Category Archives: Bella Vista Hamilton

Breakfast / Brunch: THE KIRK CAFE. 6 Te Aroha Street, Hamilton

Take one quick look at the Instagram grid for The Kirk Café and you’ll be straight on the phone to make a booking! The Kirk is known for its impressive presentation, serving up creative and colourful dishes that look like they belong firmly in the pages of a food magazine. Described as the ‘best little gourmet café and brunch spot in Hamilton’, The Kirk Café is open from 8.00am until 2.30pm from Monday to Saturday and opens at a leisurely  9.30am  on  Sundays  to  cater  to  the  later  risers.  With  a  welcoming  interior  and  a  gorgeous  sunny outdoor area for warm and bright mornings, The Kirk café is one of the many nice places to eat in Hamilton within walking distance from our motel, and a lovely spot to begin your day.

On the menu are options for healthy and not-so-healthy dishes. They cater to keto diets, gluten free diets and diets that are yet to begin. The sticky fried chicken eggs benedict is a popular choice—but you’ll have to get there early to lock it in. Because it’s always in hot demand and when it’s gone, it’s gone! For something lighter, there’s a delicious superfood vegan granola or eggs with your choice of sides. No matter whether you’re after sweet or savoury, The Kirk Café has something delicious to offer. Make sure you take your phone too –Instagram awaits!

Lunch: GOTHERNBURG.17 Grantham Street, Hamilton

Looking  for lunch  restaurants  in  Hamilton for  a  special  occasion,  a  birthday  surprise  or  just because  you deserve a fantastic meal with impeccable service to boot? You won’t be disappointed with Gothenburg—it’s the highest rated Hamilton restaurant on Trip advisor and the reviews are what restaurateur dreams are made of.Located in central Hamilton overlooking the Waikato River, Gothenburg has a beautiful dining room with floor  to  ceiling  windows.  Gothenburg  is  fabulous  for  dinner  too,  but  during  the  day  it  has  such  a  beautiful outlook that it’s a tier above other lunch restaurants in Hamilton.

Gothenburg  has  an  extensive  tapas  menu,  evenly  split  into  vegetable  tapas,  meat  and  poultry  tapas  and seafood tapas.There is a huge range and we can tell you now that you’re likely to have a tough time choosing! Some of the options include spicy Kim Chi and pork dumplings, a brioche crayfish roll and sundried tomato and mozzarella arancini. And if you’ve got room, the dessert and cheese menus will be the icing on the cake of your Gothenburg experience.

Dinner: PALATE.20 Alma Street, Hamilton

If you have an anniversary or a birthday coming up and you’re looking for Hamilton dinner places that offer something special, jump  on  the  Palate  website  and  make  your  booking  now.There’s  a  seven  course degustation menu with matching wines, and if you choose this experience you’ll get VIP where you can see the talented team at work.Otherwise, the a la carte menu offers two courses for $60 or three courses for $75—a very reasonable price for the outstanding quality of the dishes.

The Palate experience is all about top quality food and wine. All the staff are passionate about what they do and this becomes clear from the minute you step through the door. Palate has won multiple awards since it was established  in 2005 and  has become a bit  of a  Hamilton institution... Hamilton dinner places don’t come much better than this!

If you’re looking for great places to eat,Hamilton has plenty of options.But we know that trawling through website reviews can be tiresome. Maybe you’re looking for something for a specific budget, a special occasion or you’ve got a hankering for a delicious buffet! Whatever it is you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.

For the special occasion

Do yourself a huge favour and pay a visit to Gothenburg or Palate. You’ll experience exquisite food, beautiful views and delightful service in these Hamilton restaurants. Best to book in advance too, they’re popular and can book out on the weekends!

For the best cheap eats in Hamilton

There are lots of good contenders for the best cheap eats in Hamilton,and your preference might just depend on your preferred cuisine. But Hamilton cheap eats, we don’t think you can go past Dumpling House. It’s quick, delicious and won’t break the bank!

For the best Asian cuisine in Hamilton

If you’ve got a hankering for some Chinese food, try Sichuan Style on Collingwood Street.As with many Asian restaurants, the menu is extensive and caters well to vegetarians. Popular dishes include the pork Sichuan dumplings, steamed buns and the handmade noodles.

