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Wellington to Hamilton

What is the history of Hamilton?

The area where Hamilton now stands was once occupied by several Maori villages, which thrived thanks to the proximity to the Waikato Basin. The first permanent European settlers came to the area in 1864 and established the 4th Waikato Militia Regiment. Over the following decades, the infrastructure of Hamilton began to resemble what you’ll see today after your flights Wellington to Hamilton land. The population boomed following WWI as the area became a major transport hub in the North Island. This growth continued after Hamilton Airport (HLZ) opened in the 1950s. Today, Hamilton has a population of about 165,000 people, making it the fourth largest city in New Zealand. The city is well-known across the country for its major sporting events and university. There is something exciting for everyone to experience after Wellington to Hamilton flights.

What are the top tips for travelling with children to Hamilton?

Taitua Arboretum

Taitua Arboretum is located on the outskirts of Hamilton and makes for a fun family day out. When you plan cheap flights to Hamilton from Wellington with the kids, visit Taitua Arboretum to enjoy nature and local wildlife. The arboretum covers 22 hectares and features a variety of walking trails. Along these paths, visitors with Wellington to Hamilton flights will see themed gardens and many different birds, including free-range chickens who wander the area. For a great view over the city after your flights Wellington to Hamilton, take a picnic lunch up to Till’s Lookout, located on the edge of Taitua Arboretum.

Hamilton Zoo

If your children love animals, plan a day at the Hamilton Zoo after cheap flights Wellington to Hamilton. The zoo is home to 600 native and exotic animals. Some of the animals you can expect to see at Hamilton Zoo include chimpanzees, zebras, tigers, and New Zealand falcons. Visitors with cheap flights to Hamilton from Wellington can also attend educational talks from zoo keepers or have a Face2Face experience with several of the zoo’s animals.

Hobbiton

One of the most popular attractions to visit after cheap flights to Hamilton from Wellington is the Hobbiton Movie Set. This is a must-see if your family members are fans of the Lord of the Rings films. Hobbiton was one of the main filming locations for these films as well as the more recent Hobbit trilogy. Visitors can tour the set to experience the magical rolling hills of Middle Earth first-hand. A tour of Hobbiton takes visitors to landmarks from the films, such as the famous Hobbit Holes and Green Dragon Inn.

What are the best places to stay in Hamilton after Wellington to Hamilton flights?

Hamilton Central

Hamilton Central is one of the top places to be after flights Wellington to Hamilton. This neighbourhood is located on the western edge of the Waikato River. When you have Wellington to Hamilton return flights, Hamilton Central is where you’ll find much of the city’s shopping, dining, and nightlife. Places to explore within Hamilton Central include Garden Place, Victoria Street, and the Waikato Museum.

Hillcrest

Hillcrest is east of the city centre and offers a quieter experience than the CBD. However, it still offers plenty to do and is within easy reach of the centre, making it a nice area to stay after cheap flights Wellington to Hamilton. Hillcrest is most well-known as the location of the University of Waikato. It offers access to several parks to enjoy when you book tickets to Hamilton from Wellington. Hillcrest is a short walk from the Hamilton Gardens and is also bordered by the Hamilton Town Belt.

Hamilton East

This neighbourhood is located just across the river from Hamilton Central. It is bordered by parks and gardens on three sides, meaning there is plenty of natural beauty around the area. Hamilton East is one of the oldest neighbourhoods to experience after Wellington to Hamilton flights. It is notable for its classic Victorian-era architecture and the Grey Street shopping area. On the southern edge of Hamilton East, visitors with flights Wellington to Hamilton can explore the Hamilton Gardens. Other points of interest within the neighbourhood include Hayes Paddock and Greenslade Gallery.