14-Day Adventure and Cultural Journey through Waikato, New Zealand

Day 1: Explore Hamilton

Hamilton, New Zealand on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The River Kitchen

Enjoy a healthy start with fresh, local produce and excellent coffee at this serene riverside café.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hamilton Gardens

Experience 21 themed gardens showcasing global horticultural styles and beautiful landscapes, open 7:00am to 7:00pm daily.

Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Wintec Bar & Eatery

Sample hearty café meals with local flavours within a relaxed setting inside the Waikato Institute of Technology.

NZD20, 1h

1:30pm

Waikato Museum

Explore the region’s history, Maori culture, and contemporary art, open from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

Free, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Palate Restaurant & Bar

Indulge in creative New Zealand cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, perfect to round off your day.

NZD40, 1.5h

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Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Hamilton, New Zealand on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Urban Grind

Start your day with excellent coffee and freshly made pastries in a buzzing café environment.

NZD12, 1h

9:00am

Hamilton Zoo Visit

Discover native and exotic animals in a naturalistic setting; open from 9:30am to 4:30pm.

NZD25, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The River Kitchen

Enjoy seasonal dishes with riverside views for a relaxing midday meal.

NZD22, 1h

2:00pm

Waikato River Walk

Take a scenic walk along the heart of Hamilton city, observing natural river vistas and birdlife.

Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Dawn Raid Kitchen

Savour dishes inspired by Pacific Island flavours blended with Kiwi ingredients, a unique experience.

NZD35, 1.5h

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Day 3: Historic and Cultural Hamilton

Hamilton, New Zealand on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fitt Coffee + Nutrition

Enjoy an energising smoothie bowl and a strong coffee to prepare for a day of exploration.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Explore Claudelands Park and Hamilton City

Walk around the vibrant area, visiting local shops, street art, and the Claudelands Events Centre.

Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Palate Restaurant & Bar

Relish creative dishes from local producers paired with fine New Zealand wines.

NZD40, 1h

1:30pm

Evening departure to Waitomo Caves (1.5-hour drive)

Travel south to Waitomo, famous for its glowworm caves and underground wonders.

Car fare approx. NZD30, 1.5h

4:00pm

Check into local accommodation in Waitomo

Settle into your accommodation to prepare for cave explorations.

Variable, Rest

6:00pm

Dinner at Waitomo's Huhu Café

Enjoy casual dining with hearty New Zealand fare close to the cave attractions.

NZD25, 1h

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Day 4: Explore Waitomo Caves

Waitomo, New Zealand on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Huhu Café

Fuel up early with a tasty breakfast before heading underground.

NZD15, 1h

9:00am

Guided Glowworm Caves Tour

Take a magical boat ride inside the glowworm caves; tours run from 9:00am to 4:30pm, lasting about 45 minutes. Book in advance.

NZD55, 1h

11:00am

Ruakuri Cave Walk

Discover stunning stalactites and stalagmites on a 45-minute guided walk open daily until 5:00pm.

NZD50, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy hearty meals with fresh local produce in a cosy rustic setting.

NZD25, 1h

2:30pm

Aranui Cave Visit

Explore the eerie Aranui Cave, known for its glowworms and unique formations; guided tours run until 3:30pm.

NZD50, 1h

4:30pm

Return to accommodation and relax

Rest and prepare for the next day's travel to Raglan.

Free, Evening

6:30pm

Dinner at Raglan Eatery (on route or after arrival to Raglan)

Fresh seafood and local dishes to experience as you travel further west to the coast.

NZD35, 1.5h

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Day 5: Beach and Surf raglan

Raglan, New Zealand on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fat Betty’s

Start with a laid-back café breakfast in Raglan’s town centre, famous for good coffee and friendly locals.

NZD15, 1h

9:00am

Surf Lesson or Beach Walk

Raglan is known for its excellent surf; beginners can book lessons or enjoy coastal walks along Ngarunui Beach.

Surf lesson NZD80; Beach walk free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Black Sand Kitchen

Dine on fresh sourdough-based meals and wholesome dishes with scenic views of the harbour.

NZD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Bridal Veil Falls

A short 20-minute drive to this spectacular 55-metre waterfall with an easy 20-minute walking track to the viewing platform.

Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Explore Raglan town and galleries

Browse local art shops and craft stores for unique souvenirs and Maori crafts.

Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Shack

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with locally inspired menus and craft beers or wines.

NZD40, 1.5h

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Day 6: Historic Cambridge

Cambridge, New Zealand on June 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bonjour French Bakery

Indulge in fresh French pastries and excellent coffee in a charming Cambridge bakery.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Explore Cambridge Town Centre

Wander the streets of this picturesque town known for its gardens, boutique shops, and striking architecture.

Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The River Kitchen Cambridge

Enjoy river views alongside modern Kiwi cuisine in a relaxed riverside venue.

NZD25, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Cambridge Museum

Discover the local history and heritage displays; open 10:00am-4:00pm weekdays and Saturday morning.

NZD5, 1h

3:00pm

Walk in Maungakawa Scenic Reserve

Take in tranquil bush walks and panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Good George Brewing

Savour casual dining with great locally brewed beers and a lively atmosphere.

