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Top reasons to visit Waikato

• Stunning Outdoor Adventures: Waikato is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, kayaking, and thrilling water rafting experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Captivating Attractions: Explore unique sites like the Waitomo caves and the historic Waikato Museum, showcasing the region's rich heritage.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy relaxing at picturesque beaches, ideal for sunbathing and unwinding.
• Vibrant Entertainment: Experience the lively atmosphere with live music and local events, ensuring fun for all visitors.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of comfortable lodging options, from cosy bed and breakfasts to modern motels, suitable for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Waikato

Discover the diverse hotel options in Waikato, New Zealand, where adventure meets comfort. Whether you prefer a cosy bed and breakfast or a convenient motel, there's something to suit every traveller's needs. Ideal for families, business trips, or leisurely vacations, Waikato accommodation offers a perfect base for exploring the region’s stunning landscapes and attractions. Unwind in the best hotels that combine excellent services with a warm Kiwi welcome.

• Wairakei Resort Taupo by Accor: Nestled in the heart of Waikato, Wairakei Resort Taupo by Accor is a 4-star haven that embodies a delightful blend of relaxation and recreation. The resort's hot spring theme invites guests to unwind in natural thermal waters, with hot springs conveniently located nearby. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including a mini-golf course, shared playground, and complimentary cribs. Golf enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to tee off, making this property an excellent choice for a family vacation that balances leisure and adventure.
• Hilton Lake Taupo: Offering a touch of luxury, Hilton Lake Taupo is a 4.5-star establishment renowned for its stunning surroundings and adventure-centric activities. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6, the hotel provides an array of recreational options, from hiking and biking to fishing and water sports, all easily accessible. Guests can indulge in a wealth of adventure sports nearby, ensuring an exhilarating stay. The combination of upscale accommodations and the thrill of outdoor pursuits makes Hilton Lake Taupo an ideal choice for those seeking an adventurous getaway.
• Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton: Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton stands out as a 3.5-star accommodation that caters primarily to business travellers. With a strong guest rating of 8.8, the hotel offers a comfortable and functional environment, perfect for those on work-related trips. Located conveniently in Waikato, the property features essential amenities designed to support a productive stay, ensuring guests can easily balance work and leisure during their visit.

Where to stay in Waikato

Waikato, New Zealand, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for family-friendly vacations. Explore top destinations like Wairakei Road, where lush landscapes await, or indulge in the luxury of minute hotels for a relaxing stay. With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, Waikato promises a unique experience filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories for every traveller.

• Taupō: Nestled by the shores of the stunning Lake Taupō, this city is renowned for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and romantic experiences. With a backdrop of majestic mountains and lush parks, Taupō is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The peak tourist seasons in July and December to January bring visitors eager to partake in activities such as water sports, spa retreats, and exploring the scenic recreational areas. Make sure to visit the local landmarks like the picturesque lake and the surrounding parks for an unforgettable experience.
• Waitomo Caves: A suburb famous for its remarkable subterranean wonders, Waitomo Caves is an adventurer's paradise. The area's natural attractions, including its iconic caves and surrounding national parks, provide a thrilling backdrop for outdoor activities. Peak visitor numbers in January and during the March to April period reflect the area's appeal for those seeking adventure and stunning scenery. In addition to cave explorations, you can enjoy local shopping centres and recreational areas, making it an ideal stop for both excitement and relaxation.
• Hamilton: As the largest city in the Waikato region, Hamilton offers a vibrant mix of culture, education, and family-friendly activities. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, this city provides a plethora of experiences, from exploring its beautiful parks and lakes to indulging in retail therapy at shopping malls. Hamilton is an excellent base for families looking to enjoy outdoor adventures and romantic getaways alike, with its scenic beaches and green spaces enhancing your travel experience.

Things to do in Waikato

Shopping

In Waikato, visit The Base in Hamilton for a variety of shops, including fashion and homeware. For a more local feel, check out Te Awamutu Market, where you can find unique crafts and fresh produce, ideal for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

In Waikato, indulge in the tranquil atmosphere at the Hamilton Gardens, where you can experience serene walks among themed gardens. For relaxation, visit the Te Aroha Mineral Spa, offering soothing thermal pools and rejuvenating treatments in a picturesque mountain setting.

Adventure

Rock'n Ropes is an exhilarating zipline and ropes course set in the stunning Waikato region. Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops while tackling exciting challenges and enjoying the great outdoors, all within a vibrant, adventure-filled atmosphere.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Meteor Theatre on Victoria Street, where you can catch a variety of live performances. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit the Craft Beer Depot on Victoria Street, offering a selection of local brews and a welcoming vibe.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waikato

To save money during your visit to Waikato, consider travelling in May or between August and September when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel around a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia's search tools to filter for budget options and eco-friendly hotels. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings. Don't forget to take advantage of free activities and affordable public transport while exploring the region.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waikato are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Waikato is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waikato is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Waikato is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Waikato with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Waikato

Waikato is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beach vacations. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including the captivating Waitomo area, the historic Waikato Museum, and the vibrant Waikato Stadium. With its beautiful beaches and cultural experiences, Waikato offers a delightful blend of nature and history, making it a perfect getaway for travellers looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's rich landscape.

• Hobbiton Movie Set: Step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth at Hobbiton Movie Set, where friendly staff guide you through the picturesque village created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Experience the charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn, all set against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills.
• Hamilton New Zealand LDS Temple: This serene temple offers a cultural retreat with its beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens. Visitors can appreciate the spiritual atmosphere while exploring the grounds, which reflect the values of community and heritage.
• Waingaro Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in wellness and relaxation at Waingaro Hot Springs, where you can enjoy natural thermal pools surrounded by lush outdoor scenery. Ideal for unwinding, the springs provide a soothing escape from daily life.

Best time to go to Waikato

The best time to visit Waikato is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High