Local Activities
Must see places of Waikato.
Raglan
Only 45 minutes to the west of Hamilton on SH23 is the quaint seaside town of Raglan. This area is also the premier surfing area in New Zealand. Each year the area is visited by world renown "Surfies". The local High School even runs a Surf School and this is a popular choice for children from all over New Zealand. The town is a great place to explore with many small Art shops / Galleries. There are great cafes spread throughout the town, it is a great place to visit and relax with a latte.
Hobbiton
Guided tour daily to "Hobbiton" Famous throught the world as the mythical home to the "Hobbits" from Peter Jacksons "Lord of the Rings"
Bridal Veil Falls
Just 10 kilometres East of Raglan is Bridal Veil Falls. Stunning scenery, a well kept Waikato secret.
Lake Karapiro
Home of the world famous New Zealand and World Champion Rowers. New Zealand has a great history in the sport of Rowing, and this lake is the home to the New Zealand representative teams and individuals. This will be the venue for the World Rowing Champs in 2011. It is situated just 2.5 kilometres south of the beautiful town of Cambridge on State Highway 1.
http://www.lakekarapiro.co.nz/
Waitomo
45 minutes south of Hamilton city is the Waitomo region, famous for its limestone cave systems and featuring blackwater rafting and glow worm caves. Guided tours are conducted daily through a range of caves.
Turangawaewae
On State Highway 1 north of Hamilton is the home of the Maori King Movement This historical Marae is set on the banks of the river and is situated close to the Sacred Mountain Taupiri.