Two Days of Fun in Hobbiton and Mighty Waikato

Discover endless enchantment in Hamilton, NZ - the perfect family adventure awaits!

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Hamilton, New Zealand offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the vibrant Hamilton Gardens that showcase stunning themed gardens from different cultures around the world, providing an educational experience for children and adults alike. Embark on an exciting visit to the Waikato Museum, where interactive exhibits and displays of ancient artifacts offer a fun and immersive learning opportunity for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Hobbiton Dreamland

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the trendy Grey St. Café, serving scrumptious pancakes with a sprinkle of fairy dust.
  • Embark on a magical journey to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can wander through the whimsical Shire and pretend you're a hobbit.
  • Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch by the enchanting Lake Rotoroa, surrounded by majestic swans and cheeky ducks.
  • Brave the heights at the Hamilton Gardens and traverse the aerial walkways like a daring squirrel, taking in breathtaking views of these botanical wonders.
  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Banh Mi Caphe, where you can savor Vietnamese-style banh mi sandwiches bursting with flavors and fillings that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Day 2

Adventure Awaits at the Mighty Waikato

  • Wake up early and devour a delicious breakfast at Scott's Epicurean, serving fluffier-than-clouds omelettes and crispy bacon that will make your mouth sing.
  • Gear up for a thrilling day at the Hamilton Zoo, where you can come face-to-face with adorable lemurs, cheeky meerkats, and maybe even the King of the Jungle himself.
  • Take a wild ride on the Waikato River Explorer, cruising through the meandering river, while keeping an eye out for friendly dolphins and elusive river trolls.
  • Unleash your inner primate at the Tree Adventures, swinging from treetop to treetop like a fearless monkey, conquering challenging obstacles with the finesse of a ninja.
  • Tantalize your taste buds at Chim Choo Ree, a hidden gem serving mouthwatering tapas and heavenly desserts that will leave you floating on gastronomic clouds.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hamilton, New Zealand by plane is to fly into the Hamilton International Airport (HLZ) from major cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. International flights from Australia also fly into Hamilton. Several airlines operate flights to Hamilton, including Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas.

Car

The best way to get to Hamilton by car is to drive from Auckland or Tauranga, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. The main route is State Highway 1. Alternatively, you can also drive from Rotorua or Taupo. Once in Hamilton, there are several car rental companies if you need to rent a car.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Hamilton, so this is not a viable option for getting there.

Boat

As Hamilton is not a coastal city, there are no boat services that operate directly to Hamilton. However, if you are keen on a scenic route, you can catch a ferry from Auckland to nearby Devonport or Waiheke Island, and then drive or catch a connecting bus to Hamilton.

Bus

Several bus companies operate services to Hamilton, including InterCity, ManaBus, and NakedBus. The best way to get to Hamilton by bus is to catch a direct bus from Auckland, which takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Wellington, Tauranga, or Rotorua.

Destination

Hamilton

Welcome to the birthplace of a man whose face graces the ten dollar bill and the subject of a hit Broadway musical that your friends won't stop raving about. No, not Benjamin Franklin - we're talking about Alexander Hamilton.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Hamilton, NZ: A Fun-Filled Weekend Getaway

Hamilton, known as the "Garden City," is a charming city on the banks of the Waikato River, in the heart of New Zealand's North Island. Tourists can explore its lush gardens, scenic parks, and several cultural landmarks, including the Waikato Museum, Hamilton Gardens, and the Hamilton Zoo. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking, and taste the city's delicious cuisine, which is a perfect blend of Pacific Rim and European flavors.

Escape for a Romantic Long Weekend in Hamilton

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's Waikato region, Hamilton boasts a range of activities perfect for a romantic getaway. From exploring tranquil botanic gardens and scenic hiking trails, to enjoying gourmet meals in cozy restaurants, Hamilton offers an unforgettable experience for couples seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With plenty of luxurious accommodation options available, a trip to Hamilton promises to be the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and reconnect with your loved one.

Budget-Friendly Fun: Hamilton, NZ in 3 Days

Planning a trip to Hamilton, New Zealand on a tight budget is entirely possible. Visitors can enjoy free admission to attractions like the Hamilton Gardens and admire the Waikato River. Additionally, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options like backpacker hostels and camping grounds.

A Fun-Filled 4 Days in Hamilton, NZ

As a tourist visiting Hamilton, New Zealand, visitors can expect to experience a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and kayaking. The city is known for its stunning parks and gardens, such as the Hamilton Gardens, which offer a variety of themed gardens from different countries and eras. Along with natural beauty, Hamilton boasts a lively dining and entertainment scene, particularly in the bustling café and bar district of Victoria Street.