2025 Hamilton Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

I'd like to introduce "Blue Springs", which I visited on a trip to New Zealand♪ Many of the famous travel destinations in New Zealand are on the South Island, and I think many people start their trips from Christchurch. However, there are also many wonderful spots on the North Island, where the capital Auckland is located! Here at Blue Springs, you can enjoy a walk while looking at the crystal clear springs and rivers♪ I've never seen such a crystal clear spring in my life, so I'm impressed✨ #OceaniaTrip

To start my adventure to New Zealand for Chinese New Year I headed on a week long road trip with my brother. First stop was Hamilton about 2 hours south of Auckland, we stopped off at the Hamilton gardens. I hadn’t ever heard of this place but I was really surprised by it, it’s an award winning garden with manicured areas from all around the world. You need a map to get around as this place is a maze! Each area has a small entrance with many little paths leading off into different gardens. There are gardens from all around the world with India, Japan and China being highlights for me. Each garden has its own focal point and features including water features, small authentic buildings and modern art pieces. Going into this with no expectations really blew me away, and we were in there for hours and made sure we explored every garden. It cost £10 / $20NZ and was totally worth it! #celebrateit #travel #chinesenewyear#naturalwonders #newzealand #hamilton #nature #gardens

We stayed in Hamilton because it was a central point to visit Hobbiton, the Glow worm caves, and the thermal wonderland. The downtown had some good restaurants on the main strip. There's also a new law for street parking in the heart of downtown, first hour is free, and the next hour is only 3 bucks, so it's way better than finding one of the parking lots downtown.

#newyearnewtrip Exploring Hamilton Gardens in New Zealand was a captivating experience, with its themed gardens offering a journey through history and culture. 💰Average Price per Person: As of September 18, 2024, non-Hamilton residents are charged an entry fee of NZD $20 for adults, while children under 16 enter free. 🕰️Business Hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. 

#newzealandtrip Hamilton Zoo is an underrated gem for animal lovers. It’s smaller than some major zoos, but that’s part of its charm—it feels intimate and well-curated. The enclosures are spacious and mimic natural habitats, and the animals seem healthy and well-cared for. Highlights for me were the free-flight aviary and the chance to see a kiwi up close! Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering insightful talks. There are plenty of shaded spots and picnic areas, making it perfect for families. It’s not just a zoo; it’s a great place to learn and connect with wildlife. Highly recommend for a relaxed day out.

#newzealandtrip Hamilton Gardens is a must-visit for any traveler. It’s not your typical garden—it’s an experience! Each themed garden feels like stepping into a different country or era. The Italian Renaissance Garden is breathtaking, while the Japanese Garden exudes tranquility. Everything is meticulously maintained, and entry is free, which is a huge bonus. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for inspiration. Make sure to grab a map as the area is expansive. The café on-site offers good coffee to fuel your exploration. Overall, it’s a serene escape and a visual treat that will leave you in awe.

The picture of the New Year 2025 unfolds quietly at the end of the year. The desk is as usual, and the computer screen emits a cold light, but it is a place where inspiration bursts. Books are stacked like a small mountain, guarding the spring of knowledge; behind the office chair, through the transparent glass door, the tranquility and busyness of daily life are intertwined. The world outside the window also has its poetry. On the rock under the shade of the tree, the cat is lazily napping, the sun is dotted with green branches and leaves, and the breeze blows, as if time is frozen. At that moment, the heart was healed to the brim. Three days ago, a complete rainbow hung in the sky after the rain, as gorgeous as a dream. Standing by the roadside, I seemed to be in a fairy tale world, and the noise around me became silent, leaving only the light and shadow paintings of nature. On the morning of the New Year, I went fishing with my friends at the pier. The wind was light and the clouds were light, and the fish were swimming in the clear sea. People laughed and shouted, pinning their hopes for the New Year on the thin fishing line. These fragments are the most authentic footnotes at the beginning of 2025. Simple, yet full of healing.

