3-Day Scenic and Cultural Hamilton, New Zealand Itinerary

Day 1: Hamilton City Highlights

Hamilton, New Zealand on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The River Kitchen

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The River Kitchen, known for fresh local produce and a cosy riverside atmosphere.
NZD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Hamilton Gardens

Visit the internationally acclaimed themed Hamilton Gardens, featuring diverse garden collections that showcase various cultures and design principles.
NZD12, 2h0m

11:45am

Waikato Museum

Discover local history, art, and culture at Waikato Museum. It offers varied exhibitions including Maori history and contemporary art.
NZD11, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Gogi Korean BBQ

Enjoy a flavourful lunch of Korean barbecue with fresh ingredients, offering a unique twist on traditional lunchtime fare.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:45pm

Walk Along Hamilton Lake Domain

Take a relaxing stroll or casual walk around Hamilton Lake to enjoy natural scenery and local birdlife.
Free, 1h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at Palate Restaurant & Bar

Dine at Palate Restaurant & Bar, offering a well-crafted menu highlighting New Zealand cuisine with a modern touch.
NZD50, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 2: Matamata and Hobbiton

Matamata, New Zealand on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vudu Cafe & Larder, Hamilton

Enjoy organic coffee and artisan breakfasts to energise for the day's trip to Matamata.
NZD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Hobbiton Movie Set

Travel northeast for about 45 minutes to the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, an essential cultural experience for fans and nature lovers alike.
Fuel cost approx. NZD15, 45m

10:00am

Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour

Take a 2-hour guided tour exploring the magical movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
NZD90, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Green Dragon Inn

Experience lunch at the Green Dragon Inn on site, where you can enjoy traditional fare and themed beverages.
NZD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Matamata Town

Spend some time strolling through the charming town centre of Matamata for shopping and local craft finds.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Hamilton

Drive back to Hamilton, rest and prepare for evening plans.
Fuel cost approx. NZD15, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Urbano Bistro

Enjoy contemporary dishes with seasonal ingredients at Urbano Bistro to finish the day on a delicious note.
NZD45, 1h30m
View Hotels

Day 3: Waitomo Caves Adventure

Waitomo, New Zealand on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The River Kitchen, Hamilton

Fuel up with breakfast at The River Kitchen before setting off to Waitomo Caves, known for their glowworms.
NZD25, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Waitomo Caves

Head northwest for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to Waitomo, famous for its underground caves illuminated by glowworms.
Fuel cost approx. NZD20, 1h15m

9:30am

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour

Take a guided tour through the incredible caves, observing the enchanting glowworms and impressive formations.
NZD55, 1h30m

11:15am

Ruakuri Cave Tour or Black Water Rafting (optional)

Choose between an adventurous cave walk or the thrilling black water rafting experience depending on your preference.
Ruakuri Cave NZD55 or Black Water Rafting NZD150, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Waitomo Homestead

Enjoy a wholesome lunch of New Zealand farmhouse cuisine at the historic Waitomo Homestead cafe.
NZD30, 1h0m

2:45pm

Return to Hamilton

Drive back to Hamilton with time to relax or explore the city further if desired.
Fuel cost approx. NZD20, 1h15m

6:00pm

Dinner at Palate Restaurant & Bar, Hamilton

Enjoy a farewell dinner with a refined New Zealand menu at Palate Restaurant & Bar before concluding your trip.
NZD50, 1h30m
View Hotels