A day out in Hamilton
Hamilton is in Waikato, New Zealand. Hopalong knows 6 things to do and 2 places to eat here, plus day trips to Matamata and Waitomo. Prices are approximate adult prices in NZ$.
Top things to do in Hamilton
Hamilton Zoo
NZ$30 · Zoo · about 150 min
Free-flight aviary and big cats.
Hamilton Gardens
NZ$20 · Hamilton Gardens · about 120 min
Award-winning themed gardens. Free for NZ residents.
Waikato Museum
Free · Central City · about 60 min
Art, Waikato history and a waka taua (war canoe).
Waikato River walk
Free · Central City · about 60 min
Paths along both banks of NZ's longest river.
Hamilton Lake Domain
Free · Hamilton Lake · about 60 min
Lake loop and a big playground.
Taitua Arboretum
Free · Taitua · about 75 min
Walks among mature trees, lakes and picnic spots on the edge of town.
Free things to do in Hamilton
- Waikato Museum (Central City): Art, Waikato history and a waka taua (war canoe).
- Waikato River walk (Central City): Paths along both banks of NZ's longest river.
- Hamilton Lake Domain (Hamilton Lake): Lake loop and a big playground.
- Taitua Arboretum (Taitua): Walks among mature trees, lakes and picnic spots on the edge of town.
Where to eat
- Dinner on Hood Street (Central City, around NZ$45): Bars and restaurants in the centre.
- Café lunch on Victoria Street (Central City, around NZ$22): Cafés in the main street.
Step-free and pram-friendly ideas
- Hamilton Gardens · step-free · pram-friendly
- Waikato Museum · step-free · pram-friendly
- Hamilton Zoo · step-free · pram-friendly
- Waikato River walk · step-free · pram-friendly
- Hamilton Lake Domain · step-free · pram-friendly
- Taitua Arboretum · pram-friendly
Access information can change. Check with the venue if access is essential.
Day trips from Hamilton
Matamata
- Hobbiton Movie Set (NZ$120): Guided tour of the Shire. Book ahead.
Waitomo
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves (NZ$65): Boat ride under thousands of glowworms.
Typical weather in Hamilton
| Month | Low | High | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13°C | 25°C | 9 |
| April | 8°C | 19°C | 12 |
| July | 3°C | 14°C | 14 |
| October | 8°C | 19°C | 12 |
Approximate long-term averages, not a forecast.