Hamilton Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

New Zealand
Hamilton
Hamilton
Hamilton
Photo provided by The Mighty Waikato

Surrounded by some of the most popular attractions on the North Island, Hamilton combines the authenticity of a country town and the cultural richness of a city.

Hamilton boasts and impressive array of attractions, all within easy reach from the city itself. The beautiful jagged coasts of the Coromandel and Mount Maunganui, Rotorua’s hot springs and Raglan’s fantastic surf are just a few of the natural attractions on offer in the area. If you prefer to keep your feet dry, the city further inland offers a wide range of attractions including gardens and museums.Situated along the Waikato River, Hamilton is the fourth largest city in New Zealand, boasting a humble 150,000 inhabitants. Climb aboard the Waikato River Explorer and cruise the River’s emerald green waters, taking you from Hamilton into the heart of the countryside. The city is most famous for its relaxed atmosphere, eclectic café culture and thriving arts scene. Sport fanatics won’t be disappointed either the city also boasts a distinguished sporting history centred around the local rugby union team, The Chiefs.The Waikato Museum portrays the areas settler past in extraordinary detail. With its extensive collection of visual art and its action packed schedule of educational events, visitors will enjoy exploring the history of this beautiful region. The Hamilton Gardens showcase an outstanding collection of New Zealand’s native plant life and horticulture. Admission to the Gardens is free and includes some spectacular international garden designs.The Waitomo Caves are an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the area. Illuminated by thousands of glow worms, visitors have the opportunity to abseil into the caves and experience an adrenaline-packed “black-water rafting” tour. If you’re looking for a calmer alternative, the chic boutique stores and cafés in Cambridge are a great way to spend the day with friends and family. The Kiwi House and Native Bird Park in Otorohanga or Hamilton Zoo is an entertaining alternative for children.Once you have exhausted all of the nearby attractions, explore the North Island’s stunning beaches and coastal areas. The breath taking white-capped mountains and emerald green forests with hot springs are at the heart of New Zealand are just waiting to be explored. Hamilton is easily navigable by foot and operates a free shuttle bus around the city that runs every 10 minutes.

Where to stay in Hamilton

Waikato showing rocky coastline and a bay or harbour

Hamilton Central

While visiting Hamilton Central, you might make a stop by sights like Hamilton Centre Place and SkyCity Hamilton.

Hamilton Central
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Hamilton East

4/5(68 area reviews)

While visiting Hamilton East, you might make a stop by sights like Hamilton Gardens and Waikato River.

Hamilton East
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Claudelands

4/5(30 area reviews)

While visiting Claudelands, you might make a stop by sights like Globox Arena and Claudelands Park.

Claudelands
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Frankton

4.5/5(30 area reviews)

While visiting Frankton, you might make a stop by sights like FMG Stadium Waikato and Seddon Park.

Frankton
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Te Rapa

Get to know Te Rapa by checking out its spas, restaurants and shopping. Consider a visit to nearby sights like Waterworld or Hamilton Zoo during your time in the area.

Te Rapa
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Hamilton Lake

4/5(62 area reviews)

While Hamilton Lake isn't home to many top sights, Lake Rotoroa and SkyCity Hamilton are some notable places to visit nearby.

Hamilton Lake
VR Hamilton

VR Hamilton

4 out of 5
237 Victoria Street, Hamilton
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$81 per night from 30 Sept to 1 Oct
NZ$81
30 Sept - 1 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
6.4/10 (1,003 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 8 Sept 2025

VR Hamilton
Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton City Center

Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton City Center

3.5 out of 5
287 Victoria Street, Hamilton
The price is NZ$123 per night from 5 Oct to 6 Oct
NZ$123
5 Oct - 6 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Good central location, have options for car parking, buffet breakfast was awesome, clean rooms and friendly staff. Would recommend"

Reviewed on 8 Sept 2025

Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton City Center
Novotel Tainui Hamilton

Novotel Tainui Hamilton

4.5 out of 5
7 Alma Street, Hamilton
The price is NZ$294 per night from 3 Oct to 4 Oct
NZ$294
3 Oct - 4 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"Outstanding receptionist - Honey. She really is a honey and was efficient, friendly and very helpful. Awesome asset for the hotel."

Reviewed on 7 Sept 2025

Novotel Tainui Hamilton
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Quest on London

Quest on London

4 out of 5
51 London Street, Cnr London and Victoria Streets, Hamilton
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (400 reviews)
"Very handy to everything but no parking supplied, needed to park in Wilson. Car park."

Reviewed on 5 Sept 2025

Quest on London
Avon Apartments

Avon Apartments

2.5 out of 5
14 Avon St, Hamilton, Waikato
Stay at this apartment in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and cable TV channels. Popular attractions FMG Stadium Waikato and Founders Theatre are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (139 reviews)
"Nice and quiet, good bed, smart tv was good, room is on the small side, smelt like curry wasn't pleasant as you could smell it through everything, although reasonably clean, did the job for a nights stay. Would most likely stay in bigger unit next time. Host was good to speak with and cheked us in ..."

Reviewed on 7 Sept 2025

Avon Apartments
Anglesea Motel and Conference Centre

Anglesea Motel and Conference Centre

4.5 out of 5
36 Liverpool Street, Hamilton
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Hamilton. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Popular attractions Founders Theatre and FMG Stadium Waikato ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (423 reviews)
Would happily stay again
"Very close to FMG Stadium Waikato. Would happily stay again."

Reviewed on 5 Sept 2025

Anglesea Motel and Conference Centre
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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