Find the best Waikato Hotels

Top reasons to visit Waikato

• Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking landscapes along Wairakei Road, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like kayaking, water rafting, and hiking through Waikato's beautiful parks and reserves.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit the historic Waikato Museum and explore local customs and traditions.
• Vibrant Entertainment: Discover lively music scenes and bustling shopping centres for a well-rounded experience.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming motels to inviting bed and breakfasts tailored for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Waikato

Discover the diverse accommodation options in the stunning Waikato region of New Zealand, where you'll find everything from charming motels to inviting bed and breakfasts. Ideal for family getaways, adventurous travellers, and business trips alike, Waikato hotels offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or cosy lodgings, you'll find a range of choices tailored to enhance your holiday experience in this picturesque region.

• Wairakei Resort Taupo by Accor: Wairakei Resort Taupo by Accor is a delightful 4-star hotel that offers a unique blend of relaxation and recreation, making it perfect for families and golf enthusiasts. Nestled in the beautiful Waikato region, this resort boasts natural hot springs nearby, allowing guests to unwind in soothing waters. The resort features a variety of family-friendly amenities, including a shared playground, free cribs for infants, and an onsite mini-golf course, ensuring a fun-filled experience for children. Guests can also indulge in a round of golf at the resort's facilities, making it an excellent choice for both relaxation and activity.
• Hilton Lake Taupo: Hilton Lake Taupo is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8, catering to those seeking adventure and opulence. Positioned in the stunning Waikato area, this hotel offers a plethora of exciting activities, including kayaking, sailing, and even skydiving for the thrill-seekers. The hotel’s modern amenities, combined with its scenic backdrop, create an inviting atmosphere for guests looking to explore the great outdoors while enjoying upscale comforts. With its impressive range of recreational facilities, Hilton Lake Taupo ensures an exhilarating stay that combines luxury with adventure.
• Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton: Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is a well-rated 3.5-star hotel, recognised for its business-friendly atmosphere and convenient location in Waikato. With a guest rating of 8.8, it provides a comfortable and efficient environment for business travellers. The hotel features a range of amenities designed to cater to the needs of working professionals, including spacious rooms and reliable internet access. Its proximity to Hamilton’s business district ensures easy access for meetings and corporate events, making it an ideal choice for those combining work and leisure during their stay.

Where to stay in Waikato

Waikato offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, perfect for family-friendly vacations. Explore charming towns and secluded spots while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals. Don't miss the breathtaking landscapes along Wairakei Road and the luxury accommodations available. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an adrenaline rush, Waikato's diverse atmosphere promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Taupō: Nestled beside the stunning Taupō Lake, this vibrant city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery. The landscape is dominated by the majestic mountains that surround the area, making it perfect for hiking and water activities. Visitors flock here for a romantic getaway, with activities ranging from relaxing in luxurious spas to enjoying the thrills of the local water park. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and year-round attractions make it an ideal base for exploring nearby parks and natural wonders.
• Raglan: A charming coastal suburb, Raglan is famed for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches. Known for excellent surf conditions, it attracts both seasoned surfers and families looking for a fun day out. The local beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, while the nearby mountains offer picturesque views and hiking opportunities. With a variety of spas and an aquatic centre, Raglan is an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure alike. The vibrant local arts scene and inviting cafes add to the area's appeal.
• Waitomo Caves: Renowned for its spectacular underground caves, Waitomo Caves is a must-visit for adventure seekers. Here, you can explore enchanting limestone formations and experience the unique glowworm caves that illuminate the darkness. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking in the surrounding national parks and exploring local shopping options. With its picturesque lakes and captivating natural beauty, Waitomo Caves provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking both adventure and scenery.

Things to do in Waikato

Waikato offers an array of outdoor activities and stunning scenery ideal for a beach holiday. You can explore popular attractions, embark on leisurely kayaking adventures, or try your hand at water rafting. The region boasts vibrant entertainment outlets featuring live music, as well as relaxing spas and bustling shopping centres for a well-rounded experience. Whether you're hiking trails or enjoying local attractions, Waikato promises an unforgettable getaway.

Shopping

In Waikato, visit the Chartwell Shopping Centre for a variety of retail stores and eateries. For a unique experience, explore the Hamilton Farmers' Market, where you can find local produce and handcrafted souvenirs that capture the essence of New Zealand.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the Waikato Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and healing treatments. Afterward, explore the serene river trails of Hamilton Gardens for a leisurely stroll amidst lush landscapes and vibrant flora, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

Adventure

Explore the Waitomo Caves for an enchanting glowworm experience and guided black water rafting through stunning limestone formations. Venture to Hobbiton for a magical tour of the iconic film set, immersing yourself in the lush landscapes and charming hobbit holes.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Waikato is vibrant, with options like the lively bars in Hamilton's Victoria Street, perfect for cocktails and live music. For a more relaxed evening, consider the atmospheric pubs in the surrounding towns, offering a friendly local vibe and hearty Kiwi hospitality.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waikato

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Waikato is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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 arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You may be able to save some money by combining your hotel reservations in Waikato with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Waikato

Waikato is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, offering stunning scenery and beach vacations. Key attractions include the beautiful beaches and lakes, the historic Waikato Museum, and the vibrant Waitomo area. Visitors can also explore the local Waikato Hospital and enjoy events at Waikato Stadium, ensuring a diverse range of activities for a memorable getaway.

• Hobbiton Movie Set: Step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth at Hobbiton, where friendly locals guide you through the meticulously crafted set. Experience the charming hobbit holes, the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and lush landscapes, all while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere that feels like home.
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Venture into the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves for an adventurous journey through stunning limestone formations. Glide silently on a boat beneath a canopy of shimmering glowworms, creating an otherworldly experience that showcases nature's wonders.
• Lake Taupō: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Taupō, perfect for outdoor activities and romantic strolls along the beach. Enjoy the scenic views, water sports, and the serene atmosphere that makes this area a true gem of the Waikato region.

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 (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Waikato

To visit the stunning Waikato region in New Zealand, you can fly into several major airports. Auckland Airport (AKL) is the closest, situated 98.2km away, with premium hotels like Cordis.h8072.Hotel-Information>Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group and Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour offering convenient transport services. Napier Airport (NPE) is 231.7km distant, featuring excellent accommodation such as Swiss-Belhotel Napier, all within a 4.8km radius. For those considering Palmerston North Airport (PMR), located 283.2km away, the Distinction Coachman Hotel provides comfortable lodging just 4.8km from the airport. Each of these locations offers a variety of transport options to make your journey seamless.