Stories & News

Our Stories

Tantalising tales, fun facts, itineraries and travel tips - find out more about the Tohu Whenua you love.

Royal visits to Tohu Whenua

Did you know that Queen Elizabeth II has visited Aotearoa New Zealand on ten occasions, between 1953 and 2002? Here are some of the Tohu Whenua she included in her itineraries.

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Flat-pack furniture at NZ's oldest house

The story behind the 200-year old mahogany dining chairs at Kemp House at Kororipo Heritage Park in Kerikeri.

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Image: Queenstown Trails Trust

Explore Queenstown’s top three heritage sites by bike

Want to combine a Queenstown cycling adventure with some unique Kiwi culture?

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Image: Jason Blair ©

Brunner Mine’s iconic bridge

The Brunner Bridge which has linked coalfields on either side of the Grey River since the 1870s has a colourful past.

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Jane Takotowi Clendon

Jane Clendon was a strong woman of Hokianga Māori descent who had the odds stacked against her.

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Te Pahi

Te Pahi was a Māori leader who saw the benefits of trade with Pākehā for his people.

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Rongo Hongi, a remarkable wahine toa of the 1800s

Have you heard of Rongo Hongi? She was a remarkable woman.

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5 best half-day heritage walks for autumn

Bright blue skies, trees ablaze with colourful autumn foliage, and tranquil tracks - smart walkers know that autumn is one of the most glorious seasons to be in the great outdoors. It’s also a great time of year to discover more of New Zealand’s unique history with Tohu Whenua.

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Image: Queenstown Trails Trust ©

Central Otago Touring Route

One of New Zealand's finest road trips takes you to nine of Otago's Tohu Whenua heritage experiences.

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Image: Claudia Babirat ©

West Coast heritage by campervan

Mining tunnels, ghost towns, stamper batteries, shipwrecks, all in mind-bogglingly beautiful locations. When it comes to heritage, the West Coast has plenty of iconic hot spots and hidden gems that await discovery. Claudia Babirat explores some of the places that defined the West Coast and shaped our nation.

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