Waikato Attractions
Waikato and Hamilton offer many exciting and memorable tourist attractions for you to choose from. The most visited attraction in the city is the Hamiton Gardens which offers a series of five magnificent Garden collections sprawled over 58 hectares. The Hamilton Zoo, with over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals, is also well worth a visit. The Waikato Museum is a great place to go to explore the region's arts and cultural history while the Waipa Delta offers a relaxing cruise along the mighty Waikato river. Less than an hour's drive east of Hamilton, Hobbiton Tours offers the chance to see where the filming of the Lord of the Rings' Hobbiton village took place. The nearby Waitomo region is an action adventure paradise featuring the glowworm caves plus other exciting attractions such as cave abseiling and Black Water Rafting.
Hamilton Gardens![]() Set on 58 hectares and offering 'the story of gardens' which is explored through a series of 5 garden collections. Guided tours also available. |
Hobbiton Tours![]() Offers informative and entertaining tours of the Lord of the Rings' Hobbiton filming location near Matamata in eastern Waikato. |
Hamilton Zoo![]() Home to over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals. Set in 25 hectares of tranquil surroundings - also offers a BBQ and picnic area. |
Waipa Delta![]() Offers relaxing and scenic Waikato River cruises with full commentary, onboard a replica paddle steamer called the Waipa Delta. |
Waitomo![]() Offers an in-depth guide to visiting Waitomo, an action adventure tourism destination featuring the world famous glowworm caves. |
Waikato Museum![]() Offers 8 galleries of touring exhibitions plus a large collection of New Zealand Art, Tainui Maori cultural history and Waikato history. |





