Located in the North Island of New Zealand on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is packed with diverse culture and stunning natural features. Originally a strong agricultural centre, Hamilton is now one of New Zealand’s fastest growing urban areas and is perfect for a holiday.
There are plenty of exciting things to do and see in Hamilton. Hamilton Gardens, a sprawling public park, features elaborately themed gardens ranging from Italian Renaissance to Japanese and indigenous Māori styles. You can also soak up the rich arts and culture of the Waikato region at the Waikato Museum. Highlights include a war waka (Māori canoe) and galleries featuring local artwork. Afterwards, stroll down Victoria Street and take your pick from a range of exciting restaurants, cafes and bars.
Hamilton is a fantastic hub to explore the surrounding region’s stunning natural features. The Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is an absolute must, where you can take a guided tour of one of the most iconic locations used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies. The Waitomo Caves is another highlight, where you can explore a subterranean maze of limestone caverns and see the thousands of twinkling glowworms. Beach fans should head to Raglan, a beautifully scenic coastline of black sand that’s popular with surfers.