When one imagines a Kiwi summer, many people will imagine running into the wild salty waves or camping on the beach, the smell of the bbq in the air and the sound of waves crashing on the shore. But, there are many wonderful inland green spaces to explore this summer as well. And Hamilton is where it is happening. Hamilton has many lovely green spots to ramble in and have close encounters of a nature kind this summer.
Waikato River
Image credit: Te Awa Walkway | WaikatoNZ
Nothing says Hamilton quite like the mighty Waikato River. Winding its way through sprawling urban Hamilton, the river is an ever constant source of beauty and nature for many to marvel at. There are many walks that you can wander alongside the Waikato River. On the western side, you can ramble from Cobham Bridge to Horotiu Bridge. Or for a shorter river stroll, visit one of the many parks along the river. Days Park is an off leash dog park alongside the river, where you and your furry friend can explore. Pack a picnic, for a relaxing riverside picnic with friends and family. You can even escape the heat, by having a swim at Wellington Street Beach on the river.
Hamilton Lake
A list of natural spaces in Hamilton would be sorely lacking without a mention of the infamous Hamilton Lake Domain. Walking around this large lake in the centre of Hamilton, you will encounter many feathered friends. From ducks to the gangly legged pukeko, to noisy geese and serene swans. Roll up and enjoy an amazing sunset with a homemade picnic, or enjoy a book under a towering old tree. There is also a great cafe on the lake to enjoy a coffee, either to reenginerse after your walk or perhaps to fuel up before tackling the lake.
Hamilton Gardens
The Hamilton Gardens is as quintessential to Hamilton, as chocolate is to caramel. It is the place that many Hamiltonians will mention when people ask them about their hometown, and why not, it is a beautiful place to wander. With international travel being off the cards this year and the unforeseeable future, why not escape to another nation’s garden, from the peaceful Japanese Garden to the regal English Garden, there is something for everyone at the Hamilton Gardens. The gardens get very busy during the summer months, so make sure to visit early to avoid the crowds.
Taitua Arboretum
If your dream is to be surrounded by the sounds of crowing roosters and softly clucking chickens, then the Taitua Arboretum will be right up your alley. This is a haven for nature lovers, as you walk along towering trees, say hello to the many farm animals on the rolling pastures and watch the ducks as they float on the ever tranquil lakes. The land was gifted to the people of Hamilton by John and Bunny Mortimer, who planted trees and shrubs in the 1970s. Now it is a popular place for walks, family picnics, and even school trips.
Shaw's Bird Park
Image credit: Athena Rhodes
Shaw’s Bird Park is the lovechild of Murray Shaw and his wife Margaret. They have created over the last twenty nine years, a natural paradise. Where visitors can ramble through the trees, have encounters with amazing feathered friends, and generally connect with nature. There are lovely parrots to say hello to in the aviaries, or simply watch the ducks and swans float on the pretty ponds. Fantails can be found flickering through the trees, and some weekends, you can even have an encounter of a fluffy kind with rabbit and guinea pig cuddles.
They are open 8am-8pm, 7 days a week. No dogs, bikes, or scooters are permitted inside the sanctuary for the safety of the animals and the other visitors.
While you're in town, check out our list of the best things to do in Hamilton.
Image credit: Athena Rhodes.