About Tirau
Tirau is a tiny rural town in the South Waikato District of New Zealand’s North Island, often called the “corrugated-iron capital.” It sits on State Highway 1 (SH1) between Hamilton and the East Coast, at the junction with SH5. What makes Tirau unique are its life-sized corrugated-iron sculptures and buildings: a giant sheep, dog, shepherd and more adorn the main street (teara.govt.nz ) (teara.govt.nz ). These whimsical steel monuments (built by artist Steven Clothier of Corrugated Creations) were erected from the 1990s onward to revitalize the town, and today locals proudly call Tirau an iconic “NZ country town” beloved for its quirky charm (teara.govt.nz ) (christmasheirloom.com ). Alongside these sculptures, heritage sites like the 1912-built Tirau War Memorial Hall (the town’s community hall and selfie spot with World War plaques) anchor the main street. Tirau has about a thousand residents and is a popular pitstop for travellers; it’s known for its warm community vibe, friendly shops and rural Kiwi character.
Events and Programming
Spring Festival: Every year in September, Tirau hosts the free South Waikato Spring Festival on Station Street. This family-friendly night market runs ~5–9 pm and features colourful projection-mapped light shows, artisan stalls, children’s activities and local food trucks (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). Because town parking is very limited, the council provides free shuttle buses from nearby Putāruru and Tokoroa to the event (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). In 2025 a reduced speed limit (30 kph) was imposed on SH1 through Tirau during the festival to keep everyone safe (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ).Winter/Christmas Events: During winter and holiday season, the Tirau community organizes small festive activities. For example, the South Waikato District Council and local groups install a giant “Kirihimete” (Christmas) tree in Tirau and hold pop-up markets or outdoor movie nights (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). These events help keep the village lively in the off-season.Local Markets and Shows: The Tirau War Memorial Hall (27 Main Road) is occasionally used for indoor markets, craft fairs and community gatherings. For instance, local organizers have held one-day markets at the hall (with artisan stalls, art exhibits and food) on weekends (www.talkwithtarot.shop ). Because Tirau is small, larger annual events (like A&P shows or rodeos) occur in nearby towns rather than here. Most other events are grassroots – school fairs, church functions and the like – rather than large concerts or sports matches.
Tickets and Booking
Tirau’s attractions are generally free to visit. There is no entry fee to see the dog, sheep or other outdoor statues; they are on public sidewalks along the highway. Likewise, strollers and sightseers don’t need to buy tickets unless attending a specific private event. The one exception was the Spring Festival, where visitors could register and get a free ticket online to reserve a spot (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ) (there was no charge). In short, most activities in Tirau are open-access. For any logistics – such as booking local tours, accommodation, or transport – the Tirau Visitor Information Centre (housed in the dog sculpture on Main Road) handles that with an impartial, nationwide booking service (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). This i-SITE can arrange cave visits, Hobbiton tours, overnight stays, etc., for the wider Waikato region. Otherwise, if you’re visiting restaurants or shops in Tirau, plan to pay on-site (cash and cards are accepted at most businesses). The town has no separate box office or formal reservation system beyond this community-run info centre.
Seating and Layout
Tirau functions like an open street museum. There is no indoor theatre or dedicated seating area – you view everything from the road and pavement. Station Street (the main hub) is a wide, two-way road (State Highway 1) flanked by footpaths and buildings. The giant corrugated dog (i-SITE) sits on one corner of Main Road, while the equally famous sheep-shaped shop is on the opposite corner (teara.govt.nz ) (teara.govt.nz ). The best photo angle for the dog is standing on the sidewalk directly in front of it, and for the sheep the best vantage is across the street at about 61 Main Road (the side with the Jade & Shell shop). In both cases, visitors often step out into the road briefly to capture the full statue, so be careful of traffic. Otherwise, watch from the curb. The town’s footpaths are mostly flat and concrete, so strolling around is easy. The War Memorial Hall has a flat-floor hall with a small stage, but for a casual stroll or family gathering people simply gather outside or in adjacent cafes. In short, there is no reserved seating – just public sidewalks and benches outside cafes. (Tip: In summer it can be hot and sunny on the open street, so bring a hat; at night lighting is minimal, and pathways are illuminated mainly by shopfront lights.)