For the best burgers in Hamilton

Sometimes you just need a big, juicy, delicious burger to fill you up and a cold beer on the side. Burger Bro in the city is the only licensed burger joint in Hamilton and on Thursdays you’ll get both burger and a beer for just $20, offering Hamilton cheap eatsat great value for money. This little Victoria Street eatery is hard to miss—just look for the orange façade!

For the best pub meal in Hamilton

We’re lucky enough to have a Speights Ale House just ten minutes walk from our Hamilton motel, and we often send hungry guests there when they’re looking for a hearty meal and a relaxed vibe. It’s just by Waikato Stadium too, so ideal if you’re attending an event! A great choice if you want something to eat in Hamilton where you know there will be all your favourites on the menu.

For the best high tea in Hamilton

Zealong Tea Estate is in Gordonton, just outside of Hamilton, and is renowned for its high tea experiences. Gather a group together and venture out for selection of tasty treats served among out on the patio overlooking the gardens. And if you’re a tea fan, you can even take a tea tour while you’re out there.

For the best takeaways in Hamilton

If you’re looking for the fastest and best cheap eats in Hamilton that you can take away to enjoy, look no further than Oxford Takeaways.The fresh is fish, the chips crisp and salty and the meal packs are great value if you have a family to feed.

Hiking is incredibly popular here in New Zealand, and we often have visitors staying at our Hamilton motel who make it their mission to complete at least one hike in every city or town they visit. While our city is relatively flat, we’ve got plenty of great hikes to try out in the hills and countryside that surrounds. Here, we’ve rounded up the top five best hikes near Hamilton based on popularity, accessibility and reviews from our guests.

Hakarimata Summit Track

This hike kicks off in the outskirts of Ngaruawahia, about 25 minutes away from our Hamilton motel.While the Department of Conservation calls it an ‘easy’ track, it’s worth keeping in mind that the summit is 335 metres high and there are 1349 steps to climb. But if you’ve got a moderate level of fitness and are keen to try out hikes around Hamilton, please don’t let the steps put you off! Rumour has it that some people even run the track for fun. When you reach the top after about one and a half to two hours, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views across the Waikato Basin and all the way down to Mt Ruapehu on a clear day.The Hakarimata Summit Track is a must if you’ve got a few hours spare and are after cheap things to do in Hamilton.

Nikau Walk, Kaniwhaniwha

The Nikau walk can be found near the small township of Pirongia. From our Hamilton motel, you’ll drive for half an hour on State Highway 3 and then Te Pahi Road until you reach the Pirongia Forest Park / Kaniwhaniwha Reserve. The Nikau Track is a three-hour return walk and there are lots of highlights to enjoy. It’s a great choice for hikes around Hamilton that come with a side of adventure—the Kaniwhaniwha Caves are located near the start of the Bell Track, 5 minutes from the junction with the Nikau Walk, so take a torch and explore them while you’re here. On your seven-kilometre walk, you’ll follow a trickling stream around a loop surrounded by lush green with nikau palms, ferns and plenty of bird life.

Wairere Falls, Okauia

It’s a bit of a drive out to Okauia—just under an hour to be exact—but it’s worth the trip if you love a good waterfall! Wairere Falls is actually thehighest waterfall in the North Island, sitting at 153 metres high. The walk to the viewing platform at the base of the falls take around an hour and a half, but it’s a lovely walk through the cool bush and over little wooden bridges. If you’ve still got energy when you arrive at the base, you can spend another 30-45 minutes climbing to the top of the falls which will give you epic views over the valley and the Waikato Plains.

Hamilton Lake Domain

Ok, so it doesn’t strictly fall under the best hikes near Hamilton, but Hamilton Lake Domain is still a great place for a long, leisurely walk in the fresh air. It’s perfect if you have kids, a pram or require a smooth and flat surface for wheelchair access. The path around Hamilton Lake Domain is almost four kilometers long and you’ll enjoy watching the bird life in the area including ducks, Pukeko and geese. If you’re there are the right time, you might even be lucky enough to see little ducklings or goslings on the lake.Cheap things to do in Hamilton don’t come much better than this!

