The grass really is greener!
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| Engage your sense of adventure and learn to abseil in Waikato. |
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The Waikato region has two spectacular landscapes - one above ground, the other
below. In both cases, nature has been generous.
On the lush surface, the scenery is green to the extreme. Fertile soils, reliable
rainfall and kind temperatures have created a pastoral heaven.
Below the surface, miracles have been wrought with water and limestone. Vast
cave systems, huge sink holes and underground streams provide huge scope for adventure.
Waikato was the scene of significant battles during the Maori Land Wars of the
mid 19th century. Visit the monuments and museums and discover the fierce history
of the region.
In the fast-growing city of Hamilton, the serpentine beauty of the Waikato River
is maximised at every opportunity. You can discover parks, gardens and river walks
where the forethought of the town planners is plain to see.
Key Features
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Waikato River
The mighty Waikato River travels through the region. At 425 kilometres from end
to end, it is the country’s longest river. As well as providing recreational opportunities,
the river drives eight hydro dams. | |
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Waitomo Caves
The Waitomo Caves were formed over 30 million years ago, and drip by drip they’re
still changing. The natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites lit by the blue
light of glow worms has to be seen to be believed. | |
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Hobbiton
On a Matamata sheep farm, you can visit the remnants of Hobbiton, the hobbit
village created for the Lord of the Ring’s movie trilogy. View the hobbit holes
and find out how the set was created on a guided tour. |
Key Tips
- Hamilton airport is located 15 kilometres south of the city. The airport services
both international (Freedom Air) and domestic flights.
- Waikato is situated in the heart of the North Island. The main city, Hamilton,
is located 90 minutes from Auckland and Rotorua.
- The region enjoys a temperate climate - warm, humid summers and mild winters
with prevailing west and southwest winds.
- State highways 1 and 3 run through Waikato. The region is also part of the Great
New Zealand Touring Route and Thermal Explorer Highway.
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Journals
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Waitomo Caves
Cave rafting, cave abseiling (rappelling), glow-worm caves, cave tubing, cave museum and cave walks. These are just some of the activities on offer at Waitomo.
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www.newzealand.com Pages
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Hamilton Airport
Hamilton airport is New Zealand's fourth largest. Find out about its facilities and transport options from the airport to the city.
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New Zealand Food and Wine
Take a gourmet journey through the North and South Islands and discover your appetite for New Zealand.
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Lord of the Rings
The rolling green hills of Waikato perfectly portray the peaceful Shire, home of Bilbo and Frodo. Experience Middle Earth and see where Hobbits once lived!
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WAIKATO
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Population: 266,700
Area: 7,363km2
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
The region's large river systems are full to the brim, and flooding occasionally leads to road diversions.
Mist around the valleys in the early morning creates surreal landscapes, especially around the lakes and rivers.
On the west coast, the surf beaches are wild and moody – perfect for photography and long wintry walks.
At Waitomo, the cave formations are glistening with water that has filtered down from the surface.
The average daytime temperature is between 10 and 15°C.
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