The Waikato is a region of lush, green hills, bush and farmland, with exceptional surf on the West coast. The beautiful Waikato River carves its journey through the landscapes, and intersects the region's hub, Hamilton. Throughout the region discover bush-clad mountains, stunning waterfalls, hot mineral pools, beaches and, of course, the magical limestone glowworm caves in Waitomo.
Hamilton City: Hamilton - a city of education and scientific research, parks and gardens, fine cuisine and cafes, culture and attractions is situated in the North Island and straddles the banks of the Waikato River. It is a major service centre for the fertile agricultural region of the Waikato (which generates nineteen percent of New Zealand's total export earnings). New Zealand's dairy industry is centred in Hamilton, with a strong technological-based research and development capability. Research facilities are located in and around the city, including Landcare Research, AgResearch, and Dairying Research Corporation. The city also contains some of the region's main educational assets, including the University of Waikato and Waikato Polytechnic.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: An amazing, not to be missed attraction ! Enjoy a return day-trip to the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a guided tour through long galleries and lofty chambers to view stalactites formed over thousands of years, your tour culminates with a boat ride through the famed Glowworm Grotto, lit by thousands of tiny living lights from the glowworms. For over 100 years these caves have attracted millions of visitors, who never fail to be amazed by the splendour and beauty of the limestone formations.
Ruakuri Cave: Laced with myth and legend, Ruakuri 'den of dogs' was first discovered by Maori some 400-500 years ago. It takes its name from the pack of wild dogs that used to inhabit the cave entranceway "Rua" meaning 'den' and "kuri" meaning 'dogs'. For over 15 years the cave has been closed to the public and is reopened again in 2005 for daily guided tours. Enter the realms of an underground universe and listen to the ancient drum beat of the earth. Narrow winding corridors, hidden waterfalls and amazing cave decorations wait to be discovered. Discover the mystery on your "Spiritual Journey" through Ruakuri.
Lord of the Rings: Visit the original Hobbiton village at Matamata from "The Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy. Your tour starts with a drive through a picturesque working sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. The Hobbiton movie set has been returned to its natural state, however hobbit holes and some structures from the film set are still present. Your tour guide will escort you through the ten acre site recounting fascinating details on how the Hobbiton set was created.
Bay of Plenty
Welcome to the Bay of Plenty , From rolling surf beaches and stretches of never ending coastline to sumptuous cuisine and adrenalin-pumping activities, the Bay of Plenty is just waiting to be discovered! When 18th Century navigator Captain James Cook sailed into the region aboard the Endeavour he was so impressed it aptly named it The Bay of Plenty. The region is still living up to it's name and is one of the country's premiere holiday destinations surrounded by over 100kms of glittering white sand, crystal clear, rolling surf beaches, beautiful harbours and an unbeatable lifestyle. The places of attractions in Bay of Plenty region include Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Waihi Beach, Katikati, Papamoa, Te Puke and Paengaroa.
Located on the East Coast of New Zealand's beautiful North Island, the Bay of Plenty offers so much choice. Drive inland to explore untouched New Zealand forests; discover the charms of inland towns, restful harbour sanctuaries and fresh, tumbling river waters. In the Bay of Plenty there is something for everyone. Discover the sacred world of New Zealand Maori , experience stunning surf beaches, Sunbathing at Mount Maunganui , enjoy playing at t he Mount Maunganui Golf Course, go fishing at McLarens Lake and dive among the abundant marine life. Go White Water Rafting, Feel the Thrill of Tandem Skydiving, Hiking BOP, Surfing in the Bay of Plenty or enjoy the most popular Bay blokarting, with over 3500 karts in the region, blokart landsailing is rapidly becoming the worlds no. 1 land based sail sport! Because of its small size and extreme manoeuvrability the blokart landsailer can be used almost anywhere - from beaches to car parks, sport and recreation areas, tennis courts and now even on ice! Mount Maunganui provides a safe circular 45 minute track for keen runners and walkers or those taking in the fantastic scenery. Begin at Pilot Bay (the harbour side of the Mount) or take the entry way from the main ocean beach. There are many restful seating areas to watch ships and boats cruise by, or enjoy the shade of the New Zealand 'Christmas Tree", the Pohutukawa.
Tauranga: The vivacious waterfront city of Tauranga, located only two-and-a-half hours from Auckland, is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. Set at the entrance to a crystal clear harbour, it offers the big city lifestyle at its own stylish pace. With a plethora of cafes, bars restaurants, boutique shopping and the newly developed Strand this is St Tropez meets Pacifica! Located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand and nestled beside the magnificent Mauao (Mount Maunganui), the towns of Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are home to the country's biggest export port, Port of Tauranga. Two large marinas hold over a thousand yachts and launches with many charter boat operators taking keen game fishers out to the internationally renowned deep sea fishing waters of the Bay of Plenty and scuba diving is enjoyed by many. The harbour hosts many cruise ship visits each summer and is popular with windsurfers, jet skiers and all those who love to spend their leisure time on the water. Everything you need for a perfect holiday break can be found here - sun, sand, sea and numerous places to eat, shop, party, entertain and recover.
Mount Maunganui (Mauao): Mount Maunganui is one of the country's most popular holiday destinations and is a picturesque seaside town located five minutes drive from Tauranga City , sparkles with 100 km of white sand, an enticing blue ocean and for decades the area has held irresistible charm for locals and visitors alike. The seaside resort town, affectionately known as 'the Mount' by locals, draws tens of thousands of holidaymakers during the summer season and many of the ramshackle beach homes have given way to apartments and magnificent homes.The spectacular beach stretches as fear as the eye can see with sparkling white sand and crashing surf on one side, and sheltered harbour on the other. The magnificent Mauao (Mount Maunganui) stands tall and proud dominating the region and provides a myriad of walks around the base track or to the summit where you are rewarded with uninhibited views of the area. With a parade of cafes, boutique shops and restaurants of world-class standards it is the perfect holiday destination all-year round. There is nothing more relaxing then a soak in the hot saltwater pools, indulging with a famous Copenhagen cone or enjoying the endless stretches of white, sandy surf beaches. Or for the more active hit the water and go jet skiing, kite surfing, surfing, fishing, diving and boating - there is something for everyone!