If you are travelling to New Zealand or are a resident Kiwi, there is a good chance you're already aware that New Zealand motels offer a great option for your overnight accommodation needs.

With 27 motels nationwide, Bella Vista is well placed to cater for anyone requiring a motel stay. They are affordable, comfortable and convenient plus in most instances, you will get a better feel for your locality. Whether you stay at Bella Vista Oamaru, Bella Vista Hamilton or Bella Vista Queenstown you will enjoy the hospitality of your Bella Vista host and be assured that each motel is Qualmark endorsed.

Unlike hotels, motels in New Zealand are not big complexes, will not have an on-site restaurant, swimming pool, lobby area, nor different staff for each department. But then you don't have to pay for these extras either! By comparison, Bella Vista Motels will have a welcoming reception area, a convenient carpark, some public spaces such as a garden or BBQ area and guest units within a secure courtyard. 

As Bella Vista's are managed by the owners/operator, you will certainly enjoy Bella Vista's genuine kiwi hospitality; a laid back and down to earth style and attitude.

Up to this point, if you have now decided to make a reservation with Bella Vista Accommodation Nationwide, here are 10 light-hearted tips you really should know before you arrive at the motel

1. There's no slippers

Yep. So there it is. We thought we'd get this out of the way first. Bella Vista nor New Zealand motels in general offer complimentary slippers. We understand you're disappointed so do make sure you pack your own.

2. Bella Vista motels are two storeys tall and do not have an elevator

Requests cannot always be guaranteed, but if you'd prefer to be on the ground floor please make sure you book with the motel and place your request directly rather than via a booking websites.
 

3. Please don't dry your clothes on the heater

Be very careful as it will create a significant safety risk. Covering a heater can cause fire.

4. Leave your luggage in the car

On your arrival, relax and leave your belongings in your car. Save your time and energy so that you only have to carry your luggage once, from your car to your room, after you have checked in.

5. Bella Vista Motel reception is not open 24/7

Bella Vista owner operators live on-site and do go to bed at night. They need their rest to ensure they can be bright and look after you during the day. So if you are going to check-in later than the advertised office hours, please make sure you let your host know.

6. Check-out time is 10 o'clock

For Bella Vista and most motels in New Zealand, check-out time is 10am. You can request a late-check out from your host which may be available.

7. Drying Dishes

In New Zealand we dry the dishes with a tea towel after being washed and then put them back in the cupboard. Just a friendly request not to put wet dishes back in the cupboard!

8. Enjoy an electric blanket

Electric blankets are terrific inventions and it seems that many hotels don't even know they exist. They are particularly useful in winter. Simply turn it on at least an hour before go to bed to get your bed warm and then turn it off once you're in bed before you sleep.

9. Make your own breakfast

Every Bella Vista room features a kettle and toaster, complimentary tea, coffee and milk. So feel free to add some extras and put together a half-decent breakfast before you leave.

10.  Be Aware of the T&C's

Terms and Conditions sound so tedious but they are there for a reason. So it is important that you understand them once you have completed your booking. Look specifically for cancellation and amendment policies so you can be sure your booking won't become problematic. 

With these tips now safely stored, head to www.bellavista.co.nz and book your next stay.

Today, Wednesday 7th February is global #bookdirect day. It’s the one day in the calendar year where the hospitality industry including the 27 nationwide Bella Vista Motels would like to remind our valuable customers that you can Book Direct with Bella Vista New Zealand and that you don’t have to book via an Online Travel Agent.

But why Book Direct we hear you cry. Well here’s a few reasons:

1. The Best Price.

Don’t always believe what you read and hear! You will always get a better price booking with your host. It costs them less to receive your booking over the phone, on the Bella Vista website or by email as they don’t have to pay agent commission  - so ignore those annoying adverts and visit www.bellavista.co.nz or dial our Freephone reservation number 0800 235 528. Quite often you might even receive a special offer.