#newzealandtrip Hamilton Gardens is a true gem, offering a unique journey through themed gardens from around the globe. Each area is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, telling its own story. The Italian Renaissance Garden transports you to a romantic villa, while the Japanese Garden of Contemplation exudes serenity. The vibrant Indian Char Bagh Garden and the whimsical Surrealist Garden add vibrant contrasts to the experience. Beyond the themed spaces, the lush landscapes and peaceful lakes provide a perfect setting for a relaxing stroll. It’s more than just a garden—it’s an exploration of history, art, and culture, all in one place. Hamilton Gardens is a must-visit, showcasing the creativity and beauty of horticulture in every detail.

New Zealand is a place to be

The Pā building at the University of Waikato in New Zealand is a building that combines modern design, traditional culture and community functions. It opened in 2020, symbolizing the university's commitment and support for community culture. The Pā is themed around Maori culture and is inspired by the pā (fortress) structure of the Maori community. It embodies the Maori people's deep connection to the land and culture, and is committed to becoming a center for community, culture and learning. The design of this building combines modern architectural technology and Maori cultural elements. It not only reflects the Maori cultural characteristics of the Waikato region, but also symbolizes the University of Waikato's concept of embracing multiculturalism. The Pā includes a restaurant, study and social spaces and an auditorium, and is a hub for students, staff and visitors, as well as a venue for Māori cultural events, conferences and presentations. The Pā building was one of the highlights of the University of Waikato's 60th anniversary celebrations, symbolising the University's commitment to continued development and deepening connections with the community. Through The Pā, the University of Waikato emphasizes not only academic achievement, but also community participation and respect for diverse cultures, demonstrating the university's forward-looking approach in promoting cultural exchange and educational innovation.

Hamilton Waikato District In Hamilton, New Zealand, there is a place where you can travel across five continents and four oceans in just a few steps. It is Hamilton Gardens. It is not just a green space, but a horticultural journey through time and space. When you enter the garden, you will first see a series of gardens with different styles, from the classical Italian Renaissance Garden to the mysterious Chinese Garden. Every corner is full of surprises. I felt like a time traveler, enjoying the sunshine in Renaissance Italy one moment and searching for poetry in a Chinese bamboo forest the next. What impressed me most was the Tropical Garden. As soon as I stepped in, the humidity and heat hit me, as if I were in the Amazon jungle. When I entered the Japanese Garden, everything became quiet and delicate. The stone paths, flowing water, and koi fish all exuded a sense of Zen. The beauty of Hamilton Gardens lies not only in its diversity but also in the stories behind it. Each garden is a tribute to different cultures and histories, allowing people to appreciate the beauty and feel the wisdom of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Here, you can bring a good book, sit on the British-style lawn, and enjoy a lazy afternoon. Or you can bring your children and have fun in the children's playground. Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Hamilton Gardens has something for everyone. In short, Hamilton Gardens is like a living encyclopedia of horticulture, with every page full of excitement waiting for you to explore. Next time you come to New Zealand, slow down and enjoy a visual and spiritual feast here. 📍Attraction Address: Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand 🚗Attraction Transportation: Once you arrive in Hamilton, follow the signs to Hamilton Gardens. The public parking lot for the Enclosed Gardens is located at Gate 1. Honestly, the easiest way is to follow your GPS. 👍️Must-visit Attraction: 18 themed gardens, each one is amazing 🎟️Ticket Information: Hamilton Gardens charges an admission fee of NZD 20 per person for non-local visitors. Residents and taxpayers of Hamilton and all children under 16 can still enter the 18 themed gardens for free. 👁Opening Hours: The Enclosed Gardens are open daily from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm, all year round, regardless of the season. It is very busy here between 11 am and 3 pm on weekends and public holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, it is recommended to arrive before or after the busiest time. 💗Other Tips: Are dogs allowed? Dogs are not allowed in the Enclosed Gardens (the ones I mentioned), but as long as they are on a leash, they can go almost anywhere else in the gardens. There is also an area near the parking lot where dogs can roam freely.

Stayed at Distinction Hamilton Hotel & Conference Centre with family for a Basketball Tournament in Hamilton and was delightedly surprised by how clean, tidy and spacious the rooms were. For an extra few dollars we upgraded to the delicious continental breakfast, which was a huge range of options that were amazing!

