Waikato Regional Information
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Waikatao is incredibly fresh and green. Its fertile soils and lush grasslands, make it one of the world's richest dairy, thoroughbred and agricultural areas. Located in the central North Island is the Waikato River, which at 264 miles (425 km), is the longest in New Zealand. Rising on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park is the Tongariro River, it flows north through Lake Taupo and issuing from the lake's northeastern corner, tumbles over Huka Falls and flows northwest to enter the Tasman Sea south of Auckland. Hamilton is the largest city in the region. Set on the banks of the Waikato River, the city is distinguished by its peaceful riverside parks. Stroll along the riverbank and on through the picturesque, themed Hamilton Gardens for a picnic, or take a relaxing Waikato River cruise aboard a genuine paddle steamer.
Further along the Waikato River, the quiet township of Cambridge, with its old churches, trees and village green, has a charming English feel to it. The town has a vibrant arts and crafts scene. It is also a famous race horse nursery, with visits to stud farms being possible. Lying west of Hamilton, the seaside town of Raglan offers world famous surfing conditions, sheltered swimming beaches and good fishing prospects. Kawhia Harbour lies further south down the coast. Here, hot springs emerge from beneath the sand, which means that when the tide is right, you can create your own hot water pools to relax in. Located in the King Country, the Waitomo Caves and glowworm grottos are simply not to be missed. Visitors to the caves encounter a mysterious underground world, a spectacular labyrinth of naturally sculpted limestone formations and passageways. Take a guided boat ride along an underground river, where you'll glide silently beneath a stunning overhead glowworm galaxy.
The scenery in the Waikato region is simply stunning. Above ground, there is the Waikato River, Hamilton Gardens and Matamata (at which some of the Lord of the Rings set remains). To witness the limestone grottos you need to head underground to a subterranean wonderland where you can go caving. Experienced guides will educate you about the formations, which feature the Cathedral Cave - an impressive cavern with awesome natural acoustics. The tour finishes with a boat ride through the world famous Glow worm Grotto, where the glow worms illuminate the cavern walls. The Legendary New Zealand Black Water Rafting Company offer adventures exploring subterranean rivers within ancient cave systems, whilst seated on an inner tube. All trips include complimentary hot showers, soup & a bagel and free entry to the Museum of Caves. A great way to really experience New Zealand's rugged countryside is with Waitomo Big Red 4X4 Motor Bike Tours. The adventure will take you through native bush with spectacular views of the surrounding alpine scenery. Why not abseil 100 metres below ground beside a subterranean waterfall! Waitomo Adventures will take you caving, rafting, swimming and walking through some of New Zealand's most unique backdrops. One way to experience this region's beauty peacefully is from the sky in a hot air balloon. Flights usually take off after sunrise for a 3 to 4 hour drift beside the clouds with the wind. The Kiwi Balloon Company in Hamilton also offer a champagne-breakfast after landing so you can enjoy New Zealand in style! In Hamilton you can also take a cruise on the Waikato River, visit the Hamilton Zoo and stroll through the historic-themed Hamilton gardens. The Waitomo Region also offers visitors a less commercial experience 24 kms west at the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, where a 15 minute loop trail beside a narrow limestone gorge begins. Once you have experienced such dramatic natural landscapes, you will be hungry for more! A further 4 kms west are the Piripiri Caves preceded by a forest landscape. The caverns feature the Oyster Room, which contains giant fossil oysters and access to the stunning Marokopa Falls.
