Local Attractions

There is so much to see and do from Shailers Bed and Breakfast. Whether it’s adventure you’re after or sheer relaxation, the Waikato offers it all. Thrill seekers can head underground at Waitomo and experience caving, float through limestone grottos or go abseiling. Above ground, try mountain biking, hot air ballooning or kayaking. For those looking to unwind, discover the mineral hot springs at Te Aroha or explore one of Hamilton’s many world class restaurants cafes or bars.

Don’t miss visiting the Otorohanga Kiwi House or New Zealand’s esteemed Hobbiton movie set. You can enjoy playing a round of golf, hiking the nature walk on Mount Pirongia, walking around Hamilton City’s Lake Rotoroa or spend the morning strolling along the Waikato River walkways, and around the stunning themed gardens at Hamilton Gardens.

Hamilton City is the gateway to the Central North Island and in the heart of the mighty Waikato Province. It is at the centre of one of the richest agricultural and pastoral areas in the world and is the largest inland city in New Zealand. A rapidly growing and vibrant city, Hamilton is a hub of education and scientific research, parks and gardens, fine cuisine and cafes, culture and attractions.

Hamilton Gardens

2014 International award winning themed gardens. The number 1 attraction in Hamilton City and one of the few public gardens in the world where you can visit for free.

Hobbiton

On the most picturesque private farmland you can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies in a fascinating two-hour guided tour.

Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveller. Enjoy the world famous boat ride under thousands of magical glowworms and become a part of over 120 years of cultural and natural history.

Otorohanga Kiwi House

For a truly authentic New Zealand nature experience don’t go past the Otorohanga Kiwi House in the heart of the North Island. It’s ideal for a family outing and suitable for all ages.

Raglan

A quaint seaside village, left hand and right hand break for surfers, black sand beaches and rugged coastline.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a region rich in stunning landscapes beckoning life’s explorers.
Discover 18 sparkling lakes, magnificent native and exotic forests, geysers, boiling mud pools, hot springs and the best of New Zealand’s fascinating Maori culture.

Wai-O-Tapu

Explore spectacular nature at New Zealand’s most colourful volcanic area. Enjoy viewing unique volcanic features as you walk at your own pace along well defined tracks. First class Visitor Centre with retail and cafe facilities.

Maungatautari Bird Sanctuary

Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is a mainland ecological island located in the North Island of New Zealand. Surrounded by the world’s longest pest-proof fence, Sanctuary Mountain’s ancient forest offers a sanctuary for populations of many of our most endangered species – from birds to bats, frogs to reptiles, tuatara to giant weta.

Mount Pirongia

Mount Pirongia is a distinctive Waikato landmark. Its many peaks are actually volcanic cones created by successive eruptions about 2.5 million years ago.

Hamilton Zoo

Hamilton Zoo covers 25 hectares is home to over 600 native and exotic birds and animals

Waikato Museum

For an inspirational experience, visit us on the banks of the Waikato River in the heart of Hamilton’s cultural precinct. Our exhibitions and activities tell the stories of this region.

Classics Museum

Come and have a look at the cars of yesteryear which are sure to bring back memories.

Avantidrome

The Avantidrome is Waikato’s newest sports and leisure facility, appropriately located in Cambridge the heart of Waipa, ‘Home of Champions’ territory.

Mount Maunganui

A popular destination for a day at the beach, Mount Maunganui is situated at the entrance to Tauranga Harbour. It is a major stopping place for ocean liner cruises in the South Pacific. From the base of the volcano Mauao, a white sand surf beach stretches as far as the eye can see.

Te Aroha Mineral Springs

Te Aroha has long been home to the finest spas in the Waikato region. The mineral springs that flow from beneath Mount Te Aroha have been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for more than 100 years, and the Te Aroha hot pools, baths and spas remain among the most popular things to do in Te Aroha today.

VILAGRADS WINERY

Ivan Milicich Snr had few possessions when he left the village of Podgora on the Dalmatian coast, Croatia in 1893, but he had skills, strength and a deep abiding love for his homeland and people.

ZEALONG TEA ESTATE

In 1.30-­2 hours you can explore Zealong’s Tea Walk, learn the fascinating story behind Zealong, see how tea is made,

Cornerstone Alpaca Stud

For Adults and Children. Schedule an alpaca farm visit to meet the extremely personable friendly alpacas.

Hamilton City River Rides and walks

This shared walkway and cycleway runs for 10km through central Hamilton, along the banks of the Waikato River.

Rotopiko / Lake Serpentine Wetlands Sanctuary

The reserve is one of very few remaining peat lake systems in the region that has retained many of its unique characteristics and spectacular native aquatic plant communities free of invasive submerged weeds.

Lake Ngaroto

Lake Ngaroto is a peat lake surrounded by rolling pasture land and has a surface area of 108 ha

Bridal Veil Falls

One of New Zealand’s ‘Must See Waterfalls’.

Marokopa Falls

One of the most impressive waterfalls in New Zealand, Marokopa Falls is located in Tawarau Forest, a few kilometres’ drive away from the popular Waitomo Caves.

Mangapohue Natural Bridge Walk

The natural bridge is a 17m high limestone arch; the remains of an ancient cave system.

FMG Stadium

FMG Stadium Waikato, the home of The Chiefs, is the spiritual home of rugby in Hamilton.

Mystery Creek

Mystery Creek Events Centre is one of New Zealand’s biggest events centres.

Seddon Park

Seddon Park international cricket ground is the home of cricket in the Waikato.

Waikato Thoroughbred Tours

Want to see some of New Zealand’s finest thoroughbred horse studs and training establishments?

The Hakarimata Summit Track

Walk or run, this is a good sharp training track for those wanting a challenge. Starting with the 1400 stairs that makes up the famous Hakarimata summit track then running down south along the Hakarimata rail trail then returning for a full loop along Waignaro Road.

Lake District Adventures

Kayak glow worms tours