on its own, the history, the facts and everything you need to know about the area.
3. Puke Ariki
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 537 reviews
Welcome to Puke Ariki - an integrated knowledge hub comprising museum, library, research centre, museum store and i-SITE for a visitor experience that is like no other. Puke Ariki is a place where people come together and where there is a place for everyone. Sited in New Plymouth, between the majestic Mount Taranaki and the wild Tasman Sea, Puke Ariki is a place of wonder, of excitement, of discovery and adventure. "Te hiringa ā rangi, te hiringa ā nuku, te hiringa o Puke Ariki, kia tupu te toiora, kia tupu te toi auaha o te tangata, pupū mai ai i a Taranaki o mua ki Taranaki o nāianei, honohono ake te hunga kāinga, te motu me te ao ki ngā aronga hou, ki ngā ara huhua o tikanga kē, o iwi kē." "At Puke Ariki we aim to inspire creativity and enrich lives by promoting the heritage of Taranaki and connecting local people and visitors to new ideas and other cultures from around the world."
Reviewed By Marloid2 - Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
I found Puke Ariki to be an excellent local/regional museum and attraction covering, history, geology, marine etc. Very well presented, very open and modern. Also has an excellent gift shop. Next time in New Plymouth I shall return.
4. Woodlands Historic Homestead, Gardens and Function Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
Woodlands is a unique and very beautiful Historic New Zealand Homestead and Garden Estate established in the 1870's. It sits proudly in the center of acres of stunning gardens and fertile farm land, providing the perfect setting for a wedding, celebration, event or corporate function. An idyllic event venue featuring the Historic Homestead, meticulously restored and preserved, and purpose built function centre, providing an extremely popular choice for weddings, functions and events. The Gardens, awarded a 5 star Garden of National Significance rating by New Zealand Garden Trust, offer many photo locations for wedding ceremonies, engagement shoots and family memories.
Reviewed By LAIreland2018 - Huntly, New Zealand
This beautiful colonial homestead has been lovingly restored and decorated and furnished in the style of the late 19th century and even boasts a ballroom. It is set among beautiful gardens which unfortunately were over their best due to our visiting in mid-summer. There is a lovely walk through the gardens and surrounding bush along the edge of a pretty stream. There is also a nice cafe on the grounds. There is no cost to explore the garden and only $2 per adult to view the house.
5. Mangere Mountain Education Centre (MMEC)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
Mangere Mountain has stood tall for over 18,000 years. This unique Geopark close to the city takes you a world away. The site of an historic Maori settlement, it offers panoramic views over the city. It also gives an intriguing glimpse into the past. Join a guided walk. Encounter a unique volcanic lava dome, see traditional Maori gardens, learn about medicinal plants, try your hand at crafts.
