Cambridge

Cambridge is a beautiful town boasting an atmosphere of serenity and calm like no other. Take a gentle stroll along the banks of the Waikato River or have a go at trout fishing in Lake Karapiro. The numerous galleries and boutiques along Victoria Street offer visitors a fantastic shopping experience.

As you may guess from its name, Cambridge has a distinctly English feel. The streets are flanked by magnificent trees and the Tudor-style houses lay testament to New Zealand’s former colonial past.

Known as the Town of Trees & Champions, Cambridge is most famous for its horse farms and champion thoroughbred breeding. While most of the horse riding is reserved for expert equestrians, some trekking tours can be organised that will take you around the local area.

Located 8 kilometres from Cambridge town centre is Lake Karapiro, a favourite hot spot for local residents. The lake was constructed in 1947 after a dam for the Karapiro hydroelectric power station. Today, the lake is a fantastic recreational area for visitors and locals alike. Rent a kayak and experience a truly peaceful existence as you paddle seamlessly across this vast shimmering lake.

Adrenaline junkies should hop aboard the Camjet V8-powered speedboat for an exhilarating ride up river towards the Karapiro Dam.

The central walkways along the Waikato River are perfect territory for a gentle stroll, or for keen cyclists, the Waikato River trails offer around 100 kilometres of great cycling in the surrounding countryside.

If it’s souvenirs and small cultural trinkets you are looking for, you will not be disappointed in Cambridge town centre. The numerous locally-owned boutiques, cafés and restaurants offer visitors a unique shopping experience and a taste of international cuisine.

Cambridge is located 23 kilometres southeast of Hamilton and is accessible by car. There is plenty of parking in and around the town with regular buses circulating throughout the area.