Remembering the New Zealand Wars: Historic Battle Sites to Visit
he New Zealand Wars of the 19th century were pivotal in shaping the country’s history. They were conflicts over land, sovereignty, and identity, fought between Māori iwi and colonial forces. Today, many of the battle sites remain accessible, offering visitors a chance to reflect on this complex chapter of New Zealand’s past.
At Honour Bound Tours, we include key New Zealand Wars locations in our itineraries, combining history with the landscapes in which it unfolded.
⚔️ Ōrākau (Waikato)
Known as the “last stand” of the Waikato campaign (1864), Ōrākau symbolises Māori resilience. The famous cry, “Ka whawhai tonu mātou, ake! ake! ake!” (“We will fight on, forever and ever”) still resonates.
🏞️ Gate Pā (Tauranga)
The Battle of Gate Pā in 1864 saw innovative trench warfare and Māori tactical brilliance. Today, the site is a memorial reserve with interpretive panels.
⛰️ Ruapekapeka Pā (Northland)
The final battle of the Northern War (1846), Ruapekapeka’s fortified pā shows the engineering skill of Māori defenders. The site is now a historic reserve.
🌿 Rangiriri (Waikato)
The Battle of Rangiriri (1863) was one of the bloodiest of the Waikato campaign. Visitors can walk through restored trenches and earthworks.
🎖️ Why These Sites Matter
Visiting these places is more than learning history — it’s connecting with the people, culture, and struggles that shaped modern New Zealand.
🚍 Visiting with Honour Bound
Our tours integrate these battle sites into a wider story of New Zealand’s heritage. Guests benefit from:
Expert guides
Comfortable travel with Kiwi Coaches
Thoughtful storytelling that blends history with culture and landscape
👉 Learn more about our itineraries at Honour Bound Tours. www.honourbound.co.nz
Defending the Coast: New Zealand’s WWII Coastal Fortifications
Defending the Coast: New Zealand’s WWII Coastal Fortifications
During World War II, New Zealand faced the real threat of invasion. As a small nation far from Europe but strategically placed in the Pacific, coastal defence became a national priority. The result was a network of fortifications, gun emplacements, and lookout posts — many of which can still be visited today.
At Honour Bound, our tours explore these remarkable sites, bringing to life the stories of New Zealand’s wartime defence.
🏰 Fort Taiaroa (Otago Peninsula)
One of New Zealand’s best-preserved coastal defence sites, Fort Taiaroa features underground tunnels, gun emplacements, and historic barracks. It highlights both engineering ingenuity and the anxiety of wartime New Zealand.
⛰️ Godley Head (Christchurch)
Perched above Lyttelton Harbour, Godley Head was home to anti-aircraft guns, barracks, and searchlights. The remains still stand today, overlooking some of the South Island’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
🏝️ Blumine Island (Marlborough Sounds)
Accessible only by boat, Blumine Island houses WWII gun emplacements and barracks built to defend the Cook Strait. Today, it’s a fascinating mix of military history and native birdlife conservation.
🏖️ North Head & Fort Takapuna (Auckland)
Auckland’s harbour defences include North Head Historic Reserve and nearby Fort Takapuna, offering tunnels, gun pits, and sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf.
🎖️ Why These Sites Matter
New Zealand’s coastal defences remind us of the global nature of WWII. Though invasion never came, the preparedness speaks to the determination of a small nation in uncertain times.
🚍 Visiting with Honour Bound
Our Military Heritage & Scenic Tour integrates these fortifications into a broader journey of history and landscape. Guests experience:
Expert interpretation of military history
Comfortable travel with Kiwi Coaches
A balance of scenic highlights and heritage stops
👉 Learn more about Honour Bound Tours and explore New Zealand’s WWII heritage.
Honourbound.co.nz
Why Group Touring Is the Best Way to See New Zealand
When you picture touring New Zealand, you might imagine giant buses filled with dozens of tourists. But at Honour Bound, we believe there’s a better way. That’s why our Military Heritage & Scenic Tours are built around small-group experiences.
Here’s why small-group touring is the best way to discover New Zealand’s history and landscapes.
🤝 Personal Connections
With fewer people on board, you’re not just a number — you’re part of a community. Guests form friendships with fellow travellers, guides, and even locals along the way.
🎖️ Meaningful Experiences
Small groups can access places large buses can’t:
Remote battlefields and pā sites from the New Zealand Wars
Narrow roads to coastal defence fortifications
Scenic lookouts and hidden gems
It’s the difference between seeing a site — and truly experiencing it.
