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Waikato River Explorer

Address: Hamilton Gardens, Hungerford Crescent (departure and pickup)

Road trips are fun, but you can also try cruising for a change. The Waikato River is the lifeblood of Hamilton City, with many opportunities for recreation. Enjoy the scenery and tranquil surroundings of the Waikato River by cruising the Waikato River Explorer's 47-foot vessel. This popular charter vessel called Cynthia Dew can seat up to 54 passengers and accommodate up to 75. They offer lunch, scenic, and wine tasting cruises from Thursday to Sunday all year round.

Waikato River Walks

Or, get up close to the water with a river-side walk at these scenic paths:

• Memorial Park- Rose Gardens (east side)
• Rose Gardens- Hillcrest Beach (east side)
• Bridge Street- Governers (west side)
• Governers- Beerescourt (west side)

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours

Address: 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata 3400, New Zealand

A fantastic day out. Book your tickets for a tour at the thatched-roof i-site office in Matamata, a 45-minute drive from Hamilton. You can then choose to drive yourself to Hobbiton, another 20 minutes, or relax and opt for a bus ride there. The site itself is a little remote, so the bus ride takes the worry out of the trip. Hobbiton is large, so upon arrival, you board another bus for your tour. Guides are super-knowledgeable and have lots of behind the scenes stories. There's plenty of time off the bus to wander the attractions at your own pace. Finish your tour at the Green Dragon pub, with a cup of tea and a cheese scone. Read more about it in our useful article. 

Mount Pirongia

Address: Accessed from Limeworks Loop Rd

With multiple tracks to suit your level of fitness, there is nothing more idyllic than the spectacular views this mountaintop has to offer. Get hiking shoes, comfortable clothes, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the sense of satisfaction that comes with a good day of adventuring. Mt. Pirongia is a 40-minute drive from Hamilton.

Cricket at Seddon Park

Seddon Park is New Zealand's fourth largest cricket venue and is popular for its village-green atmosphere, and picnic vibe. As part of the ANZ Test Series, watch the New Zealand cricket team, the BLACKCAPS play Pakistan of 25-29 November. 

Hamilton Gardens

Address: Hungerford Crescent

Not just a destination during spring and summer! The Hamilton Gardens are one of the city's premier attractions. It is more than a botanical garden, it is more a living museum with over 21 themed gardens to enjoy. Linger in the Italian Renaissance Garden or take a moment in the Japanese Garden of Contemplation.

Hamilton Zoo 

Address: 183 Brymer Road

This crowd-pleaser is perfect for the whole family to enjoy the day or afternoon. If you aren't with the family, it's also a perfect first date! With native and exotic animals from around the world, plus a cafe to enjoy lunch, Hamilton Zoo offers a truly fun time.

Raglan

Just 40 minutes of driving time from Hamilton is Raglan. This a surf side community has a big focus on the creative and artistic lifestyle. Have a surfing lesson, and try to stand up like the pros. Relax in the cafes or on the verandah of the Harbour View Hotel, the iconic pub in the centre of town. You can stay the night there too. Check out the Raglan website, they even have a Friday afternoon local surfing update!

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Accommodation

Underhill Valley Earth Huts by Canopy Camping

Address: Whatawhata RD 2

If you're looking for the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, or simply want a romantic refuge for you & your partner, then make sure to check out the Underhill Valley. Staying in the earth huts may remind you of the Hobbiton village. Each hut was beautifully handcrafted to promote sustainable living. Underhill Valley was established more than 15 years ago, yet remains the best-kept secret in Waikato!

Brooklands Country Estate

Address: 5908 Hwy 22, Waingaro

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city's nightlife and retreat to the peaceful, lush, green country of Waingaro Valley. Here you will discover a luxury accommodation that offers fine dining, a spa, a swimming pool, a library, a golf course and many other activities to help keep you entertained in such a secluded area. Sounds to us like the perfect getaway!

Argent Motor Lodge

Address: 27 Lorne Street, Melville

Ranked #2 of the 62 hotels in the city by TripAdvisor and located within close proximity to the Waikato Hospital and Lake. This cosy, top-class service and modern motor lodge offer great accommodation space and facilities at affordable rates. 

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Restaurants & Bars

Smith & McKenzie

Address: 13 Lynden Court, Chartwell Square

For those who are searching for the best steaks in New Zealand, make sure to drop by Smith & McKenzie Chophouse. This restaurant can accommodate up to 150 guests, but it also features a separate bar, two garden areas and a special functions room. Smith & McKenzie is known for their tender steaks -- which use a slow cooking technique to ensure that meat is tasty and juicy. They also have a wide selection of wines and beers to compliment your steak.

Palate

Address: 20 Alma Street

Situated right in the heart of the city, Palate is one of the top restaurants in the Waikato region. It was established in 2005 and is headed by highly-acclaimed Chef Mat McLean, who is also the owner of this restaurant. Chef McLean and his hardworking team aim to provide the highest-quality, freshest food all the time. Palate has received numerous awards including the Cuisine NZ Restaurant of the Year Award (2012) and the Entertainment Gold Award (2014.) 

The District

Address: Home Straight, Te Rapa (opposite Bunnings Warehouse)

If you are looking for great coffee, great food, and great service, then The District is the place to be. It is open from Monday to Saturday with dinner served every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Their seasonal menus feature local produce from the Waikato and other New Zealand regions. Make sure you try their beer-battered fish and chips, flash-fried squid and stone-cooked pizza. They also have a wide selection of wines, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and hot beverages.

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