Hamilton, Cambridge, Paeroa, Waitomo, Taupō, Coromandel, Ōtorohanga & Raglan
For those planning a trip, a Waikato travel guide is essential to explore all that this region has to offer. From rolling farmland and dramatic coastlines to geothermal lakes, glowworm caves and world-class adventure, the Waikato and Central North Island offer some of New Zealand’s most diverse and memorable travel experiences. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, luxury, family fun, or high-energy action — this region delivers it all.
HAMILTON & CAMBRIDGE – Scenic Flights, Orchards & Countryside Charm
Things to Do
Kiwi Balloon Company – Hamilton – Drift above the Waikato at sunrise and enjoy panoramic views of farmland, rivers and rolling hills — a magical experience for couples, families and photography lovers.
Monavale Blueberries & Irresistiblue Café – Cambridge – Savour organic blueberry treats and stunning orchard views at this beautiful rural café tucked just outside Cambridge.
Rally Drive NZ – Motorsport Thrills (Maramarua Forest) – A high-performance rally adventure where you can drive a real rally car or ride shotgun with a professional driver on a forest stage. Perfect for motorsport lovers and thrill-seekers.
Highlights
- Hamilton Gardens – World-famous themed gardens showcasing landscapes from around the world, perfect for relaxed walking and photography.
- Waikato River Walks – Scenic riverside tracks ideal for cycling, walking or enjoying Hamilton’s calm urban nature.
- Cambridge Farmers Market – Fresh local produce, artisan food and a lively Saturday morning atmosphere.
- Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari – A huge predator-free eco-sanctuary with lush native forest, birdsong and walking trails.
PAEROA & THE HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL – Cycling, Scenic Tours & Easy Adventure
Paeroa is the gateway to the Hauraki Rail Trail, a popular Grade 1 cycleway linking Karangahake Gorge, Thames and Waihī. Easy, accessible and incredibly scenic — perfect for families and casual riders.
Things to Do
Hauraki Bike Hire – Paeroa – Bike hire, e-bikes, kids’ bikes and trail support to make your cycling adventure smooth and enjoyable.
Valley Tours & Transfers – Paeroa – Providing shuttles, luggage transfers and sightseeing tours for Rail Trail riders and visitors exploring Paeroa and beyond.
Highlights
- Hauraki Rail Trail – Easy, scenic cycling through rural countryside, bush tunnels, old railway bridges and the stunning Karangahake Gorge.
- Karangahake Gorge Windows Walk – A spectacular loop through historic gold-mining tunnels with views across the gorge.
- Paeroa L&P Bottle – An iconic Kiwi photo spot celebrating New Zealand’s famous fizzy drink.
WAITOMO, ŌTOROHANGA & SURROUNDS – Glowworms, Glamping & Rural Luxury
Famous for its glowworm caves, Waitomo also offers peaceful countryside retreats and unique outdoor experiences.
Places to Stay
Ōtorohanga Kiwi Holiday Park – Affordable cabins, motels and camping sites near Kiwi House and a convenient gateway to Waitomo attractions, offering year-round heated saltwater swimming pool & spa pools
Orchard Valley Glamping – Waitomo – A romantic glamping escape set in a private valley. Enjoy luxury glamping tents, outdoor baths beneath the stars and total tranquillity.
Ripples Retreat – Piopio / Ōtorohanga District – Hand-built riverside cabins surrounded by farmland and bush. Features include outdoor baths, river access, kayaking and beautiful stargazing.
Waitomo Village Chalets – Self-contained chalets located close to the major cave tours.
Waitomo TOP 10 Holiday Park – A family-friendly base with cabins, powered sites and excellent facilities.
Highlights
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Explore underground rivers and limestone chambers illuminated by thousands of magical glowworms.
- Ruakuri Cave – A dramatic cave system featuring spiralling entrances, waterfalls and limestone formations.
- Aranui Cave – A smaller, peaceful cave known for its delicate stalactites and natural acoustics.
- Otorohanga Kiwi House – Get close to kiwi and other native wildlife with daily feeding talks.
- Marokopa Falls & Mangapōhue Natural Bridge – Two must-see natural wonders located a short drive west of Waitomo.
TAUPŌ & TŪRANGI – Adventure Capital of the Central North Island
Taupō is a playground of geothermal landscapes, adrenaline activities and lakeside relaxation.
Top Adventures in Taupō
- Taupō Parasailing – Thrilling parasailing experiences over the picturesque Lake Taupō, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Taupō Tandem Skydiving – Soar above Lake Taupo and Mt Ruapehu with Taupo Tandem Skydiving—the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers in New Zealand! Experience breathtaking views and an unforgettable adrenaline rush as you leap into the skies.
- Taupō’s Floatplane Scenic Flights – Enjoy a unique Taupo activity with a flightseeing experience over Tongariro National Park, the Bay of Plenty and, of course, Great Lake Taupo!
- Mind Junction Activity Park – A Taupo favourite for all ages—explore the Giant Maze, marvel at the LEGO Display, play Mini Golf, and take off in the Flight Simulator!
- Rent N Roll Caravan Hire – Located in the heart of Taupo, Rent n Roll Caravan Hire helps create unforgettable holidays with a smooth, comfortable rental experience.
Where to Stay in Taupō
The Point Villas – Exclusive Luxury – Two exceptional private villas set in native bush, each with private pool, spacious interiors, full kitchens, landscaped grounds and high-end amenities for luxury retreats.
