10 Best Things to Do in Eketāhuna

1. Hike in the Tararua Forest Park

A lesser-known entrance to the popular Tararua Forest Park is via Putara Road near Eketāhuna. This vast playground spans over 1,150 km² (444 mi²) and holds the title of New Zealand’s first designated Forest Park, established in 1954.

Here, there are a number of hiking trails, such as the 2-hour walk to the Herepai Hut or the 4-hour walk to the Roaring Stag Hut. A multi-day hiking option is by hiking to the Herepai Hut, then an extra 5 hours to the Dundas Hut.

For a gentler option, try the Gentle Annie trail with its boardwalks and shelter. Thrill-seekers can tackle the epic Shorman’s-Kaitoke route, an almost 80 km (50 mi) traverse with serious elevation gains.

Location: 10 km (6 mi) west of Eketāhuna. Putara Road.

© Michal Klajban on Wikipedia

2. Do the Eketāhuna Cliff Walk

Need a quick, charming nature breather? The Eketāhuna Cliff Walk is your perfect detour. This gentle 1-2 km (0.6-1.2 mi) there-and-back trail winds along the Makakahi River, offering lovely views and taking around 30 minutes to complete.

Opened in 1911 to celebrate the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary, this walkway carries a slice of local history. At the halfway point, you can veer off towards the old riverside swimming hole, a steep but rewarding descent to a nostalgic spot where locals once dipped in summer.

Location: Bridge Street. The trail starts right from Bridge Street; cross the bridge and you’re in.

© NZPocketGuide.com

3. Check Out Anzac Bridge and the Miller Reserve Walk

A short stroll from Eketāhuna’s main street leads you to the iconic Anzac Bridge, a striking stone arch bridge opened in 1924 to honour the district’s fallen soldiers.

Standing proudly over the Makakahi River, it’s a local landmark with real character, especially when the morning mist clings to the arches.

Right beside the bridge is Miller Reserve, where you’ll find a peaceful 20-minute loop walk that takes you along the riverbank, through mature native trees, and past picnic areas.

Location: 8k m (5 mi) south of Eketāhuna. Kaiparoro, State Highway 2. (You will see a tourist sign for the bridge opposite the Miller Reserve.)

© russellstreet on Wikipedia

4. Try Some Cheese

Cheese lovers are in for a treat at Cwmglyn Farmhouse Cheese, a small artisan cheesemaker that’s earned nationwide recognition.

Using unpasteurised milk from their own Ayrshire cows, they craft traditional raw milk cheeses in small batches. The result? Rich, characterful flavours you won’t find in supermarket wedges.

As champions of slow food in New Zealand, their cheeses have graced high-end restaurants and won awards for their authentic European-style quality.

Tastings are by arrangement, so it’s worth phoning ahead for the full experience. Can’t make it to the farm? Keep an eye out for their products at regional food stores or markets.

Location: Morgans Road.

© Maxpixel

5. Marvel at the Middleton Model Railway

Lose yourself in one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned model railways open to the public. Built over decades by local enthusiast Rod Middleton, this sprawling layout features more than 300 m (984 ft) of track winding through meticulously crafted miniature landscapes.

According to our editor-in-chief, Laura, the attention to detail is jaw-dropping, with tiny stations, bustling towns and bridges that will captivate both children and adults alike.

The Middleton Model Railway isn’t just for train buffs, kids are enchanted by the moving locomotives, while grown-ups appreciate the artistry behind it.

Interactive displays add to the fun for visitors of all ages. Open weekends from 11 am to 4:30 pm, it’s an enchanting way to spend an hour or two in Eketāhuna.

Location: 36 Morgans Road.

© James Petts on Wikipedia

6. See Native Wildlife at the Pukaha Mount Bruce Wildlife Centre

A huge highlight of Eketāhuna is the Pukaha Mount Bruce Native Wildlife Centre. See the world’s only white kiwi bird, as well as other rare wildlife like the takahe, hihi, kaka and kokako.

The centre is a good place to learn about how captive breeding helps wildlife conservation.

Plus, access to the park means you can access the Mt Bruce Lookout Walk, taking 1 hour to get to an amazing viewpoint.

Location: State Highway 2. Just south of Eketāhuna.

© Maree McLeod on Wikipedia

7. Check Out the REV Gallery

The REV Gallery (Reuse, Environment, Vision) is Eketāhuna’s quirky creative hub where art meets sustainability. This community-driven space showcases works by local artists who specialise in upcycling, transforming discarded materials into inspiring pieces.

You’ll find an ever-changing display of sculptures, furniture, jewellery and wall art crafted from objects that might otherwise end up in landfill.

The gallery encourages visitors to rethink waste and appreciate how creativity can reshape everyday items. It’s a constantly evolving showcase, so no two visits are quite the same.

Pop in on Saturdays from 10 am to 6 pm or most Sundays to experience this unique mix of art and environmental consciousness.

Location: Haswell Street.

© MaxPixel

8. Get a Photo with the Giant Kiwi

No trip to Eketāhuna is complete without snapping a shot with its iconic giant kiwi statue! Standing proudly at the northern entrance of town, this oversized bird has been a local landmark since 1986.

The statue was designed to highlight the area’s proximity to Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre and showcase the town’s commitment to protecting native species.

It’s not just a photo opportunity; it’s a symbol of Eketāhuna’s connection to New Zealand’s natural heritage. Add this quintessential Kiwi experience to your 20 BIG Things in New Zealand bucket list!

Location: Haswell Street, next to the REV Gallery.

© studio tdes on Flickr

9. Explore the Eketāhuna Golf Club

For a relaxed day outdoors, head to the Eketāhuna Golf Club, one of the friendliest rural courses in the Wairarapa.

This 18-hole course is set among rolling farmland and tree-lined fairways, offering a peaceful backdrop for your round. The community-run club provides a down-to-earth and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for seasoned golfers and beginners alike.

Visitors can book casual green fees, and clubs are available for hire if you’re travelling light. It’s a great way to experience the laid-back charm of rural New Zealand while enjoying a game.

Location: 19 Macara Street.

© Soheb Zaidi - Unsplash

10. Discover Local History at the Eketāhuna Museum

Step into the heart of Eketāhuna’s heritage at the fascinating Eketāhuna Museum. This small yet captivating spot offers a window into the district’s pioneering past, showcasing the lives of Scandinavian settlers who arrived in the late 19th century.

As we discovered first-hand, the museum houses an intriguing collection of photographs, artefacts and everyday objects that paint a vivid picture of early life in what was once dense bushland.

From farming equipment to household items, each display tells a story of resilience and determination.

Location: 16 Bengston Street.

© Mari Potter - Unsplash