🚌 Comfort & Flexibility
Smaller groups mean:
Faster boarding and less waiting
Easier logistics for meals and accommodation
More opportunities to tailor stops for group interests
🌄 Balance of History & Scenery
Honour Bound blends military heritage with New Zealand’s iconic landscapes. In a small group, you’ll have time to ask questions, reflect, and immerse yourself fully.
🌏 Who Chooses Small-Group Tours?
Veterans seeking meaningful connections
History enthusiasts who want depth
Travellers who dislike “big bus” experiences
Families and friends travelling together
✅ The Honour Bound Difference
Small groups (not mass-market touring)
Expert military guides with personal knowledge
Luxury travel with Kiwi Coaches
Respectful, veteran-friendly atmosphere
👉 Explore our upcoming group tours and experience New Zealand in a more meaningful way. www.honourbound.co.nz
Walking in the Footsteps of ANZACs: New Zealand’s Military Heritage
The ANZAC story is central to New Zealand’s national identity. It represents courage, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds between communities across the globe. At Honour Bound, we believe these stories deserve to be remembered — and experienced.
Our 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour gives travellers the chance to walk in the footsteps of ANZACs and uncover New Zealand’s unique military heritage.
🎖️ Key ANZAC Heritage Sites in New Zealand
While ANZAC commemorations often focus on Gallipoli and Europe, New Zealand itself is filled with sites that tell the story:
Auckland War Memorial Museum — the nation’s centre of remembrance.
National War Memorial, Wellington — a moving site for reflection and ceremony.
RSA Clubs across NZ — where veterans and communities still gather to honour service.
Local cenotaphs and memorials — in every town, honouring those who served.
Each stop on our tour gives travellers time to reflect, connect, and remember.
🏰 Beyond the Memorials: Military Sites with Stories
ANZAC history is also found in the fortresses and defence structures that protected New Zealand during WWII:
Fort Taiaroa on Otago Peninsula
Godley Head coastal defence batteries
Blumine Island gun emplacements
These sites provide insight into how far-reaching the ANZAC legacy really is.
🌏 Why Experience Heritage in Person?
Books and documentaries are powerful, but standing on the ground where history happened brings a deeper understanding. Many of our guests — veterans, descendants, and history enthusiasts — describe it as both moving and unforgettable.
🚌 Travel with Comfort and Respect
Powered by our partner Kiwi Coaches, Honour Bound tours provide luxury transport and expert guidance. Guests can relax, reflect, and connect while travelling in comfort.
✨ The Honour Bound Difference
Curated itineraries blending history and scenery
Veteran-friendly and respectful atmosphere
Small groups for personal experiences
Kiwi hospitality at every stage
👉 Join Honour Bound’s next departure to experience New Zealand’s ANZAC heritage firsthand.
www.honourbound.co.nz
Touring Auckland Without the Stress: Why Coaches Work Best
Touring Auckland Without the Stress: Why Coaches Work Best
Auckland is a city of contrasts — sparkling harbours, volcanic cones, vibrant culture, and stunning day trips nearby. But exploring it as a group can quickly turn stressful. Parking is limited, traffic is busy, and public transport doesn’t always go where tourists want to go.
That’s why coach hire is the best way to tour Auckland — comfortable, stress-free, and perfect for groups of all sizes.
🌉 Stress-Free City Touring
A coach takes your group directly to the city’s highlights, including:
Mission Bay — perfect for seaside strolls
Parnell & Ponsonby — boutique shopping and dining
Auckland War Memorial Museum — a cultural and historical gem
Auckland Harbour Bridge — iconic views
No need to worry about parking, maps, or splitting groups into multiple taxis.
🗺️ Easy Day Trips Beyond the City
From Auckland, some of New Zealand’s most famous destinations are just a short drive away. Coaches are ideal for:
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves — Middle-earth meets glowworms
Rotorua — bubbling geysers, mud pools, and Māori culture
Bay of Islands — rich history at Waitangi and stunning cruises
🛡️ Comfort & Safety First
Modern coaches provide:
Air conditioning & reclining seats
Luggage storage
PA systems for guides
Professional drivers with local knowledge
Travelling by coach means you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
🌿 A Greener Way to Travel
Tourism is changing — travellers want sustainable options. One coach equals dozens of cars off the road, reducing emissions and congestion.
