Hamilton - The City Of The Future

The coastal cities of New Zealand are not the only places that draw in the tourists. Inland cities such as Hamilton are hugely popular because they offer a wealth of fun and activities and are also stunningly beautiful. Hamilton is located in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island and is only 130 kilometres south of Auckland, a great place for campervan hire New Zealand. The city itself rests on both banks of the Waikato River and is set amongst some of the country's richest and most fertile agricultural land.

In Hamilton, it really is essential that you have your own vehicle as you will most likely want to venture out of the city and explore some of the amazing surrounding attractions. Going through campervans New Zealand means that you can make these day trips out of the city and if you fall in love with your destination, you may choose to stay for the night. There are so many accommodation options for your campervan that you will never be without a place to stay. Having a campervan also allows you your own freedom to take your time and explore what you want to explore, without the restrictions of an organised tour!

Hamilton is in close proximity to some of the country's most famous and fascinating attractions. One of these would have to be the Waitomo Glow worm Caves, which are situated just an hour south of Hamilton city. This natural wonder is home to Arachnocampa Luminosa Glow worms, fascinating little creatures that aluminate in the darkness of the spectacular caves. When visiting the Waitomo Caves, take a tour through the caves or go black water rafting or abseiling. There is everything here for a keen adventure seeker, making for a perfect day out for the whole family.

Ever wanted to see the Middle Earth of the Lord of the Rings and wander where the hobbits trekked? Located just a 45 minute drive east from Hamilton you will come across the Hobbiton movie set and farm tours. These tours will allow you to tour the remnants of the Lord of the Rings film set and discover the true and real beauty that you see in the film, in person. These tours are set in the rolling hillsides of the Waikato region, with the stunning scenery offering a breathtaking experience that will stay with you forever.

Back in the city of Hamilton, you will find a vibrant and thriving lifestyle that, in many ways, puts the other major cities of New Zealand to shame! In the centre of the city you will find a bustling retail precinct and an array of places to play and relax. The main street has been described as a vibrant and sophisticated stretch of bars, restaurants and cafes that often leave the Auckland Viaduct Harbour for dead. This lively culture is the result of continuous development and is essentially what attracts a wide variety of tourists.

However, we must not forget the history and heritage of this spectacular city, which is evident through the many old-style buildings that are sprinkled throughout the city. Take some time to visit buildings such as Greenslade House, the Former Bank of New Zealand, Hockin House, Beale House, Wesley Chambers, the Hamilton Courthouse and Riverlea. Each of these buildings offers something unique and attractive, depicting the historical essence that is felt within the city. For a more intensive understanding of the city's history, a tour of Waikato Museum is advised. This museum is home to artefacts and features of the days gone by, which will open your mind, widen your knowledge and allow for a greater appreciation of the city's beginnings.

Hamilton is also home to some of New Zealand's most spectacular gardens, with Hamilton Gardens acting as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Here you will be able to experience stunning native flora as well as browsing perfectly manicured grounds. For a further nature experience, take a short drive just west of the inner city and you will come across Lake Rotoroa. Here you will be able to feed the swans, take a stroll around the banks of the lake, settle down for a tasty picnic lunch, rent a paddle-boat or try your luck at windsurfing. Whichever of these you choose to do, you are sure to have fun and get back in touch with nature.

When it comes to choosing a caravan park to stay at in Hamilton, you have three choices: Hamilton City Holiday Park, Narrows Park and The Flying Hedgehog. Each of these parks are in close proximity to the city centre and offer brilliant facilities that will ensure your campervan is ready for the next day. The spacious and private sites are the perfect size for any campervan and will allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful surrounds.

The city of Hamilton is a unique, diverse and vibrant community that is the perfect destination to add to your New Zealand campervan itinerary. The surrounding attractions add to this uniqueness and the highlights in the city are enough to keep you entertained and encapsulated for many days to come!

Christine Barton