Regional Highlights

Unforgettable Sights

Glow worms The mesmerising sight of sparkling larvae dotting every inch of a Waitomo cave. Raglan beach Rugged and wildly beautiful in western coastal Waikato. Hobbiton (Matamata) Genuine remnants from The Lord of the Rings.

adrenaline rush

Lost World Abseil and Caving Adventure (Waitomo) A 100-metre abseil into a magnificent cave chasm. Jet boating Experience the thrill of V8 speed as you jet boat on the Waikato River.

Rest & relax

Te Aroha Hot Springs Hot mineral pools and the world’s only hot soda water geyser located at the base of Mount Te Aroha. Hamilton Gardens Stroll around the beautiful Hamilton Gardens alongside the Waikato River.

Luxury

Kamahi Cottage Indulge yourself at this charming country cottage in the Waitomo area. Maungatautari Lodge (Lake Karapiro) Luxurious small hotel in a rural lakeside setting.

Culture

Billy Black Kiwi Culture Show An irreverent celebration of Kiwi culture at Woodlyn Park in Waitomo.

natural new zealand

Otorohonga Kiwi House Offers visitors the opportunity to see New Zealand’s native bird.

on a budget

Bridal Veil Falls Take a scenic walk to this beautiful waterfall on the way to Raglan. Waikato River Walkways (Hamilton) Wander alongside the Waikato River on this 11 km pathway.

Exclusive Dining

Tables on the River (Hamilton) New Zealand cuisine by the river.

Casual Dining

The Thirsty Weta (Otorohanga) Excellent all-day dining in a friendly atmosphere.

Café

Bosco Café (Te Kuiti) Casual eco-friendly dining in tranquil surrounds.

Stylish Bar

Furnace Restaurant, Bar & Nightclub (Hamilton) Leather couches and a fireplace for sophisticated ambience.

Cosy Pub

Riverside Lodge (Te Kuiti) Cosy waterhole with open fire, couches, river-view balcony and courtesy shuttle.

Culinary Experience

Donovans Chocolates (Hamilton) Be tempted and sample the sweet local specialty in Hamilton.

Shop or Gallery

Thornton Gallery (Hamilton) Extensive range of New Zealand artists.

Did You Know?

Starting 2,797 m above sea level in the central North Island volcanic plateau, the Waikato River flows 425 km from Lake Taupo to the Tasman Sea at Port Waikato, driving eight hydro-electric dams along the way.