🚌 Kiwi Coaches & Honour Bound: Working Together
While Kiwi Coaches is Auckland’s trusted provider for group transport, its sister brand Honour Bound offers extended 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tours across New Zealand. Together, they showcase the best of safe, meaningful, and scenic travel.
👉 Discover Auckland sightseeing with Kiwi Coaches www.kiwicoaches.co.nz
👉 Learn more about Honour Bound’s Military Heritage Tours www.honourbound.co.nz
Exploring New Zealand’s Military Heritage: Where History Comes Alive
New Zealand’s landscape isn’t just defined by mountains, lakes, and coastlines. Hidden within its hills, harbours, and islands are powerful reminders of the country’s military history — places where the stories of courage, sacrifice, and defence still echo today.
For travellers with a passion for history, these sites offer more than sightseeing. They’re a chance to walk in the footsteps of soldiers, experience preserved fortifications, and reflect on New Zealand’s role in world conflicts.
Auckland War Memorial Museum
At the heart of Auckland stands the iconic War Memorial Museum, one of the country’s most important heritage sites. Its galleries cover New Zealand’s involvement in both World Wars, the ANZAC story, and artefacts from across the globe. The cenotaph outside remains a central point for ANZAC Day commemorations each year.
Godley Head Coastal Defences (Christchurch)
Overlooking Lyttelton Harbour, Godley Head tells the story of New Zealand’s coastal defence strategy during World War II. With gun emplacements, bunkers, and stunning coastal walks, it’s a place where military history and natural beauty collide.
Fort Taiaroa (Otago Peninsula)
One of the most fascinating preserved coastal forts in the Southern Hemisphere, Fort Taiaroa dates back to the late 19th century. Its underground tunnels and Armstrong Disappearing Gun provide a unique glimpse into Victorian-era defence systems that were later adapted for the world wars.
Blumine Island (Marlborough Sounds)
Accessible only by boat, Blumine Island hides the remnants of a WWII gun emplacement built to defend Cook Strait. Today, it’s both a heritage site and a wildlife sanctuary, making it a stop that connects military history with New Zealand’s conservation story.
Why These Sites Matter
Visiting military heritage sites is about more than learning facts. It’s about connecting with the people who served, understanding the challenges they faced, and reflecting on the freedoms we enjoy today. For veterans, it can be a moving return to places of remembrance. For younger generations, it’s an eye-opening encounter with history brought to life.
Join the Journey
At Honour Bound Tours, we bring together these extraordinary locations in immersive itineraries designed for veterans, history enthusiasts, and travellers who want more than a standard sightseeing trip. By blending military sites with New Zealand’s most scenic landscapes, we ensure every day is both meaningful and unforgettable.
👉 Explore our upcoming tours at Honour Bound and discover New Zealand’s military heritage for yourself.
honourbound.co.nz
info@honourbound.co.nz
Why Military History Enthusiasts Love Touring New Zealand
New Zealand’s landscapes are filled with stories of courage, conflict, and remembrance. From the battle sites of the New Zealand Wars to the coastal defence systems of WWII, our country offers rich experiences for military history enthusiasts.
Here’s why Honour Bound tours have become a must-do for history lovers from New Zealand and around the world.
🎖️ Deep ANZAC Connections
New Zealand’s role in WWI and WWII forged the ANZAC legacy. Our tours connect guests with memorials, museums, and communities that still honour that sacrifice today.
🏞️ Battlefields with Context
Sites like Ruapekapeka Pā aren’t just historical — they’re living landscapes. Our expert guides explain the strategies, struggles, and outcomes that shaped the nation.
🏰 Coastal Defence Sites
From Fort Taiaroa to Godley Head, New Zealand’s coastline is lined with WWII fortifications. Exploring these sites reveals the real challenges of defending a remote Pacific nation.
🏛️ Museums That Preserve Memory
Our tour includes some of the best military museums in the Southern Hemisphere, including:
Auckland War Memorial Museum
National Army Museum, Waiouru
Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Christchurch
🌏 Camaraderie Among Enthusiasts
Honour Bound attracts veterans, military buffs, and curious travellers. Shared interest creates instant connection and camaraderie.
🌄 More Than Military
While history is the focus, our tours weave in New Zealand’s scenic highlights — from geothermal Rotorua to Fiordland’s majestic peaks.
