Plan your Waikato day trips this summer with Hamilton-based accommodation provider Aspen Manor Motel

Aspen Manor Motel in Hamilton is the prefect accommodation provider for all your summertime Waikato day trips. With so much to do in the Waikato you will be spoilt for choice.

Discover the magical world of the glowworms! The Waitomo Caves is known for its underground adventure options – from magical boat rides under thousands of glowworms, to abseiling 100m deep into the cave system. Above ground has just as much to offer making Waitomo a great one day trip. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves should be at the top of anyone’s New Zealand vacation wish-list.

“Waitomo Caves is a great day out that we have experienced ourselves. There is even great restaurant there to try after a day of exhilarating black water rafting,” says Lornae Lowe, who owns Aspen Manor Motel in partnership with her husband, Simon.

Nestled on a sheep farm near the Waikato town of Matamata is the world famous Hobbiton Movie set. Take a magical guided tour to hear behind the scene stories and marvel at the set that was created for the epic movies trilogies, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. “It’s like walking into the world of Lord Of The Rings. It’s just like what you see in the movies,” says Simon.

The summer hot spot of Raglan is a surfing mecca and hub of artistic and eco-friendly activity providing fun for the entire family. Try learning to surf at the Raglan Surf School or browse the local artist shops spread throughout the town.

You can’t visit New Zealand without seeing our unique bird – the Kiwi. For a truly authentic New Zealand experience you can visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House and Native Bird Park where you can enjoy close-up viewing of Kiwis. The family-friendly Native Bird Park is a perfect fit for a day trip.

Aspen Manor Motel is based in Hamilton’s leafy “east side” which is a perfect driving distance for most day trips. For activities that are a little more close to home, Aspen Manor Motel is in within an easy walking distance to an interesting array of shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and parks.

“Most day trips are within an hour’s drive from us, so we are the perfect place to base yourself for your Waikato stay,” says Lornae.

Aspen Manor Motel has 31 spacious and beautifully decorated units, so there is plenty of room for the whole family. All units have ground floor entry with parking directly outside each door. If you don’t feel like driving, the motel is situated on a regular bus service route.