Discover Huntly on the Waikato River

Huntly is located on the Waikato River. The Tainui Bridge, which opened in 1959, connects the town’s eastern and western sides across the river. It is a significant landmark of Raahui Pookeka Huntly. Another prominent feature is Huntly Power Station: it stands on the Waikato River and can be seen from many parts of Huntly and beyond.

Waterfront paths and activities

Lake Puketirini lies on the western edge of Huntly. It was created from a disused coal mine and is located in a Waikato District Council park. Access is via Rotowaro Road. A 3.5-kilometre path for pedestrians and cyclists runs along the lake shore; other paths lead through the park. This distinguishes the paths along the shore and through the park from activities on the water: the lake is suitable for kayaking, waka ama, boating and water skiing.

A path runs along the Huntly section of the Waikato Expressway at Te Iringa Lagoon.

Culture and memorial sites in Huntly

The Huntly Museum, Te Whare Taonga O Raahui Pookeka, celebrates the heritage of Raahui Pookeka. Its collections and exhibitions bring together history, stories and community. Interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities are also part of the experience, so the museum presents local history not only through collection items, but also in an active way.

Whakataki Paa also honours the rich Māori heritage of Raahui Pookeka Huntly. Designed by Te Waamu McGrath, the structure rises above the Waikato Expressway and can be accessed from Ralph Road. The Ralph Mine Memorial commemorates the 43 men who died in one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most tragic mining disasters. Together, these sites represent different aspects of Huntly’s cultural heritage and remembrance.

The Green Cathedral at Lake Hakanoa is a popular choice for weddings. It offers seating for 180 guests and parking for 40 cars.

Getting here and other paths in the Waikato District

The Te Huia runs from Hamilton to The Strand in Auckland, stopping at Huntly | Raahui Pookeka, among other places. If you plan to travel by train, check the current timetable before your journey, as train details may change.

The wider Waikato District destination has other, distinct path experiences. The Te Awa River Ride is a 65-kilometre paved path for cycling and walking. It follows the Waikato River from Ngaruawahia to Lake Karapiro. This is on a different scale from the 3.5-kilometre path along the shore of Lake Puketirini in Huntly.

The Hakarimata Summit Track is also in the Waikato District. It climbs to an elevation of 374 metres; from the lookout tower, views extend to the coast, across the Waikato Basin and towards Ruapehu. The Hakarimata Rail Trail is a family-friendly path for walking and cycling. It follows the former railway line between Ngāruwāhia and Glen Massey to cascades on the stream. The two paths therefore differ in both their character and the destination described: views from the Summit Track or a route along a former railway line.

Discover more destinations: Te Akau, Maramarua, Te Kauwhata, Newstead, Raglan, Te Kowhai, Taupiri, Ngāruwāhia.

Back to the broader travel guide: Waikato District.