Getting There and Parking
Location: Tirau is located on SH1 in South Waikato, about 50 km southeast of Hamilton and 70 km northwest of Rotorua. It is 26 km north of Putāruru (via SH1) and 35 km south of Rotorua (via State Hwy 5). The official street address for the War Memorial Hall is 27 Main Road, Tirau 3410, which is roughly the center of town. If using GPS, look for Tirau as the destination. The town straddles SH1 so you can approach from any direction on this main highway. There is a small bypass loop at the north end to slow traffic for the village.
By Car: Tirau is easily accessed by car. Drivers on SH1 will see the corrugated sheep and dog sculptures by the roadside. There are traffic lights at the main intersection of SH1 and THierau’s side streets. For parking, there are free on-street parking spaces along Main Road on both sides of the road. The Tirau War Memorial Hall has a small private car park, but its website notes only a “small amount of onsite parking” with “ample on-road parking” available (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). In practice, most visitors park along the street in front of shops (looking for marked parking slots or just parallel parking – no meters or fees). For large events (like the Spring Festival), parking is limited, and free shuttle buses run from nearby towns (Putāruru and Tokoroa) to reduce congestion (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). During such events, the council may implement lower speed limits (30 kph) on the highway through Tirau for safety (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ), so plan additional travel time and be alert for changed traffic flow.
Public Transit: While Tirau has no train station, a local bus does serve it on weekdays. The Busit South Waikato Connector (Route 31) runs between Tokoroa, Putāruru and Tirau (both ways) on weekdays (www.busit.co.nz ). It departs from the Tokoroa bus hub (near the Tokoroa Mall) and stops in Tirau (generally near the i-SITE on Main Road). There are no services on weekends or most public holidays, so check schedules ahead of time. For longer travel, InterCity coaches travel along SH1 (the Auckland-Hamilton-Hastings route) and can be booked to stop near Tirau. However, for a flexible schedule, having a car is easiest. The nearest airports are in Hamilton (70 km NW), Rotorua (85 km SE) or Taupō (80 km SE), followed by driving or a shuttle.
Parking/Facilities: As mentioned, most parking is free along Main Road. Larger vehicles (RVs or campers) can overnight at nearby holiday parks (for example, Lake Karapiro Domain Camping 30 min north, or Rotorua holiday parks 30 min south). Tirau itself has a public waste dump station for campervans on Depot Street (www.nzmca.org.nz ) (NZ Motor Caravan Association facility). There is no charge for parking on Main Road, but always check for any yellow-top “no stopping” lines near intersections to avoid fines. The Visitor Centre (dog statue) area has a few pull-ins for dropping off visitors, but it is narrow. Rideshare/taxi drop-offs typically happen on Main Road outside the i-SITE or Hall. If arriving by bicycle or walking, note that the wide road means you may need to use crosswalks at the RC Vickers Street lights to get from one side of town to the other safely.
Inside the Venue
Although Tirau is an open-air village, a few indoor facilities and amenities are available. The centerpiece “venue” housing visitor services is the Tirau Visitor Information Centre, which is built into the giant dog sculpture on State Highway 1 (teara.govt.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Inside this i-SITE you’ll find friendly staff, free maps and brochures about the region, internet and Wi-Fi kiosks, and a gift shop selling local crafts and souvenirs. It also offers itinerary planning and nationwide booking services (for accommodations, tours and travel elsewhere in NZ) on behalf of New Zealand i-SITE/Tourism. Public restrooms are provided adjacent to the Visitor Centre – there is an outdoor toilet block at the rear of the dog building (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Other than the i-SITE, Tirau’s main building of note is the War Memorial Hall (27 Main Road). This hall is occasionally open for community events and has a large foyer, a kitchen and toilets, and a stage (for private functions). When open, it provides indoor seating, but it is not generally staffed like a museum – access is usually by event or private booking (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ).
