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Top 10 Winter Activities the Waikato

From indulgent treats to keep you warm, to outdoor adventures, activities for the whole family and much more, check out the top 10 winter activities to do in the Waikato region below.
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Indoor Activities
Stay warm and dry with a variety of indoor activity options
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Chase Waterfalls
Winter is when the Waikato’s waterfalls are especially impressive.
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Animal Encounters
Another great winter activity, the Waikato region offers many opportunities to get up close and personal with a variety of native and exotic wildlife.
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Middle-earth Movie Magic
Take a tour of Hobbiton Movie Set past hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, mill and other structures
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Foodie Delights
Nothing is better in winter than a little indulgence and the Waikato region boasts a great variety of foodie options.
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Natural Spas
The Waikato region's natural spa options are somewhat of a hidden gem.
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Events
From theatre and art exhibitions to concerts and sporting events, the Waikato region's events calendar doesn’t slow down during winter
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Cycle Trails
Grab a bike and ride one of the great cycle trails on offer in the Waikato region
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Inner-City Fun
Hamilton City offers a range of great winter activities also
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Winter Getaways
Treat yourself to a peaceful winter escape at Te Karaka Lodge or Castaways Resort.

Indoor Activities

Stay warm and dry with a wide range of indoor activities across the Waikato. Challenge your family or friends to a game of ten-pin bowling at SkyCity Hamilton, or explore interactive exhibitions at Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery. Catch the latest blockbusters at Hoyts Te Awa at The Base, or let the kids burn off some energy at an indoor rock climbing wall or trampoline park.

For something a little different, step back in time at the Classics Museum, home to over 100 classic cars and a treasure trove of vintage petrol memorabilia. And don’t miss MADE Market - an indoor creative marketplace that showcases local artisan goods, perfect for a relaxed winter browse.

Chase Waterfalls

Winter is when the Waikato’s waterfalls are especially impressive - and many are surrounded by beautiful walking tracks, perfect for a refreshing hike. Bridal Veil Falls near Raglan is a must-see, with lush greenery, dramatic drops, and an easy walk leading to several stunning viewing platforms. For those after a bit more of a challenge, Wairere Falls near Matamata - the highest waterfall in the North Island - offers a rewarding winter walk with incredible views.

Note: Winter weather can often affect tracks and trails - we recommend checking the DOC website for any alerts before leaving home.

Animal Encounters

Another great winter activity in the Waikato is getting up close with some of the region’s most charming locals - both native and exotic. Hamilton Zoo is home to over 600 animals, including Sumatran tigers, lemurs, cheetahs and native bird species. It’s a great way to spend a cooler day while learning more about conservation and animal care.

For something a little different, head to Cornerstone Alpaca Farm, where you can meet and feed beautiful alpacas. Visit Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari in the morning, and you may be able to spot one of the many native bird species that are abundant on the mountain.

Middle-earth Movie Magic

Hobbiton™ Movie Set takes on a special kind of charm in winter, with soft mists, twinkling lanterns, and the inviting warmth of the Green Dragon™ Inn making it feel like you’ve stepped right into the Shire. With fewer crowds and crisp countryside air, it’s the perfect time to experience the magic of Middle-earth.

For an unforgettable evening, book the Evening Banquet Tour, where you’ll enjoy a twilight tour through the Shire followed by a hearty Hobbit-style feast. Or take the Behind-the-Scenes Tour for a deeper look at how the movie set was brought to life.

Winter is also when Hobbiton Movie Set hosts some of its most iconic events - International Hobbit Day in September is a must-do, while the annual Mid-Winter Feast offers a magical night of food, storytelling, and celebration in true Middle-earth style.

Foodie Delights

Nothing is better in winter than a little indulgence and the Waikato region boasts a great variety of foodie options. Enjoy a decadent High Tea at Zealong Tea Estate just north of Hamilton or enjoy the variety of options on offer in the SkyCity Dining precinct or visit award-winning Waikato restaurants. 

Cosy up at Hayes Common, a neighbourhood eatery known for its creative, seasonal fare, or book a table at the award-winning Gothenburg, where lakeside views and share plates make for a memorable winter outing.

Winter is the perfect time for a hot chocolate - stop for a mug of rich hot cocoa at one of the region’s best hot choccy spots. Browse amazing Waikato foodie spots here. 

Natural Spas

The Waikato region’s natural spa experiences are something of a hidden gem—perfect for a bit of winter indulgence. The historic town of Te Aroha has been welcoming visitors to its soothing mineral spas for over a century.

Nestled above the picturesque Edwardian Domain, you’ll find Domain House Beauty, offering a peaceful escape with a range of beauty and massage treatments to help you truly unwind.

Events

From theatre and art exhibitions to concerts and sporting events, the Waikato region's events calendar doesn’t slow down during winter. This year's highlights include Matariki Ki Waikato Festival, National Fieldays, the Waikato Food Show and Hobbiton™ Movie Set's Mid-Winter Feast.

The Rugby and Netball season will also keep loyal fans entertained as they support the Chiefs Rugby and Magic Netball teams. Search events here. Search events here.

Cycle Trails

Grab a bike and explore some of the Waikato’s great cycle trails this winter - from scenic riverside rides to off-road adventures. Popular cycling tracks include the Te Awa River Ride, which winds along the Waikato River and Hauraki Rail Trail, offering easy-going terrain and charming stops along the way. For those after something more adrenaline-pumping, check out one of the region’s local mountain bike parks.

To make things even easier, Riverside Adventures offers bike hire and shuttle services, so you can explore the trails at your own pace - whether you’re planning a short ride or a full-day cycling adventure.

 

Inner-City Fun

Hamilton City offers a range of great winter activities to keep you entertained. Take a relaxing stroll through the stunning Hamilton Gardens which looks beautiful year-round. Enhance your visit with the Hamilton Gardens Audio Tour - a self-guided experience that brings the gardens to life with captivating stories and insights.

Wander along the banks of the Waikato River or on a clear morning get sky-high with a hot air balloon ride.

Winter Getaways

Treat yourself to a peaceful winter escape at Te Karaka Lodge or Castaways Resort, where crisp days and stunning landscapes create the perfect backdrop for a rejuvenating retreat.

Te Karaka Lodge offers a tranquil stay with scenic walking tracks, a charming farm tour, and a soothing spa - ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring the countryside.

For a serene coastal experience, Castaways Resort boasts breathtaking beach views, perfect for refreshing walks along the shore or indulging in a luxurious day spa treatment.