Find the best Waikato Hotels

Top reasons to visit Waikato

• Outdoor Adventures: Waikato is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering activities like abseiling and stunning landscapes for hiking and exploration.
• Stunning Beaches and Lakes: Relax by beautiful beaches and serene lakes, ideal for sunbathing or picnicking with family.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover the region's aboriginal history and visit fascinating museums that showcase local culture.
• Charming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of motels and bed & breakfasts that cater to every type of traveller.
• Warm Hospitality: Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals that make your stay memorable.

Find great hotels in Waikato

Discover the charming accommodation options in Waikato, New Zealand, where you can choose from a variety of motels and bed & breakfasts tailored for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family getaway, or a business trip, hotels like Aaron Court Motel Hamilton, Acacia Lake View Motel, Academy Motor Inn, and Access Studios offer inviting amenities and convenient locations. Experience the warm hospitality and unique attractions that Waikato has to offer.

• Millennium Resort Manuels: Nestled by the shores of Waikato, Millennium Resort Manuels is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that offers a serene beach and hot spring themed experience. The property boasts direct access to the beach, allowing guests to indulge in sun-soaked relaxation. Additionally, the natural hot spring nearby invites visitors to unwind in its therapeutic waters. With its stunning natural surroundings, this resort is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquillity.
• Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre: This eco-certified 4-star hotel caters to business travellers and adventure seekers alike. Suncourt Hotel & Conference Centre provides a perfect blend of functionality and recreation, featuring various adventure sports and activities onsite or nearby. Guests can enjoy hiking, biking, waterskiing, parasailing, kayaking, and mountain biking in the surrounding area. The hotel’s commitment to eco-friendliness makes it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious visitors looking for an active getaway.
• Silver Fern Lodge: Located in the bustling city centre of Waikato, Silver Fern Lodge is a welcoming motel that embraces adventure and inclusivity. Tailored for LGBTQIA travellers, this property offers a range of exciting activities including downhill skiing, ice skating, motorboating, waterskiing, and cave exploring. The central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the vibrant city while indulging in thrilling outdoor experiences, making it a favourite among those seeking both adventure and a welcoming atmosphere.

Where to stay in Waikato

Waikato, New Zealand, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and serene landscapes, perfect for a family-friendly getaway. Explore the region's rich aboriginal history and abundant offshore wildlife while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you seek thrilling activities or relaxing retreats, Waikato's charming cities and secluded spots provide an inviting atmosphere. With easy access to downtown areas and adventure venues, your holiday experience will be both memorable and enriching.

• Taupō: Nestled at the northern edge of Lake Taupō, this city is renowned for its stunning outdoor experiences and picturesque scenery. With a backdrop of mountains and a national park, Taupō provides a romantic setting for couples and adventure-seekers alike. The city boasts a variety of attractions, including recreational areas, a water park, and luxurious spas, making it a perfect getaway. The peak visitor months are July and December to January, but the charm of Taupō can be enjoyed year-round.
• Hamilton: As the largest city in the Waikato region, Hamilton is a vibrant hub of activity. Here, visitors can indulge in a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. The city features shopping malls and centres, as well as lovely parks that offer a relaxing retreat from the urban bustle. With peak visitor numbers in March and December to January, Hamilton is a delightful blend of nature and city life, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding attractions, including a nearby lake and beach.
• Raglan: This laid-back suburb is famous for its stunning beaches and surf culture, making it a must-visit for those seeking outdoor adventures. With a peak in visitors during the summer months from December to February, Raglan offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying the bay and family-friendly beaches. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy local courses, while wellness seekers can indulge in body treatments. The scenic beauty of Raglan, with its coastal views and vibrant community, ensures a memorable experience for all who visit.

Things to do in Waikato

Waikato offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it ideal for a beach vacation. Visitors can explore shopping centres and recreational areas while indulging in exhilarating activities like abseiling cliffs. This region caters to adventure junkies seeking an adrenaline rush, ensuring a memorable experience filled with excitement and fun. Don't forget to make reservations for your activities to fully enjoy what Waikato has to offer.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Waikato, visit Hamilton Centre Place, a vibrant mall offering a mix of retail and entertainment. Don’t miss the Coromandel Smoking Co. for unique gifts, and explore the Cambridge Farmers' Market for fresh produce and local crafts.

Recreation

At Lost Spring Thermal Pools, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments surrounded by serene thermal waters, perfect for relaxation. FMG Stadium Waikato offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, while A.C. Baths provides family-friendly aquatic fun, making it an ideal spot for quality time with loved ones.

Adventure

Embark on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for a challenging hike amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. Relax at Taupō Hot Springs, where you can unwind in natural thermal waters. For thrill-seekers, Off Road NZ offers exhilarating karting experiences in a rugged outdoor setting.

Nightlife

Experience thrilling nights at Combat Zone Paintball and Fun Park, where adventure awaits. For a romantic evening, enjoy a captivating performance at Founders Theatre, embracing culture and entertainment. Don't miss The Landing Lake Taupō for more excitement and fun-filled activities in Waikato's vibrant nightlife.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waikato

To save money during your visit to Waikato, consider travelling in May or August to September, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure better deals, particularly on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. For spontaneous travellers, check Expedia for last-minute discounts. You can also combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package for additional savings. Utilise Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and preferences, ensuring you find the best deals on eco-friendly options too.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Waikato are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Waikato about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Waikato is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Waikato is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results by sorting prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Waikato with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Waikato

Waikato is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery and beach vacations. With a variety of attractions such as stunning beaches, serene lakes, and fascinating history museums, visitors can indulge in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxing days by the water. Whether you are a nature lover or a culture buff, Waikato offers a delightful range of activities to make your holiday memorable.

• Hobbiton Movie Set: Step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set. Immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of lush green hills and charming hobbit holes, all while being greeted by friendly locals eager to share their stories. This budget-friendly attraction offers a unique glimpse into the making of the beloved films.
• Craters of the Moon: Explore the otherworldly landscapes of the Craters of the Moon, an area characterised by geothermal activity. Marvel at the stunning views and unique scenery as you wander through steaming vents and colourful mineral deposits, making it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
• Aranui Cave: Discover the hidden beauty of Aranui Cave, where adventure awaits. This outdoor experience features impressive limestone formations and fascinating glowworms, offering a magical atmosphere as you navigate through the winding passages. Perfect for those seeking a thrilling exploration of New Zealand's natural wonders.

Best time to go to Waikato

The best time to visit Waikato can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Waikato falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Waikato falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	62.4°F (16.900000000000002°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Waikato

To visit Waikato, New Zealand, you can fly into several major airports. Auckland Airport (AKL) is approximately 98.2km away and offers luxurious accommodations like The Grand by SkyCity and Hilton Auckland, both 17.7km from the airport, alongside JetPark Hotel, just 3.2km away. Another option is Rotorua Airport (ROT), also 98.2km from Waikato, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star Black Swan Lakeside Boutique Hotel and Millennium Hotel Rotorua, both 6.4km away. For a further journey, Napier Airport (NPE) is 146.4km from Waikato, featuring the Swiss-Belhotel Napier, located 4.8km from the airport.