The rest of Tirau’s attractions are outdoors or retail. You’ll spend most of your time walking along the footpaths inspecting shops and statues. The atmosphere is laid-back and very family-friendly. Expect to encounter passing motorists (since this is the highway) and to amble between the novelty stores. The shops themselves (Shell & Jade, fudge, antiques, etc.) are small and individually run – if you enter, you’ll be met by staff who can chat about Tirau’s history. While inside these shops you might purchase local jade, artwork or knick-knacks; most of the product displays are accessible and at normal heights. Dress is casual. There is minimal formal dress code anywhere in town; locals and visitors alike wear everyday clothes. Also keep in mind this is a small country town – noise levels are low and you’ll find a quiet, respectful ambience (people here tend to be sensible and courteous). Inside the eateries (cafés and the pub), standard NZ hospitality applies – table service and tipping is uncommon (you simply pay at the counter or at the end of the meal).
Nearby Amenities
Food & Drink: Despite its size, Tirau has a handful of cafés and eateries clustered near the main intersection. Popular spots include The Honey Shop Cafe (offering homemade pies, sandwiches and honey-based treats), Cabbage Tree Cafe, Oxford Cafe and Baxter’s (quick bites and coffee shops) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). For something heartier, the Tucker Bar & Eatery (a local beer pub with barbecue) is just off Main Road. If you wander further up Main Road there’s a small grocery/general store (in the dog statue complex) with snacks and a petrol station combo. Alcohol is only sold through the pub (tavern) license; supermarkets in larger nearby towns are the usual source for wine and bottled liquor.Shopping: The Main Road shops double as attractions. These include the Tirau Shell & Jade Factory (a landmark rainbow-coloured building with giftware and local crafts), plus stores selling antiques, trinkets, wine, fudge and novelty Kiwiana. Many retail owners invite visitors to browse their collections of paintings and souvenirs. The “Corrugated Creations” workshop/store is nearby (the artists who made the statues also sell creations here). For services, there’s a bank ATM outside the post-office (in the yellow shop near 65 Main Road) and a few petrol stations on the outskirts of town. Overall, though Tirau’s shopping center is compact (roughly 500 m of shops), it offers a surprising variety – from art galleries to candy and gift shops.Accommodations: Tirau itself has no full-scale hotels or motels on Main Road, apart from one small lodge. However, one of the top-rated places is actually just outside town: the historic Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). It’s a Victorian-era midclass hotel with its own thermal spring pools, pub, on-site restaurant and golf course – a short drive down Somerville Road. This hotel is frequently mentioned as “an excellent choice for travellers visiting Tirau” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). In town, there are a few bed-and-breakfasts and small motor lodges (try searching online for “Tirau motel” or check local listings). Many visitors instead stay in nearby towns (Putāruru or Rotorua) or camp at holiday parks by lakes. There are several holiday parks within 20–30 km of Tirau (for instance, Domain Road Campground by Lake Karapiro, or Rotorua lakeside sites). The i-SITE staff can provide the latest availability and contacts for all these.Other Services: The Tirau i-SITE also functions as a small post office and petrol up-stop (there are fuel pumps and kiosk for maps at 69 Main Road). Public restrooms are available at the i-SITE and at the Memorial Hall (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). Mobile phone coverage (Mobile NZ and Spark networks) is generally good in Tirau due to the regional cell towers. There is a free Wi-Fi kiosk at the Visitor Centre (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), and some cafes offer their own Wi-Fi to customers. The town’s first-aid station is the war memorial hall (small medical kit for events), but major medical emergencies require going to the hospital in Tokoroa (about 25 km south). If you arrive by bike or on foot, know that crosswalks with traffic lights control the intersection by the i-SITE – use them to safely cross SH1. Lastly, if you need anything from a grocery or bottle store, the closest supermarkets and shops are in Putāruru or Tokoroa. Tirau is really best for a short visit, as amenities are quite limited beyond what’s listed here.
What Makes This Venue Special
Tirau stands out as much for its culture as its corrugated metal art. The entire town centre looks like an outdoor folk art gallery. The signature features are the giant dog (which houses the i-SITE) and a sheep-shaped building, but there are many more – sheep dogs, rams, even Biblical figures – all rendered in rust-coloured corrugated iron (teara.govt.nz ) (teara.govt.nz ). These were the brainchild of local artist Steven Clothier (Corrugated Creations) and have drawn international attention. Tirau’s main street is often photographed and is a must-see stop for road-trippers. In fact, Te Ara notes that these works “turned Tirau into the corrugated-iron capital of New Zealand” (teara.govt.nz ).
