The story of Tirau’s big sheep and dog

There are two types of people we never fail to relate to; adventurers and animal lovers. With plenty of native birds, wildlife and marine animals to observe throughout New Zealand, there are plenty of places for you to hire a car and visit for a fun family day out at any time of year. Sometimes, however, you just want something a little different. This is the story of the big sheep, ram and dog of Tirau. 

 

Tirau is an unassuming small town in the Waikato region of the North Island but when you visit you’ll notice something unusual about the place. Right in the heart of this little town are three gigantic animals; a sheep, a dog and a ram. Created by sculpturist Steven Clothier from corrugated iron in the mid 90s, with the ram making up the trio in 2016, these iron guardians of the town have long been a fascinating tourist attraction for passersthrough. 

 

What is in the animal buildings?

As man’s best friend, the giant dog, complete with a poking out tongue, is the i-SITE Visitor Centre for Tirau. Head inside to find out the best local restaurants, hikes, and what things there are to do within driving distance. The huge sheep aptly hosts a wool and crafts shop within. So, why not treat yourself to some of New Zealand’s finest merino wool whilst away on your travels?

 

With a population of under 1,000 people these three larger than life characters are arguably Tirau’s most famous residents. Apart from visiting the biggest animals in the country you could take in the Tirau Museum or keep things creative and head to the Shell & Jade Factory.

 

How to get there?

You’ll need a car. From Auckland, head straight down State Highway 1 in a southerly direction. You’ll find Tirau approximately 50km south-west of Hamilton. If you don’t have a vehicle of your own, hire an affordable one from us. We offer a whole range of cars and SUVs to suit your criteria. Save money with our fleet of cheap and cheerful cars to travel safely for a fraction of the cost, or fit your whole family into our full-size fleet of luxury 4-door sedans for smooth cruising on the motorways of the North Island.

 

Get in touch with us today to find out more about hiring a vehicle and great places to visit all across New Zealand. 

Book online or call us now. Our operators are available 8am-5pm, 7 days a week. View our branch locations.

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.

Contact

If you have any questions or need help or advice about rental cars or your New Zealand travel plans we’re here to help you. Please contact us

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New Zealand Free Phone: 0800 800 956

Australian Free Phone: 1800 771 302

Other international enquiries. Find your nearest New Zealand rental cars branch.