Waitomo
https://www.waitomo.com/
Waitomo offers glow worm cave experiences as well as blackwater rafting.
Hobbiton
Hobbiton showcases the unique worldbuilding movie set where the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies were filmed.
Te Matatini
https://www.tematatini.co.nz/2025-festival
Te Matatini is the biennial Māori Performing Arts festival encapsulating the power and beauty of Kapa Haka.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Waitangi Day)
https://www.waitangi.org.nz/whats-on/waitangi-day
On 6 February 1840, Māori chiefs of hapū and iwi entered into a Treaty with the British Crown. To this day, Māori have protested breaches to the Treaty and the illegal constitution of the New Zealand government. Waitangi Day is a time when the descendants of those who signed He Whakaputanga, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi come together to discuss and debate matters of importance. If you have time, schedule a trip to Waitangi. See also reflections from the activism currently happening to the Treaty Principles Bill (E-tangata)
Hakarimata Bush walk
The Hakarimata Scenic Reserve is a great place to see the native bush and kauri trees located 25 minutes outside of Kirikiriroa near Ngāruawāhia.
Hamilton Gardens
https://hamiltongardens.co.nz/
The historic Hamilton Gardens offers 18 enclosed gardens representing famous and important garden types.
Waikato waterfalls
https://www.waikatonz.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/waikato-waterfalls/
Breathtaking views are available everywhere in the Waikato region, which is home to a number of waterfall features. From short tracks that provide stunning waterfalls, to hikes, there is a perfect destination for all waterfall lovers in the Waikato. Examples are Bridal Veil Falls (Raglan) and Tutumangao Falls (Te Aroha).
Things to do if it's rainy
https://www.waikatonz.com/things-to-do/indoor-activities/activities-for-rainy-day/
This link details an array of activities to do in Hamilton if it rains, including the Waikato Museum, Te Aroha Mineral Spas, and Escape rooms.