Hamilton
- Waitomo Caves
71 km (44 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway
The mighty Waikato River brings a unique beauty to Hamilton city. As well as river boat cruising, local attractions include gardens, museums and a giant free flight aviary. At the southern end of the city’s main street you’ll discover a wide variety of excellent restaurants and cafes.
The trip south takes you through prime Waikato farmland. In summer, you can pause in the town of Te Awamutu to admire the roses. A detour towards the coast will take you to Kawhia, where hot water bubbles up through the sand - you can dig a pool between low and mid tide. Just before the turn off to Waitomo, you’ll come to Otorohanga. The kiwi house in this town is a chance to meet New Zealand’s national symbol.
The Waitomo Caves region is famous for its subterranean splendour. Beneath the surface of this ancient limestone region is a series of vast cave systems decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and glow-worms. Some caves open to the public, and are easy to walk through, others require specialised caving equipment.
Scenic Highlights
Waikato walks
Bring your favourite walking shoes to the Waikato region for a gentle stroll along the riverbank or a challenging mountain summit expedition.
Waikato water features
Green and serene, the Waikato region relies on water for its verdant beauty. Wherever you go, there's a natural water feature to admire.
Waitomo Caves
Wai means water, tomo means hole. Put them together and you have the perfect name for a region that's packed with limestone caves.
Hamilton Gardens
A botanic garden like no other, Hamilton Gardens is a 58 hectare world of horticultural skill and imagination.
Activities
Waikato
Abseiling/Rappelling (3),
Caving (8)
Tour and Sightseeing
Waikato
Caving (2),
Kayaking – Fresh Water (1)
|
Print Driving Route
