Akatea Villa

Haere mai! Welcome to Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery. Perched above the mighty Waikato River, this world-class museum and art gallery is the artistic and cultural heart of the Waikato. Visit us to experience visual stories and guided activities that bring our art, history, culture and science to life through an inspirational programme that aims to challenge and inspire you.

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!

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. 

See all the city sights from the air and the great views of the surrounding country side. Hamilton is a metropolitan city situated on the banks of the mighty Waikato River, its rich cultural mix and vibrant center makes it a perfect place to experience the friendly Kiwi lifestyle. The vibrant café and bar scene is making a name for itself, and plentiful open spaces mean the city is an easy place to spend time in. The city is also rapidly gaining a reputation as a business hub for creativity and innovation as well as a destination for world-class international, national and local events. Arts and culture form an important part of the city’s makeup with the Waikato Museum paying homage to Hamilton’s past and future.

A volunteer heritage railway group providing the public with steam &/or diesel train rides on 5km of the old Rotowaro to Glen Afton branch line 12km drive west of Huntly. Open days operate on the first Sunday of every month. For other dates or to charter a train for your group contact the Secretary by email. The Open Day ticket covers rides on the main train between 10.00am and 3.00pm. Rides on an old bush "jigger" are usually available at a small extra cost. Souvenirs, a sausage sizzle, other food items and drinks are normally available on Open Days. We have EFTPOS. As well as train rides, the railway has a significant collection of heritage industrial railway items on display, much of which came from the coal & timber industries.

Helicorp is 100% New Zealand owned and operated with professional and experienced pilots offering luxury helicopter flights throughout New Zealand with a particular focus on the stunning and varied North Island. We offer a wide range of helicopter services: charter flights, aerial photography and filming, heli-fishing, heli-golf, heli-skiing – all your helicopter transportation needs.  We utilise modern “executive class” aircraft providing safe, efficient and enjoyable flights to your required destination. Heliport & Aircraft Management; Helicopter management, hangarage, and pilot services for private owners.