Hamilton Gardens Highlights Tour

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.

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. 

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!

Experience some of the best walking trails on the Coromandel Peninsula, a region famous for its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines and pristine rivers to lush sub-tropical rainforest. Your local guide leads you on three hidden walks, each chosen for its distinct scenery and terrain: a coastal walk, a river walk, and a rainforest walk. Along the way, meet the region's best local producers, visit Coromandel coffee roaster Pinnacle Coffee, and enjoy a private gin tasting hosted by the distiller at your luxury retreat.

Embark on a premier 3-day private journey through New Zealand’s iconic "Golden Triangle." This tour offers a seamless blend of cinematic magic, cultural immersion, and natural wonders with professional door-to-door service. Day 1 features the Hobbiton Movie Set with a buffet lunch and an evening of Māori culture at Mitai Village. Day 2 explores Rotorua and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland before heading to the adventure hub of Taupō. Day 3 concludes with the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the world-renowned Hamilton Gardens. Travelling in our premium Mercedes-Benz fleet, you enjoy total flexibility. We manage all logistics and transport, allowing you to relax and enjoy the lush Waikato landscape.

Come on an electric adventure along the majestic Waikato Te Awa, New Zealand's longest river! Join us for a curated 1-3 day experience on Te Awa 'The Great New Zealand River Ride' or Waikato River Trail. This incredible journey begins or ends at the northern trailhead, just an hour's drive from Auckland Airport in Ngāruawāhia, and takes you through key attractions such as The Hamilton Gardens, The Velodrome, and Cambridge before concluding or commencing at Lake Karapiro. Choose from our carefully crafted packages that include everything you need for a seamless Mighty Waikato River experience. From bikes to kayaks, thrilling jet boat rides, delicious meals, accommodations, and transportation – we have it all covered. Welcome to River Riders.