Waikato

Hauraki, Matamata & Coromandel – Discover Waikato’s Coastal & Countryside Charm

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

The Waikato region is full of surprises and three of its most memorable areas are Hauraki, Matamata and Coromandel. Together, they showcase some of the best Waikato highlights from the gold-mining history and dramatic landscapes of Hauraki to Matamata’s rolling farmland and the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set and finally the coastal beauty and creative spirit […]

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Tirau, Putāruru & Tokoroa – Explore Hidden Gems in the Waikato

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

In the middle of the Waikato region, the towns of Tirau, Putāruru and Tokoroa may be small, but they’re full of unique charm that makes them great places to stop on a road trip. Each town has its own flavour — from quirky art and cafés to handy bakeries, trails and sculptures that tell local

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Exploring Hamilton & Surrounds – From City to Coast in the Waikato

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

The heart of the Waikato region isn’t just rolling farmland and mighty rivers — it’s also home to Hamilton and its surrounds, where city culture, coastal charm, heritage towns and Māori history all come together. From the buzz of Hamilton city, with its cafés, galleries and gardens, to the laid-back surf town of Raglan, this

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Best Biking Trails in Waikato – Ride Beside Rivers and Rails

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

The Waikato region is a dream for cyclists, whether you’re after a short scenic ride or a multi-day adventure. With riverside paths, old railway lines and trails weaving through farmland and bush, there’s something for every level of rider. There are so many biking trails still left to discover but the ones we’ve already explored

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Best Hiking Trails in Waikato – From Peaks to Pure Springs

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

The Waikato region is one of the largest in Aotearoa – New Zealand, stretching from the volcanic plateau around Taupō to the lush farmland and bush of the Waikato basin, and out to the Kaimai and Pirongia ranges. With such a wide landscape, it’s no surprise the region is home to an incredible variety of

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Te Waihou – The Blue Springs of Putāruru – Crystal Waters & Scenic Walks

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

Tucked away in the heart of the Waikato near Putāruru lies one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Aotearoa – Te Waihou (The Blue Springs). Famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, this spring has become a must-see for anyone travelling through the central North Island. The water here is so pure that around 70%

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Hobbiton – A Cinematic Journey into Middle-earth

1 Comment / Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

Deep in the rolling green hills of the Waikato lies Hobbiton Movie Set, the place where the Shire was brought to life. What started as a film location for The Lord of the Rings has become one of Aotearoa’s most beloved attractions, drawing fans and curious travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re a

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Best Pies in the Waikato – Local Favourites & Hidden Bakeries

Aotearoa-New Zealand, North Island, Waikato /

We love pies. Like seriously love them. And in the Waikato region, we found places that don’t just serve a pie — they celebrate one. A good pie is crusty, generous, filled with flavour, and makes you stop mid-bite to quietly say “that’s a good decision”. Here are our top stops — pull over, roll

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