Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Hamilton, New Zealand. #Top Attractions

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Ready for some excitement? There’s a lot to do and see in Hamilton, New Zealand.  For the best things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand, and the coolest places to visit in Hamilton, New Zealand. Scroll down for our top travel recommendations in Hamilton, New Zealand. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter has big plans to shake things up in the field.

ArtsPost Galleries and Shop

ArtsPost Galleries and Shop, Hamilton, New Zealand
ArtsPost Galleries and Shop, Hamilton, New Zealand / Michael Coghlan / Flickr

Admire and be inspired by the work of some of the best artists in Waikato and New Zealand.

The people who live in this city take enormous pride in their native art, and the ArtsPost Gallery is where you can view this one-of-a-kind collection of local artworks.

ArtsPost is committed to the cultivation and promotion of artists and the cultivation and maintenance of an environment that is active and supportive of the arts in the Waikato region.

This once-functioning post office in Hamilton’s downtown district is currently home to a retail establishment and an art gallery.

There are three galleries on the premises, each of which hosts changing exhibitions of local and international artists’ work.

The ArtsPost Galleries and Shop is an art and design store that sells New Zealand-made glass, ceramics, artworks, prints, books, and jewelry. 

Go ahead and indulge in some retail therapy by shopping for New Zealand art and design showcased exclusively!

Address: 120 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossom Festival, Hamilton, New Zealand
Cherry Blossom Festival, Hamilton, New Zealand / Christopher John SSF / Flickr

Get an opportunity to see the undoubtedly most beautiful flower that blooms in the spring season!

The arrival of spring ushers in primulas, daffodils, and tulips, but the cherry blossom trees in full bloom in September are considered by many to be the most beautiful sight of the year.

Symbolic of the beginning of spring, a fresh start, and the fragile quality of life, the Japanese cherry blossoms have a limited life span.

Located in Tamahere, Hamilton’s English Cherry Tree Manor features a cherry blossom path that is lined with trees that reach heights of many meters and unite at the very top to form an arching ceiling of blooms.

Tickets to the Waikato Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in late September, typically sell out within a few days.

Take pleasure in the gorgeous blooms, the diverse array of entertainment and culture represented by the performing arts, the delectable cuisine, and the people in their festive attire!

Address: 125 Matangi Road, Hamilton, New Zealand 3284

Classics Museum

Classics Museum, Hamilton, New Zealand
Classics Museum, Hamilton, New Zealand / GPS 56 / Flickr

Cars, but not just cars: a display of over a hundred classic vehicles

The collection covers various topics, including an enormous assortment of gas station paraphernalia such as enamel tins, pumps, signs, and oil bottles.

It has classic automobiles from every decade, starting with Packards from 1930.

The Belair, Auburn, and Cadillac are all classics. They have refurbished a 1937 Bedford school bus originally used to transport Hamilton students to and from school.

Be on the lookout for the Messerschmidt, a tiny three-wheeled car easily recognized by its clear bubble canopy.

New Zealand’s first gasoline company, Big Tree, was purchased by Shell in the 1950s. The evolution of design and materials can be observed across time.

Vintage bicycles, 40s cruisers, and 1980s racing machines are all available if you’re a fan of two-wheeled transportation.

You may continue your vintage experience by having a meal or a snack at the on-site Jukebox Diner, which is themed after the 1950s.

You must check out this place if you are interested in cars with history. 

Address: New Zealand 11 Railside Place, Dinsdale, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton, New Zealand / russellstreet / Flickr

A haven of peace and tranquility where one can escape the chaos of everyday life.

Many people see the Hamilton Gardens, one of the city’s most well-known landmarks.

The size of the gardens has increased from four hectares in the 1960s to the current total of 54 hectares, and they continue to expand daily.

Instead of focusing on plants like most other gardens, The Hamilton Gardens explore a variety of cultures and religions.

The Italian Renaissance, the Indian Char Bagh Garden, the English Flower Garden, the Japanese Garden of Contemplation, the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, and the Tropical Garden are just a few of the more than attractions that can be found here.

The guided tour is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but you can also go at your own time.