2. Flexibility.

Enjoy the most favourable booking conditions with no hassle of having to work through a faceless intermediary. Phone your host and they are going to be more than happy to assist every single time. Surely that has to be better than contacting an offshore call centre and finding out no one really wants to help you amend your booking.

3.  Local Knowledge.

Whilst making your reservation, your host will answer all your questions about your stay without hesitation and no doubt offer some friendly advice at the same time. Take your time to pick their brains to make the most of your visit.

4.  Secure your favourite room.

By booking direct and talking to your host, you can request your preferred room. Whether it’s a garden view, an upstairs or downstairs studio, make your request and fingers crossed the room is available.  This simply isn’t possible to do with an online travel agent.

5. Help is at hand!

Have you ever had a booking with an online travel agent go wrong? Let’s just say the booking engine has a failed and you have booked a room that you think is available when in actual fact it isn’t. It’s not your fault. It’s not the motel or hotels fault but you’re the one left to pick up the pieces. If you want to avoid this disastrous scenario, book direct every time.

6. Book Now, Pay Later.

Secure your booking and pay when you arrive. That’s always going help with the holiday cash-flow

7. Earn Bella Vista Rewards.

Only customers who Book Direct are entitled to collect Bella Vista Rewards. If you Book Direct you will earn 5 points every time you stay which can be saved and then cashed in against a future stay. So booking direct is not only cheaper but we give you something back – how good is that!*  *available at participating Bella Vista's only

8. Support the New Zealand economy!

Every time you book via one of these monolithic online travel agents, your money is leaving the country and only a small portion gets returned to your host when you stay. It may be you don’t care whether the government is able to capture it’s GST slice,  but why should other countries profit either.

9. Put a smile on your hosts faces.

There is nothing your host will like more than a booking that has come directly to them. You making them happy will in turn increase the likelihood of them making your stay even better!

10. Free Continental Breakfast.

If you Book Direct on the Bella Vista website today, Wednesday 7th February, we’re going to give you a free breakfast when you stay. Just as a little way of saying thanks.

So whether it’s Bella Vista Queenstown you’re heading to, Bella Vista Hamilton, Bella Vista Franz Josef Glacier or Bella Vista Christchurch here are your Book Direct options:

• ­   Visit www.bellavista.co.nz
• ­   Call 0800 235 528
• ­   Email [email protected]

#bookdirect   #trustbellavista

In the modern digital age, every person travelling with a smartphone, iPad or other device has the opportunity to both read and post reviews and ratings on their overnight experience.

Whether they choose to leave their thoughts and opinions on Trip Advisor, Google, or a booking agent’s website, this very public feedback has guaranteed that New Zealand accommodation standards must remain high and guest expectations are met every time.

The evolution of user-centric feedback is an overwhelmingly positive development for the travel and tourism industry and ensures the general public can be fully informed about their purchasing decision by peers rather than by some clever marketing words or sales pitch. It’s the way things should be.

The digital feedback revolution is something that the Bella Vista Accommodation network fully supports. All positive feedback allows our terrific motel operators to take comfort that they are delivering a great experience. Of course, no motelier wants to receive a poor review but when that does occasionally occur, more often than not, it’s an easy fix and we are able to improve our offer.

One critical point that the customer seems to miss when using peer-to-peer reviews, however, is that these ratings are really only scratching the surface and are simply a superficial overview. Important questions that all New Zealand motels should be able to answer often get left unasked. Those question should include:

• How robust are your health and safety policies and practices?
• What does your businesses environmental footprint look like?
• Do you engage and give back to your local community ?
• Do you have an emergency plan to ensure I can rely on you in the unlikely event of a natural disaster?
• What do your cleaning schedules and systems look like and do they meet not just international standards by my standards?

This is where Quality really comes into the equation of deciding where you want to stay. In Bella Vista’s opinion, only accommodation operators who have been audited by a recognisable external and independent organisation can really promote their accommodation business with any kind of credible quality or star rating.

Bella Vista works closely with Qualmark, New Zealand’s official quality assurance
organisation who provide a trusted guide to quality travel experiences in New Zealand.  Qualmark's business advisors visit Bella Vista motels at least once a year ensuring we
are checked against best- practise operating standards and the optimum customer
experience delivery.

