Ahhh Hamilton, while some say the town, affectionately known as ‘The Tron’, is best seen in a blur of red and blue as you drive on by, once you’ve taken a gander at the swish, kooky and actually gorgeous Airbnbs on offer you’ll be planning a visit even if it's Māori name 'Kirikiriroa' does translate to "long stretch of gravel". Haters be damned, we've done the hard yards and found the best Airbnbs to make your stay in The Tron Of The Future truly unforgettable.
Here are the best Airbnbs in and around Hamilton.
The Best Airbnbs In Hamilton
Morepork Cabin
2 guests | 1 bed
Fern Gully meets a fairy picnic in Morepork Cabin, an adorable abode on the back of a property near Chartwell Shopping Centre. Drink tea perched atop a cushioned tree stump or live the vintage fantasy curled up with a book in the rocking chair, and just when you thought it couldn’t get cuter, there’s a resident cat and we hear he’s very smoochy. Precious. Some kitchen amenities—a bar fridge, toaster, and electric jug make snacking a breeze—with a gas cooker available for use outside for meals under the stars. Unlimited wifi allows for all the snuggled-up movie nights, your stay includes private use of a bathroom in the main house.
Private Cosy House In North Hamilton
6 guests | 3 beds
Spacious vintage meets modern finishing in this Private Cosy House In North Hamilton. Fully insulated and with a heat pump to boot, you’re sure to enjoy this homey stay. All on one floor, this stay gets the thumbs up on the accessibility front too. With a full kitchen and washing machine, you can play house to your heart’s content or unwind after a long day of adventures. We love the private garden and gazebo—the perfect setting for a cheeky sundowner.
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.
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.
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.
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 Ukraine refugees.
The Squeeze Me Inn
2 guests | 1 bed
The Squeeze Me Inn is a key lime pie dream. As the name would suggest it isn’t the largest Airbnb in Hamilton but we think it’s worthy all the same. A comfy bed, modern ensuite and kitchenette—with microwave, kettle, toaster, sandwich maker, plates and cutlery—with a writing desk, wifi and TV make up this sweet little guesthouse. Outside is an outdoor table on a private patio. This spot would make a handsome writing retreat or weekend away with the Hamilton Gardens, river paths, prime eateries and all sorts of sports at Claudelands Arena reachable on foot.
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, 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 Best Airbnbs Near Hamilton
The Pool House
Tamahere 3 guests | 2 beds
Don’t let the name fool you, The Pool House might be beside a pool but it’s boho chic without a single pool noodle in sight. Set amongst century-old oak trees, this stay is as private and romantic as it is peaceful. A continental breakfast is provided and you’ll also have access to a fridge/freezer, jug, toaster, microwave, bench top oven and elements. Lord of the Rings stans will be pleased to know the pozzie’s only a half-hour drive from Hobbiton plus, you’re minutes from Lake Karapiro, Cambridge and Hamilton Airport.
Villa 142
Cambridge 9 guests | 3 bedrooms
Rustic charm meets elegance at Villa 142. Built in 1914 the Cambridge gem makes for the perfect base for exploring, being a five-minute walk to the village and a short drive to points of interest including Lake Karapiro, Mystery Creek and Hobbiton. The clean lines and savvy styling make this spot a perfect setting for wedding prep or content creation, too, and the adventurous will love taking the two mountain bikes for a spin. Be sure to make the most of the manicured garden with brunch under the olive trees, a BBQ lunch or summertime cocktails.
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.
Views From Every Room
Raglan 8 guests | 5 beds
For a boujee stay in Raglan, take a moment to consider this Airbnb and then dive right in and hit ‘book’. You’ll be hella impressed by the home’s panoramic views of Kaitoke Bay and Mt Karioi, the perfect setting for a morning yoga session, a champagne breakfast or relaxing with a great book. Keen to venture further afield? Raglan township is just a ten-minute walk away. You’ll want for nothing at this spot, that’s complete with wifi, Smeg and Meile kitchen appliances, comfy beds, linen, towels and heating. Delightful.
French Styled Six-Bedroom Country Home
Tamahere 12 guests | 7 beds
You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the French countryside at this Six-Bedroom Country Home. Located between Cambridge and Hamilton and within one hour’s drive from Hobbiton, Mount Maunganui, Raglan and more, this is a solid Airbnb for a family stay or getaway with friends. Roam the five-acre lifestyle block, take a dip in the pool or celebrate at the poolside bar. Magical.
Cambridge Pool House, Saint Kilda
Cambridge 4 guests | 2 beds
For poolside luxury that’s family-friendly Cambridge Pool House is a great find. The playground-pool combo will keep the sprogs busy for hours, plus there’s an orchard to raid brimming with feijoas, nashi pears, apples, figs, grapes, apricots, persimmons and lemons (depending on the seasons), all of which make a tasty addition to a cheese board. Did we mention there’s an air fryer?
Hotels more your vibe? There's a list for that.
Image credit: Airbnb.
Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, so we get revenue from your purchase.