Home to a collection of local arts, gifts and fashion, Waikato’s country towns will surprise you with their offering.

Waikato
Tirau, Waikato

Hamilton

  • Head to Casabella Lane for unique New Zealand-made items and boutique stores.
  • If you’re looking for New Zealand art, don’t miss some of the city’s top galleries, including Soul Gallery and The Arts Post Gallery.
  • If you’re around on a weekend, don’t miss one of the many markets in Hamilton(opens in new window)
  • The regional City, Hamilton also boasts of large shopping complexes.

Tirau

  • The Tirau Early Museum and Honey Shop is a trip back in time and a good place to stock up on the famous New Zealand manuka honey.
  • Its main street is dotted with antiques, craft and souvenir shops with true treasures to be found.

Cambridge

  • Cambridge’s main thoroughfare, Victoria Street, is home to a wide range of boutique and specialist gift stores. Whether you’re passing through or staying here, take your time browsing through these shops.
  • Art lovers must visit Heritage Gallery in town, and The Garden Art Studio and Inspirit Gallery on the outskirts of the town. Fashionistas can enjoy a visit to local designer Ooby Ryn’s boutique store.

Te Awamutu

  • The tree-lined main street of Te Awamutu is home to boutique homewares and antiques.
  • Visit Alphra Lavenders (free entry) for a farm tour (from November to January) and pick up beautiful lavender products from its gift shop.

Te Aroha

  • Waikato’s spa town is a hub for local artists and features a number of galleries where you can see and buy New Zealand art.
  • Only 20 minutes from Te Aroha, Morrinsville is home to iconic Kiwi designer Annah Stretton. Visit her boutique shop and café in the town. Wallace Gallery in the town is another must-visit for art lovers.

Raglan

  • The surf town will impress you with its line-up of local galleries. Must visit Tony Sly Pottery, Matapihi Gallery and Kanuka Gallery.
  • Volcom Lane is the place to go for local fashion, arts and giftware.
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