New's Zealand's longest river, the Waikato River, carves its journey through this beautiful region. Found on the shore of this mighty river is the charming city of Hamilton. Hamilton is a city of education, parks and gardens, fine cuisine and cafes, culture and attractions. No trip to Hamilton would be complete without a visiting the Hamilton Gardens, which attracts around 600, 000 visitors annually. The Frankton Markets are popular with the locals and also visitors to Hamilton operating every Saturday morning.
![Waikato River Waikato River](/img/locations/misc/waik2.jpg)
Like other central North Island locations, Waikato has a lot of geothermic activity and hot mineral pools. Te Aroha Mineral Pools are New Zealand's original thermal mineral pools and the world's only naturally flowing hot Soda Spa pools. A great year-round place to visit.
For over 100 years millions of visitors have marvelled at the limestone glowworm caves in Waitomo. A boat ride through the labyrinth ancient limestone caverns and formations under a galaxy of tiny living lights is sure to be magical holiday memory.
![Raglan beach Raglan beach](/media/raglan.jpg)
Exceptional surf beaches are found along the West Coast of the Waikato region. Raglan is considered one of New Zealand's premiere surf beaches and is a unique and idyllic town for holidaying.