127km (79 miles) S of Auckland; 107km (66 miles) NE of Rotorua; 107km (66 miles) E of Tauranga
Unfortunately for Hamilton, its proximity to Auckland (just a 1-hr. drive) means it's often overlooked as a sightseeing destination. Many travelers pass through the city heading south, usually to the famed Waitomo Caves in south Waikato or to Rotorua and Taupo.
If you want to linger awhile, though, you'll discover the hot springs and horse-racing world of Matamata township; the rich Maori culture of Ngaruawahia and more hot springs at Waingaro; the surf and beaches of Raglan; and the antiques and Kentucky-like thoroughbred world of Cambridge.
Hamilton -- the country's largest inland city (pop. 131,000) -- is a commercial and industrial center. There's something bland about the place despite its pretty face, but there's always a hint of change in the air.
Hamilton Travel Experiences
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Waitomo Caves Tour
On the 19th we woke up to pouring rain but luckily this didn't matter as we were spending the majority of the day in the car. We checked... Continue reading »
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Rotorua to Waitomo and back to Auckland
Today we leave Rotorua crossing the heavily forested Mamaku Ranges, through the Fitzgerald Glade and a coffee stop at Lake Karapiro.We ca... Continue reading »
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Rugby & a Road Trip North
A week after my first rugby match – New Zealand v France in Wellington – I was headed north for my second test match with my Kiwi frien... Continue reading »
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Black Water Rafting - The Black Abyss
After having done everything we wanted to do in Rotorua, we were up early (ish!) to head to the Waitomo Caves, famous for their abundance... Continue reading »
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Note: EELS EQUAL LOSS OF FINGERS
Picture This....and...Close your eyes....You are in a cave, 70 meters below ground...It is dark...You are in waist deep water....It is co... Continue reading »
