Places to see in Waikato and the King Country

Waikato with its fertile soils and lush greenery is one of the richest agricultural areas of New Zealand. Waikato is the fourth largest region of New Zealand, covering an area of 24,378 square kilometers. Waikato is located to the Central North Island. The King Country is a thinly populated area consisting of small townships, to the west of North Islands. It is a hill country, that also includes Rangitoto and Hauhungaroa ranges. The historical significance and landscapes offer many places to see in Waikato and the King Country.

Glowworm Waitomo Caves are rated among the most visited places to see in Waikato and King Country. These caves have three levels and are linked to the Waitomo River. Waitomo Caves are famous for their cave decorations and elaborated work of nature. The caves get the illuminated look when thousands of tiny creatures radiate their luminescent lights. Waitomo Caves are a living legend and the real masterpiece of nature.

The Kawhia Harbor is a well known place to see in the King Country. Paleontologists visit Kawhia, the oldest place of New Zealand for the abundance of fossils found here. Kawhia Harbor is the breeding and feeding grounds for wading birds, like black swan, Kauka – an Alaskan and New Zealand wader. The famous native ‘Pohutukawa’ trees grow naturally on the western coast of Kawhia Harbor. Yet another tourist attraction is the Kawhia Harbor Cruises, which offers historical locales for visits around the King Country. Tourists can glimpse the past with the cruise adventure in the King Country.

The Aotea Village, one of the most tranquil harbors in New Zealand, is another place to see in King Country. This village offers a quick look into the rich Maori history. Tourists get the chance to hear many war and romance stories of the past. Aotea horse treks are the main tourists’ attraction here. The visitors can go on a 3 hour horse back ride while enjoying the most stunning landscape in New Zealand.

Hobbiton on Matamata sheep farm is an interesting place to see in Waikato. This village was created for the movie trilogy ‘Lord of the Rings’. Tourists visit this place to see the expensive and extra ordinary set of the famous movie on a guided tour.

Waikato and the King Country both are majestically beautiful regions of New Zealand. The bush covered mountains, hot mineral pools, beaches and historical sites are the major tourist attractions here. Besides cultural activities and rich heritage there are many sightseeing places to see in Waikato and the King Country regions.