From 4 Star rated Bella Vista Queenstown in the south to 4.5 Star rated Bella Vista Whangarei in the north, Bella Vista takes pride in the fact that we are the only motel chain in New Zealand that is Qualmark endorsed across each of our 27 comfortable and convenient locations.

#trustbellavista

Who’s planning to get away this spring or summer?  A weekend break or maybe that long awaited and talked about road trip around New Zealand!  Our Bella Vista Motel accommodation will be the perfect match for your spring break or summer vacation. Check out these reasons why staying with Bella Vista is a great choice.

With over 27 locations nationwide Bella Vista has welcomed visitors from right across New Zealand and the world. Whilst Bella Vista has been open for business, we have established a strong reputation for convenience and quality becoming a preferred choice enabling tourists to visit New Zealand’s beautiful scenic locations and by offering a quality overnight stop along the way. Be reassured by the familiarity and consistency of our distinctive design and quality of service! Trust Bella Vista because you know what to expect - it's like a home away from home.

The geographic spread of the Bella Vista chain throughout New Zealand ensures that not only do most major towns and cities feature Bella Vista motels, such as Bella Vista Wellington, New Plymouth or Bella Vista Christchurch but so do popular tourist destinations such as Bella Vista Franz Josef and Bella Vista Queenstown. Even locations which you wouldn't necessarily consider first time as a destination offer a great overnight option such as Bella Vista Mosgiel, Palmerston North Bella Vista or Ashburton Bella Vista.  All our motels are conveniently placed in central locations, close to local amenities, and with free car parking on-site for all guests making it easy to unpack for your stay and come and go as you please to explore the local attractions.

Each property has a choice of several room types to suit your needs or budget, from singles, couples and families.  All rooms come equipped with kitchenette, ensuite bathrooms, television with a range of channels and free wifi.  Most of our motels also have a BBQ area for you to crank that summer sausage sizzle and relax into the summer evenings with a well-deserved glass of wine. 

Your friendly Kiwi hosts live on-site offering a safe and secure accommodation option and peace of mind. All Bella Vista motels also offer additional services like guest laundry, continental breakfast and luggage storage. A travel booking service is available and your hosts can offer local knowledge and tips to make your stay more enjoyable. Your hosts will happily book your onward journey to ensure you can stay at your preferred New Zealand accommodation option. 

What is certain is if you have stayed at every 27 Bella Vista’s or even just a small handful - whether it is for accommodation in Hamilton, Napier accommodation or accommodation in Fox Glacier to name just three destinations, you are going to experience a four star Qualmark endorsed level of comfort and be entertained by some of New Zealand’s very best hosts.

Having flexibility with your accommodation reservation process can also make your travel planning for this summer a lot less stressful.   A tempting option when booking on the Bella Vista website is the convenience of our Book Now, Pay Later offers, which allows you to make your booking and only pay when you arrive at your motel.  Another good deal when booking direct is our Best Price Guarantee deal. Refer to our Best Price Guarantee page to find out more and how to take advantage of this offer only available at bellavista.co.nz.
 

At Bella Vista we understand how to meet our customers’ expectations every day, are proud to offer a high-quality standard of accommodation, facilities and service at competitive pricing and delighted to provide genuine kiwi hospitality at every one of our 27 motels nationwide. 

So book now at www.bellavista.co.nz and get your spring and summer off to a cracking start.

Spring has arrived and there is a buzz in the air. From the twittering of the birds to longer daylight hours it's a terrific time of year.  And it’s always exciting when the daffodils come into flower to brighten up our days!

Spring is a time of rejuvenation, to brush off those winter cobwebs and excite the senses with the sounds and sights that springtime offers. It’s also a great time to get away before the crowds of the high summer season.  With 27 locations, the Bella Vista accommodation network are all conveniently placed close to local amenities and attractions, have rooms to suit couples and families, and include free car parking and free wifi. 

So, pack your suitcase and discover and experience some of these destinations that are perfect for your spring break.

