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.
Fieldays 2026 | 10 - 13 June 2026 | Mystery Creek
New Zealand Agricultural Fieldays is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event, showcasing cutting-edge technology and innovation in farming equipment and services.
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One Flight to everything you love about New Zealand
Just one easy, direct flight from Australia lands you in the heart of the North Island - unlocking alpine adventures, glowworm caves, epic landscapes, surf coast and iconic film locations, all within easy driving distance.
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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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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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$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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Free
Hamilton
SkyCity Hamilton
SkyCity Hamilton is situated inside the former Chief Post Office, in a building designed to maximise a superb riverside location on the banks of the Waikato River.
With a range of dining and entertainment outlets, including EATBurger - voted the Waikato's best burger and The Local Taphouse - the first Good George bar in the CBD, there is something for everyone at SkyCity Hamilton!
Enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of the Main Gaming Floor with over 300 gaming machines and 23 table games (R20 to enter the casino) or strike up a little competition on level two with Hamilton's only bowling alley, Bowl and Social, a world-class venue offering non-stop fun and state of the art technology!
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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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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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$225
$225
Hamilton
Quest Hamilton
Quest Hamilton is ideally located in Hamilton’s CBD, close to everything, including restaurants, shops, Hamilton offers a vibrant range of attractions such as SkyCity, Claudelands Event Centre, Zoo and Hamilton Gardens. Easy access to iconic surrounding attractions such as Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton, Sanctuary Mountain and Raglan’s surf coast & much more. Quest Hamilton offers a mix of 38 studio, one- and two-bedroom self-contained serviced apartments all with modern furnishings and all the great services and amenities Quest is known for. Perfect for stays from one night to one year or more. Quest Hamilton offers a unique “Home Away from Home” experience. Reception hours are 7am to 7pm Monday-Friday and 8am to 4pm Weekends & public holidays.
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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.
Accommodation
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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Getting around
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$110
$110
Hamilton
Motorhome & Campervan Hire
Oli Campers offers practical and comfortable campervan and motorhome hire for travellers who want freedom and flexibility while exploring New Zealand. Vehicles can be collected in Hamilton, around 90 minutes south of Auckland, or delivered directly to your chosen location. Each camper includes comfortable sleeping areas, cooking equipment, and the onboard essentials needed for confident, self-contained travel. For peace of mind, all rentals include 24/7 nationwide roadside assistance. Oli Campers is well positioned for visiting destinations such as Hobbiton, the Waitomo Caves, and the Coromandel Peninsula, while giving you the freedom to explore New Zealand on your own schedule.
Transport options