Home to a collection of local arts, gifts and fashion, Waikato’s country towns will surprise you with their offering.
Tirau, Waikato
ArtPost Galleries & Shop, Waikato
Tony Sly Pottery, Waikato
Kanuka Design Gallery, 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.
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 mānuka 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. Morrinsville Gallery(opens in new window) 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.
