Overview

Waikato is a lush, green region in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, known for its rolling farmland, underground wonders, Māori heritage, and Middle-earth landscapes. Anchored by the vibrant city of Hamilton and stretching from the west coast’s surf beaches to Lake Taupō’s northern edge, Waikato offers a mix of adventure, nature, and culture.

  • Main City: Hamilton (Kirikiriroa)
  • Other Towns: Cambridge, Raglan, Matamata, Te Awamutu, Tokoroa, Te Kūiti
  • Population: ~540,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) UTC+12 / NZDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Mild and temperate — warm summers and cool, damp winters

Top Destinations in Waikato

Hamilton (Kirikiriroa)

The region’s largest city, known for its beautiful gardens, river walks, and vibrant dining and nightlife scenes.

Waitomo Caves

World-famous for its magical glowworms, underground rivers, and blackwater rafting adventures.

Hobbiton Movie Set (Matamata)

Step into the Shire with a guided tour of the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

Raglan

A laid-back coastal town with one of the world’s best left-hand surf breaks, funky cafés, and stunning black-sand beaches.

Cambridge

A picturesque town known for its tree-lined streets, cycling trails, horse studs, and charming boutiques.

Must-See Attractions

  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – Explore Bag End, the Green Dragon Inn, and the lush hills of the Shire
  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Take a boat ride under thousands of glowing creatures in a surreal cave environment
  • Hamilton Gardens – Internationally award-winning themed gardens, including Italian Renaissance and Māori garden sections
  • Raglan Surfing & Bridal Veil Falls – Ride the waves or enjoy a 55m waterfall surrounded by native bush
  • Te Aroha Mineral Spas – Soak in natural hot pools with mountain views

Things to Do

  • Cycle the Te Awa River Ride or Waikato River Trails
  • Blackwater raft through underground streams in the Waitomo Caves
  • Explore Māori history and art in Hamilton and Te Awamutu
  • Visit the Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand’s only commercial tea plantation
  • Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills and farmlands of the Hauraki Plains

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Hamilton Airport (HLZ)

Transport

  • Intercity buses connect Hamilton with Auckland, Taupō, Rotorua, and more
  • Rental cars or campervans are ideal for exploring the countryside and smaller towns
  • Local buses in Hamilton and surrounding towns via BUSIT

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Great for beaches, gardens, and Hobbiton tours
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp mornings and colorful foliage, especially in Cambridge
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Cool and misty — perfect for hot pools and underground cave adventures
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooming gardens, newborn lambs, and ideal walking conditions

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Farm-fresh produce, artisan cheeses, award-winning ice creams, and boutique cafés
  • Specialties: Creamy dairy products, Raglan sourdough, lamb, and locally brewed craft beer
  • Markets: Hamilton Farmers’ Market, Cambridge Farmers’ Market
  • Events: Balloons Over Waikato, Fieldays (NZ’s largest agricultural expo), Raglan Arts Weekend
  • Māori Culture: Deep roots across the region — join guided cultural experiences, haka performances, and historic site tours

Souvenirs from Waikato

  • Hobbiton-themed merchandise
  • Locally made tea, honey, and cheese
  • Māori carvings and flax products
  • Raglan art, pottery, and surfwear

Fun Facts

  • The Waikato River is New Zealand’s longest river, stretching 425 km
  • Hobbiton draws over 500,000 visitors each year
  • The name “Waikato” means “flowing water” in Māori
  • The glowworms in Waitomo are unique to New Zealand and light up to attract prey

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Waikato Highlights

  • Day 1: Hamilton city + gardens + night market
  • Day 2: Hobbiton Movie Set tour + explore Matamata
  • Day 3: Waitomo Caves adventure + drive to Raglan for sunset

5-Day Nature & Culture Escape

  • Day 1: Arrive in Hamilton + river trail walk
  • Day 2: Zealong Tea Estate + Cambridge boutique shopping
  • Day 3: Hobbiton + Te Aroha mineral pools
  • Day 4: Waitomo – blackwater rafting + glowworms
  • Day 5: Raglan surf, hike to Bridal Veil Falls + return

Cities

  • Hamilton