Hamilton
Hamilton, or “Kirikiriroa” in Maori has always been in the shadow of the huge Auckland city just north of Hamilton.But with unique events like the Balloons Over Waikato, a 5-day event held in autumn where hot air balloons of all shapes parade over the city, Hamilton is hard to miss.The Waikato River runs through the city and the region. Believed to be the source of mana, it was revered by the Maori tribes of the area. You can walk along the mighty river on a marked 11km walkway in Hamilton city centre. There are many entry points to the Riverside Walkway, which can be walked or cycled, taking you through a mix of bush and residential areas.