Hamilton, NZ: 5 Fun Days on a Budget!

Discover beauty without breaking the bank in Hamilton, New Zealand.

21 June 2023

Hamilton, located in the beautiful Waikato region of New Zealand, is an excellent destination for budget-friendly travel. Visitors can explore lush green parks, stroll along the Waikato River, and admire the city's stunning street art. With affordable accommodations and dining options, a trip to Hamilton is a great way to experience the best of New Zealand without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving and Exploring Hamilton

  • Check into the Heartland Ambassador Hotel, which provides comfortable accommodation on a budget.
  • Visit the Hamilton Gardens, a stunning collection of themed gardens from around the world.
  • Wander through the Waikato Museum and discover the fascinating history of the region.
  • Take a stroll along the Waikato River and marvel at the impressive bridges that span it.
  • Try some delicious kiwi cuisine at Joe's Garage, a laid-back café popular with locals.
Day 2

Nature and Adventure

  • Head to the glowworm caves at Waitomo and marvel at the dazzling spectacle of thousands of glowworms.
  • Explore the Ruakuri Bushwalk, which winds through lush forests and past stunning waterfalls.
  • Go on an adrenaline-pumping black water rafting trip through underground rivers and waterfalls.
  • Take a scenic drive to Raglan and surf the famous breaks of this laid-back beach town.
  • Try some of the region's best fish and chips at the Raglan Wharf Kitchen.
Day 3

Discovering Hobbiton

  • Take a day trip to the Hobbiton movie set, where you can tour the Shire and immerse yourself in the world of Middle-earth.
  • Learn about the making of the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films from expert guides.
  • Enjoy a delicious feast at the Green Dragon Inn, complete with locally brewed ale.
  • Explore the picturesque town of Matamata and its charming cafes and specialty shops.
  • Return to Hamilton and savor a hearty meal at Palate, a cozy bistro with a focus on local produce.
Day 4

Arts and Culture

  • Visit the Hamilton Art Gallery and admire the impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Check out the street art scene in the city center, where colorful murals and installations adorn many buildings.
  • Catch a show at the Clarence Street Theatre, a neo-classical gem that hosts a diverse range of performances.
  • Browse the stalls at the weekly Hamilton Farmers Market and sample the fresh produce and artisanal products.
  • Have dinner at Chim Choo Ree, a trendy eatery that serves up creative New Zealand cuisine.
Day 5

Exploring the Surrounding Area

  • Drive to Te Aroha and hike the Te Aroha Summit Track, which rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Relax in the natural hot springs at the Te Aroha Mineral Spas and let the mineral-rich waters soothe your muscles.
  • Visit the historic town of Cambridge and stroll through its quaint streets lined with charming cafes and boutiques.
  • Go on a scenic bike ride along the Te Awa River Trail, which follows the Waikato River from Hamilton to Cambridge.
  • End your trip on a high note with a meal at Scotts Epicurean, a fine-dining restaurant that showcases the best of New Zealand's culinary scene.

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

Escape for a Perfect Weekend in Hamilton, NZ

Hamilton, New Zealand is the perfect romantic destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busy cities. From romantic walks through the stunning Hamilton Gardens to relaxing dinners by the Waikato River, couples can enjoy intimate moments together in Hamilton. With a variety of accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, couples are sure to find the perfect stay for their romantic getaway.

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.

Escape on a 3-Day Romantic Retreat to Hamilton

Hamilton, New Zealand offers a peaceful and serene backdrop for a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy exploring the lush green parks, walking alongside the Waikato River or simply relaxing in one of the many local cafes or restaurants. One must-visit spot is the Hamilton Gardens, where couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll through a variety of themed gardens, including an Italian Renaissance Garden and an Indian Char Bagh Garden.

Hamilton, NZ: 5 Fun Days on a Budget!

Hamilton, located in the beautiful Waikato region of New Zealand, is an excellent destination for budget-friendly travel. Visitors can explore lush green parks, stroll along the Waikato River, and admire the city's stunning street art. With affordable accommodations and dining options, a trip to Hamilton is a great way to experience the best of New Zealand without breaking the bank.