Hamilton: What to Do When Not Watching the World Cup

A city neatly bisected by New Zealand’s longest river. A city of parks and pastures, of caves and spectacular churches – aesthetic in design, unassuming in temperament. A city soon to face a torrent of tourism with the approach of cricket’s greatest tournament.

Hamilton, New Zealand, is an unlikely hero in the saga of the 2015 World Cup.

A haven for the academic, Hamilton is teeming with students and research fellows, thanks to many a university and observatory erected within its borders. But come March this year, expect to see a caravanserai of multi-nationals, waving flags, fluttering streamers and a buzz of excitement as the World Cup 2015 comes rolling into Hamilton’s only cricket stadium.

Seddon Park is where the all the action will be focused. Purpose-built for cricket, Seddon Park offers a prime batting track with a seating capacity of 10,000.

What are the things to do in Hamilton before and after the game? Plenty, as it turns out…

1. Drive Down To Hobbiton, Matamata

About 45 minutes away from Hamilton, lies a remnant of Middle Earth. Any Lord of the Rings enthusiasts reading this? You want to take this trip to Matamata.

Welcome to Hobbiton, the realm of Hobbits! Visit Bag End and wonder where Bilbo Baggins would have stored all that cheese. Where to go for more Lord of the Rings locations? This should help.

When: 9 am till 5 pm

Where: 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata

Prices: Adults (AUD 75); Children (AUD 37.50)

2. Check Out Hamilton Gardens

This place won the ‘International Garden of the Year’ award, so there’s obviously more than freshly-mown grass and 17 different kinds of shrubs.

Hamilton Gardens are unique in that they tell the story of the gardens. A coterie of international and themed garden collections are housed here, from Japanese meditation gardens to India’s very own Chaar Bagh.

When: Open from 7:30 am (daily)

Where: Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton

Prices: Free

3. Dig Into Waitomo Caves

What? A constellation in a cave?

Apart from its jagged stalactite and stalagmite formations, Waitomo Caves are renowned for a unique phenomenon – the presence of glowworms. Not very spectacular at first read, but you'll be blown away, I assure you.

Glowworms, gardens and gnome-like fantasies…Hamilton has it all, folks.

When: 9 am to 5:30 pm (daily)

Prices: Adults (AUD 49); Children (AUD 21.50

4. Surf’s Up At Raglan

Just look at those waves.

Raglan’s 45 kilometres away from Hamilton. That’s about as much time as it would take to get through two Happy Meals and an awkward date. Why not surf instead?

5. Restaurants to Try

Jaipur Indian Restaurant: Located in Central Hamilton, the restaurant is known for its delicious fare and generous portions. Try the banquet; you won’t be able to finish it!

Scotts Epicurean: This one is for those who want to try local stuff. Scotts’ has been heaped with awards and is one of the foremost café-restaurants in the city. One not to miss.

Where to stay

The Park View Motor Lodge boasts excellent ratings on hotel review forums, and with good reason. While not exactly economical, the hotel offers great connectivity and staying comfort par excellence.

If you’re looking for a more budget option, try the Kingsgate Hotel. Along with a prime location, this hotel offers luxury in the form of spa facilities and opulent accommodations.