Top 5 Things to Do in Hamilton, New Zealand after landing

With direct flights from Sydney to Hamilton, Aussie travellers can now touch down in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island with an array of iconic Kiwi adventures under a two-hour drive from this central location. 

From life-altering adventures like bungy jumping over the Waikato River, to the Lord of the Rings movie set and other scenic wonders, here are the top five experiences you can do after landing in Hamilton.

1. Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Black Water Rafting 

Just an hour’s drive southwest of Hamilton, discover the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a magical experience where twinkling glowworms light up underground rivers and stalagmites rise from the ground. 

Step into a world 30 million years in the making as you glide by boat through the Glowworm Grotto. Beneath a ceiling lit by thousands of bioluminescent glowworms found only in New Zealand, it feels like drifting under a star-filled sky deep within the earth.

Or, because we Kiwis like to mix everything with a side of adventure, you can opt for Black Water Rafting in the Ruakuri Cave, which offers a more tactile experience. Descend 80 metres underground to take on the Black Abyss or Black Labyrinth. Float through hidden rivers, leap off underground waterfalls, and crawl through dark tunnels, lit only by the eerie glow of thousands of glowworms.

And for Aussies, venturing into nature without any deadly creepy crawlies. Now that’s an adventure in itself. 

2. Feel the heartbeat of Kiwi adventure with a Taupō Bungy jump.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Did you even visit New Zealand if you didn’t do a bungy jump? 

Discover why we “crazy” Kiwis love jumping off things; you might just land on a new version of yourself.

Just under two hours from Hamilton, perched 47 metres above the Waikato River, Taupō Bungy is New Zealand’s only cliff-top bungy jump. 

Experience a life-altering free fall with breathtaking views of cliffs, native forest, and the emerald Waikato River below. Take a deep breath and dive off the cantilevered platform, with the option to touch the crystal-clear water below.

Bungy jumping is an iconic Kiwi adventure you’ll never forget. Many jumpers say the real reward comes after the leap, with boosted confidence and a renewed sense of courage that stays with you long after your feet hit the ground.

3. Step into Middle‑Earth™ Magic at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set 

Every fantasy fan has stayed up dreaming, and maybe even shed a tear, wishing magical worlds were real. But in New Zealand, they are.

If you’re a fan of The Lord of The Rings or The Hobbit Trilogies, the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata will be a dream come true. Located about an hour’s drive east of Hamilton, this 1,250-acre farm was transformed into The Shire™ and was left intact for visitors to enjoy.

You’ll hear stories of how movie magic was made as you wander the green hills with colourful round-door Hobbit Holes™, bringing Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life (without fearing Ringwraiths or Sauron). The tour finishes at the Green Dragon Inn™, where you can raise a Southfarthing™ ale (brewed exclusively for Hobbiton).

is the only place in the world where you can step onto a real film set that remains exactly as seen on screen.

You never know what could happen… It is a great place to start an unexpected journey of your own.

4.Explore Rotorua’s Surreal Geothermal Wonders 

Head two hours southeast of Hamilton to Rotorua, a city nestled atop a geothermal field, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this strange planet we call Earth.  

Spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and neon-colored hot springs create an otherworldly landscape. Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, shoots steam and boiling water into the sky up to 30 meters. 

Wander through the surreal landscape of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, a playground built around geothermal activity. Visit the world-famous Champagne Pool (a huge hot spring ringed with brilliant orange mineral deposits) and the Lady Knox Geyser, which spouts daily. 

Rotorua offers a window into Earth’s unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of activity.

5. Start Your Holiday With a Swoop in the Taupō Swing

Swoop from a 44-metre high cliff over the Waikato River on the Taupō Swing. The North Island’s only giant swing accelerates you to up to 70 km/h in a massive pendulum arc. 

You can jump on solo or strap in with a friend to experience the rush together. Soar over dramatic cliffs above the glistening Waikato River, and experience New Zealand’s raw, natural beauty in an unparalleled manner. 

With cameras perfectly placed to capture every angle, you can flex on TikTok because you’ll have the proof. The Taupō Swing offers an addictive rush that will stay with you long after you’re back on solid ground. 

From life-changing adventures like the Taupō Bungy to magical places only found in New Zealand, Hamilton offers you direct access to the Central North Island region. Everything on this list (and much more) is just a short drive from the airport. 

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get your passport stamped and start your New Zealand adventure in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. 

FAQ’s

What is there to do near Hamilton Airport in New Zealand?

Just a short drive from Hamilton Airport, you can explore glowworm caves in Waitomo, Bungy jump in Taupō, visit Hobbiton, or see geothermal wonders in Rotorua.

Is Hamilton a good base for exploring the North Island?

Yes, Hamilton offers quick access to some of New Zealand’s top attractions, including Taupō, Waitomo, Rotorua, and Matamata, making it an ideal base for Central North Island adventures.