Hamilton is the largest city in the Waikato Region, built along the mighty River Waikato. Although there are some great opportunities in and around the city, try not to spend your whole time in the city without checking out all of these free things to do in Hamilton. Whether culturing yourself at the Waikato museum or strolling in the award-winning Hamilton Gardens or hanging out with your traveller buddies at the end of the day, Hamilton has a piece for everyone, on every budget. If you need a place to stay check out affordable accommodation in Hamilton; you are sure to be flooded with choices.
1.Visit the Waikato Museum- Lose yourself in the Maori culture at the Waikato Museum. The museum boasts of a good mix of historical and contemporary art. You will be needing at least an hour to make the most out of it. The entry to the museum is free if you were wondering.
2.Take a stroll in the Hamilton Gardens- Awarded the International Garden of the Year numerous times, the Hamilton Garden is considered as the pride of the city. Entry is free to this four themed garden.
3.Zealong Tea Plantation- The country’s one and only tea plantation is about 10 minutes’ drive from the Hamilton City Centre. Find the world’s purest oolong tea at the tea house or book a tour to include a tasting. The tour is very affordable of about NZ$25 per person (last time we checked).
4.Go park hopping in the City Centre- The city is packed with parks. Meet up with your crew or go watch the world from your very own space. Often the best accommodation in Hamilton can be found near the City Centre.
5.Watch the Balloons over Waikato river- The balloons over Waikato is an absolute must see if you are in Hamilton in the month of March. This festival lasts for four days every year (dates around 16th to 20th March). Watch as tons of creative hot air balloons are flown over the majestic Waikato River.
6.Crazy Golf- Have some fun with miniature golf or some may call it crazy golf in the Central Place shopping mall. It is time to challenge your fellow travellers. Ask your accommodation in Hamilton for a great deal. Usually, the price is around NZ$15 per person.
7.Go Bargain Shopping- Looking for some cheap supplies for your travel? Hamilton is the place to go. From affordable accommodations to second-hand shops, the city centre is packed with choices. The highest concentration of these shops can be found in Liverpool Street, Ulster Street, River Road and Te Aroha Street in Hamilton Central.
8.A drink on Victoria Street- If you have a few dollars in your pocket for beer then Victoria Street is the best destination in the city. There are plenty of good restaurants and clubs too in this area.
9.Just a Walk- Walk in tranquillity along the Waikato River on the Riverside Walkways, which is 11km long and can be accessed from multiple points along the city centre. The walkway is also used for cycling.
Come to experience Hamilton like never before.
