If
you’re looking for a destination central to many interesting
locations but with a slightly rural atmosphere, Hamilton could be
the place for you. Situated in the North Island, a two hour drive
south of Auckland, Hamilton caters to the whole Waikato region.
It also has an International Airport so is accessible from many
places.
Central City
 Victoria Street runs the length of the centre of
Hamilton and is the hub for shopping and dining. There are many
cafes and bars open all hours within walking distance of the
major hotels. All tastes and cultures are catered for and if you
want to "rage" the night away there are plenty of clubs
with live bands playing most evenings.
 For the shopaholics, and who isn’t these days, there are two
main malls - Centreplace and Downtown Plaza. There are plenty of
clothes, sports and gift shops to browse. Drop the kids off to a
movie at the Village 7 cinemas next door to keep them happy.
If you’re of a more cultural frame of mind, take a walk to
the south end of Victoria St to the Waikato Museum of Art &
History. Open daily from 10.00am - 4.30 pm it often has
exhibitions of particular artists.
Outdoor/Sporting Activities
 If you revel in the great outdoors,
Hamilton has many parks and walkways. With the Waikato River
running through the heart of the city there are many pretty
walking and running tracks along it’s length. If you just
want to relax and enjoy the scenery, take a cruise up the river
on the Waipa Delta paddleboat. The night dinner cruise is
particularly popular. A must see for gardeners is Hamilton
Gardens, situated on Cobham Drive. It is a floral picture with
many wonderful plants and theme gardens. After the gardens, to
keep the children happy, take them to the Hamilton Zoo. It has
become one of N.Z.’s finest, open daily from 9a.m. -
5p.m., with a large range of animals such as, tigers, zebra,
giraffes and wildlife.
Mystery Creek is also situated on the outskirts of Hamilton. It
has become famous as the home of the Agricultural Fielddays every
June. This event is a farmers paradise where he can view all the
latest farming equipment and techniques. The rest of the year
Mystery Creek is used for many sporting and cultural events.
 The people of Waikato are into their sport
in a big way. There are many great venues including the new
Waikato Stadium, home of the Chiefs rugby team, Westpac Trust
Park for the cricket, and the Waikato Racing Club’s
Racecourse at Te Rapa.
No matter when you visit the city there’s sure to be some
sporting event to entertain you and don’t forget to wear
your red, yellow and black colours!
For the keen golfer who just can’t leave his clubs at home,
there are many golf clubs in and around Hamilton with reasonable
green fees. A popular course for the whole family to match their
skills is "Pitch & Putt" 18 hole, 3 par course off
Hukunui Road. (Continue...)
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