On-Site Activities

Things to See and Do During Your Stay

  

Bush walks

Options for all levels of interest/fitness/available time. Reception has copies of Guidebooks on native flora and fauna to enhance your walk.
  • Take a stroll around the grounds using the paths at the end of each deck. Paths are edged by native bush and, with luck, you may also see Tui and other native birds during the day or Moreporks (the native owl) at night. Keep an eye out for the large, lime-green Puriri Moth in season - unique to New Zealand. Enjoy the atmosphere in the "Wedding Dell" off Level Four.
    Further information available from Reception. (Rating: Short/Easy)
  • Farm/bush walks. With 2300 acres to explore and 300 acres of bush, there is a walk (or jog!) for everyone.….
      Further information avaiable from Reception. (Rating: Medium-Advanced, depending on route)

    Artist-in-Residence

    Visit Gold Moon, the Studio of our Artist-in-Residence, Goldsmith/Jeweller, Sue Leader.

    Gold Moon is a working Goldsmith's workshop, set in 1899. Here Sue creates a range of unique hand-crafted jewellery in Copper, Silver, and Gold. You can watch Sue work, and she is happy to demonstrate tools dating from the late-1800's, such as a Victorian wire-drawing bench dating from 1860-1870.

    Wedding, Birthday, Anniversary, Time-out For Lovers: whatever the occasion - talk to Sue about crafting a jewel to mark your Celebration. Check out Sue’s other creations at the Studio which is located on Level One. Browsers Welcome!

          Usual Hours:
          Thursday-Monday
          2:00pm - Dark.
          (Earlier opening available if requested the night before.)
          For further information check out Gold Moon's website.

    Photographic opportunities

    From native flora and fauna to 360 degree views of the Waikato District, Hillside is a photographer's delight. Photo opportunities abound, whether from the windows of your room, from the decks on all levels, or out in the bush. For 360 degree views, head up to Level Five and into the House Bar and on up to the Look-out Lounge on Level Six.

    Relax

    With a quiet drink in the House Bar (Level Five) or Lookout Lounge (Level Six). Open from 5:30pm most days. (Please check with Reception when booking to confirm opening hours during your stay.)

    Rejuvenate

    Curl up with a DVD or a book or magazine from the Library at Reception. A wide selection of entertainment material is available free of charge from Reception.

    Extend

    Check out local activities and places of interest.