Welcome to the
Mighty Waikato
A geographically and culturally diverse region, the Waikato has a range of activities and attractions to suit all ages and tastes – from our vibrant city hub of Hamilton to the rugged west coast, underground wonders and middle-earth movie magic.
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
Experience the real Middle-earth
If the Shire is at the heart of Middle-earth, then the Waikato is at the heart of the Shire. When scouting around for settings for his epic three movie adaptation of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Kiwi director Peter Jackson found just what he was looking for in the green rolling paddocks, rugged limestone outcrops and underground caverns of the Waikato region.
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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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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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See & do in the Waikato
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$140
$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.
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$20
$20
Hamilton
Hamilton Gardens
From ancient Egypt to a 21-century Concept Garden. Admission to the enclosed gardens requires a paid entry fee for visitors who live outside of Hamilton, with children under 16 years of age free. Unlike any botanical garden, our unique attraction is rated among the top 3 things to do in New Zealand and is in the top 1% of attractions globally on TripAdvisor. Discover the magic of Hamilton Gardens with one of our tours. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a returning visitor, this immersive journey unveils fascinating tales, discovering the cultural significance woven into every petal and pathway. Or opt for an Audio Guide to enjoy a narrated journey through the ages and across the continents, exploring at your own pace.
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$68
$68
Hamilton
Zealong Tea Estate
Experience our popular Signature High Tea curated with a selection of hand-crafted gourmet sweets and savouries or our selection of mains and desserts. Add to your experience with the perfect pairing of Zealong tea to compliment your selection. Whether you enjoy a refreshing green, a floral oolong, or a bold black, we have the perfect tea for you – all organically grown and proudly made in New Zealand. Our menu changes regularly and the images shown on our website will not always show what is available.
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Events in the Waikato
Top Summer Activities in the Waikato

The Mighty Waikato is where you can make the most of summer. There’s so much to see and do, from beautiful beaches and stunning gardens to underground wonders and foodie delights.
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Top places to stay in the Waikato
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$575
$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.
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$109
$109
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.
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$180
$180
Hamilton
Novotel Tainui Hamilton
Novotel Tainui Hamilton is perfectly located in the heart of Hamilton’s dynamic CBD. Only a short distance to Hamilton’s attractions, entertainment & major convention facilities and with easy access to the airport, the best of the city is at your doorstep. With this iconic hotel in the CBD, Hamilton is able to project itself as a destination for events & exhibitions, providing the service and quality required for its international travellers.
The hotel provides 217 well equipped rooms as well as extensive conference facilities for up to 300 delegates. Featuring adequate onsite parking, gym, sauna, restaurant and bar, the hotel also has a strong commitment to the environment and is dedicated to achieve environmental and social activities.
Accommodation
Top Ice Cream Places in the Waikato

In the Waikato region, which is the dairy farming heartland of the country and where berries and many other kinds of fruit are cultivated, you’re never far from a shop or eatery serving up ice cream.
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