Hobbiton™ Movie Set tours
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
A North Island escape is closer than you think
Fly direct from Christchurch to Hamilton and arrive closer to the heart of the North Island.
With multiple direct Christchurch to Hamilton flights every day with Air New Zealand and Jetstar, getting here is easy. Fast, convenient jet services put Hamilton, the Waikato and some of the Central North Island's best-known experiences within easy reach.
Make time for Hamilton
Don't rush off just yet! Hamilton is worth a stop of its own.
Explore the internationally acclaimed Hamilton Gardens, follow the Waikato River paths, discover great places to eat and drink, or head out to Zealong Tea Estate.
Ancient Egyptian Garden - Hamilton Gardens
48 hours in the Waikato
Two days. Plenty to discover.
Day one
Morning - fly direct from Christchurch to Hamilton, pick up your rental car at the airport and head into the city.
Lunch - explore Hamilton Gardens.
Afternoon - head to Hobbiton Movie Set™ for a tour.
Evening - back to Hamilton for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day two
Morning - drive south to Waitomo and explore the caves.
Afternoon - stop at Otorohanga Kiwi House on the way back towards Hamilton.
Then - head back to Hamilton Airport for your flight home.
Or do the Waikato your way ...
Outdoor escapes
Walk, cycle, paddle or explore the Waikato's rivers, mountains and native forest.
Foodie weekends
Local flavours, farmers' markets, great restaurants and Zealong Tea Estate.
Family adventures
Meet a kiwi, explore the caves, discover Hamilton Gardens or head for Hobbiton.™
Couples' escape
Boutique stays, gardens, good food and a road trip without the long haul.
High tea at Zealong Tea Estate
Caves, kiwis or hobbit holes?
From underground adventures to world-famous movie magic, there's plenty within easy reach of Hamiton.
Highlights of the Waikato
From world-famous attractions to wildlife, food, gardens and the coast, there's plenty to discover within easy reach of Hamilton Airport.
Hobbiton™ Movie Set: step into middle-Earth and explore the famous movie set. Approx. 45 mins from Hamilton Airport.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: explore spectacular caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms. Approx.1 hour from Hamilton Airport.
Hamilton Gardens: explore extraordinary garden spaces inspired by cultures from around the world. Approx. 15 mins from Hamilton Airport.
Ōtorohanga Kiwi House: get close to New Zealand's iconic native bird and other wildlife. Approx. 35 minutes from Hamilton Airport.
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari: walk among native wildlife and explore the ancient forest. Approx. 50 minutes from Hamilton Airport.
Zealong Tea Estate: take your time at Zealong and enjoy tea, food and beautiful views at New Zealand's only commercial tea estate. Approx. 30 minutes from Hamilton Airport.
Waikato River / Te Awa: walk or cycle beside New Zealand's longest river and explore the Te Awa River Ride.
Hamilton food & dining: eat your way around Hamilton and discover cafes, restaurants, bars and local flavours across the city. Approx. 15 minutes to Central Hamilton.
Raglan: escape to Raglan for black-sand beaches, surf, coast walks and a laid-back seaside town. Approx. 45 minutes from Hamilton Airport.
Need a little more trip inspiration?
Hamilton & Waikato Tourism has pletny of ready-made itineraries to help you plan your stay, from a four-day Waikato road trip to foodie escapes, gardens, galleries and weekend adventures.
Explore Waikato itineraries:
4-day Waikato road trip
3-day foodie trip
Weekend in the Waikato: gardens & galleries trip.
Planning the practical stuff? Find places to stay, getting-around information and more tips for your visit - Plan your trip
Christchurch to Hamilton FAQs
Are there direct Christchurch to Hamilton flights?Yes, Jetstar and Air New Zealand operate direct flights from Christchurch to Hamilton Airport, with multiple services available each day.
How long is the flight from Christchurch to Hamilton?Direct jet flights from Christchurch to Hamilton take around 1 hour, 20 minutes.
Which airlines fly Christchurch to Hamilton?Jetstar and Air New Zealand operate direct flights between Christchurch and Hamilton.
Can I hire a rental car at Hamilton Airport?Yes. Rental car companies operate from Hamilton Airport, making it easy to pick up a car when you arrive and explore Hamilton, the Waikato and the wider Central North Island. You can visit our Transport page for options.
How far is Waitomo from Hamilton Airport?Waitomo is around a one-hour drive from Hamilton Airport, with rental cars available at the airport for your onward journey.
Is Hamilton Airport a good airport for exploring the Central North Island?Yes. Hamilton Airport provides easy road access to Hamilton and the wider Central North Island, including Hobbiton™, Waitomo, Rotorua and Taupō.
What can I do on a weekend in the Waikato? A two-day Waikato break can combine Hamilton Gardens, Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Caves and Zealong Tea Estate, with plenty of places to eat, stay and explore along the way.
