The coal town of Huntly makes an interesting stop between Auckland and Hamilton. The area's mining history is on display at the local museum.
Huntly is the site of a massive coal-fired power station. It is also a major source of coal – the open cast coal mine produces around 10,000 tonnes a day.
Coal was first discovered here in 1842 by a local reverend. In the 1860s, one of the seams was opened up to provide coal for the river boats using the Waikato River. At the town’s coalfields museum you can learn about the history of mining in the region, including the inevitable disasters.
There are several farm stays in the area along with several great walking trails including the Hakarimata Walkway, which features kauri trees, streams and waterfalls. It has become known as a fitness challenge because of the 'never-ending stairway' which reaches to the summit.
Located on the banks of the Waikato River, Essex Arms features a bar, a restaurant and a 24-hour front desk. It offers rooms with a flat-screen TV and satellite channels. Free parking is available on site.Essex Arms Huntly is 5 minutes’ drive from Lake Hakanoa and Huntly College. Lake Waahi is a 10-minute drive, and Auckland is a 1-hour drive away. The Inter... (more)
15 tent sites, 42 power sites, 4 onsite caravans, 3 cabins. On the shores of Lake Hakanoa, 80km south of Auckland International Airport, 30km north of Hamilton on State Highway 1. Park amenities include: communal kitchen and fridge, dining room, laundry, toilet/shower facilities, coach/boat/truck park. Pets by arrangement. Dump station. Adjacent to heated co... (more)
Manor Views New Zealand offers 4.5-star self-contained suites, only 5 minutes’ walk from Huntly town centre. Many rooms have a double spa bath and most offer views of Lake Hakanoa and Lake Waahi.Each room features heating, ceiling fans and satellite TV. There is a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities in all rooms. Most rooms feature a kitchenette. S... (more)
Historic Mercer Hotel Backpackers is at Mercer Airport on Koheroa Rd between SH 1 at Mercer and SH 2 at Mangatawhiri.
Relocated 15 years ago and completely refurbished in 2013, it accommodates 28 people across 9 rooms.
So if you like the roar of aeroplanes in a rural setting, this is the stop for you. Tariff: $30pp per night.
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Located on the banks of the Waikato River, North End Motel offers fully self-contained accommodation and features an outdoor swimming pool, BBQ facilities and a children’s playground with a trampoline.All apartments have a kitchen with a microwave, a refrigerator, a toaster and an electric kettle. Each room has electric blankets and a private en suite bathro... (more)
Opened Oct 2007. Situated just 2 minutes off the Southern Motorway at the base of the Bombay Hills. Ideal stopover before or after you negotiate the traffic of Auckland City. Ideal for working in the Franklin, Hauraki and Northern Waikato Districts. Only 45 minutes to/from Auckland Airport. Base your accommodation here when attending Hampton Downs, Meremere ... (more)
Welcome to Port Waikato Holiday Park, a hidden gem on the west coast, only 1 hour from Auckland city & airport. Port Waikato Holiday Park is a fantastic place to stay while exploring the surrounding area. The park is situated only 900 metres from beautiful Sunset beach, a 4-minute walk to the sand dunes and Waikato river estuary. Excellent fishing can be had... (more)
Built in 1875 and beautifully restored, Tuakau Hotel features a restaurant, a bar and a gaming lounge. Guests here enjoy 50MB of free Wi-FiEach air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV, an iPod dock, a refrigerator and an electric kettle. The private bathroom has a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some rooms have a relaxing spa bath.After a busy day, gue... (more)
New Zealand's own National Bluegrass Festival, Kiwigrass is back for 2021. All of the best New Zealand bluegrass bands will gather for a weekend of celebrating the music pioneered by Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, and Lester ... more
New Zealand's own National Bluegrass Festival, Kiwigrass is back for 2021. All of the best New Zealand bluegrass bands will gather for a weekend of celebrating the music pioneered by Bill Monroe, Earl Scruggs, and Lester ... more
