Welcome to the
Mighty Waikato
A geographically and culturally diverse region, the Waikato has a range of activities and attractions to suit all ages and tastes – from our vibrant city hub of Hamilton to the rugged west coast, underground wonders and middle-earth movie magic.
Experience the real Middle-earth
If the Shire is at the heart of Middle-earth, then the Waikato is at the heart of the Shire. When scouting around for settings for his epic three movie adaptation of JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Kiwi director Peter Jackson found just what he was looking for in the green rolling paddocks, rugged limestone outcrops and underground caverns of the Waikato region.
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Walking & Hiking Trails in the Waikato
From casual strolls along the river to overnight bush excursions and winding mountain tracks, the Waikato region has a variety of great walking trails to suit everyone. Meander alongside the Waikato River or get the pulse racing climbing to an inspirational mountain top view.
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Underground Wonders
Millions of years in the making, the region’s caves, including the world-famous ones at Waitomo, provides a playground unlike any other. As if it’s not enough that nature has carved out a glowworm-studded underground marvel, enterprising locals have added adventure activities to enhance the experience further.
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Waikato Waterfalls
Breathtaking views are available everywhere in the Waikato region, which is home to a number of waterfall features. From short tracks that provide stunning waterfalls, to hikes, there is a perfect destination for all waterfall lovers in the Waikato.
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See & do in the Waikato
top pick
![Avantidrome](/media/adhmt0t1/p-ac143a51-cf52-4c9f-cfc36aa31a930495-2544003.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da18ecfcd4bd80)
from
$25
$25
Cambridge
Grassroots Trust Velodrome
Experience riding on a velodrama with our Have A Go sessions.
An accredited coach will fit you with a bike and helmet and will expertly guide you through your session on the track. The session is one hour in duration and no matter what skill or fitness level you are, our coaches are experienced in tailoring your experience that’s safe but challenging enough just for you.
Bike, helmet and coach provided.
top pick
![Hobbiton Movie Set](/media/50eocbl5/p-95b514ea-daaa-9cb0-6839532442b3132a-2544003.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da18ec8184e650)
from
$120
$120
Matamata
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Experience Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. Continue along the pathways past The Millhouse, across the double-arch stone bridge and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will enjoy a complimentary, exclusive beverage Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.
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![Discover Waitomo](/media/tofnonix/p-65d84b46-97b5-e8ac-eb9cd1b655847391-2544003.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da266143195db0)
from
$28
$28
Waitomo Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The Waitomo region is home to unforgettable sightseeing attractions. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 125 years of cultural and natural history. Our expert guides will draw you into this awesome environment, sharing the Caves' historical and geological significance.
World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list.
More than 30 million years ago, the legend of Waitomo began with the creation of limestone at the bottom of the ocean. Now these limestone formations stand as one of New Zealand's most inspiring natural wonders and a must-see destination.
top pick
![Hamilton Waikato Tourism](/media/p2vfrquo/long.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da18eb3619e9a0)
from
$3
$3
Gordonton
Woodlands Estate - Homestead, Gardens, Venue, Cafe
Welcoming Guests Through Our Doors Since 1872.
Woodlands Estate was established as a 98,000-acre estate purchased from The Crown by The Piako Swamp Company for 2/6 (25 cents) an acre. The Homestead, restored to its former glory, was initially built as a Manager's residence between 1875 and 1881. It is primarily made of Kauri and still features some original weatherboards and roof iron.
Woodlands Estate is looked after by a not-for-profit trust, with the gardens being well-maintained by the Waikato District Council.
The overall historic and aesthetic value of the homestead and gardens has been maintained thanks to generous donations and voluntary time. The Trust extends its gratitude for the generous support of the community over the years.
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What's on in the Waikato
Top Autumn Activities in the Waikato
![](/media/trdjsiu5/sculpture-park.jpg?width=330&height=290&format=webp&v=1da798b5b9000b0)
Make the most of the autumn in the Waikato with so much to see and do from destination playgrounds and stunning gardens to underground wonders, interactive exhibitions and Middle-earth movie magic.
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![](/media/trdjsiu5/sculpture-park.jpg?width=1000&height=550&format=webp&v=1da798b5b9000b0)
Top places to stay in the Waikato
top pick
![Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park](/media/i2ejyixa/p-76ff661b-a269-ff2e-3b9416131a287927-2544003.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da2661086e9900)
from
$25
$25
Waitomo Caves
Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park
An award winning park, within walking distance to the glow-worm caves and all Waitomo's activities. Accommodation ranges from motels to cabins, motorhome/caravan and tent sites. We have a swimming pool, hot tub, playground, wifi, covered barbecues, trampolines, and lots of space. Communal Sky TV Lounge and adjoining reading/relaxation room.
Stay here while visiting the glowworm caves, black-water rafting, abseiling, ziplining, hiking local bush walks or, just come for a relaxing break. With great eateries all within a stroll you'll be sure to find something to suit. The award winning HuHu Cafe next door, The General Store Cafe across the road and Tomo's bar just round the corner.
top pick
![](/media/lq3dx4sy/takapoto-lakehouse-1.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da6ea81aa67a90)
from
$575
$575
Maungatautari
The Lakehouse at Takapoto Estate
The pantry and fridge are stocked with breakfast items that were produced and harvested from the Estate's own chickens, bees, Angus beef, vineyard, olive trees and market garden, making for a truly unique and memorable experience.
Whether you're looking to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings or explore all that the region has to offer, The Lakehouse is the perfect place to stay.
top pick
![Mauro Risch](/media/izxh5iuc/0e0a6055-r.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da18ece4cf72c0)
from
$229
$229
Cambridge
Hidden Lake Hotel and Apartments
Hidden Lake Hotel is a boutique slice of contemporary New Zealand immersed in treed north island nature typical to the region. It’s difficult to believe you are so close to Hamilton Airport and all that the Waikato has to offer. Contemporary styling is a feature of rooms and apartments with superior appointments and technical luxuries. Everything is well thought out and delivered with on-trend hospitality. Expect a high level of service without fuss. Down to earth as is the New Zealand way. Enjoy the designer interiors and scenic outlooks while being pampered with share plates, local wines and spa treatments.
top pick
![Novotel Tainui Hamilton](/media/sngausp4/form_novotel_aug_2020_lr-10.jpg?width=515&height=497&format=webp&v=1da0d278d9838a0)
from
$180
$180
Hamilton
Novotel Tainui Hamilton
Novotel Tainui Hamilton is perfectly located in the heart of Hamilton’s dynamic CBD. Only a short distance to Hamilton’s attractions, entertainment & major convention facilities and with easy access to the airport, the best of the city is at your doorstep. With this iconic hotel in the CBD, Hamilton is able to project itself as a destination for events & exhibitions, providing the service and quality required for its international travellers.
The hotel provides 217 well equipped rooms as well as extensive conference facilities for up to 300 delegates. Featuring adequate onsite parking, gym, sauna, restaurant and bar, the hotel also has a strong commitment to the environment and is dedicated to achieve environmental and social activities.
Accommodation
Guide to Chinese Cuisine in the Waikato
![](/media/5regxn5t/the-chilli-house-36-large.jpg?width=330&height=290&format=webp&v=1da5966b6a0aad0)
From mouthwatering dumplings to savoury stir-fries, top-notch ramen and udon, there’s something to delight your taste buds.
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![](/media/5regxn5t/the-chilli-house-36-large.jpg?width=1000&height=550&format=webp&v=1da5966b6a0aad0)