Cambridge – In the Town of Trees and Champions
This Waikato gem is the ultimate slow travel destination with a compelling mix of eco-luxury, creativity, active adventure, and rural refinement. Whether you’re pitching wellness, soft adventure, food and drink, heritage charm, or eco-escapes—Cambridge delivers the angles and the soul.
Overview for Media Use:
Cambridge isn’t just a pretty face - it’s New Zealand’s polished-yet-authentic countryside darling. A town where heritage buildings meet boutique shopping, where artisan gin and street food co-exist happily, and where a quiet lake walk can carry centuries of Māori history.
Story Angles
1. Wellness & Indulgence: Recharge with Soul
Soak, spa, sip, and stretch - Cambridge is primed for low-key luxury. Begin your weekend at Zen Medi-Spa, set in the peaceful countryside, where couples' spa packages and tailored rituals offer total rejuvenation. Pair that with Cambridge Distillery’s botanical tasting room and wind down at Hidden Lake Hotel, where you can soak in a treetop-view hot tub before dinner at their D’Arcy’s Garden Restaurant or book ahead for an Italian feast at Alpino Cambridge, a Chef's Hat winner two years running.
2. Cycling, Scenic Trails & Te Awa River Ride
Home to the Grassroots Trust Velodrome, this town celebrates movement. The Te Awa River Ride offers one of the most beautiful sections of the 65km cycle trail—from the Velodrome through horse country to Lake Karāpiro. Take it slow on an e-bike from Riverside Adventures or stop for a lakeside lunch at The Podium Café overlooking the rowers in action.
3. Nature & Conservation: Jurassic-Scale Experiences
Just 40 minutes from town is Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, New Zealand’s largest fenced ecological reserve—described as "just like Jurassic Park.” Here, native species like kiwi, tūī and takahē thrive. With guided forest walks, wetland tours and rongoā (traditional Māori plant medicine) sessions, it’s a rich source of editorial gold.
4. Antique Trails & Boutique Finds
For shoppers and stylists, Cambridge is treasure-hunting heaven. Browse antique havens like Alys Antiques or mid-century hotspots like Ampersand Retro, then step into vibrant second-hand stores like Mint. Pair that with Victoria Street’s award-winning charm, and a full boutique guide practically writes itself.
5. Art, Craft & Creativity
From gallery gardens to hands-on pottery, Cambridge is a place of creators. Visit Inspirit Gallery, home to large-scale sculpture and contemporary art, or dive into the backstory of Memento Mori Ceramics, run by a former The Hobbit film art director. Media can profile resident makers, showcase locally made pieces, or build seasonal gift guides around this artistic community.
6. Flavour-Focused Finds
Cambridge’s food scene balances rural roots with refined flair. Enjoy sourdough from Volare, northern Vietnamese street eats at Hanoi Boy, gluten-free goodness at Crave, or creative fusion at Koi Lounge. For pre- or post-ride bites, The Bikery Café and Café Irresistiblue provide wholesome, beautifully plated meals among blueberries and bike gear
Ready to explore the slow-living capital of the Waikato? We’re inviting media to submit a "Request a Famil" form to experience this story-rich destination first-hand.
Whether you’re chasing wellness, wine, walking trails or woven ceramics - Cambridge is the country escape with stories in every corner.