Industrial Site Tours

The history of Kawerau is firmly entrenched in its connection with the forestry and milling industries. Back in 1953 the town of Kawerau was a mere block of land nestled next to the Tarawera River and the foot of Mt. Edgecumbe.

Over the successive years Kawerau took shape and the main industry was the paper mill which supplied paper across the world, but more importantly provided employment for the local people.

As part of the various attractions at Kawerau Woodfest there will be an opportunity to take a look around the mill site, at what is now the Norske Skog Paper Mill. Availability for the tours is limited and registration is highly recommended. Details of registration for the tours will be released closer to the event.

We are pleased to announce that in 2011 there will be the new introduction of tours of the Mighty River Power geothermal plant situated in the Kawerau District.  The local natural environment is a source of incredible power and with the large level of thermal energy situated underneath the local land, it is well worth a look at this feat of amazing engineering at the geothermal plant.

A special thanks to Norske Skog and Mighty River Power for granting free access to their respective sites.  Another special mention should be given to our local coach operator, Graham Harvey from Kawerau Coaches who will be provided the transport at a special Woodfest rate, which will keep the cost extremely affordable for the interested public.

Places are limited for both tours which will happen on Friday and Saturday only, if you are interested in reserving a spot on one of the tours head to the Mighty River Power Woodfest Info tent near Prideaux Park and book your place.