To satisfy your hunger, stop at the Hamilton Gardens Cafe. A dog-friendly restaurant that features an alfresco dining area with views of Turtle Lake.

Pre-ordering one of their delectable picnic baskets is a great idea if you are looking to add a touch of romance to the occasion.

Everyone may enjoy themselves here, as there is something for everyone to see and do!

Address: Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand

Hamilton Lake

Hamilton Lake, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hamilton Lake, Hamilton, New Zealand / Samuel Mann / Flickr

Take it easy in the picnic area, have fun on the playground, or find a bench and enjoy the view.

The Hamilton Lake Domain has a long tradition of serving as one of the cities of Hamilton’s most notable parks.

Within easy walking distance of the central business district, this major recreational facility serves the people of Hamilton City and the surrounding area.

At the heart of Hamilton City, the Hamilton Lake Domain offers a unique biological setting and a focal point for a wide range of water and land-based activities.

You can take a stroll, ride your bike or play a game of backyard cricket here at Hamilton Lake.

The waters are peaceful, making them ideal for paddling a kayak or paddleboard. In contrast, the surrounding landscape makes for a breathtaking stroll.

Pack a lunch for a day at the park at Hamilton Lake, where you can enjoy kicking around a ball, having a picnic, or even trying your hand at flying a kite.

Visit this perfect place to mingle with other travelers and residents while you people-watch and enjoy the scenery.

Address: Hamilton, Waikato, North Island, New Zealand

Hamilton Zoo

Hamilton Zoo, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hamilton Zoo, Hamilton, New Zealand / Peter Harrison / Flickr

Explore a wildlife refuge!

Hamilton Zoo is known for its generous ecosystems and compassionate approach to conservation and marvel at the beauty of the living world.

The zoo is home to more than 600 different kinds of native and non-native species combined.

The mission of the Hamilton Zoo is to encourage people to get involved in conservation efforts by participating in a variety of projects and contributing to breeding programs for endangered species such as the southern white rhinoceros, of which there were once only 100 left in the world, but there are now more than 20,000.

Numerous rare and endangered species may be found at Hamilton Zoo, like Sikanni the bobcat and Itam and Luri, the siamangs, who are the only two siamangs in the world to live together.

The zoo also offers daily chats with the keeper and animal encounters with giraffes, lemurs, and rhinos, among other exotic animals.

This is your finest chance to witness creatures from all around the world in their natural habitats.

Address: 183 Brymer Road, Rotokauri, Baverstock 3289, New Zealand

Hampton Downs

Hampton Downs, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hampton Downs, Hamilton, New Zealand / orion / Flickr

This is the best place for you to live out your childhood fantasies of becoming a racing legend.

One of New Zealand’s busiest racetracks, Hampton Downs, is located just outside of Auckland and Hamilton, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

NZ Grand Prix and Ferrari Challenge Australasia are two of New Zealand’s most popular motorsports events held at Hampton Downs, a world-class racing and events facility.

The racetrack was constructed to provide a new home for motorsports enthusiasts on the North Island. However, it was first opened in a shorter version until the funds were in place for the entire layout to be completed.

A gradual start will allow you to experience the rapid go-kart course at speeds of 70km/hr.

A ride in a Lamborghini, Lexus, or NZV8 SuperTourer race vehicle at speeds of 280km/h is the ultimate thrill ride for those who are looking for something a little more extreme.

Drive around in the Hampton Downs Mustang, and see how much of a driver you are!

Address: 20 Hampton Downs Road, Hampton Downs 3782, New Zealand

Hinterland Adventures

Hinterland Adventures, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hinterland Adventures is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

Get your heart racing with the diverse range of exciting activities here!

Hinterland is proudly New Zealand-owned and operated by residents of Hamilton. 

The company was founded 19 years ago as a family-run enterprise, and it continues to serve the Waikato region by providing quality activities and outstanding customer service.

Hinterland Adventures offers a wide variety of activities, all of which are guaranteed to get your blood pumping and activate your adrenaline rush!

There are activities available that cater to participants of all skill levels and interests, including paintball, clay bird shooting, outdoor laser tag, and archery.

