Hamilton, NZ: A Fun-Filled Weekend Getaway

Discover the heart of New Zealand in Hamilton.

22 April 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Explore the Heart of Hamilton

  • Stay at the Novotel Tainui Hamilton Hotel, located in the heart of the city.
  • Start your day with a stroll along the Waikato River, exploring the Hamilton Gardens and admiring the beautiful artworks along the river walkway.
  • Visit the Zealong Tea Estate, a stunning tea plantation that produces some of the world's finest organic teas.
  • Pop into the Waikato Museum and discover the fascinating history of the region through interactive and engaging exhibitions.
  • Indulge in a delicious meal at Chim Choo Ree, a cosy little restaurant serving creative and delicious European-inspired plates.
  • End your day at the colourful Waterworld, a fun indoor water park with thrilling rides and relaxing hot pools.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures and Farm-to-Table Eats

  • Wake up to a breakfast at Good George Brewing, a popular local brewery and restaurant serving up delicious food and premium craft beer.
  • Head to the nearby Raglan Beach for some surfing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Explore the Maungatautari Ecological Island, a predator-free sanctuary home to over 20 native bird species.
  • Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at Punnet Eatery, a cozy restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Visit the Hamilton Zoo, home to animals from around the world and take a behind-the-scenes experience.
  • End your trip with sunset drinks at the trendy rooftop bar of The Bank Bar and Brasserie, overlooking the city center.

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

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