If you have five days to spend in Hamilton, New Zealand, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do. From exploring the city’s gardens and museums to venturing out into the surrounding natural beauty, Hamilton has something to offer for everyone.
Day 1: Explore the City
Start your visit to Hamilton by exploring the city itself. Hamilton is known for its beautiful gardens, and the Hamilton Gardens are a must-visit attraction. The gardens feature 21 themed gardens, each with its own unique design and plants. Some of the most popular gardens include the Italian Renaissance Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Tudor Garden. The gardens are free to visit and open every day.
After exploring the gardens, take a walk along the Waikato River, which runs through the city. The river provides beautiful views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for walking, running, and cycling. There are also several parks along the river, including the Victoria on the River park, which has a playground and water features.
Finally, head to the Waikato Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region. The museum has exhibits on a range of topics, including the Maori culture, the history of the Waikato region, and the natural history of New Zealand. There is also a hands-on science gallery for children. The museum is open every day and admission is free.
Tips : NZeta Apply here
More Info: Visit Visa New Zealand
Day 2: Visit Hobbiton
No visit to Hamilton would be complete without a trip to Hobbiton, the movie set used in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. The set is located about an hour’s drive from Hamilton and can be visited as a day trip.
The guided tour takes you through the set, which has been left intact since the movies were filmed. You can see the hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic locations from the movies. The tour ends with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a pint of Hobbit-themed beer or cider.
Visiting Hobbiton is a unique experience and a must-do for any Lord of the Rings fan. Make sure to book your tour in advance, as it can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist season.
Day 3: Explore the Outdoors
Hamilton is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to explore in the area. A great place to start is the nearby Kaimai Ranges, which offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The trails wind through the hills and forests, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Some of the most popular trails include the Waitawheta Tramway Track, the Karangahake Gorge Trail, and the Waiorongomai Valley Trail.
Another popular attraction in the area is the Waitomo Caves. The caves are famous for their glowworms, which light up the caves like a starry sky. You can take a boat tour through the caves and see the thousands of tiny lights. There are several tour options available, including the standard boat tour, a blackwater rafting tour, and a cave abseiling tour.
More Details : Apply NZeta
Tips : Apply New Zealand Visa
Day 4: Visit Raglan
Raglan is a small coastal town located on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s a popular destination for surfers, beach-goers, and anyone looking for a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Here are some of the top things to do in Raglan:
- Surfing Raglan is known for its surf beaches, and surfing is a popular activity in the area. Some of the best surf spots include Ngarunui Beach, Whale Bay, and Manu Bay, which is known for its left-hand break. If you’re new to surfing, there are several surf schools in town that offer lessons for all skill levels.
- Beaches In addition to surfing, Raglan has several beautiful beaches to explore. Ngarunui Beach is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing. Whale Bay is a quieter beach with a secluded feel, while Manu Bay is known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations.
- Bridal Veil Falls Located just a short drive from Raglan, Bridal Veil Falls is a 55-meter-high waterfall that’s surrounded by lush native bush. There’s a short walking track that leads to a viewing platform where you can take in the waterfall and the surrounding scenery.
- Mount Karioi For those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures, Mount Karioi is a must-visit attraction. The mountain is located just south of Raglan and offers a range of hiking trails for all skill levels. The summit provides panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding countryside.
- Raglan Arts Weekend If you happen to be in Raglan during the Raglan Arts Weekend, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. The event takes place every year in April and showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. There are art exhibitions, studio tours, and workshops where you can learn about different art forms.
Overall, Raglan is a great destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand’s west coast. Whether you’re a surfer, hiker, or just looking to relax on the beach, there’s something for everyone in Raglan.
More Info : Apply NZeta
Day 5: Visit Tauranga
Tauranga is a coastal city located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand’s North Island. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with its stunning beaches, great weather, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things to do in Tauranga:
- Mount Maunganui Mount Maunganui is a must-visit attraction in Tauranga. It’s a volcanic cone that rises 232 meters above the town and provides panoramic views of the area. The Mount Maunganui Summit Track is a popular hiking trail that takes about an hour to complete, and there are several other walking tracks around the base of the mountain.
- Beaches Tauranga has several beautiful beaches to choose from, including Mount Maunganui Beach, Papamoa Beach, and Omanu Beach. These beaches are great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat.
- McLaren Falls Park McLaren Falls Park is a 190-hectare park located just outside Tauranga. The park has several walking tracks, picnic areas, and a lake where you can go kayaking or paddleboarding. There’s also a waterfall that’s worth checking out.
- Tauranga Farmers Market If you’re in Tauranga on a Saturday morning, be sure to check out the Tauranga Farmers Market. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike and features a range of locally grown produce, artisanal bread, cheeses, and more.
- Bayfair Shopping Center If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, head to Bayfair Shopping Centre in Mount Maunganui. It’s one of the largest shopping centres in the region and has a range of stores, including international brands and local boutiques.
Overall, Tauranga is a great destination for those who love the outdoors, beaches, and shopping. With its stunning natural beauty, great weather, and friendly locals, it’s a must-visit destination in New Zealand.