If you’re looking to have some fun outside but don’t want to get your hands dirty, outdoor laser tag is for you.

It is the ideal location for getting to know your companions better, whether they be friends, relatives, or coworkers.

Whatever the size of your group, Hinterland Adventures can help you plan an unforgettable event at one of the handy venues just north of Hamilton.

Address: Hutchinson Road, Hamilton 3288, New Zealand

Hobbiton

Hobbiton, Hamilton, New Zealand
Hobbiton, Hamilton, New Zealand / Tom Hall / Flickr

Explore the Shire in all its scenic beauty on the iconic real-life movie set!

Hobbiton Movie Set is the permanent set that was developed for both The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit Trilogy. 

It is located in the center of the Waikato countryside, peacefully concealed by green rolling hills.

The Hobbiton Movie Set offers guests the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of the intricate details that went into the production of the set.

If you visit, you’ll get a sense of how this lovely stretch of Waikato farmland was turned into the Shire of Middle-earth for the productions of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Wander the Shire, visit the Hobbit Holes, drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and eat like a hungry traveler at the Kaimai Ranges’ banquets at the end.

Add this to your bucket list, and don’t miss your chance to visit and discover this famous movie set!

Address: 501 Buckland Road, Matamata 3472, New Zealand

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Kiwi Balloon Company

Kiwi Balloon Company, Hamilton, New Zealand
Kiwi Balloon Company is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

There is no better way to begin the day than by taking a hot air balloon ride.

Observing the balloon being inflated at dawn is the first part of the experience, which is followed by a slow ascent to a vantage point where the sunrise may be seen.

From the basket, you’ll have views of the city, farms, and the Waikato River, and on a clear day, you’ll also be able to see Pirongia, Ruapehu, Taranaki, and Te Aroha.

The flight lasts for about an hour, and the direction in which the wind blows will determine exactly where you end up going on your journey.

The tranquility and peace of being outside will be a memory you will hold dear for the rest of your life.

On the ground, everyone pitches in to assist pull the balloon away. Then they head back to the launch site for the customary celebration, which consists of complimentary sparkling wine and appetizers at a local restaurant.

Everyone agrees that taking a ride in a hot air balloon should be at the top of everyone’s must-do list.

A fresh adventure and a new place await you each time you take a flight. Kiwi Balloon Company in Hamilton is here to make your fantasies come true! 

Address: 15 Hastings Place, Hamilton Lake, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

Mountain Maungatautari

Mountain Maungatautari, Hamilton, New Zealand
Mountain Maungatautari, Hamilton, New Zealand / Floyd Wilde / Flickr

Enter a new world through this safe sanctuary of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered species.

A haven that is surrounded by a 47-kilometer-long pest-proof fence has been established on Mount Maungatautari as part of an initiative to preserve and safeguard the plant and animal species that are now found in the ancient ecosystem that is located there.

The sanctuary was established as a pest-free zone to safeguard some of the most endangered species on our planet, including birds, plants, reptiles, bats, frogs, and insects.

Trips that take place during the day will familiarize you with animals such as the tuatara and the takahe. In contrast, tours that take place from dusk till dark will provide you with the opportunity to hear and potentially see kiwis up close.

To make matters even more favorable, the organization is a charitable trust, which means that every cent supports the efforts made to preserve the local species.

Explore the eco-sanctuary on your own or join a guided trek or nature walk to learn more about what makes this project so exceptional.

Address: 99 Tari Road, Pukeatua 3880, New Zealand

Raglan

Raglan, Hamilton, New Zealand
Raglan is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

Go surfing or simply enjoy a fine espresso.

Raglan is located to the west of Hamilton and is renowned the world over as a premier surfing destination as well as a region with a breathtakingly beautiful black sand coastline.

This is a surfing destination and the location of one of the longest and most consistent left-handers in the world. 

The town was featured in the 1966 film Endless Summer, which was about the sport of surfing.

This vibrant surf town is home to an intriguing creative culture as well as a superb selection of cafes to choose from.

It is possible to catch a wave and ride it for a distance of up to two kilometers, provided that you have the necessary level of ability.

During the summer, lifeguards keep an eye on the western part of the beach; thus, swimming between the flags is the safest option.

