Fun

When you’re looking for some time out, there’s an amazing range of activities in easy driving distance. If you’re a keen surfer or want to learn, the best left-hand break in the world is always pumping at Raglan, just 45 minutes from Hamilton and the white sand beaches of the Coromandel are just a couple of hours away.

If you enjoy winter skiing, some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s favourite ski-fields are 3 hours away. On your way home you can stop in Taupō for a relaxing swim in one of the hot pools while marveling at the largest freshwater lake in Australasia. There are bush walks among the local forests, mountains and reserves, spectacular cycling trails, the world famous Waitomo caves, great fishing spots and many opportunities for the adventurers to get plenty of adrenalin.

Among the green pastures of Matamata, you’ll find Middle Earth™, a location where some of the Lord of the Rings was filmed and now home to the world famous Hobbiton Movie Set. A must see for everyone!

Along with a wealth of nature-based activities, there are all the events and attractions you’d expect to enjoy in a bustling, vibrant city. There are a myriad of sports, arts and culture groups to join, or you can spend your day at the large shopping centres, visit a night market, or dine at a restaurant next to the river in Hamilton City.

There’s so much more on offer, so many places to explore. You’ll never be short of places to see and things to discover. Along the way, you will definitely meet some new and interesting people and make some lifelong friends.