Spring Skiing in Wanaka

Wanaka in spring is wonderful, from the sparkling lake to the glistening snow there is so much on offer to explore. With longer days and more settled weather, you can also enjoy it at a more relaxed pace as spring is generally a quieter time.   

Spring skiing is Wanaka’s best-kept secret.  The slopes are quieter, the lift queues shorter and you may even get to ski in a t-shirt!  Check out Cardrona Ski Field as it also extends its last chair till 5pm. Combine this with the many biking or walking trails, 4x4 farm adventures, scenic flights, indoor rock climbing, activities on the lake, jet boating on beautiful rivers, picnics at fantastic parks, whiling away your time drinking coffee or eating ice-cream along the llakefrontor by indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment at the luxurious Sanctuary Day Spa.

Bella Vista Wanaka is located just 150 metres from the lakefront and is a great Wanaka accommodation option just a one-minute walk to shops, restaurants, galleries and wine bars - you couldn't ask for a better location and your hosts will gladly offer local advice and help you organise any of the many attractions.

The nesting of the Gannets in Napier

The Hawkes Bay is an area that embraces spring with its many blooms and delightful spring festivals. Our Bella Vista motel in Napier, is in a central CBD location, opposite the RSA Napier, four minutes' walk from town and only a matter of metres away is Marine Parade which fronts onto a sweeping stretch of the Pacific Ocean. From your Bella Vista accommodation, you can stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the playgrounds, aquarium, hot pools, coffee stops and a great little ice cream shop.  The Marine Parade is a show of colour in spring with many blooming spring flowers bringing the promenade to life during this time of year. The Marina Parade Garden, the Sound Shell flower beds and Sunken Garden all add a rich array of colour that are lovely to walk around and delight in. 

Spring in New Zealand is also ‘waterfall season’ - a time to get out and explore our local waterfalls at their peak.  Shine Falls, located about an hour’s drive from Napier, are stunning; up with the best in NZ and are a great day out.  Pack a picnic lunch as it’s a 35 – 40 minute walk in to the falls across farmland and bush. Bring your togs and towel if the weather is favourable.

Of course, Hawkes Bay is also famed for its many vineyards and with its warmer climate many hours can be spent in the wineries wine tasting and dining on the regions fresh produce.  But another attraction not to be missed in spring is a trip out to Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony - the world's largest, most accessible Gannet nesting place.  The season opens in spring with the birds returning from their winter escape to build their nests ready for the arrival of their chicks during December and January.  Trips can be taken by 4WD adventure tour, helicopter safari, tractor and trailer along the beach or you can check out the tide times and do the 10km hike yourself.  It’s a chance to get within a few feet of the colony at top of the Cape’s sheer and barren cliffs.

Talk to your friendly hosts at your Bella Vista Motel Napier and they will provide you with some great tips to ensure you enjoy your day out.

Hamilton in Bloom

Within 2 hours drive of Auckland is the city of Hamilton, renowned for its gardens, cafes, Maori culture, walks, nightlife and sporting events.  It’s located on the banks of the mighty Waikato River and the Bella Vista Hamilton is a great base to explore springtime Hamilton and the wider Waikato region.  There are several walking tracks and cycle trails to explore or try one of the many activities on the river from fishing to boat cruises or kayaking.  Just remember to pack a raincoat in case of the odd spring shower!

Spring is always a wonderful time to visit gardens and Hamilton Gardens is among the best in the world with an abundance of colour, birdlife and butterflies. You will be guided on a journey of discovery as you explore over 20 themed gardens from the Italian Renaissance Garden to the grandeur of the Indian Char Bagh (‘four quartered’) Garden.

If you are a Tolkien fan then a visit to the Hobbiton Film Set is glorious in spring with its lush pastures of the Shire and the enchanting bluebells and Middle-earth gardens which are in full flower.  Only 45 minutes away if you want to self-drive or you can book a tour package including return trip from you Bella Vista Hamilton accommodation.

10 minutes north of Hamilton is the Zealong Tea Estate is New Zealand’s only tea plantation and home to the world’s purest tea. A guided tour is a fantastic option if you want to experience tea picking, tasting, a tea ceremony or their famous signature high tea.

