Oruanui: Pony Club, Farm and Tukutuku Church
Accommodation in Oruanui
Three local highlights in Oruanui are equestrian activities at the Pony Club, hand-feeding almost all the animals at Lilliput Farm, and the Tukutuku panels at St Matthew’s Church.
Equestrian activities and experiences in Oruanui
Oruanui Pony Club is at the corner of Poihipi Road and Oruanui Road. A snapshot of the operator’s website dated 22 July 2016 lists a sand arena, two show-jumping courses, games equipment, and a cross-country course. The jumps listed there range from Pre-Intro to Pre-Novice/Open level. If these facilities are important to your plans, confirm their condition before use.
The club also welcomes adult riders and people who do not belong to a pony club, allowing them to use the facilities as visitors. Confirm arrangements before your trip. For young riders, the Pony Club offers a safe learning environment where they can learn to ride and care for their ponies; confirm the current programme separately. This information distinguishes use by visiting riders from learning opportunities for young people, without assuming that all visitors have free access.
At Lilliput Farm, visitors can hand-feed almost all the animals.
Church, marae and community involvement
Built in 1911, St Matthew’s Church in Oruanui is entirely decorated with woven Tukutuku panels. Te Kapa o Te Rangiita Marae is on the west side of the road in Oruanui. Te Kapa o Te Rangiita ki Oruanui and the Department of Conservation are working together to protect and enhance Whakaipo Bay for the community. Check current site conditions before visiting.
More destinations in Taupo District
In the wider destination of Taupo District, Tongariro National Park offers a distinctive cultural and scenic point of reference: it is one of New Zealand’s three World Heritage sites. Its dual World Heritage status recognises its significant Māori cultural and spiritual associations. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is also within the national park’s dual World Heritage area.
For a different way to explore Taupo District, the Tongariro River Trail is described as a 13.2-kilometre full loop that can be started at Tūrangi isite. The trail is used by anglers, dog walkers and mountain bikers; cyclists must give way to pedestrians. The loop’s length and shared use are specific points to consider when choosing regional activities.
At Huka Falls, nearly a quarter of a million litres of water per second plunge 11 metres through a natural gorge into the Waikato River. Walking tracks run along both sides of the falls. The Great Lake Trails pass through lush native forest, past waterfalls and across deep ravines to the waters of Lake Taupō. A boat shuttle connects different sections of these trails and allows pick-ups and drop-offs at several bays along the route; booking requirements can change, so check them when planning your trip.
The Great Lake Pathway is another regional option in Taupo District. It starts at Taupo Boat Harbour, is mostly flat and is described as a family-friendly outdoor experience. In terms of starting point, terrain and use, these trails differ from the 13.2-kilometre Tongariro River Trail loop.
For the wider travel overview: Taupo District.
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