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.
Featured Stories
Pick Your Own Berries
Strawberry season is here in the mighty Waikato! There's nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked strawberries, especially when you've picked them yourself!
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Walking & Hiking Trails
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.
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Find the stories behind the magic of the Mighty Waikato
The unexpected is closer than you think! Look a little closer and you’ll find fascinating stories, hidden details and a little magic. Some are hiding in familiar places, while others are waiting somewhere you’ve never thought to look.
Follow your curiosity and see where it takes you
Hauraki Rail Trail
The Hauraki Rail Trail is a 160km ride which makes a great 4-5 day ride. Stretching from Kaiaua on the Coromandel Peninsula to the towns of Te Aroha and Matamata, the trail takes in historic sites and stunning scenery.
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See & do in the Waikato
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$59.98
$59.98
Cambridge
CAMJET Cambridge Jet Boat Tours
Unique opportunity to visit the Karapiro Dam and see some of the amazing native bush and bird life in the Cambridge River Gorge. Ideal for you and your whole family, anyone who likes adventure, fun, speed or scenery. Speeding up the Mighty Waikato in a 450 hp V8 Jet Boat is going to get the heart pumping, adrenaline flowing and the faces smiling. If you are a thrill seeking adrenaline junkie then this is for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a game of golf, followed by a browse round a picturesque town and a latte, or a visit to the close by Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings, then give the team at Camjet Cambridge Jet Boat Tours a call and we can have a quiet cruise up our beautiful river.
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$130
$130
Matamata
Hobbiton Movie Set Signature Tour
Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Enjoy a fully guided walking tour showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole doors including the iconic Bag End, before arriving at Bagshot Row for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. End your day with an exclusively brewed beverage at the Green Dragon Inn to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.
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Free
Te Awamutu
Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum
Te Whare Taonga o Te Awamutu Museum is situated in Waipā district, within Waikato. A touchpoint for visitors to learn local history, social development and bi-cultural collaborations between Māori and settlers from 1823, through amazing objects and engaging stories. Understand the reasons why British soldiers invaded the Waikato 1863, the locations, who was involved, and its impact on the Waipā communities that are still being felt today. Do you know about Te Ara Wai Journeys? Start your journey with us. We also have our collections online.
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Events in the Waikato
Top places to stay in the Waikato
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$158
$158
Tamahere
JetPark Hamilton Airport and Conference Centre
JetPark Hamilton Airport New Zealand is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, located just a 6-minute walk from Hamilton Airport Terminal and close to Mystery Creek Events Centre. Enjoy free parking, a fitness center, outdoor pool, sauna, and tennis court during your stay. Our rooms feature free WIFI, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and tea/coffee making facilities, with some offering air-conditioning and spa baths. For added comfort, our apartments include living rooms and kitchenettes. Room service is available for your convenience. Unwind in our casual restaurant and bar with seasonal garden seating, or host your next event in our conference centre, featuring 6 versatile meeting rooms.
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$150
$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.
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$400
$400
Hamilton
Te Karaka Lodge
Te Karaka Station & Lodge is a boutique retreat set in the middle of a picturesque working beef and sheep farm in the Waikato. With ten premium guest rooms, each thoughtfully designed to offer stunning rural views and modern comforts, the Lodge provides an intimate and exclusive escape. Guests can indulge in delicious culinary experiences and unwind taking in the stunning views. We offer a range of different activities such as walking trails and private farm tours around the station, as well as an outdoor swimming spa and spa treatments. For those looking to explore the area, there are scenic bush walks, the West Coast beach at Port Waikato, art workshops and glow worm caves to name a few. There is something for everyone at Te Karaka.
Accommodation
Top places to eat and drink in the Waikato
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Free
Hamilton
Hayes Common
Hayes Common is a vibrant café and restaurant located in the heart of Hayes Paddock, Hamilton East. Set inside a beautifully restored heritage building near the Waikato River, the space blends modern industrial design with a warm, welcoming feel. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal produce with creative brunch and lunch dishes, excellent coffee, craft beer, cocktails, and thoughtful vegetarian and vegan options. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Hayes Common is loved for its laid-back atmosphere, community spirit, and beautifully curated dining experience.
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Free
Hamilton
Sage
Sage Restaurant brings a modern dining experience to Hamilton East.
Enjoy our seasonal shared plates crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, alongside a carefully selected range of wines, beers, and handcrafted cocktails.
Whether you're planning a date night, celebrating a special occasion, or catching up with friends, Sage offers warm hospitality and nostalgic flavours in an inviting atmosphere.
Join us for dinner, drinks, or your next celebration!
top pick
Free
Hamilton
Hamilton Hotel Public Bar & Bistro
Winner of the Hamilton CBD Food & Drink Award 2026.The Hamilton Hotel (est. 1865) is in service again for the first time since 1980. While not an accommodation provider as previous incarnations were, they're bringing the old world into the new as custodians of an iconic, historic hospitality venue for Hamiltonians and our city's visitors. Set on the street frontage of the Waikato Regional Theatre, Hamilton Hotel is the prime setting for pre-show drinks and dining or to make a proper night of an evening at the Theatre. In historic surroundings with an elegant aesthetic, they operate a Bistro with modern classic cuisine and an exhaustive wine list, a Public Bar with entertainment and drinks for all tastes and several iconic function spaces available for events.
Places to Eat and Drink
Top Coffee Spots in Waikato
The Waikato is home to a number of skilled coffee roasters and top baristas making delicious brews - from flat whites and long blacks to cappuccino and macchiato.
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