Culturally, Tirau encapsulates a classic rural Kiwi spirit: friendly locals who love a good yarn, a relaxed pace of life and pride in homegrown art. The town has been able to sustain many small independent shops because it has become a popular heritage stop. Visiting artists and tourism have boosted the local economy: for example, Corrugated Creations employs craftsmen and has generated year-round visitor interest. Locals refer to seeing Tirau as more fun than you’d expect for a town of its size. On any given visit you might experience a spontaneous community event (a market or carol singing around the Christmas tree), reflecting the tight-knit community here. Historic moments include the building of the War Memorial Hall in 1912 and its dedication to locals who served in the world wars (nzhistory.govt.nz ), reminding visitors of the town’s heritage beyond the quirky. All these layers – from war memorials to whimsical art – give Tirau a unique character that both travellers and nearby residents cherish.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Tirau’s main attractions are mostly ground-level outdoors. The footpaths along Main Road are flat and accessible; the visitor centre (dog building) has ramp access and the War Memorial Hall is wheelchair-friendly (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). Many shops have at least one step up, but most offer assistance for mobility access if asked. You’ll find the Memorial Hall ramp and toilets are wheelchair accessible. If you need help or directions, the friendly staff at the i-SITE are always willing to assist.What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes for pavement and crossings – you may want to walk across the street for photos. Pack sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as there’s little shade on the sidewalk, and an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecast (the Waikato can be wet year-round). Keep camera batteries charged! Also carry some cash: although credit cards are accepted in most shops and cafes, smaller stores occasionally prefer cash. ATM machines are limited, so bigger towns might be better for large cash needs.Time to Arrive: The shops in Tirau typically open around 9–10 am and close by 5 pm (weekdays; some close earlier on weekend afternoons). Arriving mid-morning or afternoon is good to catch all shops open. Weekends are usually quieter for vehicle traffic, but note the Busit 31 does not run on weekends. If you come on a festival day (Citizens Event), arrive early since parking fills up fast. Allow at least 30–60 minutes to explore – an hour lets you take photos, wander in a couple of shops, chat to shopkeepers and grab a coffee.Rules and Restrictions: Tirau’s attractions are outdoors, so there’s no formal dress code or bag check. Photography is totally fine (in fact, encouraged) – just be careful of vehicle traffic when framing shots. Climbing on sculptures is discouraged for safety and preservation. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas (e.g. the street or outside cafes). Pets are generally welcome on leash outside – the statue areas and broad pedestrian spaces are good for dog walkers, but pets are not allowed inside shops or restaurants. Alcohol laws in NZ prohibit consumption of liquor in public streets; you can enjoy a drink in the pub (the local tavern) or at your accommodation.Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t stop abruptly on the highway to snap pictures – instead use the wide parking bays. Mind the speed of passing cars when crossing. Don’t assume all shops stay open late; many close by 5 pm. Also, although Tirau is safe, never leave valuables visible in your car; continue to secure them or take them with you. Finally, while the corrugated statues are family-friendly, young children should be supervised near the street and kept away from busy traffic lanes.Local Advice: The i-SITE provides free Wi-Fi, maps and even kits for glamping if you’re travelling overnight (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Ask the friendly staff for insider tips — they might tell you about hidden murals or the best ice cream nearby. Many locals will proudly explain the corrugated creations or take you to the quiet walking path along the nearby river (just off Somerville Road). ❖
Do I have to pay to see the dog and sheep statues in Tirau?
No. All the corrugated-iron sculptures in Tirau are in public view on the main street and free to enjoy. There is no admission fee or ticket required. You can walk up, take photos and explore the buildings at no cost. (The only events with tickets are special festivals, and even those are usually free or require free RSVP.)
Are the Tirau Visitor Centre (dog) and other attractions open year-round?
Yes. The main street shops and outdoor displays can be visited any time of year. The Tirau Visitor Centre (inside the dog statue) is generally open every day (usually 9 am–5 pm). Seasonal events like the Spring Festival happen in spring. Check local listings or the visitor centre calendar if you plan to attend a specific event. Even if some businesses close for a holiday break, the statues and street are viewable 24/7.
Where can I park my car in Tirau? Is it free?
