Hamilton City Guide
Situated in the middle of the Waikato in the North Island of New Zealand, Hamilton is often referred to as the largest inland city, connected to the ocean by the impressive Waikato River. Originally a Maori settlement called Kirikiriroa or "long gravel beach" Hamilton is mainly a pastoral and agricultural area featuring incredibly fertile green plains and many grazing cows.
Throughout history, the river has always been an important waterway for Maori canoes and steamboats.
Hamilton's major attraction is its stunning extensive garden complex covering 58 hectares of botanical gardens from around the world. Other attractions include Hamilton Zoo and the Waikato Museum of Art and History - both are well worth your time.
No matter what season it is, you won't be disappointed by a trip to Hamilton Gardens. A short trip down State Highway 1, just south of Hamilton's city centre will put you right in the middle of the gardens.
Inside, there are five different "garden collections". Each one has a different theme and its own unique vibe. For example, the Paradise Collection has a very serene feel, along with flowers from China, Japan, Italy, the U.K., and U.S. - while in the Fantasy Collection, you'll find an entire perfume garden!
In the Productive Collection, you'll see Te Parapara - the very first traditional Maori garden in New Zealand. In addition to flowers, you'll find statues, ceremonial materials, and an inside look at the Maori culture.
If you're lucky enough to be in Hamilton at the end of February, you will get to take part in the Hamilton Gardens Art Festival - that features a variety of live performances among the flowers.
The Waikato Museum offers a totally different experience - but a unique one, nonetheless! Your adventure here will begin as you're walking into the building. You won't be able to miss the museum's unique architecture; it has won several awards over the years.
Inside, you'll be able to explore 12 different galleries, all overlooking the Waikato River. Each one focuses on the cultural history of the area.
If you're impressed with the Waikato River, why not see it from the air? There are several companies that will take you over the river in a hot air balloon. For about an hour at sunrise, you will get to see all of the natural beauty and wildlife that the river has to offer. Since you'll be floating in a balloon, you will, literally, go wherever the wind takes you!
For some adventures on the ground, head to the Hamilton Zoo. There, you'll find more than 600 of New Zealand's native animals. The Hamilton Zoo is known around the world for its excellence in conservation - while also being one of the best natural habitats on earth!
The modern centre of the city, on the banks of the Waikato River, is a bustling entertainment area due to the amount of university students out and about. The lively main street offers an excellent range of bars, cafes and restaurants where you can dine in style or immerse yourself in
the city's unique coffee culture. This interesting mix of historic, electric and exotic atmospheres makes Hamilton a charming holiday destination.
One of the most popular places to spend a night out is SkyCity Hamilton - a casino that sits right on the banks of the Waikato River, right in the middle of town. Inside, you'll find more than 330 gaming machines and 23 tables that are up and running 24/7 - along with a number of gourmet restaurants and bars. There's even an area with laser tag and a bowling alley that the entire family can enjoy!
If you head to SkyCity on a Sunday, you'll get to gamble with the sounds of live music floating through the air.
Like the rest of New Zealand, Hamilton is home to some great seafood, great produce, and great wines. You can enjoy them - or tasty treats from virtually any corner of the world - around town. Hamilton has everything from gourmet restaurants to fast food delicacies. Some of the most popular places are:
- Rebo Restaurant and Bar
Located in SkyCity, Rebo has a modern atmosphere whether you want a full meal or a quick snack before you head back to the tables. Rebo also has "Personalised Platters" where you pay a set price and build your own plate.
- Domaine
If you want a five-star meal, you'll find it here. Domaine has won numerous awards for its lamb and beef entrees. However, it also specializes in gourmet vegetarian meals, too. There are even tables outside so that you can indulge your tastebuds while you overlook the Waikato River.
- Hydro Cafe
Located right by the river, Hydro Cafe has great coffee and tasty treats. Thanks to its creative chef, the menu changes from week to week!
- Suburbia Cafe and Restaurant
Suburbia prides itself on being cosy and relaxing. Whether you go for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can rest easy knowing that Suburbia's chefs are making each dish with locally-produced gourmet ingredients.
If you're willing to head about an hour outside of town, you'll get to see two great things - the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the Te Aroha Mineral Spas. But, as you'll see, the drive is well worth it!
At the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, you'll go on a boat ride under thousands of twinkling glow worms. That glowing light will be your backdrop for an interesting commentary on the history of the caves - and how important they are to the area's geological system.
At the Te Aroha Mineral Spas, your skin will be rejuvenated in the soda spring waters - and your mind will be rejuvenated in the bubble-filled kauri tubs. At this modern-day bathhouse, you will get to choose the temperature of your water and the aroma oil squeezed into it. There's no better way to pamper yourself!
For some fun, sunlight, and fresh air, take a trip to Raglan Beach. Located about 45 minutes outside of Hamilton, it's a popular surfing spot. Even if you don't want to go surfing, you can enjoy some fishing, kitesurfing, boating, and bodyboarding. Or, you can stroll along, taking in the sights of this quirky beach town.
The biggest selection of Hamilton hotels can be found in two "clumps" - one on Victoria Street and one on Ulster Street. Luckily, both of these streets are close to the city centre and close to the Waikato River.
If you want to be close to SkyCity, Westpac Stadium, or St. Peter's Cathedral, you're better off staying on Victoria Street.
No matter what kind of budget you're travelling with, you will likely end up staying on the west side of the river, as there are far fewer hotel choices in Hamilton East. As an added benefit, staying on the west side of the river puts you closer to State Highway 1 - New Zealand's biggest highway - so it will be easy to head out on day trips!