Travel Eye on Waikato (North Island, New Zealand)

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Overview:

The green rolling landscapes of the Waikato region that lies to the south of Auckland form some of the most fertile land in New Zealand, yet this is one region in particular which holds more than just surface appeal. literally.

For Waikato also boasts an extensive labyrinth of underground caverns that formed millions of years ago and are now a major tourist attraction.

Hamilton is the region's main centre and is also the country's fourth largest city located on the banks of the Waikato River, New Zealand's longest.

The town is famous for its themed gardens, and the local zoo, which has the largest free flight aviary in the Southern Hemisphere - an excellent chance to find out about New Zealand's distinctive native birds. The southern end of Hamilton's main street offers an excellent choice of restaurants, cafés and bars.

To the south of Hamilton, the small and pleasant town of Waitomo is the focal point of the region's subterranean wonders. A popular tourist stopover, the caves are easy to explore on a boat trip like no other, revealing a hidden world of glow-worms and wondrous limestone formations. This being New Zealand, there are of course the adventure options when it comes to exploring the caves, in the form of black water rafting- its fun, its fast and its wet and abseiling. Above ground, the area around Waitomo is also popular for horse riding and bush walking.

Locality:

The Waikato region, located in the North Island is centered on the Waikato River, contains some of the world's most productive farmlands. The main center is the university town of Hamilton,

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

Hamilton Zoo - Offers 52 acres of magical serenity and is home to New Zealand and endangered wildlife from around the world

Waitomo Caves - Explore a multitude of underground limestone caverns by boat. Waitomo Caves offers thrill-seeking adventures, such as black water rafting, abseiling, rock climbing, 4x4 bikes, horse trekking and kayaking.  For a relaxing stay, stroll through native forests and spectacular limestone landscapes. Experience the unique flora and fauna of the Waitomo Caves area - Waitomo has something for everyone!

Hot Springs Domain - Edwardian Buildings including the historic Cadman Museum "NZ's original sanatorium"

Mineral Soda Spa Baths - Unique, therapeutic, relaxing

Wyborn Leisure Pool Complex - Heated & designed for a diverse range of visitors

Mokena Geyser - The worlds only hot soda water geyser

Bushwalking - Day & overnight tramping in the Kaimai-Mamuku Forest Park

Mt Te Aroha - stunning views of coast and peaks of the Tongariro National Park

Waiorongomai Valley - Gold Mining history and artefacts

Wairere Falls - Spectacular walk to view a majestic waterfall in a two stage drop, 80 and 73 metres

Mountain Biking - 10 kms of all weather mountain bike track lacing the foothills of Mt Te Aroha

Mountain Gloworms - Numerous sightings on adventurous night walk

Heritage Trail - Fine historic Buildings & Monuments dating back to early 1880's

Queen Ann Pipe Organ - Built in 1712 it is the oldest pipe organ in the Southern Hemisphere

Antiques, Crafts and Gardens - Something for everyone.