Experience first-hand what all the commotion is about by taking a surfing class at the Raglan Surf School.

Address: Waikato, North Island, New Zealand

Ruakura Berry Farm

Ruakura Berry Farm, Hamilton, New Zealand
Ruakura Berry Farm is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

All of your fresh-picked berries and real fruit ice cream needs can be satisfied here!

The Camarosa and Ruakura Berry Farm family business is happy to be a locally owned and operated enterprise in the community.

Founded in 2014 by Kamal and Danielle Dhillon, the Ruakura Berry Farm is the brainchild of Kamal and Danielle Dhillon, a married couple. Their journey begins with a deep and abiding love of gardening.

As of 2018, Ruakura Berry Farm has opened a new restaurant called Camarosa, named after a kind of strawberries grown by the family for generations.

They have plans to continue improving their farm and the surrounding areas so that they can continue to share the quality of their experiences and the products they create with future generations.

It will take you about five minutes to travel there from the University of Waikato, which is situated in the heart of Ruakura.

Pick your own berries to take home from their selection of freshly selected berries every day!

Address: 11 Davison Road, Newstead 3286, New Zealand

Taitua Arboretum

Taitua Arboretum, Hamilton, New Zealand
Taitua Arboretum is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

There is no better spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life than this paradise!

An astonishing number of older trees can be found at the Taitua arboretum, which spans a total area of 22 hectares and has many different species.

The arboretum is ideal for a relaxed stroll on the weekend, a picnic with the family, or a more energetic adventure, thanks to its lakes, forest gardens, and many picnicking areas, all of which are connected by a network of walking trails.

Those interested in going for a more strenuous stroll can begin their journey at the Tills Lookout, located on Melva Street. From there, they can continue along the path for a half-hour to reach the arboretum.

Dogs are permitted within the arboretum as long as they are leashed and under their owner’s control at all times.

If you are searching for a peaceful place to have a picnic or a way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Taitua Arboretum is the perfect place for you to go.

Address: 55 Taitua Road, Temple View, Hamilton 3289, New Zealand

Waikato Museum

Waikato Museum, Hamilton, New Zealand
Waikato Museum is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

Immerse yourself in Waikato’s vibrant arts and culture!

It is a magnificently carved waka (war canoe) that is the highlight of an extraordinary collection of Mori artifacts that can be found in this fascinating regional museum.

From a regional to a worldwide viewpoint, Waikato Museum’s exhibitions and activities present the tales from the museum’s collection and from visiting exhibitions.

The Waikato Museum’s exhibitions and activities tell local experiences from a regional and global perspective and feature art, science, history, and tangata whenua culture through traveling exhibits and the museum’s holdings.

More than 25 new exhibitions and 100 public events are held annually at the Waikato Museum, which is located on the banks of the Waikato River in the cultural heart of Hamilton at the southern end of the city center.

The museum’s goal is to enthrall and inspire both local and international visitors with its interactive program.

Learn more about the local culture in this museum!

Address: 1 Grantham Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand

Waikato River

Waikato River, Hamilton, New Zealand
Waikato River, Hamilton, New Zealand / Samuel Mann / Flickr

Have a unique experience and appreciate the natural beauty that flows through the region.

Residents and tourists can appreciate the tranquility and tree-lined path that New Zealand’s longest river takes through the heart of Hamilton.

Its catchment area is 14,260 square kilometers, approximately 12 percent of the North Island’s total land area.

Lake Karapiro is the largest hydro lake on the river, and it serves as the location for a wide variety of cultural and sporting activities, some of which are held at an international level.

Visitors and residents alike can get the opportunity to see the Waikato River from a different perspective, thanks to the Waikato River Explorer.

Walk or ride your bike along the 11-kilometer-long Riverside Walkway as it passes through native bush and a few residential areas on either side of the Waikato River.

It’s a great place to begin your exploration of the city while you’re still adjusting to life in New Zealand.

Address: North Island, Hamilton

Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves, Hamilton, New Zealand
Waitomo Caves, Hamilton, New Zealand / Holiday Point / Flickr

Witness millions of glowworms in their natural habitat!

