Waikato

The Mighty Waikato, located within the upper North Island, is known for its beautiful scenery, tourist attractions and spectacular surf beaches. Home to the village of Hobbiton, the Waikato is where many blockbusters movies were filmed - including The Lord of the Rings and Narnia. The main centres within Waikato are Hamilton, Taupo, Cambridge, Te Awamutu and Tokoroa. The vibrant city of Hamilton is known for its beautiful walking tracks, spectacular gardens and nightlife. The town is bursting with many study and work opportunities, perfect for those looking to jump into a new study path or career. The town of Taupo is world renowned for its trout fishing and spectacular scenery. Many locals and tourists participate in trout fishing in Lake Taupo - the largest lake in New Zealand. The town of Cambridge is known as the ‘equine capital’ in New Zealand, with many stud’s and stables dotting the town. The town boasts many Olympic medallists for sports including horse racing, rowing and cycling. The town of Te Awamatu is known for its rich history, stunning gardens and museums. Te Awamutu is home to 2000 rose bushes, making the town a spectacular sight during the blooming season. The small town of Tokoroa boasts a relaxed lifestyle and friendly community. The town is rich in history and culture, with many walking tracks available for locals and tourists. With the fantastic work and study opportunities and the relaxed lifestyle, it’s easy to understand why so many people choose to move to the Waikato region. After immersing yourself in the community, sipping a Waikato Draught by the lake or basking in the sunlight whilst embarking on a hike, you won’t want to leave!

Key Information
Population 449,200
Employment rate 66.3%
GDP Per Capita $47,119
Average Weekly Rent $338