Waikato District

The Waikato countryside surrounding Hamilton, where the west coast surf town of Raglan and waterfall-laden forests are great places to unwind.

Waikato District is located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island, extending from the agricultural plains around Hamilton to the Tasman Coast. Raglan on the west coast is a famous surf town, with Manu Bay and Whale Bay renowned for their left-hand breaks, while Ngarunui Beach and Raglan Wharf are perfect for strolling; Bridal Veil Falls, Mount Karioi, and the Hakarimata Summit Track offer waterfall and forest scenery, and Zealong Tea Estate is great for tea tasting. Summer is best for beach activities, while autumn and winter wave conditions are more favored by surfers. The gateway is Hamilton, and it takes about an hour to drive to Raglan.

Destinations

• Raglan
• Hamilton

Itineraries

• Classic North Island: Auckland to Wellington – Head south from Auckland to Wellington, connecting the glowworm caves, Hobbiton Movie Set, geothermal wonders, and alpi…
• Auckland Volcanoes, Harbour and Hobbiton – Rangitoto Island, Devonport, the volcanic cones and the Ponsonby neighbourhood, plus a day trip to Hobbiton.
• Western Volcanoes & Forgotten World Highway – Travel from a surf town through SH43 to Taranaki, then follow the Whanganui River south to Wellington