Waterfalls are scattered throughout the region, from the spectacular 55m high Bridal Veil Falls near Raglan to the Wairere Falls, the highest waterfall in the North Island, near Matamata.  These hidden gems are well worth the visit in spring. 

As far as accommodation in Hamilton or Hamilton motels specifically, Bella Vista will meet your every need. The motel offers a great selection of rooms set within a secure courtyard with ample car-parking and free WiFi. Li and Rowena will offer you a warm Waikato welcome and be happy to host you.

Wherever you decide to go to get away this spring, Bella Vista has got 27 excellent placed motels offering plenty to see and do!

A few weeks back Bella Vista Hamilton was full to capacity, with the city’s annual Balloons Over Waikato festival in town. There was a real buzz around the place and the event received glowing reviews.

This, however, is not the only event that comes to Hamilton, the region plays host to many exciting festivals and events, and this city sure knows how to do it right. Having established itself as one of the big players when it comes to putting on successful occasions, Hamilton’s welcoming feel along with effective infrastructure ensures everything runs smoothly and to plan. On top of that the local Hamiltonians embrace each and every event with enthusiasm, decorating streets, shop window displays, street parades and fireworks – and that’s all part of the Hamilton magic!

We’ve put together an overview of some of the many festivals and events the Waikato region offers, take a read and see if any take your fancy! And remember to book your accommodation early with Hamilton Bella Vista.

Balloons Over Waikato

For the last 18 years Hamilton has played host to one of New Zealand’s largest free events. Balloonists come from near and far to be a part of this the pinnacle of their sport, and the public get something very special in return. If you’re looking for ‘wow factor’ then this festival is for you. It’s a sight to behold when you see balloons en mass of varying colours and sizes floating graciously across the sky.

Balloons Over Waikato includes a series of events including a mass ascension, a school hop, balloon rides, games, competitions and a very special night-glow flight. Mark this one on your calendar for next year as accommodation books out quickly.

NZ National Agricultural Fieldays: 14 – 17 June 2017

Now this one’s a biggie! With over 1,000 exhibitors and 2017 visitor predictions being in excess of 130,000, Mystery Creek in Hamilton transforms itself into a mecca for farmers and non-farmers alike.

This event, which started with humble beginnings in 1968 by a handful of passionate locals, has evolved into the exceptional occasion it is today. It’s appeal spreads far and wide, allowing those involved with farming and agriculture to view the latest in innovation, technological advancements, machinery, farming products and various agricultural displays. All the way through to an industry careers and education hub, a No8 wire art competition, Rural Bachelor of the Year, exceptional food, activities for kids and even the legendary tractor pull. It’s a fun-filled day (or few days) out, and an annual highlight for many people. Come farmers, come city dwellers – you’ll all find something you love here.

Hamilton Sporting Events

There’s no denying it Hamilton lives, breathes and dreams sports, there’s something in the water. So if you’re heading to town for a sporting occasion, prepare yourself for one heck of a good time.

Hamilton has firmly established itself on the international cricket calendar with Seddon Park hosting International Tests, One Day Internationals, 20/20 matches and Northern Districts home games each season.  With its relaxed and family friendly vibe, this ground has become a firm favourite for both teams and fans. Hamilton turns absolutely cricket mad with each and every match, so if there’s one match of the season you don’t want to miss, it’s the one at Seddon Park.

Come the winter months and you’ll find the Waikato region comes alive when their big guns come out to play.

The Chiefs (formally known as the Waikato Chiefs) have created a fortress at FMG Stadium Waikato for their Super Rugby matches, with fan zones, cowbells, staunch supporters and deafening Chief chants. With this team having won a handful of titles over the last few years, combined with their humble nature the team has gained a faithful following. The buzz of experiencing a Chiefs home game really is something else, and with Hamilton Bella Vista accommodation literally a stone's throw from the stadium, you only need to pick your date and come and be a part of the action.
 

The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic is the region’s top netball team.  With both titles and talent a plenty, this team fills stadiums and has an extremely loyal fan base. The fans are loud, completely one eyed (in a good way) and travel from near and far to support their girls.  Home games are held at Claudelands Arena and are always guaranteed to be played at 110%.

