Due to its location on the Waikato River, Hamilton is known across New Zealand as one of the country's best examples of its unique and natural beauty. Only in this region will you find black sand beaches that are only complemented by the surrounding sprawl of hills and mountainous ranges. It is also the location of the world famous Hobbiton set, which contains reconstructed sets that were used for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, including the Green Dragon Inn and Bag End
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Hamilton
New Zealand’s largest inland city and fourth-largest overall, Hamilton is found on the banks of the Waikato River. Rich in history and culture, the city promises to offer something for all walks of life, both young and old. With scenic tours of the stunning Waikato region to a bustling CBD, alive with shopping, bars, restaurants and plenty of open spaces to get lost in. Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, don't forget our Best Price Guarantee means that you can be sure of booking at the best rate.
Why visit Hamilton
Hamilton is well known around the world as a destination for international and national sporting events. With some of the most state-of-the-art sports stadiums and facilities that host rugby, cricket, boxing, as well as concerts and festivals. The central precinct of the city is chock full of exciting places to eat and drink and plenty of vibrant bars for you to dance the night away. Hamilton is also located in the Waikato Region, which is home to scenic highlights from rolling green hills and black sand beaches to villages of Middle Earth.
When to visit Hamilton
If you are holding out for the warmest weather, the months of January through to March with regular highs of around 25°C before getting down to 15°C in the evening. Make sure you bring the layers for the winter months as temperatures can drop to 5°C or below in July and only reach a high of 14-15°C.
Getting around Hamilton
The city has many modes of transport to help you get around, including the BUSIT service, which provides your standard public transport to and from the Hamilton Transport Centre. The Te Huia train is the rail service that can be taken from the suburb of Frankton and connect you to Auckland and Huntly. Make sure you apply for a Bee Card to save on fares. If you are heading for a night out on the town, the Flex city bus is a rideshare service that can provide you with a comfortable ride around the CBD.
Things to do in Hamilton
When you are in town, the Hamilton Gardens are an almost fantasy-like world with 54 hectares of sprawling gardens which include recreations in a Japanese and Te Parapara style. Car lovers will admire the Classics Museum, a personal collection of automobiles, while the kids will enjoy visiting the animals at the Hamilton Zoo. Going beyond the city opens you up to the vastness of Waikato, where you can learn to surf at Raglan, be awed by the glowworms at Waitomo cave or take a tour through the Hobbiton set in Matamata.
Where to eat and drink in Hamilton
Being New Zealand's fourth-largest city, Hamilton offers plenty of culinary choices. The restaurant scene provides a great range of fine dining with Gothenburg, or if you prefer something more casual, the spots on Victoria Street in the CBD like the Chilli House are the places for you. Hamilton is also dotted with vibrant bars.
Where to stay in Hamilton
Spend the night in some of Accor's best accommodation with the Novotel Hamilton Tainui located in the CBD. You'll enjoy elegant styling and comfort while being moments away from the must-see attractions. And on the banks of the Waikato River, stay at the ibis Hamilton Tainui for fantastic views and close proximity to and from the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Hamilton and Auckland is 112 kilometres. If you are driving, this trip should take you around 1 hour and 40 minutes, and along the way, you'll be treated to some beautiful scenery. Alternatively, you can catch the Te Huia train, which may be cheaper but will get you there in just a little over 2 hours
Although snowfall has been recorded in Hamilton, the last time was in 2011. Though it does get cold, snow is likely not to occur, especially when it is commonly only seen in the mountainous regions across New Zealand and more so on the South Island
Yes. Guests staying at the ibis Hamilton Tainui can enjoy contemporary dining at the hotel's restaurant. Guests visiting the Novotel Hamilton Tainui can enjoy a contemporary fusion of Pacific Rim & European cuisine. Choose from options like homemade gnocchi or seafood laksa for your main before (trying to) choose between cheese or cake for dessert—or opt for thyme cheesecake for the best of both worlds!
Price from: 1 night for 1 person in the room category identified within the same price range, excluding additional services and breakfast. This refers to the lowest public price, including all taxes (Some taxes may be payable on arrival at the hotel (for example, tourist tax), depending on current local regulations.) for the accommodation concerned, found on https://all.accor.com/ site today, for a one-night stay in the next 20 days. Varies according to period and availability. The price is only guaranteed at the time of booking. All bookings (foreign) are payable in the local currency where the hotel is situated. Only the amount confirmed during the booking in the hotels local currency is guaranteed. An estimated conversion in your local currency may be given for reference but is not part of the contract. Your bank may charge you bank fees and/or exchange fees at the time of payment.