Hamilton is a practical and enjoyable destination for business, events, family visits, and regional travel. Guests staying at Claudelands Motel can easily access central Hamilton, local cafés and restaurants, event venues, riverside areas, and some of the Waikato's best known attractions.
Spend time at Hamilton Gardens, explore the Waikato River area, attend an event at Claudelands, visit the city centre, or take a day trip to nearby Waikato destinations. Whether you are here for a short visit or a longer stay, Claudelands Motel gives you a convenient base for your plans
Claudelands Events Centre
Claudelands Events Centre is one of Hamilton's premier event destinations, hosting a diverse range of concerts, sporting fixtures, exhibitions, conferences, trade shows and community events throughout the year. Set within picturesque parklands close to the city centre, the award-winning venue features a unique C-shaped arena, modern conference facilities and expansive exhibition spaces.
Hamilton Gardens
Hamilton Gardens is one of New Zealand's most unique garden attractions, featuring 18 beautifully designed enclosed gardens inspired by different cultures, civilisations and periods of history. Wander through Italian, Japanese, Indian, Egyptian and traditional Māori garden settings, enjoy the riverside parklands, or join a guided tour to discover the stories behind each garden.
Hamilton Zoo
Hamilton Zoo is set across 25 hectares of landscaped grounds and is home to more than 450 native and exotic animals. Visitors can see tigers, chimpanzees, rhinos, giraffes, red pandas, reptiles and colourful native birds while exploring the zoo's shaded pathways. It is a relaxing and educational attraction for families, animal lovers and visitors of all ages.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum
Located beside the Waikato River in central Hamilton, Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery showcases the region's art, history, science and Māori culture. Visitors can explore changing exhibitions, family-friendly activities and significant taonga, including the historic Te Winika waka taua.
Hamilton Lake Domain
Hamilton Lake Domain is a peaceful recreational area surrounding Lake Rotoroa, only a short distance from the city centre. Enjoy the popular lakeside loop walk, open lawns, picnic areas, a café and a large accessible playground. The wide paths are suitable for walking, jogging and cycling, making the lake a favourite spot for families and outdoor exercise.
Taitua Arboretum
Taitua Arboretum is a tranquil woodland reserve featuring mature trees, peaceful lakes, open spaces and a network of scenic walking tracks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, watch local birdlife or relax with a picnic beneath the trees. Located only a few minutes from Hamilton's western suburbs, the arboretum offers a quiet escape from the city.
Classics Museum
Classics Museum is a must-visit Hamilton attraction for motoring enthusiasts, displaying an impressive collection of classic cars, vintage petrol pumps, signs and automotive memorabilia. The colourful displays offer a nostalgic journey through motoring history, with vehicles from several different eras. Visitors can also enjoy a meal or refreshments at the adjoining 1950s-inspired Jukebox Diner.
Zealong Tea Estate
Zealong Tea Estate is New Zealand's only commercial tea estate and is located on Gordonton Road in Hamilton. Visitors can enjoy beautifully presented high teas, seasonal lunches and premium New Zealand-grown teas while overlooking the estate's landscaped grounds and tea fields. Guided tea experiences may also be available for visitors interested in learning about tea cultivation and production.
Waikato River Walks and Cycleways
Explore Hamilton's riverside scenery along the shared walking and cycling paths beside the Waikato River. The routes travel through the heart of the city, connecting parks, gardens, residential areas and the central business district. Along the way, visitors can enjoy river views, native vegetation, grassy rest areas and plenty of places to stop and watch the river activity.
SkyCity Hamilton
SkyCity Hamilton is an entertainment and dining complex situated beside the Waikato River in the heart of the central city. The complex features restaurants, bars, live entertainment, tenpin bowling and an R20 casino area. Whether you are planning dinner, enjoying an evening out or looking for an indoor activity, SkyCity offers several entertainment options in one convenient location.
Bowl and Social
Bowl and Social is a modern tenpin bowling venue located on Level 2 of SkyCity Hamilton. It features high-quality bowling lanes, arcade games, air hockey, pool and impressive views over the Waikato River. Food and refreshments can be ordered directly from the bowling lane, making it an entertaining indoor activity for families, groups, celebrations and rainy days.
ArtsPost Galleries and Shop
ArtsPost Galleries and Shop is a vibrant community art space located in Hamilton's historic former Post and Telegraph Office. Its gallery spaces regularly feature changing exhibitions from emerging and established New Zealand artists, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics and contemporary works. The adjoining shop also offers locally created artwork, crafts and distinctive gifts that visitors can purchase.
The Meteor Theatre
The Meteor Theatre is an independent performing arts venue situated at the southern end of Victoria Street in central Hamilton. The theatre hosts a changing programme of plays, comedy, music, dance, exhibitions and performances by local and visiting artists. Check the current event calendar during your stay to discover live entertainment and creative experiences happening in the city.