Hamilton, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant city culture, and proximity to some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. Driving through Hamilton offers an unparalleled experience, whether you are on a weekend trip or an extended stay. Renting a car in Hamilton not only provides the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace but also gives you the freedom to venture beyond the city limits and discover some breathtaking scenic routes.
Renting a Car in Hamilton
Hamilton boasts several car rental agencies, making it easy for visitors to find a vehicle that suits their needs. Whether you prefer a budget option, a luxury car, or a sturdy SUV for off-road adventures, there is a wide range of choices.
During my trip, I used Lastminute.com to book a car rental ahead of time. The booking process was simple and allowed me to compare different options, filtering by price, vehicle size, and rental company. Some well-known rental agencies like Avis, Hertz, and Budget have locations conveniently placed in the city center, as well as at Hamilton Airport, making it easy to pick up your rental as soon as you land.
Pro Tip: Always check for rental deals and promotions on Lastminute.com, as they often offer discounts when booking accommodation and cars together. Additionally, it’s a good idea to book in advance during peak tourist seasons to ensure availability.
Once I picked up my rental, a compact Toyota Corolla, I was ready to explore Hamilton and its stunning surroundings. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable routes and stops I recommend for anyone driving through the region.
1. The Waikato River Trail: A Riverside Journey
Hamilton’s Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking the scenic Waikato River Trail. This drive offers an incredible blend of natural beauty, tranquil riverside views, and the chance to stop and explore the parks and reserves along the way.
Route Overview:
Start your journey from central Hamilton and follow SH1 south toward Cambridge. The Waikato River Trail stretches for over 100 kilometers, and the drive will take you past lush farmland, native bush, and riverside walkways.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Hamilton Gardens: An excellent first stop, Hamilton Gardens is a unique collection of themed gardens representing different civilizations and historical periods. It’s a perfect place for a picnic before heading further down the trail.
- Lake Karapiro: Just outside Cambridge, this scenic lake is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The views from the road as you approach the lake are breathtaking, with the sparkling water surrounded by rolling green hills.
Driving Tip: The roads along this route are well-maintained and easy to navigate. However, be mindful of cyclists, as this area is popular for biking.
2. The Waitomo Caves Route: A Subterranean Adventure
For a more adventurous drive, I recommend heading to the famous Waitomo Caves, known for their glowworms and limestone formations. The drive from Hamilton to Waitomo takes about an hour, but the journey is part of the experience.
Route Overview:
Start by taking SH3 south from Hamilton, following the signs to Te Awamutu. From there, continue on SH3 to the Waitomo Caves turnoff.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Te Awamutu: A small town known as the “Rose Town of New Zealand,” Te Awamutu is an excellent stop to stretch your legs. Visit the Rose Gardens or grab a coffee at a local café before continuing your journey.
- Pirongia Forest Park: On the way to Waitomo, you’ll pass Pirongia Mountain, a dormant volcano that’s now covered in thick forest. If you have time, take a short detour and enjoy a hike through Pirongia Forest Park for some stunning views.
Waitomo Caves: Once you reach Waitomo, be sure to visit the glowworm caves. Guided tours are available, and you can even take a boat ride through the caves to see the magical glowworms up close. This subterranean world is truly one of New Zealand’s natural wonders.
Driving Tip: SH3 is a well-maintained highway, but it can get narrow and winding in some parts as you approach the caves, so drive cautiously.
3. The Coromandel Peninsula: Coastal Beauty
For a longer scenic drive that takes you out of Hamilton and toward the coast, the Coromandel Peninsula is a must-visit. The winding roads, lush forests, and stunning coastal views make this one of the most beautiful drives in New Zealand.
Route Overview:
From Hamilton, head north on SH1, then take SH2 toward the Coromandel Peninsula. This drive can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on where you stop along the way.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park: As you leave Hamilton, you’ll pass by the Kaimai Ranges, which offer some fantastic hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, stop for a short hike through the forest before continuing your journey.
- Pauanui Beach: Once you reach the peninsula, Pauanui Beach is one of the best spots for a relaxing beach day. The golden sands and clear waters are perfect for swimming or just soaking up the sun.
- Hot Water Beach: No trip to the Coromandel is complete without a visit to Hot Water Beach. Here, you can dig your own hot pool in the sand and relax in natural geothermal water while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
Driving Tip: The roads on the Coromandel Peninsula can be steep and narrow, with plenty of sharp turns. Take your time and enjoy the scenery, but be cautious, especially in wet conditions.
4. Raglan: Surf, Sand, and Sunset Views
Raglan, a laid-back beach town just 45 minutes west of Hamilton, is known for its world-class surf breaks, scenic landscapes, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re a surfer or just looking to relax by the ocean, this drive is one you won’t want to miss.
Route Overview:
Take SH23 west from Hamilton, which leads you directly to Raglan. The road takes you through rolling farmland before opening up to stunning views of the Tasman Sea as you approach the coast.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Bridal Veil Falls: About halfway to Raglan, make a stop at Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning 55-meter waterfall nestled in the native bush. The short walk from the car park to the falls is easy and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
- Ngarunui Beach: Once in Raglan, head to Ngarunui Beach for some surf lessons or just to enjoy a stroll along the black sand. The beach is popular with surfers, but it’s also a great spot for picnics or beachcombing.
- Raglan Wharf: After a day of exploring, head to Raglan Wharf for some fresh fish and chips as you watch the sunset over the harbor.
Driving Tip: The road to Raglan is windy, with several sharp bends, so drive carefully, especially if you’re not used to driving on narrow roads.
5. The Hobbiton Route: A Journey to Middle-earth
For fans of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit,” a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set is a dream come true. Located in Matamata, about an hour’s drive from Hamilton, this scenic route takes you through rolling hills and farmland, making you feel like you’re driving straight into Middle-earth.
Route Overview:
From Hamilton, take SH1 north to Matamata. The drive takes about an hour, with stunning views of the countryside along the way.
Highlights Along the Route:
- Hobbiton Movie Set: Once you arrive in Matamata, take a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can explore the iconic hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn for a drink. The set is beautifully preserved and offers an unforgettable experience for Tolkien fans.
Driving Tip: SH1 is a busy highway, so be prepared for some traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, the drive is relatively straightforward, with clear signage directing you to Hobbiton.
Driving through Hamilton and its surrounding areas is an adventure like no other. From riverside trails to coastal roads and forested mountains, the scenic routes offer a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and with the variety of routes available, you’re sure to find a drive that suits your interests.
Before hitting the road, I recommend checking Lastminute.com for car rental deals and ensuring that your vehicle is equipped with GPS or a good map app. New Zealand’s roads can be winding and remote, but with a little preparation, your road trip through Hamilton will be one for the books. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring coastal beaches, or visiting movie sets, Hamilton is a gateway to some of the best scenic drives in the country.
