Roadies are practically a rite of passage in Tāmaki Makaurau, and Kirikiriroa Hamilton—being just over an hour’s drive away—makes for a great option. Whether you’re after a romantic escape, a rejuvenating getaway or fun times with the whānau this river-side city will deliver.
And so you can get straight down to living the good life we’ve gone out and found the best accommodation to rest your head, from swanky hotels to quirky Airbnbs.
Scroll down to scope some of the best accommodation options in Hamilton.
Sunny Hamilton Home On The River
8 Guests | 6 Beds
Bring the whole whānau to this Sunny Hamilton Home On The River. A 15-minute walk or bike ride (two e-bikes are available for use) from town via the Waikato River bike trail that borders the edge of the property, this Airbnb makes for a great home base for exploring Hamilton, that is if you decide to leave. The two-storey house boasts a saltwater pool, a spa and a large dining space wrapped around an outdoor fireplace, plus there’s a red English telephone box in the backyard—this is not a drill.
Novotel Tainui Hamilton
Alma Street
If you’re after a polished hotel experience in Hamilton, look no further than Novotel Tainui. With sleek, spacious rooms, views of the Waikato river, friendly staff, a fitness centre and a rave-worthy buffet breakfast this hotel is as good IRL as it is on paper making it one of the best hotels in Hamilton. Stroll along the river’s edge and explore the nearby parks, trot across to Hamilton Museum or take a short drive to Hamilton Zoo.
The Nest On Cardrona
2 Guests | 1 Bed
This elegantly-styled spot in central Hamilton is aptly named The Nest. Tucked away down a quiet cul-de-sac, accessed via a private entrance down the side of a house The Nest is the perfect spot to unwind. The studio includes a comfy queen bed, a bathroom, a fridge and coffee/tea-making facilities, plus a tv and WiFi so you can stretch out and settle in for a Netflix binge if that’s your jam. Do make use of the outdoor seating area—a lovely spot for spinning late-night yarns.
The Studio
2 Guests | 1 Bed
Enjoy botanical tranquillity with a stay at The Studio, a gem of an Airbnb which is often fully booked, and it’s easy to see why. Sitting in an atmospheric garden space it’s ripe for lazy picnics, yoga and soaking up that vitamin D. The studio itself has a queen bed with an ensuite and a smart TV and a kitchenette. Hamilton Gardens, Claudelands Event Centre and the CBD are a short drive or leisurely stroll away.
Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton
Ulster Street
Channel your inner mermaid at Heartland Ambassador Hotel Hamilton which boasts in-room bathtubs, an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub. Choose from a self-contained apartment or studio room and fuel up for the day’s adventures at the buffet breakfast before exploring the streets of Hamilton Central. A ten-minute walk will take you to the Waikato Stadium, and a ten-minute drive to Hamilton Zoo or Waikato Museum so there’s plenty to keep you busy.
Charming And Sunny Lake House
4 Guests | 2 Beds
This north-facing two-bedroom lake house might just be exactly what you’re looking for. Tidy and spacious, with gorgeous views of Hamilton Lake, we can feel ourselves relaxing just by looking at the photos of this Charming And Sunny Lake House. Equipped with everything you could need, including a recently renovated bathroom, you’ll also have direct access to the lake walkway for staying on top of your self-care with Hot Girl Runs (it’s a thing now). Better still, a portion of proceeds from this Airbnb goes towards supporting Ukrainian refugees.
Rural Escape With All The Trimmings
Whatawhata 3 Guests | 2 Beds
This rural escape is exquisite. Set on a four-acre hilltop property just outside of Hamilton it comes with everything you need and more—a kitchen stocked with eco products, cooking essentials and breakfast staples; a bathroom; a log burner; and a spa. Next door is a gym/yoga studio that can be totally private too if you opt for the package upgrade. A trundle bed and cot are available on request. Ka rawe.
The Narrows Landing Hotel
Airport Road
For more of a boutique B&B vibe, The Narrows Landing Hotel is where it’s at. A great spot for a wedding, a family stay or a romantic getaway, this Hamilton hotel has a little bit of je ne sais quois with quirky stained glass features, a large in-room spa bath, and tasty continental breakfasts. Three minutes drive from Hamilton International Airport and 15 minutes from the heart of Hamilton city, it’s the perfect perch for a vacay away.
Beautiful Tiny House Near Hamilton Lake
2 Guests | 1 Bed
Forget everything you thought you knew about tiny homes, this Beautiful Tiny House is sleek, modern and absolutely stunning. Plus, the fittings create the vibe of full-sized digs. The stand-alone house opens out to a quiet cul-de-sac with a decked area that beckons you to put your feet up and contemplate the world over a glass of vino. Insulated and double-glazed with a heat pump, every night’s a cosy one. This is tiny house living done right.
Accom sorted? Plan your itinerary with all the best things to do in Hamilton.
Image credit: Booking .com and Airbnb.
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