Other sporting events the region hosts in 2017 include, The Maadi Cup, Rugby League World Cup Matches, a Vodafone Warriors match, 5 Bridges River Swim and the annual half marathon.

?Kawhia Kai Festival

When Lonely Planet calls something a ‘must see’ you know it’s something pretty special. Located about a 1hr 15 minutes drive from Hamilton, the festival is held on the Kawhia foreshore. It proudly showcases traditional Maori kai (food), which has been lovingly gathered from the surrounding land and sea.

You’ll also have the opportunity to view local artists at work and learn the history, spiritual meaning and beliefs behind the traditional Maori arts and crafts, including flax weaving, woodcarving and more.

There are of course so many events that Hamilton hosts - concerts, the wedding expo, Great NZ Food Show, comedy events, plus much more. Attending a show, event or festival makes for a fun weekend away, so start thinking about making your next trip a Waikato based event or festival.

The friendly team at Bella Vista Motel Hamilton will make sure you have a warm and comfortable place to lay your head at the end of the day, plus provide unlimited free WIFI, parking at your door and a range of accommodation options to choose from. Give Lee and Rowena a call today on 0800 235 528 and book in your next stay.

With a handy location of only 1 hr 35 minutes from downtown Auckland, and a short 80 minutes from Auckland Airport and Rotorua, it’s obvious to see why a growing number of visitors are adding Hamilton as a stopover to their journey, or spending a weekend away.

Hamilton is not just a convenient stopover, it can more than hold it’s own with the big boys when it comes to things to see and do.  It’s a city rich in history, with the heart and soul being the mighty Waikato River flowing through the central city.

For those with a little more time on their hands, Hamilton will not disappoint. With an abundance of museums, recreational parks and sports grounds, there’s always something going on.  Team this up with the friendly Hamiltonians and you’re well on your way to a great stay.

During a recent visit we got talking to a couple of locals – they gave us the run down on some great places to visit if you have a bit of time to explore:

• Hamilton Gardens: With a multitude of awards under its belt, Hamilton Gardens offers something pretty special. A conceptual garden Hamilton Gardens explores the context, history and meaning of gardens through time, and from around the world. The gardens are internationally recognised for their unique concept and is the Waikato’s most visited tourist destination. From Indian Char Bagh, Italian Renaissance, Modernist to Tudor – there are over 20 gardens to view and you’ll be mesmerized by what you see.

• Waikato River Explorer: When in Hamilton the river is not to be missed! Enjoy a relaxing scenic boat cruise with spectacular views of Hamilton City. A river cruise allows you to sit back and take in the wonderful natural attraction that flows through the Waikato region.  Whether it is a wine tasting trip, lunch at a country cafe or just Hamilton from a different perspective, this is a fabulous choice.

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• Hamilton Zoo: Fun for all ages, Hamilton Zoo is home to over 600 native and exotic animals and set amidst 25 hectares of lush surroundings. Take a stroll around New Zealand’s largest walk-in aviary dedicated to native birds and plants - it truly is something special.  While you’re there visit giraffes, zebras, chimpanzees, red pandas, lemurs and Sumatran tigers.
                                                 
• Zealong Tea: New Zealand's only tea plantation provides a variety of activities, including guided tours, a teahouse, and visitor centre. Located only 10 minutes north of Hamilton, it’s a great option for tea and non-drinkers alike. Don’t forget to try their signature high tea!
   
• Finally, some options for those who want to venture further afield. The surrounding area of Hamilton and the wider Waikato region offers some pretty special places: Hobbiton, Raglan Beach, Waitomo Caves and Lake Karipiro, to name a few. These are all easily accessible and will surely add something extra special to your stay.

When it comes to finding your Hamilton accommodation, Bella Vista Motel Hamilton is your ideal choice. Its central location is only minutes by foot to the city centre, Waikato Stadium and Claudelands Events Centre and it offers ample secure onsite parking.  With 18 superior self contained units there’s one with your name on it. New operators Li & Rowena look forward to seeing you and will ensure you have a wonderful stay!