The Waitomo caverns network consists of three different caves, each offering visitors a different and unforgettable experience.

A visit to the Waitomo Caves, which are well-known for a large number of glow worms, enormous underground river system, and spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations found there, is like taking a trip to another universe.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Ruakuri Cave, and Aranui Cave are all accessible by foot when you’re in the Waitomo region.

Understandably, you are having difficulty deciding which cave to go to because each one is so distinctive in comparison to the others.

The Waitomo caves have something for everyone, including thrill-seekers who may take advantage of nearby Black Water Rafting.

The Waitomo Caves are a must-see for anybody visiting New Zealand, whether it’s your first time or you just want to learn more about the country’s unique nature and history.

Address: North Island, Hamilton

Waterworld

Waterworld, Hamilton, New Zealand
Waterworld is one of the best places to go in Hamilton, New Zealand

Need something to occupy the children’s time? Relax by the poolside as your children have fun sliding down the hydro slides or playing on the entertaining inflatables.

Waterworld is here to greet you seven days a week with a total of six pools, including toddler and outdoor pools and hydro slides.

Programs for learning to swim, a fitness gym with a variety of land- and water-based activities, as well as a sauna, steam, and spa facilities, are available.

A bouncy castle is one of the many types of inflatables that can be found during the breaks between school terms.

The well-trained and courteous staff would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or concerns.

Whether you’re a serious swimmer or just a family looking to have some fun in the water, this pool has something for everyone.

Enjoy one of the largest aquatic centers in New Zealand while getting in some exercise, participating in recreational activities, or simply unwinding.

Address: Garnett Avenue, Forest Lake, Hamilton 3200, New Zealand

Woodlands Historic Homestead

Woodlands Historic Homestead, Hamilton, New Zealand
Woodlands Historic Homestead, Hamilton, New Zealand / rooworcs / Flickr

Discover Waikato’s hidden gem!

In the 1870s, work began on establishing Woodlands as a historic homestead and garden estate in New Zealand. Today, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the country.

It is the ideal location for a wedding, a celebratory event, or a corporate occasion because it proudly stands in the middle of acres of beautiful gardens and fertile agricultural land.

With its ancient homestead, cricket oval, children’s garden, nearby Monet Bridge/Lake Gardens, and multimedia presentations detailing the estate’s history, this location is ideal for a wide range of events.

A picturesque event venue that features the Historic Homestead, which has been painstakingly restored and preserved, as well as a purpose-built function center, making it an incredibly popular choice for weddings, parties, and other events.

In addition, the Garden Grove Cafe & Bar is a feature of the Woodlands experience, and so is a full-size, authentic cricket pitch.

Woodlands is the ideal location for your upcoming event if you are searching for a one-of-a-kind place to hold it that is also a total break from the routine of everyday life.

Address: 42 Whitikahu Road, Taupiri 3791, New Zealand

Zealong Tea Estate

Zealong Tea Estate, Hamilton, New Zealand
Zealong Tea Estate, Hamilton, New Zealand / Jeff Marquis / Flickr

Treat yourself to a high tea or sip on some organic oolong tea to relax.

The grounds are the sole commercial estate in New Zealand, and they produce a tea that has won awards in New Zealand and is certified to be produced using only organic ingredients.

Zealong tea, which is considered to be one of the best teas in the world and is cultivated organically in the nutrient-dense soil of the Waikato region, is crafted by tea masters who are extremely passionate about their work.

During your time here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a tour around the tea trail, learn all about the history of the camellia tree — the plant that started it all, essentially — and participate in a traditional tea ceremony in which you’ll learn to appreciate the appearance, aroma, and taste of the tea.

High tea will be served at the Tea House, which overlooks the grounds.

They also provide fine dining, special parties, and a flagship store for those who want to buy some goodies to take home.

The Zealong Tea Estate is a place that should not be missed because it provides visitors with calm landscapes as well as a range of activities, events, and tours.

Are you still on the fence about visiting Hamilton, New Zealand? Click here for why visit Hamilton, New Zealand, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 495 Gordonton Road, Gordonton, Hamilton 3281, New Zealand

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