Hamilton

Falling directly on the main tourist route between Auckland and Taupo, Hamilton is the heart of the Waikato. The student city offers art galleries, museums, cafes and riverside walks as well as the world famous Hamilton Gardens.

Other Waikato Destinations

 

 Balloons over Waikato Night Glow, Tourism Waikato  Tourism Waikato

 Canterbury Accommodation header  © alberth2 via Flickr

Hamilton

Accommodation

From five-star exclusive luxury lodges to simple backpacker hostel accommodation, Hamilton offers something for every style and budget.

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Hamilton

Activities

Browse through the diverse range of activities on offer in this beautiful city. There are many to choose from, find your favourite!  

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What to do in Hamilton

  • Visit the beautiful Hamilton Gardens
  • Don't miss the annual Balloons over Waikato event
  • Cruise the mighty Waikato River
  • Take in a Waikato Chiefs rugby game
  • Follow the heritage trail to learn of Hamilton's history

Expand Map & Get Directions

How do you get to Hamilton?

  • Travel by Plane
    • Hamilton International Airport is the only airport in the Waikato region. Located 15 minutes' drive from Hamilton, the airport is serviced by 2 domestic airlines travelling a number of domestic routes as well as routes to and from Australia and Fiji.
  • Travel by Train
    • The Overlander train service stops at Hamilton on both its north-bound and south-bound route between Auckland and Wellington. The service takes 2 hours and 20 minutes from Hamilton to Auckland, and around 10 hours from Hamilton to Wellington.
  • Travel by Bus
    • Many NI bus networks include Hamilton as a pick-up or drop-off destination and may stop on demand in some of the Waikato's smaller areas. A public bus system services Hamilton city. There is a free shuttle that loops the central city every 10 minutes
  • Rent a Vehicle
    • Several major car rental and motorhome hire companies have depots at Hamilton Airport or in Hamilton City.