A Waikato weekend is waiting for you
The mighty Waikato is a real doorstep destination for North Islanders. Check out this three-day itinerary, which takes time to really appreciate the key sights.
FRIDAY
Set off first thing and arrive in Hamilton. The big activity today is the magnificent Hamilton Gardens. Sprawling over 50 hectares, Hamilton Gardens attracts more than 1 million people a year for good reason: decades of hard work have crafted this place into an artistic masterpiece, featuring an array of themed gardens inspired by history, context and meaning
- Each tells a story and offers social media fodder around every new corner. Even better, entry is free.
Alternatively, spend your day 30 minutes outside Hamilton at the Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum, a former quarry transformed into 17.5 hectares of blended garden and sculpture trails - 2 kilometres’ worth, to be precise.
Including travel, stopping for photos, and a lunch break, you’ll easily wile away half a day in either location. Leaving the evening to enjoy the vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar scene around Hamilton CBD.
SATURDAY
Now for a day of underground adventure. Drive one hour south of Hamilton and you’ll reach Waitomo, world famous for its startlingly beautiful caves - of which there’s hundreds!
Of course, the famous attraction is the spectacular Waitomo Glowworm Caves. But there are many tour operators and caves in the area which you can check out via foot, boat or inflatable tube.
For extra adventure with your glowworms, Waitomo Adventures hosts an array of caving excursions, including abseiling, blackwater rafting and rock climbing. Brave-hearted kids will love their Troll Cave, and anyone not wishing to participate in caving can check out one of the many walks in the area such as Ruakuri Bush Walk or Marakopa Falls.
SUNDAY
We’ve scheduled Monday as the day to go home. Leaving Sunday free for a few different options, depending on your interests.
Eat your way around the Hamilton Farmers Market, every Sunday 8am to 12 noon.
Or check out Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, an ecological pest-free paradise full of bush walks that offers some of your best chances to spot NZ’s native wildlife out in their natural habitat. Even more animal encounters can be found at Hamilton Zoo or Otorohanga Kiwi House.
Mueseum fans have a bunch of choices. Waikato Museum and the Classics Museum or Te Awamutu Space Centre and Cambridge has its own museum too.
Your third option is all about cultural significance of the Waikato to Māori, and the New Zealand Land Wars. Te Ara Wai Journeys is a free self-guided tour and a great way to hear the stories right there on your phone. The Waikato Driving tour is also sure to be a crowd pleaser.
If relaxing beachside is your thing, a visit to Raglan and its world-class surf break s a must. Just 45 minutes west from Hamilton, a mecca for surfers, creatives, foodies and outdoor enthusiasts awaits.
WHERE TO STAY
Our recommended stay in Cambridge just down the road is Hidden Lake Hotel. Built with nature and sustainability in mind and positively steeped in luxury with a gorgeous lakeside view.
Of course, Hamilton is replete with options too, from luxury hotels to motels, apartments and B&Bs. Or to base yourself in Waitomo or Raglan.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
Almost every attraction we’ve mentioned either has its own cafe, or plenty of close-by eateries to grab a quick feed. When it comes to dinner, or a long lunch, there are a couple must-visits:
Palate Restaurant has to be one of Hamilton’s best, and not just for its fabulous food and atmosphere, but its support of local food producers - who make up the bulk of its menu.
Zealong Tea Estate also makes for a wonderful spot. As NZ’s only commercial tea estate, it is literally unique in the country and has become a local icon. Love the look of the place? You can stay overnight, too.
Alpino in Cambridge is a must for lovers of italin cuisine. With all ingredients sourced in New Zealand, this gorgeous restaurant serves up warmth, great service and charm.
Learn more about the Waikato region here.