One of New Zealand’s most connected destinations to many attractions within one hour drive and a thriving city, the Hamilton city and the Waikato region continue to offer its bounty of country living, culture and lifestyle to visitors from near and far.

Long before the first Europeans arrived in the Waikato region, Maori were drawn to the area by its easy access to other areas through the Waikato River, and its “fruit bowl” qualities and the fertile land.

The region is blessed with a mild climate year-round, which enables produce such as citrus to prosper. The Waikato River, New Zealand’s longest river, flows through the city. Rural pastures, bush reserves, farming communities and proximity to the open sea ensure year-round a bounty of fresh food and vegetables.

The region’s legendary beaches attract swimmers, surfers, kayakers and kite surfers throughout the year. Away from the coast, the Waikato region features a full range of adventure activities like horse riding, white-water rafting, jet boating and walking in one of the many bush reserves.

The Waikato region offers a great base for those exploring the central North Island, with easy road access to the Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua and the snowy peaks and deep lakes of the Taupo region. Easy-to-navigate touring routes can also take travellers further afield to the wineries of Hawke’s Bay and the glow-worm caves of Waitomo.