✨ The Honour Bound Difference
Small-group touring for a personal touch
Luxury coaches provided by Kiwi Coaches
Veteran-friendly atmosphere
Expert guides with passion and knowledge
📅 Limited Departures, Lifelong Memories
Our tours align with ANZAC Day commemorations and other significant dates, creating a profound experience for history enthusiasts.
👉 Join Honour Bound’s next departure and explore New Zealand’s military and scenic treasures.
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info@honourbound.co.nz
Introducing Honour Bound: New Zealand’s Premier Military Heritage Tour
Introducing Honour Bound: New Zealand’s Premier Military Heritage Tour
New Zealand’s landscapes hold more than natural beauty — they carry stories of courage, sacrifice, and history. At Honour Bound, we bring those stories to life through our 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour, a journey crafted for veterans, history enthusiasts, and travellers seeking meaningful exploration.
This isn’t just another sightseeing trip. It’s a chance to walk in the footsteps of ANZACs, explore fortifications and battlefields, and immerse yourself in the landscapes where history unfolded — all while enjoying world-class Kiwi hospitality.
🎖️ A Journey Through New Zealand’s Military Past
From the northern battlefields of the New Zealand Wars to the coastal fortresses guarding the South, Honour Bound’s tour uncovers the nation’s unique military heritage.
Highlights include:
Auckland War Memorial Museum — New Zealand’s national shrine of remembrance
Ruapekapeka Pā — a pivotal New Zealand Wars battle site
Fort Taiaroa & Godley Head — iconic WWII coastal defence sites
Blumine Island — a hidden gem with WWII gun emplacements
ANZAC memorials & RSA visits — connecting with New Zealand’s living history
Each site is carefully chosen to give context, insight, and reverence to the people and stories behind them.
🌄 More Than History: Scenic New Zealand at Its Best
While military heritage is at the heart of our tour, scenery and culture complete the experience.
Cruise the stunning Marlborough Sounds
Experience geothermal wonders in Rotorua
Admire the peaks of Fiordland & Mt Cook
Explore vibrant cities like Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin
Guests enjoy a perfect balance of history and breathtaking landscapes.
🚌 Travel in Comfort with Kiwi Coaches
Every Honour Bound journey is powered by our partner, Kiwi Coaches — one of Auckland’s most trusted transport providers.
Modern, air-conditioned, luxury coaches
Professional, experienced drivers
Comfortable seating and luggage capacity
Seamless logistics from start to finish
Because the journey should be as enjoyable as the destination.
🌏 Who Travels with Honour Bound?
Our tours welcome:
Veterans seeking to reconnect with history
Military enthusiasts fascinated by strategy and heritage
History travellers who want more than sightseeing
Friends and families of service members, discovering their legacy
We create a respectful, supportive atmosphere where camaraderie thrives.
✨ Why Choose Honour Bound?
✅ Expertly curated 20-day itinerary
✅ Combination of military heritage & scenic highlights
✅ Luxury travel with trusted Kiwi Coaches
✅ Small-group touring for personal experiences
✅ 100% Kiwi-owned, veteran-respected company
📅 Limited Departures, Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Honour Bound is not a mass-market tour. We run limited departures to ensure quality, authenticity, and connection.
Each departure aligns with significant military dates, including ANZAC Day commemorations, allowing guests to participate in ceremonies and remembrance events.
🔗 Ready to Join the Journey?
Spaces are limited for the next Honour Bound departure.
👉 Learn more about our Military Heritage & Scenic Tour and secure your place today. Honourbound.co.nz - Kiwicoaches.co.nz
Must-See Military Heritage Sites in New Zealand
Introduction
New Zealand’s landscapes are stunning — but hidden among beaches, hills, and city parks are the sites where history was made. From Māori fortifications to WWII bunkers, these places tell the story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Whether you’re a veteran, history enthusiast, or curious traveller, here are 10 must-see military heritage sites in New Zealand.
1. Auckland War Memorial Museum
Sitting atop the Auckland Domain, the museum combines Māori taonga with ANZAC galleries. Its cenotaph and annual dawn service make it the heart of Auckland’s remembrance.
2. North Head (Devonport)
Tunnels, searchlights, and coastal defences built in the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can wander underground and enjoy harbour views.
3. Ruapekapeka Pā
The final battle of the Northern War (1846). Ingenious Māori fortifications with trenches and bunkers remain.
4. Godley Head (Christchurch)
One of the country’s largest WWII defence sites, with barracks and gun emplacements overlooking the Pacific.
