See & Do in Hamilton (New Zealand) - Hamilton (New Zealand) wikitravel - Hamilton, New Zealand tourism & Vacations Travel Videos HD, World Travel Guide http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=World1Tube Hamilton is an inland city in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. The Waikato River, New Zealand's longest river, flows through the middle of the city. This effectively cuts the city in half, with Hamilton West containing the Central Business District and main shopping areas. Hamilton East, among other things, is home to The University of Waikato, resulting in a large student population. See in Hamilton (New Zealand) =============== Hamilton Gardens are a really nice place to go and see. In addition to 'normal' gardens such as a rose garden and the Rhododendron Lawn, visitors can also go and see 'themed' gardens, such as the Chinese Scholar Garden, or the American Revolutionist Garden, among others. Entrance is free, although beware that some of the themed gardens are inaccessible after 19:30 (20:00 in the summer). ArtsPost, 120 Victoria St (South end of Victoria Street), +64 7 838-6928. The three exhibition spaces at ArtsPost display an exciting programme of fresh new art which changes regularly, and ArtsPost's retail shop features beautiful art pieces and great variety. New items are added regularly to a uniquely New Zealand product range. Lake Rotoroa ("Hamilton Lake"), off Ruakiwi Rd, is Hamilton's central lake. The lake and its surrounding grounds are the venue for many local sports groups. There is a 3.8km path around the lake for sightseeing. Riff Raff: near 200 Victoria St stands a statue of the iconic Riff Raff character from the cult status movie The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Riff Raff was gifted to the city of Hamilton to commemorate the links between the city and Richard O'Brien, creator of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Victoria Bridge & Memorial Park; Take a short walk over Victoria Bridge, turn left, continue to Memorial Park. Originally dedicated to soldiers after World War 1, the Cenotaph has three memorials honouring the NZ navy, air force and army. Taitua Arboretum, Taitua Road (From Hamilton follow SH23 west (towards Raglan / Whatawhata) and turn left into Howden Road, then left again into Taitua Road.), ☎ 0-7-847 5847. 8am - 30min before dusk. The Taitua Arboretum is a 20-hectare reserve featuring a large collection of mature trees. The grounds include lakes and woodland gardens, surrounded by an array of walking paths. The trees and lake attract a great array of bird life, and is perfect for bird watching, or even just a relaxing walk or picnic. Free. Do in Hamilton (New Zealand) ================== Hamilton Zoo, Brymer Rd, +64 7 838-6720, is home to over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals. Kids especially enjoy it. To get there, simply enter Hamilton from the North or South on SH1, and look for the signs, on the section of SH1 called Avalon Drive (Te Rapa area in the North). Daily 09:00-17:00, with the last admission at 15:30. $12, Children $6. Waikato Museum, 1 Grantham St (South end of Victoria Street), +64 7 838-6606. General Art and Culture Displays and Exhibits about New Zealand and International Cultures. Daily 10:00-16:30. Entry is free, though charges may apply for some exhibitions. Waikato Stadium, Gate 5 Waikato Stadium, 128 Seddon Rd, Whitiora. The home stadium of the Chiefs (Super Rugby) and the Waikato Rugby Union (ITM Cup), A place to visit if you are a fan of Rugby Union. Hamilton River Walk - The Waikato river passes through the middle of Hamilton, and there is opportunity to walk on both sides from the Hamilton Gardens in the south to beyond the Pukete walking bridge. Very soon the walkway will extend, on at least one side, to beyond the Horotiu bridge north of Hamilton. The walkway(s) have several signs that discuss the local history and points of interest. For example, many of the parks on the riverside were once Maori Pa. Care must be taken late Autumn when the river is high, as some parts of the walkway become impassable, although there are always alternative routes available. Walk, or ride your bicycle! Te Araroa - Hamilton City Traverse - The nation-wide Te Araroa walkway makes its way south from Ngaruawahia through Hamilton. The Hamilton City Traverse section of Te Araroa starts on Pukete Road (at the Northern end of Braithwaite Park), and continues for 16.5km, ending at Taitua Arboretum on Taitua Rd. Events in Hamilton (New Zealand) =================== Hamilton is home to many of New Zealand's events, including: The Agricultural Field Days, which are hosted at Mystery Creek, bring thousands of people (125,000 in 2007) from around the world. Taking place every June, this is a must-see to have an insight to farming in New Zealand. The Hot Air Balloon Festival in April each year is also worth a look, especially the night glow event.

• published: 11 Oct 2015
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