Tongariro Lodge – Tūrangi – A world-renowned fishing lodge offering riverfront accommodation, gourmet dining, guided outdoor adventures and easy access to Tongariro National Park.
Accent on Taupō Motor Lodge – Two Mile Bay – Comfortable lakeside accommodation with spacious units, spa baths, and direct access to the Two Mile Bay walkway. Ideal for couples, families and relaxed stays.
Absolute Lake View Motel – Taupō CBD – Central motel opposite Lake Taupō offering clean, modern rooms, indoor heated pool and unbeatable walk-to-town convenience.
Anchorage Resort Motel – Lakeside – Family-friendly lakeside resort featuring a heated pool, spa, playground and spacious suites. A great base for summer holidays and group stays.
The Cottage Taupō – Relax in style at this modern Taupo cottage, set on a tranquil hillside with sweeping views of the Waikato River and surrounding farmland.
The Retreat – Lakeside Chalets – Tranquil forest-fringed chalets overlooking Lake Taupō, offering privacy, nature views and peaceful escapes just minutes from town.
Sacred Waters – Luxury Apartments – Premium lakefront apartments featuring geothermal hot tubs, spacious living areas and high-end comfort — ideal for luxury travellers.
The Flying Trout Boutique Lodge – Elegant, secluded lodge with panoramic lake and mountain views, offering boutique suites and personalised hospitality.
Highlights
- Huka Falls – One of NZ’s most visited natural attractions — turquoise water thundering through a narrow volcanic channel.
- Lake Taupō Waterfront – Perfect for swimming, picnics, lakeside dining and family-friendly activities.
- Tongariro National Park – An adventure base for hiking, skiing, fly-fishing and exploring volcanic landscapes.
- Aratiatia Rapids – Watch powerful water surges released through the Aratiatia Dam — a dramatic sight.
RAGLAN – Surf, Black-Sand Beaches & Wild Coastal Treks
Raglan is a laid-back coastal town famous for its black-sand beaches, world-class surf breaks and rugged west-coast beauty. Explore dramatic cliffs, scenic walking trails, peaceful harbours, creative local cafes and unforgettable sunsets over the Tasman Sea.
Where to Stay
Raglan Holiday Park – Beachfront cabins and campsites within walking distance of Raglan town and harbour.
Wild Coast Ruapuke Horse Treks – Scenic horse rides along rugged coastal beaches and farmland — a must-do on the west coast.
COROMANDEL – Beaches, Coves & Marine Adventures
The Coromandel is a summer favourite, offering pristine beaches, native forests and crystal-clear waters.
THINGS TO DO – COROMANDEL
Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel – Hahei – Explore Hahei’s marine reserve with guided snorkelling and dive trips showcasing reefs, underwater arches, vibrant fish life and the iconic Cathedral Cove coastline.
Coromandel Ocean Adventures – Tairua & Pauanui – Scenic boat tours featuring wildlife encounters, sea caves, offshore islands and stunning coastal landscapes with experienced local skippers.
Coromandel Fishing Charters – Te Kouma – A top fishing experience targeting snapper, kingfish and more in the rich Hauraki Gulf waters. Great for families, groups and anglers of all skill levels.
PLACES TO STAY – COROMANDEL
Hosts on the Coast – Coromandel Holiday Homes – A curated collection of holiday homes across the Coromandel, offering beachfront escapes, family-friendly houses and luxury stays for every style of traveller.
Coromandel Court Motel – Coromandel Town – Clean, central and comfortable motel units within walking distance to shops, cafés and the charming historic township.
Mercury Bay Holiday Park – Whitianga – Spacious cabins, powered sites and family-friendly facilities just minutes from the beach, wharf and local attractions.
Crows Nest Apartments – Whitianga – Modern beachfront apartments on Buffalo Beach with full kitchens, ocean views and plenty of space for families or groups.
Peninsula Motel – Whitianga – A quiet, well-presented motel close to the marina and town centre, ideal for couples and travellers exploring Mercury Bay.
Pauanui Pines Motor Lodge – Pauanui – Set among lovely landscaped grounds, this lodge offers comfortable units, a swimming pool and relaxed resort-style facilities near the beach.
Ocean Breeze Resort – Pauanui Beach – Luxury apartments at the edge of Pauanui Beach featuring contemporary design, private balconies and upscale comfort.
Orokawa Bay Retreat – Waihī – A secluded, boutique retreat overlooking native bush and coastline — perfect for couples seeking privacy, peace and breathtaking views.
Coromandel Highlights
- Cathedral Cove – A world-famous beach with a natural rock arch, crystal-clear water and white sand.
- Hot Water Beach – Dig your own natural hot pool in the sand at low tide — a classic Coromandel experience.
- Whitianga Wharf & Beachfront – Great for swimming, boating, dining and family activities.
- New Chums Beach – A pristine, untouched beach known for its isolation and natural beauty.
- Pauanui Summit Track – A rewarding climb with panoramic coastal views over the Coromandel.
Transport around Waikato
Scenic Motorcycle Touring with Bularangi
Discover NZ’s landscapes on an open-road Harley adventure: guided tours and motorcycle rentals through coastlines, forests and alpine passes.
Door-to-door taxi and transfer service available in multiple regions across New Zealand.
Reliable, cost-effective airport transfers serving all major NZ airports.