👍Must visit store: Every Friday, a variety of Asian and local delicacies gather here to provide services to local community residents and inject new vitality into the local food culture. It’s also a mecca for those of us PhD students at the university to relax and enjoy delicious food on the weekends. Tonight, we first checked into a stall that specializes in Vietnamese pho. The soup is delicious and has a first-class texture. Then we went to the Japanese takoyaki stall. The crispy crust and rich sauce were irresistible. Finally, we ended this food tour at a Taiwanese bubble milk tea stall. The delicate milky aroma paired with the bouncy pearls was a perfect ending.

#citydaytours Hamilton Gardens in Hamilton, New Zealand, is a remarkable destination known for its diverse and beautifully curated garden collections. It shuts 2 hours drive away from Auckland, making this a perfect destination for a day tour while you're visiting Auckland. The gardens are divided into several distinct thematic areas, including a traditional Chinese garden, an Italian Renaissance garden, and a tropical garden, among others. Each section offers a unique aesthetic and insight into different cultural and historical gardening styles. One of the standout features of Hamilton Gardens is its commitment to accessibility and education. The gardens are designed to be both visually stunning and informative, making them a great place for visitors to learn about horticulture and garden design.

One-day tour in Hamilton, the second largest city on the North Island of New Zealand. It takes 1.5 hours to drive from Auckland. The entire city is divided into east and west parts by a river. The scenery on both sides of the river is beautiful. The most famous attraction is the Hamilton Gardens, which consists of small gardens with characteristics from various countries, such as the Chinese Garden, Japanese Garden, English Garden, Italian Garden, etc. It's worth a visit.

#summerdestinations great place to be, so many interesting themes. Good for family day trip

At the University of Waikato in New Zealand🇳🇿, we celebrated the Māori New Year, Matatiki, with our classmates. Matariki marks the Māori New Year and is a time for celebrating the harvest and family reunions. The name of the festival comes from the Matariki star cluster🌌, also known as the Pleiades, and its reappearance in the winter sky signifies the start of a new year. On this special weekend, the University of Waikato campus was shrouded in thick fog, creating a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere. From a distance, Lake Oranga appeared intermittently through the mist, like a scene from a fairy tale. The lake's surface shimmered faintly, as if transporting one to a sublime and dreamy world🎨, blurring the line between reality and paradise. The campus was quiet and beautiful in the fog, with every leaf and every breeze carrying the essence of nature, providing a refreshing and uplifting experience. This extended weekend, we were touched by the beauty of Matariki and the unique charm of the campus.

#Register for June Hotel Test Sleeper The University of Waikato is located in Hamilton, North Island, New Zealand. The specific address is Knighton Road, Hamilton 3216. The university campus is beautifully landscaped with greenery, lakes and gardens, providing students with a peaceful and stimulating learning environment. The campus has complete facilities, including a modern library, laboratories, gymnasium and student center. The University of Waikato is well-known for its diverse extracurricular and community activities. From sports to cultural arts to academic seminars, students have ample opportunities to participate and showcase their talents and develop leadership and teamwork spirit. These activities not only enhance students' campus life experience but also promote their all-round development. #StudyInNewZealand

Hamilton skys

#familytrips2024 The Hamilton East River Market is a lively market held along the banks of the Waikato River in Hamilton, New Zealand. It typically takes place on Sunday mornings and offers a diverse range of stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, crafts, clothing, and more. There are a variety of stalls selling locally-produced goods, including fresh produce, artisan crafts, homemade treats, and more. It's a fantastic way to experience the local culture and enjoy a leisurely weekend outing by the river. Address: Sonning Car Park, 201 River Road, Hamilton Opening Hours: 8am to 1pm (Sunday) It is a dream destination for family trips to explore New Zealand together. There are plenty of attractions to explore in New Zealand.

On March 19 (Tuesday), the annual Waikato Hot Air Balloon Festival opened grandly🎈. This year is also the 25th year of the Waikato Hot Air Balloon Festival🌈... Polar bear baby Bila and Farmer Pig are the special hot air balloons that came to the Waikato Balloon Festival this year. At the same time, we would like to solemnly introduce that - when you look up at the sky, you will see what we are proud of - NIHAO! CHINA Hello China - as well as hot air balloons from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, flying together over the idyllic and vast Waikato! Let's say NIHAO!CHINA and wave to the colorful hot air balloons🤩 🎁The grandest night of the Waikato Hot Air Balloon Festival is the ZURU Hot Air Balloon Symphony Light Show. This year's Symphony of Lights show will be held today, March 23 (Saturday) at Claudelands Oval. 💅All the traditional programming will remain the same, with four hours of live entertainment on the main stage from 5:00pm, carnival rides and games, food stalls and the highlight of the night - a carefully curated hot air balloon display lighting up the Hamilton sky at 8:00pm, culminating in a fireworks extravaganza at SkyCity Hamilton.

