Waikato Day Tripper
A travel blog about slow travel in New Zealand. In particular, the Waikato region, the green heartland of New Zealand’s North Island. Written by a local.
Kia ora and welcome, friend. You’ve come a long way to get here. Take your time and connect with the real New Zealand.
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About me
Hi, I’m Alice. I’m the writer of this blog about slow travel in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand.
There are so many great places to explore here. Lakes, rivers, eco-sanctuaries, gardens, caves, waterfalls and more. I’m sure you’ll find plenty to inspire you.
The Waikato has been my home for nearly 20 years, and I’m looking forward to sharing it with you.
I especially love the kind of journey that lets me venture out for the day and sleep in a comfortable bed at night.
I enjoy day trips, easy bike rides, walking in nature, thermal pools, gardens and local food. And playing music with my friends on the river bank on a summer afternoon.

Start reading here…

Return to Hobbiton
In which two old hobbits discover whether Hobbiton is worth visiting.

Welcome to jet lag
Jet lag is pretty much guaranteed when you arrive in New Zealand. Here’s how to stop it ruining the beginning of your holiday.

Gardens of surprise
What’s to see at Hamilton Gardens? Check out some of my favourite places.
Latest posts on the Waikato Day Tripper
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Eight great ways to experience the Waikato River
The Waikato River is the biggest, most unmissable feature of this part of New Zealand. It’s the longest river in the country, running for 425km through the North Island. In this post I’m sharing eight great ways to experience the Waikato River, for folks who enjoy slow travel. The Waikato flows through Hamilton, the city…