NZD35, 1.5h

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Day 7: Local Farms and Gardens

Cambridge, New Zealand on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Espresso Loft

Light breakfast with expertly brewed coffee and fresh produce.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Farm tour visit

Visit a nearby working farm such as Doggery Farms near Cambridge for a hands-on experience of rural life (check availability and book ahead).

NZD40, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at local café

Have a casual lunch at a popular café along your route, like Hottie Coffee or Mocha on Cambridge's Victoria Street.

NZD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hamilton Gardens (en route to Taupo)

Stop briefly to revisit or explore further if missed earlier, to break up the drive to Taupo (1h 15min).

Free, 1h

5:00pm

Check-in to Taupo accommodation

Prepare for active exploration of the Lake Taupo area.

Variable, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at The Brantry

Enjoy a fine dining experience offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine near Lake Taupo.

NZD45, 1.5h

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Day 8: Lake Taupo Activities

Taupo, New Zealand on June 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Red Bandits Coffee House

Fuel your morning with fresh coffee and pastries in central Taupo.

NZD15, 1h

9:00am

Huka Falls Visit

Visit the spectacular Huka Falls, a 10-minute drive from Taupo town centre. Scenic walks around the falls are on well-formed tracks and open access.

Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vine Eatery & Bar

Relax with fine dining by the lakefront offering quality regional New Zealand cuisine.

NZD35, 1h

1:30pm

Lake Taupo Boat Cruise

Take a 2-hour cruise on New Zealand’s largest lake for stunning views of the volcanic landscape and Maori rock carvings; cruises typically run from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

NZD50, 2h

5:30pm

Thermal hot pools visit

Relax in natural geothermal pools such as Wairakei Terraces, open until 9pm.

NZD40, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Plateau

Enjoy innovative dishes showcasing local produce in an elegant atmosphere.

NZD45, 1.5h

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Day 9: Taupo Adventure

Taupo, New Zealand on June 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Volcanic Hills Café

Restorative breakfast with excellent coffee and local flavours.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Tongariro National Park Day Trip

A scenic 1-hour drive takes you to Tongariro National Park for hiking and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Weather dependent; dress appropriately.

Free, 5h

3:00pm

Afternoon coffee at Love Eat Central

Light refreshments and coffee in a cosy town centre café after your hike.

NZD10, 0.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Moose Bar & Restaurant

Casual fare with a wide menu, perfect for unwinding after an active day.

NZD30, 1.5h

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Day 10: Hobbiton Movie Set

Hobbiton, Matamata, New Zealand on June 25, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast in Taupo

Have a quick, energising breakfast at your accommodation or a local café like Starbucks.

NZD10, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive to Hobbiton Movie Set

Travel to Hobbiton in Matamata (1 hour 15 minutes).

Car fare approx. NZD25, 1.25h

9:30am

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Join a guided tour around the iconic movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit; tours start hourly from 9:00am, last approximately 2 hours. Advance booking recommended.

NZD89, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Shires Rest Café

Dine in the themed café on site, enjoying New Zealand favourites in a unique setting.

NZD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Matamata Town

Visit local shops and galleries in this charming town, known for its friendly community and heritage buildings.

Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to accommodation near Hobbiton or Matamata

Relax and prepare for next day travel.

Variable, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Ruby & Belle

Enjoy a farm-to-table style dinner with seasonal New Zealand ingredients in Matamata.

NZD40, 1.5h

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Day 11: Matamata and Surrounds

Matamata, New Zealand on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lazy Graze

Relaxed breakfast with local produce to prepare for a day exploring.

NZD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Wairere Falls

Take a half-day hike to New Zealand’s longest waterfall, approximately 2-3 hours return from the car park; ensure you have suitable footwear and water.

Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Matamata Club

Enjoy a casual lunch offered by this local club with hearty Kiwi fare.

NZD20, 1h

2:30pm

Explore local craft and antique shops

Discover unique arts and crafts that reflect the region’s culture and history.

Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to accommodation to rest

Prepare for next day travel or activities.

Variable, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Café Nook

Enjoy a well-reviewed bistro experience with fresh ingredients and local wines.

NZD35, 1.5h

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Day 12: Travel to Thames Coast

Thames, New Zealand on June 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Matamata

Enjoy a light early breakfast to prepare for travel.

NZD12, 0.75h

8:30am

Drive to Thames

Approximately 2 hours’ drive from Matamata to Thames, exploring the Coromandel Peninsula entrance.

Car fare approx. NZD35, 2h

10:30am

Visit the Thames Historical Museum

Learn about Thames' gold mining past and local Maori heritage; open 10:00am to 4:00pm.

NZD10, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Rowena's Café

Enjoy fresh, local café offerings with a cozy atmosphere.

NZD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Kauaeranga Valley and Waterworks

Spend the afternoon walking trails and visiting Waterworks garden, a magical water-themed park; open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

NZD15, 3h

5:00pm

Accommodation check-in

Settle into your Thames or nearby Coromandel accommodation.

Variable, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at The Talisman

Tasty contemporary dishes paired with local wines in a welcoming atmosphere.

NZD40, 1.5h

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Day 13: Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel, New Zealand on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tupuna Café

Fresh and wholesome breakfast options to fuel your day on the peninsula.

NZD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Cathedral Cove

Approximately 1 hour drive from Thames, followed by a 30-minute walk to Cathedral Cove, a famous natural rock arch and stunning beach, accessible by foot or kayak.

Free, 3h