Great Weekend Destinations: Waikato

Last month we explored the Taranaki region. This time we are travelling 3 hours north from New Plymouth to visit the mighty Waikato.
The region is close to Auckland and is a great weekend destination for many living in the city and the North Island in general.
​I have only visited Hamilton for work and can't wait for a leisure visit and tick it off the list soon.
Enjoy the read!!!

"Just south of Auckland lies the Waikato region; a land of lush pastures that was chosen to play The Shire™ in The Lord of the Rings™ and The Hobbit Trilogy™.

Well-known for its underground wonders, black sand surf beaches and rolling green hills, the Waikato region offers a wealth of nature-based activities and attractions surrounding a vibrant city hub."

"Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges.

Take a look at Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Get lost among the hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn, the mill and the Party Tree. Listen to spell-binding tales of how Hobbiton came to be.

Tours depart daily from the Shire's Rest Café, 501 Buckland Road Matamata."

https://www.hobbitontours.com/

Waikato is home to a number of scenic walks which travel through nature and sometimes traverse mountains. Travel a short distance from Hamilton to Te Aroha to try the Te Aroha Mountain Track.

A return trip takes just under 5 hours, on a fine day you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the sprawling countryside...

https://www.newzealand.com/nz/hamilton-waikato%2Bwalking-and-hiking/

Home to two cycling trails that are part of the 18 Great Rides on The New Zealand Cycle Trail, the Hamilton Waikato is a great place to hop on a bike.

The Waikato River Trails extend 100km along the ‘Mighty Waikato’, New Zealand’s longest river. An off-road mountain biking experience, the trails wind through the heart of the Waikato region and range from grades 2-4. In addition to this ride, the area’s timber logging history is showcased in The Timber Trail, a 77km off-road experience that winds through 800-year-old trees and historic milling sites. The region is also full of quiet country lanes if you’re after a bit of scenic road cycling...

https://www.newzealand.com/nz/hamilton-waikato%2Bcycling/

A while back Gary, Janette, Dave and Vicki explored the Timber Trail. Check out the pictures below.

The green hills and fertile soil of the Hamilton - Waikato region is home to a collection of stunning gardens and passionate green-fingered locals.

The Hamilton Gardens is a must-see for those passionate about all things botanical. With a focus on having a story for each of the collections, enjoy themed gardens from Japan, Italy, America and more...

https://www.newzealand.com/nz/hamilton-waikato%2Bgardens/