The Chill Mates Itinerary: 2 Days of Pure Waikato Ease
Perfect for: besties, old mates, siblings, or out-of-town friends in need of a weekend to relax, reconnect, and savour the local gems — at your pace.
Day 1: Beachside Bliss + Boutique Finds
Morning: Coffee and Market Browsing in Hamilton
- Start your day at Rocket Coffee Roasters for your go-to flat white.
- Browse Made Market, a curated marketplace featuring local crafts, ceramics, and fashion.
- Explore the laneways and grab a second brew from Volare or Grey St Kitchen.
Shout them a flat white. Show off your local spots. Be a Mighty Local.
Midday: Road Trip to Raglan (45 min drive)
- Drive your mates out to Raglan - the ultimate chill town with boho vibes, beach views, and artist flair.
- Lunch at The Shack - a local gem with an effortless vibe.
Afternoon: Raglan Wandering + Relaxation
- Walk the black-sand beach at Ngarunui Beach, or lie back and watch the surfers.
- Visit the boutiques and galleries — think Tony Sly, Jet Collective, Atamira, Soul Shoes, Kanuka Design Gallery, Artisan and Merchant and the iconic Raglan Old School Arts Centre.
Boutique shopping, sea breezes, and time to chill.
Evening: Sunset Dining on the Wharf
- Stick around for the golden hour glow.
- Grab Fish & Chips at Raglan Fish or woodfired pizza at Raglan Wharf Kitchen or Isobar, with sunset views over the harbour.
- Then head back to Hamilton for a good night’s rest.
End the day with views, vino, and your best mates.
Day 2: Lazy Sunday in the Mighty Heartland
Morning: Wake Up & Brunch
- Ease into the day back in Hamilton.
- Head to Hayes Common for a slow brunch — riverfront views, warm service, and locally loved plates.
Midday: Garden Stroll or Chill Brewery
- Stroll through the world-class Hamilton Gardens, one of the world’s most enchanting gardens - explore everything from Italian Renaissance to Ancient Egypt Garden, Te Parapara Garden, Surrealist Garden, and more.
- OR grab a slow drink at Bootleg Brewery Taproom at the Old Matangi Dairy Factory for craft brews, cheese boards, and easy vibes. Pair your visit with checking out The Sunday Society for stunning homeware antiques.
Afternoon: Final Sips & Stories
- Head to Riverbank Lane — design stores, local fashion, and indie charm.
- Enjoy a final toast at Mr Pickles Bar & Eatery, perched above the Waikato River.
- Pop into Browsers Bookshop for one last local moment before your mates head home.
Wind down, laugh lots, and savour the final taste of your mighty backyard.
Bring your mates home. Show them the version of the Mighty Waikato only locals know.