5. Fort Taiaroa (Otago Peninsula)
Home to the world’s only operational Armstrong Disappearing Gun, hidden within a scenic albatross colony.
6. Ōrākau Battlefield
Site of the famous Māori last stand in 1864 — “Ka whawhai tonu mātou, ake ake ake” (We will fight on forever).
7. Fort Jervois (Ripapa Island)
A fortress on an island in Lyttelton Harbour, used in both world wars.
8. Blumine Island
Remote and haunting, this Marlborough Sounds island housed WWII gun batteries. Accessible by boat tours.
9. National Army Museum (Waiouru)
A treasure trove of artefacts, medals, and exhibitions covering New Zealand’s military history.
10. Pukeahu National War Memorial Park (Wellington)
The national centre of remembrance with the Carillon and Tomb of the Unknown Warrior.
❓ FAQs
Q: Are these sites free to visit?
Many are, though some like Fort Taiaroa and the Army Museum charge entry.
Q: Can they be seen on one trip?
Yes — Honour Bound’s 20-day tour links them into one seamless journey.
🏁 Conclusion
New Zealand’s heritage sites remind us that history is not just in books — it’s in landscapes, bunkers, and monuments.
👉 Honour Bound brings these stories to life. Join our 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour at HonourBound.co.nz.
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The Untold Stories of New Zealand’s WWII Bunkers
A Nation on Guard
During WWII, New Zealand was far from Europe, but not beyond reach. Japanese expansion in the Pacific created fear of invasion, prompting the construction of coastal defences from Northland to Otago. Soldiers watched in isolation from bunkers and tunnels, scanning seas that never yielded an enemy fleet.
These sites remain today as time capsules of wartime New Zealand — concrete, rusted steel, and graffiti, standing against ocean winds.
🔭 Key WWII Bunker Sites
North Head (Auckland)
Strategic headland guarding Auckland Harbour.
Network of tunnels, gun emplacements, and command posts.
Now a historic reserve with panoramic harbour views.
Stony Batter (Waiheke Island)
Built in secrecy, with over a kilometre of underground passages.
Intended for huge naval guns that never arrived.
Today, a blend of vineyard landscapes and eerie tunnels.
Godley Head (Christchurch)
One of NZ’s largest coastal defence sites.
Includes barracks, gun placements, and clifftop views of Lyttelton Harbour.
Fort Taiaroa (Otago)
Houses the world’s only operational Armstrong Disappearing Gun.
A masterpiece of 19th-century engineering re-purposed during WWII.
💂 Life Inside the Bunkers
Life for soldiers was monotonous and damp. Young men barely out of school patrolled tunnels by lantern light, drilled with artillery, and passed time writing letters. Many locals volunteered as part of the Home Guard, bringing community spirit into military vigilance.
🧭 Visiting Today
Most sites are public reserves.
Bring a torch for tunnels at North Head.
Stony Batter requires sturdy shoes for its rugged approach.
Fort Taiaroa is guided only, preserving its delicate mechanics.
Honour Bound tours weave these stops into longer journeys, giving historical context you won’t find on signboards.
❓ FAQs
Q: Are WWII bunkers in NZ open to the public? Many are, including North Head and Godley Head. Some require guided tours.
Q: Which site is most famous? Fort Taiaroa, with its disappearing gun.
Q: Do Honour Bound tours include bunkers? Yes, our 20-day journey features several.
Q: Are they safe to explore? Yes, though tunnels can be dark — bring a torch.
Q: Can families visit? Absolutely, children often love the adventure element.
👉 Explore WWII history with context and comfort — join us at HonourBound.co.nz.
Why New Zealand’s Military Heritage Matters
New Zealand’s history is deeply tied to global conflicts — from the New Zealand Wars of the 19th century to the ANZAC campaigns of WWI and the coastal defences of WWII. Today, guided tours help keep those stories alive while showcasing the stunning landscapes in which they unfolded.
Here are the Top 5 Military Heritage Tours in New Zealand for 2025.
1. Honour Bound 20-Day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour
The most comprehensive military + scenic coach tour in New Zealand.
Includes WWII bunkers, ANZAC memorials, Māori War battlefields, and natural wonders like Milford Sound and Rotorua.
Perfect for veterans, descendants, and history lovers.
2. ANZAC Day Commemoration Tours
Attend dawn services at the Auckland War Memorial Museum or Pukeahu National War Memorial in Wellington.