Mosque in Hamilton, Waikato New Zealand. Every Friday there will be a Beriyani stall near the mosque. Those who come here and seeking for nice Beriyani can have it here.

Hamilton's Parana Park is located in the city center area, on the banks of the Waikato River. The park is peaceful, clean, and filled with blooming flowers and shady trees, while wild ducks play in the river. The park features models of airplanes, cannons, and sculptures of military horses, telling the story of the wars that New Zealand once had. Parana Park is a great place for visitors and locals to relax and exercise. If you get tired of walking in the park, you can rest on the benches, and if you get thirsty, you can drink the self-drinking water in the park. Sometimes, you may encounter dragon boats practicing and racing in the river, and motorboats speeding by. Strolling in Parana Park, watching the falling leaves on the bench, sitting quietly, time seems to freeze in the Waikato River and the green trees of Parana Park...

You wouldn't believe that a flower is bigger than you! ! My face was originally very thin but after patching it up, it looks very thin 🌻 Because the sun is very strong in summer But it doesn’t matter as long as there is a shade, it can be used for taking pictures. We all have a shaded photo frame⛱️☂️

First time to such a big lavender field! ! ! ! Entrance is not very expensive 15 New Zealand dollars = HKD 75 dollars 🤔 He can also cut lavender for people entering to take pictures! ! The lavender flavored ice cream is so delicious I forgot to take a picture 🥲🥲 It was really comfortable to go to the whole person surrounded by lavender flavor 🫶🏻

A place to pause, interact and enjoy river views, this park is located in the middle of Victoria Street in Hamilton and overlooks the mighty Waikato River. The place links beautifully with the city and is a perfect place to enjoy your coffee while exploring Hamilton City Centre. This urban intervention crafted by Edwards White Architects also boast a terraced amphitheatre, with ramps, stairs and terraced seatings descending towards the river foot path. There’s also a beautiful portal like sculpture entitled Te Tatau ki Kirikiriroa, designed and created by Robert Jahnke. The sculpture conveys the story of how the site was once know as the ‘Garden Basket’ of Auckland. LOCATION: Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand #mytripvlog #summervacation #urbanexplorer #hamilton #auckland

This privately-owned garden just outside Hamilton town center, is home to lush lavender fields and blueberry bushes. Driving from Hamilton town takes about 15 minutes while it is just 10 minutes away from Hamilton Gardens. The place is wonderful for photos with the family. You can sit down and relax among the fields of lavender and enjoy a cup of coffee or ice cream from the kiosk. But other than that, there was not much to do as the blueberries have yet to blossom. If you're looking for gifts, Lavender Backyard Garden distils their own essential oils, natural aromatherapy and skin care items which are for sale in their quaint little shop. LOCATION: 398 Marshmeadow Rd, RD6, Hamilton, New Zealand. *TAKE NOTE: Months of operation: Jan, Feb, Nov, Dec OPENING HOURS 9am - 5.00pm Monday – Sunday Pricing and Admission (6Dec -15 Jan 2022) General: NZD $12 Child 4-8 years: NZD $8 Pick your own lavender $12 per jar Things to note: No pets are allowed. No wedding photos allowed during business hours. #tripblazers #waikato #auckland #summervacation #passionpassport #lavenderfields

Located at the metropolitan centre of Waikato region, the award winning Hamilton Gardens is just an hour and a half drive south of Auckland. With multiple themed gardens, the gardens is the perfect place to spend the day. Wonder through the various themed gardens which are ever expanding and enjoy the beautiful blooms on display. There's a cafe within the vicinity, but should you prefer other cuisines, simply head to downtown Hamilton just a few minutes away. #passionpassport #urbanexplorer #summervacation #auckland