Waikato Transport

Transport options in Waikato

Waikato's central location makes travelling easy. Two state highways and the North island main railway line run right through the region. Around Hamilton, taxis and public transport can take you to the city's attractions. To explore the wider region, you'll want a rental car or motorhome - biking is also an option, if you're not in any hurry.

Getting to and from Waikato

By Air:
Hamilton airport is located in the central Waikato, just 15 kilometres south of Hamilton city centre (15 minutes). International carriers (Freedom Air) have regular flights to/from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Gold Coast and Fiji. In addition, the airport provides direct daily flights to/from major New Zealand cities. Facilities at the airport include a duty free store, licensed café and bar, souvenir shop and rental car desks.

By Road:
State highways 1 and 3 run through Waikato. The region is also part of the Great New Zealand Touring Route and Thermal Explorer Highway.
Several major coach operators connect Hamilton to other North Island destinations.

By Rail:
The region is on the main trunk line. The Overlander and the Northerner, which run between Auckland and Wellington, arrive daily.

Getting around Waikato

Driving around the region couldn't be easier - the roads are well maintained and uncongested. Rental car and campervan agencies will organise pick ups and drop offs to suit your itinerary.
Taxi services are available in Hamilton city and some of the local towns.
In Hamilton, local bus services can take you to major attractions in the city and suburbs. The Hamilton Transport Centre provides the base for many of these services.

There are also regular bus services to and from the towns around the region.