Welcome to the

Mighty Waikato

A region where culture, nature, and adventure come together. From the vibrant heart of Hamilton and the magic of Middle-earth to the rugged west coast and the world's longest left-hand surf break, the Waikato offers something unforgettable for every traveller.

PYO Berries season has officially started in the mighty Waikato

Head out to one of the region’s berry farms and spend a sunny day picking your own strawberries - perfect for a fun family outing or a weekend treat.
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Direct flights from Australia to Hamilton are officially here!

Now, it’s easier than ever for your family and friends across the ditch to visit the mighty Waikato. Whether it’s to reconnect with loved ones or explore Hamilton & Waikato’s stunning landscapes and thrilling activities, the journey just got shorter!
Visit Hamilton

Waikato Outdoors Awaits: Escape into Nature

Celebrate the outdoors this spring with inspiring journeys across the mighty Waikato
Plan your Waikato escape

Cycle Trails in the Waikato

A trip to the Waikato region isn’t complete without a few days spent exploring by bike.
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Aerial view of two cyclists navigating a picturesque Te Awa River Ride cycling trail on a winding wooden boardwalk, surrounded by lush green trees on one side and water on the other.

Walking & Hiking Trails in the Waikato

From casual strolls along the river to overnight bush excursions and winding mountain tracks, the Waikato region has a variety of great walking trails to suit everyone. Meander alongside the Waikato River or get the pulse racing climbing to an inspirational mountain top view.
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A person walks at Hakarimata Scenic Reserve towards steep stairs. Tall trees and dense foliage surround the area, creating a lush, green setting—an excellent advanced walk in the Waikato

See & do in the Waikato

top pick Wahinemoe
from
$40
Raglan

Raglan Boat Charters - Sunset Cruise

Raglan Boat Charters is located at the Raglan Wharf on Whaingaroa Harbour, the West Coast of New Zealand's North Island, 40 kms from Hamilton and approx 150kms from Auckland, Tauranga and Rotorua. About our Cruises: Departing Raglan Wharf aboard the Wahinemoe to explore the charm of Whaingaroa Harbour – cruise past large conservation reserves, farmland and fishing villages. You will see marine wildlife and ancient limestone rock formations, and listen to fascinating tales about the history and culture of this very special area. Your friendly skipper and crew will take great care of you and make sure you have a magical experience. The sunset cruise is the best and its extremely rare on the west coast to find such an excellent viewpoint.
top pick Des Frith
from
$140
Tamahere

Tieke Golf Estate

Designated as one of New Zealand’s Marquee golf courses by Golf New Zealand, Tieke Golf Estate opened to visitors in 2022 and has quickly become one of New Zealand's most sought-after golf experiences. Crafted out of sand from the original riverbed of New Zealand’s mightiest river, The Waikato River. Tieke uses the natural river sand, fine fescue turf, creeping bent grass putting surfaces, and a sensational design to provide a wonderful golfing experience for all levels of golfer. Tieke provides a special blend of links and private valley golf, leaving a feeling that you are the only golfers on the course. After your golf, relax at our renowned Tieke Café and Bar and enjoy the panoramic views of the golf course.
top pick Natasha Halliday
from
$12
Hamilton

Hamilton Zoo

Featuring the largest free-flight aviary in New Zealand dedicated to native birds and plants, there’s always something new to explore. Connect with the animals up close and learn more about their counterparts in the wild and how you can make a difference to their survival. Hamilton zoo plays an important role in connecting people with nature and conservation, providing fun experiences that inform and educate visitors, and participate in breeding programmes for endangered species, as well as undertaking conservation and research projects and rehabilitation for our precious native animals.
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Events in the Waikato

Lavender farms in the Waikato

A person wearing a hat stands in a beautiful lavender farm under a clear blue sky. Blooms stretch endlessly, with a solitary tree and small gray building in the background, surrounded by lush green foliage. The air is filled with the soothing scent of essential oil wafting from the fields - perfect summer activity in Waikato.
Blooms are at their best in the region – and totally Instagram-worthy – from mid-November until late January and often into February, depending on when individual lavender farms harvest their flowers to make essential oil.
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A person wearing a hat stands in a beautiful lavender farm under a clear blue sky. Blooms stretch endlessly, with a solitary tree and small gray building in the background, surrounded by lush green foliage. The air is filled with the soothing scent of essential oil wafting from the fields - perfect summer activity in Waikato.

Top places to stay in the Waikato

top pick Mauro Risch
from
$259
Cambridge

Hidden Lake Hotel and Apartments

Hidden Lake Hotel is a boutique slice of contemporary New Zealand immersed in treed north island nature typical to the region. It’s difficult to believe you are so close to Hamilton Airport and all that the Waikato has to offer. Contemporary styling is a feature of rooms and apartments with superior appointments and technical luxuries. Everything is well thought out and delivered with on-trend hospitality. Expect a high level of service without fuss. Down to earth as is the New Zealand way. Enjoy the designer interiors and scenic outlooks while being pampered with share plates, local wines and spa treatments.
top pick
from
$575
Maungatautari

The Lakehouse at Takapoto Estate

The pantry and fridge are stocked with breakfast items that were produced and harvested from the Estate's own chickens, bees, Angus beef, vineyard, olive trees and market garden, making for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Whether you're looking to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings or explore all that the region has to offer, The Lakehouse is the perfect place to stay.

top pick Scenic Hotel Group
from
$150
Hamilton

Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton

Located in the heart of the city amidst shopping, entertainment and the CBD, Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton is within a short walking distance to Waikato Stadium, Claudelands Event Centre, Seddon Park cricket grounds and only 20 minutes from Hamilton Airport. Relax in one of 51 guestrooms all with complimentary WIFI, cool off in the pool, enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast in the on-site restaurant and wander along the river boardwalks not far from here, Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton is the ultimate location for the corporate traveller to large sporting or tour groups looking for that iconic touch.
Accommodation

Where to sample real fruit ice cream

In addition to selling the best berries in the country, many Waikato berry farms also offer delicious real fruit ice creams. You can choose either ice cream, frozen yoghurt or dairy-free as your base.
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Share your Waikato adventures with us #MightyWaikato