Top 5 Weekend Escapes
By Phillipa Adam
Phillipa is the Communications Coordinator at Hamilton &
Waikato Tourism. She loves exploring the diverse Hamilton and
Waikato region and discovering the hidden gems in her own back yard. Check out her top picks for weekend getaways.
Raglan – Raglan is the region’s best chill-out spot. The atmosphere here is relaxed and the beach and surf settings idyllic. Take a sunset cruise on the Wahinemoe or a kayak tour with Raglan Kayaks. There are lots of friendly cafés and shops with local arts and crafts and the Raglan Creative Market (second Sunday of every month) is full of treasures.
Waitomo – An awe-inspiring escape awaits you in the Waitomo region with some of New Zealand’s most amazing natural marvels above and below the ground. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of adventure, you’ll love the cave abseiling, black water rafting, and boat trips that take you under a galaxy of glowworms.
Te Aroha – Te Aroha, “the love” in Maori, is best known for its rejuvenating and therapeutic mineral spas which draw on the region’s natural soda spring (New Zealand’s one and only). Once you’re revived and rejuvenated, explore the area's heritage trails by foot or mountain bike.
Hamilton – The riverside city of Hamilton is one of the country’s fastest growing areas with an ever-expanding array of activities, from family fun to thriving nightlife options. You'll be spoilt for choice with the city's variety of cafés and restaurants, great shopping spots and relaxing river walks.
Waipa – Waipa is the ideal spot for outdoor adventure. Discover new parts of Lake Karapiro on a Scenic Lake Cruise or a Boatshed Kayaks Glowworm Trip. If you prefer to stay on land, my favourite walking spots are Maungatautari Ecological Island Reserve and Mount Pirongia.
