Hamilton, New Zealand, had long been on my list of must-visit cities. It may not be the most obvious tourist destination, but with its charming gardens, bustling riverfront, and easy access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Waikato region, I was eager to explore this unique blend of urban and natural beauty. What made this adventure even more exciting was the spontaneity of it all – I decided to book a trip at the last minute, and Lastminute.com made the entire process surprisingly easy.

The Booking Experience

Booking my hotel for Hamilton through Lastminute.com turned out to be a breeze. I had used the platform before for other trips, but this was the first time I needed to find a place on such short notice. With a variety of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, I was spoiled for choice. The website’s user-friendly interface and filters helped me narrow down my search quickly. I entered my dates, set my budget, and within minutes, I had a shortlist of hotels in Hamilton that looked perfect for my stay.

One thing I appreciate about Lastminute.com is its “Top Secret Hotels” feature. If you’re willing to take a chance on a mystery hotel, you can secure top-rated accommodation for a fraction of the usual price. While I didn’t go this route this time, it was tempting, and I made a mental note to try it in the future.

Ultimately, I settled on a mid-range hotel located centrally in Hamilton. The reviews were glowing, the price was right, and the amenities listed on Lastminute.com seemed to check all my boxes. After a quick and seamless checkout, I received my booking confirmation instantly via email.

My Stay: Hamilton City Oaks

The hotel I chose was Hamilton City Oaks, a well-reviewed 4-star property right in the heart of the city. Located on Victoria Street, one of Hamilton’s main thoroughfares, it was within walking distance of the best restaurants, cafes, and attractions.

Arrival and First Impressions

Upon arrival, I was struck by the grand exterior of the building. It had an old-world charm that I found appealing, and as I stepped inside, the sense of history continued. The lobby was bright and welcoming, with polished wooden floors and a mix of modern and vintage décor. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, which instantly put me at ease after a long flight.

Room and Facilities

The room itself was spacious and clean, with large windows offering views over the city. While the hotel had an old-world elegance, the rooms had been updated with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. My bed was king-sized, soft, and luxurious—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Hamilton.

The room came equipped with a flat-screen TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a mini-fridge stocked with a selection of drinks and snacks. The bathroom was modern, with a large shower and complimentary toiletries that added a nice touch of luxury to my stay.

Hotel Amenities

While Hamilton City Oaks is not a massive hotel, it does offer a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. There’s an on-site restaurant serving breakfast, though I opted to explore the local cafes instead. The hotel also offers 24-hour reception and room service, which came in handy when I returned late one night after exploring Hamilton’s nightlife.

For those staying longer or on business, the hotel has conference facilities and laundry services, making it a suitable choice for both tourists and professionals alike.

Other Hotels on Lastminute

While Hamilton City Oaks was a fantastic choice for my stay, I couldn’t help but browse through some of the other options available on Lastminute.com. If you’re planning a trip to Hamilton, here are a few hotels that caught my eye but I didn’t get the chance to visit:

Novotel Tainui Hamilton

  • Located along the Waikato River, this 4.5-star hotel offers stunning river views and is within walking distance of Hamilton’s major attractions like the Hamilton Gardens and Waikato Museum. Novotel is a trusted brand for many travelers, known for its modern facilities and excellent service. Amenities include a fitness center, a sauna, and a restaurant that boasts views of the river. It’s perfect for those who want a touch of luxury while staying close to nature.

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

  • If you’re after more budget-friendly accommodation without compromising on comfort, Ventura Inn & Suites might be your best bet. It offers free parking and breakfast, making it ideal for road trippers or families. The rooms are clean, modern, and come with all the basic amenities you’d need for a short stay. It’s located just outside the city center, which provides a quieter atmosphere but is still easily accessible to Hamilton’s main attractions.

Ramada by Wyndham Hamilton City Center

  • Another centrally located hotel, the Ramada offers both standard rooms and self-contained apartments, making it a great choice for extended stays or travelers who like the option of cooking their meals. The rooms are spacious and modern, with a gym and on-site parking available. Its proximity to the main shopping areas and entertainment venues makes it a popular choice for those who want to be in the thick of things.

Ibis Hamilton Tainui

  • This 3-star hotel offers excellent value for money without sacrificing location. Also situated along the Waikato River, it’s perfect for those who want riverside accommodation at an affordable price. The rooms are compact but well-designed, and the hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar. Ibis is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who still want the convenience of being close to Hamilton’s major attractions.

VR Hamilton Hotel

  • For travelers looking for a mix of historical charm and modern convenience, VR Hamilton is a great pick. This boutique hotel is housed in a heritage building, offering a unique atmosphere you won’t find at chain hotels. Despite its historical façade, the rooms are modern and equipped with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. The hotel is also located in the city center, making it an excellent base for exploring Hamilton’s attractions.

Exploring Hamilton

While the hotel was a highlight of my stay, the real joy was exploring the city. Hamilton might be smaller than Auckland or Wellington, but it’s packed with hidden gems.

Hamilton Gardens

One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Hamilton Gardens, a sprawling park featuring beautifully themed gardens from around the world. I spent hours wandering through the Japanese Garden of Contemplation, the Italian Renaissance Garden, and the whimsical Surrealist Garden. Each area is meticulously maintained and offers a completely different experience.

Waikato Museum

Just a short walk from my hotel was the Waikato Museum, where I learned about the history and culture of the Waikato region. The museum offers a great mix of Maori history, art exhibitions, and interactive displays, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in New Zealand’s heritage.

Dining in Hamilton

Of course, no trip would be complete without exploring the local food scene. I found a variety of cafes and restaurants within walking distance of Hamilton City Oaks. One of my favorite spots was The River Kitchen, a cozy café serving locally sourced dishes with a creative twist. For dinner, I visited Madam Woo, a vibrant restaurant offering contemporary Malaysian cuisine – their hawker rolls were incredible!

My trip to Hamilton, booked through Lastminute.com, turned out to be a fantastic experience. The ease of booking, combined with the comfort of my stay at Hamilton City Oaks, made the trip smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re booking last-minute or planning ahead, Lastminute.com offers a variety of accommodation options in Hamilton to suit any traveler’s needs. From luxury riverside hotels to budget-friendly inns, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.