Honour Bound runs special ANZAC itineraries for travellers wanting to connect with remembrance ceremonies.
3. WWII Coastal Defence Tours
Explore bunkers and tunnels at Godley Head (Christchurch), Fort Taiaroa (Dunedin), and North Head (Auckland).
Stories of Kiwi soldiers who watched over the coastline during WWII.
4. New Zealand Wars Battlefield Tours
Visit Ruapekapeka Pā, Rangiriri, and Ōrākau.
Understand the conflicts between Māori and colonial forces, and how they shaped the nation.
5. Custom Group Military Tours
Private, tailored itineraries for RSAs, veterans’ associations, and schools.
Combine heritage with scenic stops, guided by experts.
❓ FAQs
Q: What is the most comprehensive military tour in NZ?
The Honour Bound 20-Day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour is the most complete itinerary, spanning both islands.
Q: Are these tours suitable for older travellers?
Yes — coach tours offer comfort, frequent stops, and flexible pacing.
👉 Experience New Zealand’s military history with expert guides. Book at HonourBound.co.nz.
Exploring New Zealand’s WWII Coastal Defences — Hidden Bunkers, Batteries & Forgotten Forts
🌊 A Hidden Legacy on New Zealand’s Coast
Beneath New Zealand’s dramatic coastlines lie relics of a turbulent past — WWII bunkers, gun batteries, and hidden tunnels. Built in haste during the early 1940s, these defences were designed to guard against invasion, protect key ports, and reassure a nervous nation.
Today, many of these sites remain — silent, weathered, and fascinating to explore. They are living reminders of New Zealand’s role in the Second World War, where thousands of Kiwis trained, watched, and waited for threats that never came.
At Honour Bound, we take guests inside this history, blending military heritage with New Zealand’s iconic scenery. Here are the top WWII coastal defence sites in New Zealand that every history enthusiast should visit.
🔭 1. Godley Head (Christchurch)
Perched above Lyttelton Harbour, Godley Head was one of New Zealand’s largest coastal defence batteries. Completed in 1939, it included heavy artillery, barracks, and observation posts. Soldiers here scanned the horizon for Japanese warships, ready to defend the gateway to Christchurch.
Today, visitors can explore the gun emplacements and military ruins while enjoying panoramic coastal views. A walking track links the historic sites with dramatic clifftop scenery — history meets nature at its best.
🏰 2. Fort Taiaroa (Otago Peninsula)
On the windswept tip of the Otago Peninsula, Fort Taiaroa is home to one of the world’s last surviving Armstrong Disappearing Guns — a marvel of 19th-century engineering, reactivated during WWII.
The site blends heritage with wildlife: rare seabirds soar above, while the fortifications below whisper stories of global conflict. Guided tours reveal underground tunnels and the mechanics of the disappearing gun, making Fort Taiaroa a must-see for military and engineering buffs alike.
🪖 3. Stony Batter (Waiheke Island)
Hidden beneath Waiheke Island’s rolling vineyards lies Stony Batter, an extraordinary network of underground tunnels and gun placements. Constructed in secrecy during WWII, the labyrinth was designed to defend Auckland from naval attack.
Visitors today can descend into the cool, echoing passageways, exploring a hidden fortress beneath one of New Zealand’s most scenic islands. Few sites capture the blend of wartime anxiety and Kiwi ingenuity like Stony Batter.
🏝 4. North Head (Devonport, Auckland)
North Head Historic Reserve in Devonport is one of Auckland’s most accessible WWII defence sites. Its bunkers, tunnels, and artillery positions overlook the Waitematā Harbour, protecting the entrance to New Zealand’s busiest port.
The tunnels are open to the public — a torch is recommended — making it a popular day trip for families and history fans. Combined with Devonport’s Victorian charm, North Head offers a perfect mix of heritage and sightseeing.
⚓ 5. Fort Jervois (Lyttelton Harbour)
Built on Ripapa Island in the 1880s and later repurposed during WWII, Fort Jervois stands as a reminder of New Zealand’s shifting defence priorities across generations. Its thick stone walls, gun pits, and barracks were reactivated as global conflict loomed once again.
Accessible by boat, Fort Jervois is less visited than other sites — but for those who make the journey, it’s a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s layered coastal defences.
📌 Why These Sites Matter
New Zealand’s WWII bunkers and forts were more than just concrete and steel. They represented determination, fear, and resilience. Thousands of New Zealanders — many barely out of school — manned these defences, spending long, cold nights on watch.
