Icon sites tell a range of great stories about kiwi identity. The Department started developing these sites in 2003 in collaboration with local councils and communities.
Located in beautiful natural settings they have wonderful walks that can be enjoyed with family and friends. Visitors have the opportunity to discover some of New Zealand's heritage at the same time as experiencing the outdoors.
The afterlife is a spiritual concept shared by many cultures. Visit the site of departure for Māori spirits.
The Treaty of Waitangi begins to unravel with the first armed uprising. Visit a key battle site from the New Zealand Wars.
Lighthouse families lived on the wild side! Visit New Zealand's best lighthouse and stay in the old keeper's cottage.
Keeping New Zealand secure while our troops are far away fighting. Visit the key World War Two coastal defence command post.
Bush tramways once hauled the timber that built New Zealand. This rail trail is still in the planning stage.
Mining for gold deep underground by flickering candlelight. Go underground in New Zealand's second biggest gold mine.
Innovation provides opportunity in a competitive business environment. DOC's family friendly overnight experience closest to Auckland.
The railway that joins our nation is completed through difficult terrain. Walk or bike the old stage coach road to a lofty steel viaduct.
Many battles were fought for the ownership of Otatara Pa. Stand at the top of one of the largest pa sites in New Zealand.
Forces of nature defeated farmers returned from World War One. Go by jet boat or canoe to this graceful arch bridge abandoned in the forest.
Built in 1876 to house New Zealand's new central government. Visit New Zealand's largest and grandest wooden building.
Captain Cook's favourite place in the Pacific. Visit the unchanged site of the first Māori Pakeha interaction.
New Zealand's largest and most famous high country station. Visit by car, bike, horse or foot.
In WWII forts were built to defend key cities. Enjoy this dramatic coastal setting close to Christchurch.
Premium coal mined from a lonely landscape in the clouds. Visit the dramatic location of the West Coasts leading coal mine.
Sheep farming has long been a key element of the New Zealand economy. Cycle 150km through farming communities and old gold mining towns.
New Zealand has attracted immigrant workers from many cultures. Visit a typical 1880s Chinese gold miners village with houses and a store.
The value of conservation
New Zealand Historic Places Trust www.historic.org.nz
International Council on Monuments and Sites www.icomos.org
Ministry for Culture and Heritage www.mch.govt.nz
New Zealand Archaeological Association www.nzarchaeology.org
