About Waikato, New Zealand

Don’t be misled by the symbolic cowbells – there is more to the Waikato than dairy farming. Even tea grows here!

From the superb public gardens of Hamilton to the spellbinding magic of the caves of Waitomo, be prepared to be entranced by this lovely region.

For fans of the Tolkein stories and the movies based on them - Lord of The Rings and the Hobbit – be sure to take in the town of Matamata and visit the Hobbiton movie set.

To the west, take in the surf beaches and sunsets of Raglan and the history of Kawhia if you can.

A visit to the caves at Waitomo should feature on your itinerary too. The magnificent stalactites and stalagmites will amaze you. The crowning glory is the spectacular glow worm cave!

The Waikato has many sporting attractions too, with New Zealand rowing being centred on Lake Karapiro and cycling at Cambridge. Mountain biking opportunities abound too.