Parking in Tirau is free and plentiful. You can use the roadside parking bays along Main Road in front of the shops. These are all off-street or street-parallel spaces without meter fees. The local War Memorial Hall has a small car park (used for hall events), but otherwise everyone uses the ample on-street parking (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). Just be sure not to block traffic lanes or marked no-parking zones.
Can I reach Tirau by public transport?
On weekdays, yes: the local “District Connector” Bus 31 stops in Tirau, connecting it with Tokoroa and Putāruru (www.busit.co.nz ). This is useful for commuters or day-trippers from those towns. On weekends or holidays, there is no scheduled bus service into Tirau (so travel by car or taxi is recommended). For longer-distance travel, some InterCity coaches on the Auckland–Hamilton–Rotorua route pass through or near Tirau; you’d have to arrange a stop in advance.
Is Tirau accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes. The main attractions in Tirau are street-side and the sidewalks are level. The war memorial hall has wheelchair access and restrooms (www.southwaikato.govt.nz ). The Visitor Information Centre (the dog) also has a flat entry and the nearby crosswalks with lights make crossing SH 1 easier. You’ll find plenty of curb ramps along the footpaths. Most shops are on flat ground, though some may have one small step. Overall, Tirau is one of the more accessible small towns for mobility aids.
What amenities does the Tirau Visitor Centre provide?
The Tirau Visitor Centre (inside the big dog) is a full-service information hub. It offers free tourist maps and brochures, internet kiosks and Wi-Fi, booking services for accommodation and tours, and local advice (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). There’s a small gift shop selling souvenirs and local crafts. Importantly, it also has clean public restrooms in an adjacent block (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Staff can help you map out the rest of your New Zealand trip or just answer questions about Tirau’s sights.
Are there any cafes, restaurants or shops open in the evening?
Tirau’s businesses generally follow daytime hours. Cafés and stores usually open by 9–10 am and close by 4–5 pm, with some open later on Friday nights. The one venue open at night is the local pub/restaurant (the Tucker Bar & Eatery on Main Road). For late evening dining or additional options, you would need to travel to Putāruru or Tokoroa. If you arrive late, note that most shops will be closed, though the visitor centre may stay open until 5 pm.
Why is Tirau known for corrugated iron and who created the sculptures?
Tirau gained fame as the “corrugated-iron capital” because Eric “Stevie” Clothier (Corrugated Creations) crafted a series of whimsical sculptures and buildings out of corrugated iron. The giant ram, dog, shepherd statue and other pieces were installed along the highway in the late 20th century to revitalize the town (teara.govt.nz ) (teara.govt.nz ). Clothier’s work (approved by the community) turned routine structures into art. Today these corrugated artworks define Tirau’s identity and draw tourists from all over.
What should I do if I arrive during bad weather?
If it’s raining, Tirau still has things to offer. You can pop into the corrugated-form shops for souvenirs, sample the cafe pastry inside, or visit the small local art gallery. The Visitor Centre (though primarily a drop-in info spot) will keep you dry and can provide maps to covered attractions in the region. For shelter, head to nearby sheltered verandas (like a cafe or the gas station) until it clears. The road (SH1) remains open unless there is a major weather event, but always drive safely in rain or fog as rural roads can be slick.
Are pets allowed at Tirau’s attractions and facilities?
Well-behaved dogs on leash are generally welcome outdoors – for example, they can sit outside the cafes with you or walk down the street. However, pets are not allowed inside the visitor centre (dog building), shops or hall. The Memorial Hall usually stays locked unless a public event is in progress. When outside, always keep your dog close by, especially near the busy highway, and clean up after it. As a rule, if you want to visit any indoor venue or restaurant, arrange pet care or take turns going inside alone.
How much time should I plan for a visit to Tirau?
Most visitors spend 30–60 minutes in Tirau. In that time you can walk up and down the main street, photograph the dog and sheep, pop into a couple of shops or cafes, and chat with the i-SITE staff. If you’re doing a day trip or road trip stop, an hour is usually enough. If any special markets or events are happening, you might spend longer browsing stalls. Plan extra breaks if you want to enjoy a meal or explore all the galleries, but Tirau is best seen as a short, fun stop rather than a multi-day destination.
