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Hamilton

New Zealand, Oceania

Hamilton, a vibrant city on the banks of the Waikato River, is renowned for its stunning gardens, particularly the Hamilton Gardens, which features themed landscapes from around the world. The city offers unique attractions such as the Waikato Museum, filled with local art and history, and the nearby Hobbiton Movie Set, a whimsical trip for fans of the "Lord of the Rings." Additionally, Hamilton fosters a youthful energy with its university and numerous cafes, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking both culture and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Hamilton

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

12 Best Things to Do in Hamilton

1. Visit Hamilton Gardens

Stroll through themed gardens and landscapes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Explore Hobbiton Movie Set

Tour the iconic film set of The Hobbit.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

3. Discover Waikato Museum

Learn about local history and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Enjoy the Hamilton Zoo

See exotic and native animals in a beautiful setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

5. Walk the Hamilton Lake Domain

Relax by the scenic lake and gardens.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

6. Shop at Te Awa Mall

Discover a variety of shops and eateries.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

7. Visit the Waikato River Trails

Cycle or walk along scenic river paths.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

8. Experience the ArtsPost

Browse local art and exhibitions in a historic site.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Attend a game at FMG Stadium

Watch live sports at the local stadium.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

10. Visit the Hamilton Art Gallery

Explore diverse collections of New Zealand art.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

11. Relax at Claudelands Park

Enjoy beautiful gardens and recreational spaces.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Explore the Waitomo Caves

Experience stunning glowworm caves and adventures.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)