Waikato

Introducing Waikato

Both a Maori heartland and a horsey, rural slice of the 'old country', Waikato is certainly a culturally diverse chunk of New Zealand's North Island. There's something for everyone here; from the burgeoning regional capital Hamiliton to the laidback charm of Raglan, NZ's best surf town. There's Hobbit-holes at Matamata, battlefields at Rangiriri and the sounds of Crowded House at Te Awamutu, birthplace of the Finn brothers. Add to this the usual stuff you get in New Zealand; stunning scenery, great beaches, thermal springs and kayaking, climbing and hiking opportunities and you might need to hang around Waikato a little longer than you thought.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009