5 Best Things to Do in Norsewood

1. Camp and Do Bush Walks at ANZAC Park

Possibly the cheapest campgrounds in the country (except for, ya know, the free campgrounds), ANZAC Park is only NZ$2 per night to stay in this large grassy area surrounded by forest.

About 3 km (1.9 mi) north of Norsewood, this no-frills camping spot opens up into a peaceful native bush haven. There are bush walks to enjoy and plenty of space in the large grassy areas.

While you’ll ditch power hookups and fancy showers, you do get flushing toilets and clean tap water (just remember it’s non-potable).

It’s first-come, first-served, and camping is limited to five nights unless you’ve made other arrangements.

Location: ANZAC Park Road, about 3 km north of Norsewood, off State Highway 2.

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2. Visit Johanna’s World Park

The best place to immerse yourself in Norsewood’s Norwegian heritage is at Johanna’s World!

This delightful combination of museum, memorial park and fantasy playground offers a unique glimpse into the world of early Norwegian settlers.

Marvel at wooden replicas of traditional architecture, including the only Stave Church (Stavkirke) in the Southern Hemisphere and an 1873 replica of a log cottage.

Kids will love exploring the whimsical “troll cave” and spotting fairy trolls peeking around corners in the manicured, troll-filled garden.

Location: 1 Coronation Street. Visiting is by appointment only, so be sure to reach out ahead to schedule your visit.

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3. Taste Some Cheese at the Rangiuru Farm

Sample cheese straight from the farm or even learn how to make your own cheese from award-winning cheesemakers at the Rangiuru Farm. Join a cheesemaking workshop, play a round of “Farmers Golf”, or simply taste some magnificent produce.

Set on Eriksen Street, this small organic operation run by Simon and Marianna Domper offers more than just cheese tasting. Their hands-on cheesemaking workshops are a highlight, giving you a real taste of artisanal life.

The farm’s credentials speak for themselves, Rangiuru Goat Herb Cheese even won Champion New Cheese at the NZ Champions of Cheese Awards in 2004.

For a bit of fun, try your hand at “Farmers Golf” (also known as Troll Golf). Workshops are by arrangement, so it’s best to ring ahead. It’s a charming spot to learn, laugh, and savour something you made yourself.

Location: Eriksen Street.

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4. Feed the Eels at the Wop Wop Wetlands

A great little pitstop that will please any wildlife-lover or travellers with kids, the Wop Wops Wetland Park is a fantastic eco-conservation project.

Meet the local wildlife, including the endangered long-finned eels (tuna) that can live up to 100 years! Learn about the importance of wetland habitats and even feed the eels yourself.

Swinging by between 9 am and 5 pm to grab some free eel food from the New Zealand Natural Clothing shop counter is a must. The staff might even join you to share fascinating stories about these ancient creatures.

Location: Hovding Street.

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5. Visit the Norsewood Pioneer Museum

See displays of relics used by Scandanavian immigrants when they first settled in New Zealand and the Norsewood area. The Norsewood Pioneer Museum is small but mighty, an absolute must if you want to step inside the story of how this little Scandinavian settlement carved out its place in New Zealand.

Tucked beside Johanna’s World, the museum houses a fascinating collection of tools, clothing, furniture and photographs donated by local families.

Every display tells a tale of resilience, Norwegian settlers braving dense bush, tough winters, and isolation to build a thriving community.

The museum also celebrates their culture, from crafts to household artifacts, giving you a sense of everyday life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Entry is by donation, making it as accessible as it is enriching.

Location: Coronation Street. Open daily 8:30 am-4:30 pm.

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