Top Things to Do in Hamilton, New Zealand

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Hamilton is situated on the banks of the Waikato River, a beautiful city nestled on the North Island in New Zealand. While you take a romantic walk by the river in the late afternoon, you will come across numerous themed gardens. The themes of these gardens include Asian, Italian, French, Japanese and many more.

You can spend your lazy evenings in the wonderful cafes of Hamilton. To quench your curiosity about the rich local cultural heritage and historical events, pay a visit to the Hamilton Museum.

Hamilton is also famous for the National Agricultural Field Days. This festival takes place once every year. You can take part in this festival to learn more about the pastoral lifestyle of the Kiwi countryside.

5 Best Things to Do in Hamilton, New Zealand

Hamilton is a hip-hop-happening city that presents you with some amazing creations of nature and mankind. You would never forget the unparalleled experience of balloons flying over the river during the Waikato festival or the local events that take place in the city all year round.

Here are the 5 best things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand exclusively for you.

1. Pay a Visit To The Hamilton Zoo and Museum

New Zealand is rich in flora and fauna. From the exotic emus to the charismatic kangaroos, from cute koalas to terrifying serpents, Hamilton zoo presents you with the true versatility of the Kiwi wildlife.

The most interesting aspect of the zoo is that you can come close to the birds in their open enclosure. The large enclosures allow the birds to take open flights which is rare in a zoo. Stand face to face with the exotic wildlife of New Zealand in Hamilton zoo.

Further, Hamilton Museum is famous for curating multiple priceless items including some World War 1 memorabilia. You can study the local Maori culture in the museum as well.

2. Walk Across The Romantic Gardens

Hamilton is often referred to as the city of gardens. You would come across numerous gardens across the river Waikato and in the city as well. Most of these gardens are themed after Asian, Mediterranean, Italian, French and Japanese cities. Spend the most romantic evenings here in these gardens.

If you are a connoisseur of tea, visit the Hamilton Tea Estate. The rich soil of Waikato allows Hamilton to plow the finest tea leaves in New Zealand. Take a sip of the fresh tea of the Tea Estate.

3. Ride Through The Waikato Cycling Track

Waikato is the source of various events and entertainment in Hamilton. Besides providing the town with life, Waikato offers breathtaking views as well. To enjoy the boundless beauty of the Waikato river banks, rent a bicycle and ride through the cycling trails.

The Timber Trail and the Hauraki Rail Trail are also popular for their exquisite scenic beauty. The former runs through the Pureora forest, making your ride extremely refreshing and adventurous.

Also, Read: 5 Places You'll Visit on a New Zealand Cruise

4. Fly High With a Hot Air Balloon Tour

Your trip to Hamilton is incomplete if you do not enjoy the balloon ride over the Waikato River. The hot air balloon tour begins with the sunrise. Reach the allocated spot for a hot air balloon tour before sunrise and rise up to the horizon with the sun itself.

As you fly high, you will get to see vast stretches of farming lands on the banks of the Waikato River. As a matter of fact, a special event named Balloon over Waikato takes place every March. You can plan your tour to Hamilton during this season to enjoy every bit of this legendary festival.

5. Admire The Glowworms in The Waitomo Cave

This one is an out-of-the-box item, but you will definitely not regret it. Waitomo Cave is famous for harboring glowworms. This limestone cavern is actually a subterranean super maze beneath Waitomo farmlands.

A boat ride through this cave will introduce you to the fantastic limestone formations that are infested with blinking glowworms. A breathtaking view of a glowing cavern under the farmlands could be the ultimate item on the list of top things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand.

Endnotes

Hamilton stands true to the classical Kiwi lifestyle, full of vigor and vibrance. The city has something for everyone. From the best night clubs for party lovers to tranquil beaches for those who wish for some peace- this beautiful city is the perfect amalgamation of trendy and traditional.