Hamilton is a cultural centre for the modern world. Shopping, restaurants and nightspots are in abundance in Hamilton. Guests of the town can enjoy a full day of fun in the town's centre. Hamilton has maintained its natural beauty in spite of the urban sprawl. Beautiful caves, the Waikato River and Hamilton Lake remain some of the area's most beloved attractions. Hamilton is a diverse tourist spot with wild and urban treasures and maintains an appreciation for Maori culture which is celebrated in museums, festivals and cultural celebrations.
Getting in and around Hamilton
Hamilton Airport
Whether it's by bus, car, train or plane, travellers have their pick when it comes to getting to Hamilton. Bus routes run regularly to Hamilton from major cities around the island. InterCity is the main carrier that offers routes into Hamilton. Rail New Zealand also provides trips to Hamilton from Auckland. By plane, the Hamilton Airport hosts mostly domestic flights, with direct routes available from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
Hamilton Transport
Getting around Hamilton is easy thanks to a convenient bus system and many walkable neighbourhoods.
Hamilton Car Hire
Because Hamilton is moderately sized, car hire is a great mode of transportation. Hamilton car hire is available through numerous providers.
^ Back to top
Hamilton accommodation
Hamilton accommodation has great options for travellers on a budget. However, travellers looking for a more extravagant experience in Hamilton will be happy to know that luxury Hamilton hotels are still very reasonably priced and offer a lot of bang for your buck.
Luxury
VR Hamilton Hotel is one of the best boutique hotels in Hamilton, if not all of New Zealand. The slightly European decor gives the hotel elegance and charm that you'll love.
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton offers generous room sizes and on-site leisure activities. Le Grand Boutique Hotel is one of the best boutique hotels in Hamilton if not all of New Zealand. The slightly European decor gives the hotel elegance and charm that you will love.
Riverglade Bed and Breakfast has loads of charm and cosy rooms with features like big screen TVs and heated floors.
Mid-range
Novotel Hamilton Tainui, like the Novotel brand, is known for quality and simple elegance and is sure to live up to your expectations.
Ventura Inn and Suites in Hamilton offers quality and comfortable accommodation in the city centre. Novotel Hotels are known for quality and simple elegance throughout the South Pacific and the Hamilton location is sure to live up to your expectations.
Ventura Inn and Suites in Hamilton offers quality and comfortable accommodation for families looking for fun in Hamilton.
Budget
Hamilton Airport Motor Inn is conveniently located and promises all of the amenities and features you need while travelling.
Hamilton Airport Motor Inn is conveniently located and promises all of the amenities and features you need while travelling.
The Ambassador Motor Inn is a quality motel with comfortable rooms and reasonable prices.
Backpackers
The YWCA Hostel runs alongside a volunteer organisation that supports women who need a fresh start.
Backpackers Central is conveniently located and offers a range of accommodation at reasonable prices. The YWCA Hostel runs alongside a volunteer organization that supports women who need a fresh start.
J's Backpackers. Enjoy the outdoors, quality accommodation, and the company of fellow travellers at this popular hostel with loads of charm.
^ Back to top
Things to do in Hamilton
Hamilton is a favourite spot in New Zealand because of the family friendly activities and relaxing atmosphere. You can tour the famous zoo with the kids, take an educational tour of the museum, or even take an exciting canoe ride along the Waikato River. Whatever you decide, activities in Hamilton promise wholesome fun that you'll wish would never end.
The Waitomo Caves are one of the area's most popular attractions. Visitors love the sparkling glow worms and breathtaking formations.
Waikato Museum of Art and History. Here, you can learn all about the history and art of the Tainui. This incredible museum is definitely a must when visiting Hamilton.
The Hamilton Zoo is known for being one of the best zoos in New Zealand. It's a great activity to do with the kids on a sunny day.
The Hamilton Gardens are a beautiful place to stop and take in nature's beauty. These breathtaking gardens exhibit different gardening styles from Japan, China and England.
Riff Raff Statue. Believe it or not, there is actually a monumental statue of Riff Raff, the character from the iconic cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show. The statue commemorates Richard O'Brian, the movie's developer and writer who lived in Hamilton.
Lake Rotoroa, also known as Hamilton Lake, has an exciting and scenic walk around the lake's perimeter. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes on the lake and there's also a cafe and a playground at the east end.
^ Back to top
Day trips in and around Hamilton
Canoeing. Canoe trips are relaxing and adventurous at the same time. They're also a great way to pass an afternoon, get some exercise and see the city from the glistening waters of the Waikato River.
Hot Air Balloon rides. Hot air balloons are somewhat iconic in Hamilton, so what better way to see the area than from the basket of a hot air balloon? Charter hot air balloon rides are available through Kiwi Balloon Company.
Riverboat Cruise. This day or evening activity is a fun and unique way to see the city of Hamilton.
Waterworld is an extensive pool complex that has a pool for swimmers at every age. A great day of exercise or fun in the hot Hamilton sun.
^ Back to top