The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Hamilton, North Island

Explore an enchanting world of secret gardens. Transport yourself through time and to far-flung corners of the world. Meander through a lush tropical jungle, visit ancient China and indulge yourself in a Renaissance Prince's 16th century garden. Five garden collections have been created to delight the senses, with some garden concepts reaching back 4,000 years. Hamilton Gardens is a conceptual garden based in the Waikato that explores the context, history and meaning of gardens through time, and from around the world. It is internationally recognised for its unique concept and is the Waikato region's most popular tourist destination. Only five minutes drive from Hamilton's CBD, the Gardens is open 7 days a week during daylight hours and entry and parking is free. Access is off SH1, alongside Cobham Drive on the southern side of Hamilton.

Escape HQ is a real life adventure room based in Hamilton, New Zealand. Groups of 2-8 people have sixty minutes to get immersed in the unique story, find clues, complete challenges and ultimately escape! We have indoor escape rooms, an outdoor game and an online game. Your teamwork and communication skills will be put to the test as you race against the clock. No prior knowledge or physical strength is needed for the game, just bring a mind ready for an adventure. Perfect for friends/family, kids parties, team building events, hens/stag/birthdays, school groups and more!!

We offer small group (1-11 guests) bespoke private tours of the very best of New Zealand. CTNZ is 100% New Zealand owned & operated family business. We are New Zealanders & are passionate about sharing the very best of our People, Culture, History & Land. CTNZ is an official Tourism New Zealand Certified Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service Operator, your guarantee of authentic quality adventures. We work closely with you to create a personalized itinerary so that your experience in New Zealand is based on your requests, set at your pace, time frame and on your terms, or enjoy one of our fantastic set tours. Our wonderful tours feature life enriching activities, authentic cultural interaction & our exclusive small group tours are popular with those who appreciate a unique personal experience. We offer unsurpassed value, service & flexibility with extras that only we & our partners know to make your trip even more memorable & we always have time to stop & take that picture.

The premier destination for escape rooms in Hamilton, featuring immersive rooms and puzzles. Board game hire and retails are also available on site. Coffee and a large selection of delectable foods are available to purchase. Entry fee for escape room is $35 per adults and $25 for children and students. Booking required. Daily specials and events can be found on our website.

The North Island's largest Zoo is home to over 600 native and exotic animals and set amidst 25ha of lush and tranquil surroundings

Haere mai! Welcome to Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato. Perched above the mighty Waikato River, this world-class museum and art gallery is the artistic and cultural heart of the Waikato. Visit us to experience visual stories and guided activities that bring our art, history, culture and science to life through an inspirational programme that aims to challenge and inspire you. Open daily 10am-5pm.

Taitua Arboretum is a 20-hectare (49-acre) tree collection just out of Hamilton City. The Arboretum has several lakes and a good network of walking tracks. It is a popular spot for Sunday afternoon picnics and weekend weddings.