Hamilton

A North Island transport hub on the Waikato River, with the world-class themed Hamilton Gardens, nearby Raglan surf beaches and a tea estate, and a handy base for driving to Hobbiton.

Hamilton (Māori name Kirikiriroa) is the seat of the Waikato region on New Zealand's North Island and the country's fourth-largest city. It lies about 125 km south of Auckland, and the Waikato River, New Zealand's longest, runs through the city. The city itself is best known for the world-class themed Hamilton Gardens, and it's surrounded by flat dairy farmland and rolling hills. Forty-five minutes west is the surf town of Raglan on the west coast; to the east are Cambridge, Lake Karapiro and the Te Aroha hot springs; to the south are the Kiwi House and the road to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves; and Hobbiton is also about 45 minutes' drive away (Hobbiton and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves are covered under the Rotorua & Taupō destination). The best time to visit is October–April, when the gardens are in full bloom and Raglan is great for surfing and swimming in summer; the Balloons over Waikato festival takes place in March–April; in autumn, Cambridge's tree-lined avenues put on a fine show of colour; winters are wet but mild, good for soaking in hot springs. Areas to explore: ① the city — Hamilton Gardens, Waikato Museum, the riverside walkway, Hamilton Lake and Hamilton Zoo, 1 day; ② the west coast — Raglan beaches, Manu Bay and Bridal Veil Falls, 1 day; ③ the east and south — Cambridge, Lake Karapiro, Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, Wairere Falls and the Te Aroha hot springs, a 1–2-day drive. Getting there: Hamilton Airport has domestic flights; it's about 1.5 hours' drive from Auckland Airport, or take the Te Huia commuter train or an intercity bus. Sights are spread out, so driving is strongly recommended — New Zealand drives on the left. Plan on 2–3 days.

Top sights

Where to eat

Itineraries