Set on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is known as a picturesque escape with scenic riverside walks and boat cruises. From its established eateries and various pristine gardens to the vibrant night scene you won’t be short of activities. With so much to see and do in Hamilton, pick up a hire car and drive around from place to place with ease.
Top tourist attractions in Hamilton
Travel through time and feel like a debonair royal in the delightfully weird and wonderful Hamilton Gardens. With its rich history and gallery themed gardens, it’s no surprise that Hamilton Gardens is Waikato’s most visited attraction. With impeccable displays of gardening extravagance inspired by gardens all over the globe, Hamilton Gardens is more of an art exhibit than a simple stroll through nature. Be sure to check out the Renaissance Italy Garden, the traditional Maori inspired gardens, and the Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar’s garden. They also have a collection of fantasy-inspired gardens that transport you into the surreal.
Get as close as you can to New Zealand’s wildlife at Hamilton Zoo in Rotokauri. Covering over 25 hectares, the zoo is home to over 600 native and exotic animals. After taking tour of the park’s enclosures and free flying aviary, go one step further and schedule a face to face encounter with macaws, lemurs, rhinos and giraffes!
Within walking distance of the CBD you’ll find yourself at the edge of Lake Rotorua, a glimmering jewel in the heart of Hamilton. A juxtaposition of enjoyment can be seen from those relaxing along the lakeside grounds of the park, to those out on the water enjoying everything from yachting, to wind surfing, paddle boating and more.
Waikato Museum provides a rich experience of art and culture. Hosting 12 galleries, the museum features over 25 new exhibitions and annually holds over 100 public events. Highlights include Te Winika and “For Us They Fell” (Waikato WW1 story).
For the ardent tea drinker, a trip out to the award-winning Zealong Tea Estate is just a short drive away. As New Zealand’s only tea plantation, Zealong has earned a reputation for its fine dining and world-class hospitality in addition to its wide-ranging selection of high teas. The serene surrounds of the tealeaf fields also provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing high tea session and is a popular destination for many weddings and events.
With sporting events around every corner, feel the buzz of the crowds at a game of your choosing. Renowned for its national and international sporting events throughout the year, be sure to catch a rugby game, boxing or a cricket match.
For a touch of funky retro memorabilia, check out the Classics Museum in Dinsdale and marvel at a collection of over 100 classic automobiles, petrol cans and road signs made possible by local resident Tom Andrews’ fascination with classic cars, particularly a 1959 red corvette.
Take your pick of Hamilton’s many incredible dining options
For a taste of the heart and soul of Hamilton itself, head down to Hood or Victoria Street to discover the bustling hubs of cafes, restaurants and bars that Hamilton has to offer. A few of the best restaurants and cafes to explore include:
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Scotts Epicurean – Winning a series of top awards every year since 2000, Scotts Epicurean has established itself as Hamilton’s most affluent café-restaurant. Be sure to try the renowned Aglio e Olio (spaghetti). Location: 181 Victoria St, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Three Leg Frog – A Beijing-meets-New York contemporary feel. The venue provides a pleasant point of difference and superb food to match (the sweet and sour pork Hong Kong style is a must). Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, there are plenty of opportunities to visit. Location: 236 Victoria Street, Hamilton, New Zealand
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River Kitchen – having perfected coffee, cakes and gourmet breakfast dishes, you can’t go to Hamilton and pass up a meal at River Kitchen. Be sure to get there before their 2pm closing time. Location: 237 Victoria St, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hire a car and explore Hamilton’s spectacular surrounds
If you’re spending more than a day or two in Hamilton, a day trip out to Waitomo Caves is a bucket list grade travel item that simply cannot be missed. Descend into a fairy-tale odyssey through the transcendental caves situated 80 metres below ground and discover the natural beauty of thousands of glow-worms that create an otherworldly star system beneath the earth. If your heart can pound any faster, take advantage of the black water rafting that takes you through this mystical natural wonder and get up close and personal with this system that was formed over 30 million years ago.
Experience Hamilton and its stunning surrounds with a hire car, and travel from place to place on your own terms.