Though no enemy ships ever appeared, the bunkers and tunnels remain as powerful symbols of New Zealand’s contribution to the Allied war effort, and as poignant reminders of a world on edge.
🧭 How to Visit These Sites Today
Godley Head (Christchurch) – Walking tracks and ruins open daily.
Fort Taiaroa (Otago) – Guided tours available at the Royal Albatross Centre.
Stony Batter (Waiheke Island) – Open to visitors; guided tours recommended.
North Head (Auckland) – Public access via Devonport ferry; self-guided.
Fort Jervois (Ripapa Island) – Access limited; occasional heritage tours.
💡 Many of these sites are integrated into Honour Bound’s Military Heritage & Scenic Tours, combining historical storytelling with New Zealand’s stunning landscapes.
❓ FAQs
Q: Are New Zealand’s WWII bunkers open to the public?
Yes. Many sites such as North Head (Auckland), Godley Head (Christchurch), and Stony Batter (Waiheke) are open to visitors, with guided tours at selected locations.
Q: What is the most famous military fort in New Zealand?
Fort Taiaroa in Otago is the most famous, housing the world’s only restored Armstrong Disappearing Gun.
Q: Can I visit these forts as part of a tour?
Absolutely. Honour Bound offers guided multi-day tours that include visits to key WWII sites alongside other military and scenic highlights across New Zealand.
🚌 Explore New Zealand’s Wartime Heritage with Honour Bound
If you’ve ever wanted to step inside a wartime tunnel, stand by a coastal gun, or hear the stories of New Zealand’s military past, there’s no better way than with Honour Bound Tours.
Our 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour blends history with breathtaking scenery, from WWII bunkers to ANZAC battlefields and New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
👉 Join us in walking through history. Discover more at HonourBound.co.nz.
Walking in the Footsteps of the ANZACs: New Zealand’s Living Military History
It all begins with an idea.
Why ANZAC Day Still Matters in New Zealand
Every year on 25 April, New Zealand pauses at dawn. From small towns to major cities, thousands gather for ANZAC Day services to honour those who served in conflicts from Gallipoli to peacekeeping missions today. For many travellers, attending an ANZAC service in New Zealand is one of the most moving ways to connect with the country’s military heritage.
On the Honour Bound tour, ANZAC Day is not just an optional stop — it is woven into the heart of the journey. Guests stand shoulder to shoulder at the Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington, hearing the bugle’s Last Post as dawn breaks. It is a shared moment of remembrance that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.
Key ANZAC Sites on the Honour Bound Tour
Auckland War Memorial Museum
Set atop the Auckland Domain, this museum is more than a collection of artefacts. Its galleries walk you through the Boer War, Gallipoli, World Wars, and modern deployments. The Hall of Memories provides a solemn space for reflection, while the giant carvings of the Māori Court remind visitors of the unique cultural context of New Zealand’s service.
Pukeahu National War Memorial Park
In Wellington, this national site features memorials not only to New Zealanders but also to allied nations including Australia, the US, and the UK. A private guided tour on Honour Bound explores its symbolism before guests return the next day for the official ANZAC Day dawn service.
National Army Museum, Waiouru
In the central North Island, Waiouru’s museum is a highlight. Its exhibits bring to life the stories of New Zealand’s soldiers across the decades. From medals and uniforms to interactive displays, it connects the grand narrative of conflict to the lived experiences of ordinary men and women.
A Journey of Remembrance and Discovery
What makes the Honour Bound experience so unique is that it combines memorial moments with the landscapes that shaped them. One day you might be standing in Rotorua’s Redwood Memorial Grove, reflecting on foresters who served in WWI. The next, you are exploring modern RNZAF aircraft at Christchurch’s Air Force Museum. This balance ensures that remembrance is not abstract — it is tied directly to places, people, and culture.
Hidden Battlefields of the New Zealand Wars
It all begins with an idea.
The Forgotten Conflicts that Shaped a Nation
While Gallipoli and WWII dominate most travellers’ awareness of New Zealand’s military past, the New Zealand Wars (1845–1872) were the defining conflicts of the nation’s early history. These wars pitted British colonial forces against Māori iwi (tribes), reshaping land ownership, politics, and identity. Yet many overseas visitors have never heard of them.
The Honour Bound tour changes that. Guests don’t just hear the stories — they stand on the battlefields themselves.
