Hamilton

• 1 Hamilton Gardens. Daily 10:00–17:00 (April–October) / 10:00–18:00 (November–March). In addition to 'normal' gardens such as a rose garden and the Rhododendron Lawn, you can see 'themed' gardens, such as the Chinese Scholar Garden, or the American Revolutionist Garden, among others. $20.  (updated May 2025)
• 2 Hamilton Zoo, Brymer Rd, ☏ . Daily 9AM-5PM, last admission 3:30PM. Home to over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals. Kids especially enjoy it. To get there, enter Hamilton from the north or south on SH1, and look for the signs on the section of SH1 called Avalon Drive (Te Rapa area in the north). $26, children $12.  (updated Apr 2021)
• 3 Waikato Museum, 1 Grantham St (south end of Victoria St), ☏ . Daily 10AM-4:30PM. General art and culture displays and exhibits about New Zealand and international cultures. Free entry; charges may apply for some exhibitions. 
• 4 Zeelong Tea estate, 495 Gordonton Road (15 minutes drive from city centre), ☏ . Only commercial tea farm in NZ. Tours, restaurant and retail shop. (updated Apr 2021)

• Centre Place Mall, Cnr of Ward and Worley Sts (in the city centre). Mon-Thu & Sat 9AM-5:30PM, Fri 9AM-8:30PM, Sun 10AM-4PM. The mall includes cafes, restaurants and clothing stores. (updated May 2017)
• The Base Te Rapa, Cnr of Te Rapa Road and Avalon Drive (on the northern outskirt of the city). Mon-Sat 9AM-6PM, Sun 10AM-5PM. The Base includes a mall (Te Awa) and many department stores. 
• ArtsPost Galleries, 120 Victoria St, ☏ . Daily 10AM-4:30PM. An art gallery showcasing local work. Well worth a visit, and also offers a range of items for sale, from paintings to glass blown paperweights. Free. 
• Casabella Lane is located on Barton St and contains many boutique stores, and many cafes.

Make your way to the developing vibe of Hamilton East's Grey Street. A place to find a unique store or funky café or bar.