Tirau

Tirau is a small town in the Waikato region, located at the junction of State Highways 1 and 5 approximately 40 km south-east of Hamilton. It is famous for its distinctive corrugated iron buildings and sculptures.

Tirau's main street features buildings made from corrugated iron, including a giant sheep and a giant dog that house the i-SITE visitor centre and a shop. The town has a growing arts and crafts community.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Hamilton Airport (HLZ), approximately 45 km north-west.

By Car / Road

Tirau is on State Highway 1, about a 30-minute drive south-east of Hamilton. Bus services pass through on the Hamilton–Rotorua route.

The town is walkable.

Tirau Corrugated Iron Buildings — The giant sheep (i-SITE) and giant dog are iconic roadside attractions built from corrugated iron.

Tirau Main Street — Craft shops, galleries, and cafes.

Photograph the corrugated iron sculptures. Browse the craft shops.

Cafes on the main street.

Cafes serve coffee.

Tirau has motels.

Tirau is known for its craft shops, galleries, and antique stores.

• Putaruru — 10 km south, Blue Springs
• Matamata — 15 km east, Hobbiton
• Cambridge — 15 km north-west, equestrian town
• Hamilton — 40 km north-west, Waikato city
• Rotorua — 50 km south, geothermal and Māori culture