An Epic Adventure to WaikatoExplore the underground caves of Waitomo, the manicured gardens of Hamilton, the best swells for miles at Manu Bay, and so much more on a trip to Waikato, New Zealand. Stay in cozy bed and breakfasts while exploring the coasts and the rolling inland hills and mountains. Authorsabbygoux
DestinationsWaikato RegionItinerary

Adventure Here

Waitomo Caves
Explore these famous caves and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the see thousands of glow worms lighting the way.
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Marokopa Falls
Hike this easy, half mile out and back trail that takes you to the base of the cascading waterfall. This trail is open year round and is super popular! If you want a quieter experience, get out there bright and early.
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Mangapohue Natural Bridge
Hike 0.5 miles on a moderate treail through this limestone gorge that takes you underneath a natural arch.
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Hamilton Gardens
Rated among the top three things to do in New Zealand is the Hamilton Gardens. Enjoy their 18 enclosed and manicured gardens.
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Full Day Ebike Tour in Karangahake Gorge (ex Auckland)
Enjoy a bike ride through the Karangahake Gorge. Explore the old gold mines and the museum. They have lunch and morning/afternoon teas included in this tour as well as a shuttle to get you to and from the gorge. You can also take the historic train journey but that comes at an additional cost.
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Manu Bay
Manu Bay, known for surfing, offers some of the best left-handers rolls in the southern hemisphere. You can find many surfers here waiting for the prefect swell! Watch from the beach or head out into the water to catch some waves.
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Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
Take a guided tour of some of the famous "Hobbit" sets! "Where our hearts truly lie is in peace and quiet and good tilled earth. For all Hobbits share a love of things that grow." ~ J.R.R. Tolkien
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Eat Here

Cala Raglan
This is a favorite breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Try their eggs benedict or poached eggs with a coffee to start the day.
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HUHU Cafe
Hidden in a quiet little town HUHU serves some of the best dishes around. Try their steak, salmon, or fish and chips.
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Alpino Cambridge
Enjoy a lunch or dinner with one of their handmade pasta dishes or steaks here. They also have some amazing pizzas as well!
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Orca Eatery & Bar
Orca is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal and a drink either on the patio when the weather is nice!
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Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar
Make a reservatoin at Alpha Street Kitchen and Bar. This popular reastaurant has some amazing dishes, such as lamp rump or the fish of the day, and friendly staff.
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Redoubt Bar & Eatery
A great spot for a quick and healthy lunch. Try the budha bowl, pork belly, or a salad here.
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Sleep Here

Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge
Located in the Waitomo Caves Village, this stay offers a large continental breakfast and an outdoor space for guests to enjoy. It's proximity to the Waitomo Caves makes it a great launching pad for adventures in this area.
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Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton
Located in central Hamilton, this hotel comes complete with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub for guests to use. It is just steps from adorable cafés and restaurants.
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Somersal Bed & Breakfast / Wedding Venue
Saty in a peaceful location in the farmlands at this homey bed and breakfast. You'll get views of the gardens or Mount Pirongia from your very own room.
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