Ruapekapeka Pā – Ingenuity in the North
In Northland, the fortified pā of Ruapekapeka demonstrates the ingenuity of Māori military engineering. Trenches, rifle pits, and bunkers here foreshadowed the trench warfare that would dominate Europe 70 years later. Guided commentary explains how Māori defenders adapted quickly to gunpowder warfare, and why this site marked the last major battle of the Northern War.
Rangiriri & Alexandra Redoubt – Waikato’s Story
South of Auckland, the Waikato River valleys were contested ground. At Rangiriri, a Māori defensive line was stormed in 1863 in one of the bloodiest battles of the Waikato War. Nearby, Alexandra Redoubt remains one of the best-preserved earthwork forts in the country. On Honour Bound, both sites are explored with expert interpretation, bringing the Waikato War to life.
Gate Pā & Te Ranga – Courage and Tragedy
In Tauranga, the battles of Gate Pā and Te Ranga were fought in 1864. At Gate Pā, Māori defenders inflicted a shocking defeat on British forces despite being heavily outnumbered. Just months later at Te Ranga, the tide turned in a bloody British victory. Standing at these sites today, guests gain a deeper appreciation of how these wars shaped cultural memory and identity.
Why These Sites Matter Today
The New Zealand Wars are not relics of the past — they remain deeply significant to iwi and the nation. Visiting them respectfully with knowledgeable guides ensures travellers gain more than historical facts; they gain cultural context.
World War II in New Zealand: From Tunnels to Coastal Defences
It all begins with an idea.
When War Came to the Pacific
Most people picture Europe or the Pacific Islands when they think of WWII, not New Zealand. Yet the country was on high alert throughout the conflict. With Japanese forces advancing across the Pacific and American troops stationed locally, New Zealand bristled with bunkers, radar stations, and gun batteries.
Godley Head – Defending Christchurch
Perched above Lyttelton Harbour, Godley Head Battery was one of New Zealand’s strongest coastal defence points. On the Honour Bound tour, guests walk past restored gun emplacements, plotting rooms, and bunkers, imagining the tension of lookouts scanning the sea for enemy ships.
Stony Batter & Waiheke Island – Hidden Tunnels
On Auckland’s Waiheke Island, the Stony Batter Historic Reserve hides kilometres of WWII tunnels carved deep into the rock. Originally designed for giant coastal guns, these tunnels are now accessible by guided walk. Combined with visits to radar stations and emplacements, they tell the story of how Auckland was prepared to repel invasion.
Blumine Island & Fort Taiaroa – Strategic Strongholds
In the Marlborough Sounds, Blumine Island once hosted a secret gun battery and camp. Further south, Dunedin’s Fort Taiaroa still houses a rare Armstrong Disappearing Gun — a marvel of Victorian engineering that was reactivated in WWII. These sites show how the defence of New Zealand stretched from one end of the country to the other.
The American “Friendly Invasion”
At its height, over 100,000 US servicemen were stationed in New Zealand, leaving a lasting cultural legacy. Sites like Kaitaia and Warkworth tell their stories, from logistics depots to training camps. For many Kiwis, this period was their first taste of American music, food, and camaraderie.
Scenic New Zealand with a Military Twist: Why Honour Bound Is the Ultimate Tour
It all begins with an idea.
More than Just a Battlefield
What makes Honour Bound unique is its balance: for every battlefield, there is a natural wonder; for every museum, a scenic cruise. This makes it the perfect choice for couples and groups who want history without sacrificing New Zealand’s world-famous scenery.
From Bay of Islands to Rotorua
The journey begins in Northland’s Bay of Islands, where visitors see both the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and stunning coastal scenery. In Rotorua, bubbling mud pools and hāngi dinners sit alongside visits to battle sites like Gate Pā.
From Lakes to Mountains
As the tour heads south, guests experience both the moving Waiouru Army Museum and the spectacular landscapes of Lake Taupō and Mount Cook. In Queenstown, optional wine tours and lake cruises provide relaxation after military heritage stops.
The Southern Highlights
In Fiordland, guests cruise through Milford Sound, where sheer cliffs drop into deep waters. In Dunedin, Fort Taiaroa and the Royal Albatross Centre combine wildlife and coastal defence history in one setting.
Why Military Heritage Makes Travel Deeper
Military sites add context and depth to scenic travel. Standing at Godley Head or Ruapekapeka, visitors don’t just see landscapes — they understand the struggles that unfolded there. This combination ensures Honour