Things To Do
in Cambridge
Cambridge, New Zealand is a charming town located in the Waikato region of the North Island. Known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and historic buildings, Cambridge has a quaint, small-town feel. The town is surrounded by lush farmland and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for cycling, walking, and exploring nature.
Home to the famous Avantidrome cycling velodrome, Cambridge also has a thriving arts and culture scene.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk around Lake Te Koutu, enjoying the peaceful scenery and native birdlife. Consider grabbing a coffee from a local café before heading to the lake.
Visit the nearby Cambridge Farmers' Market to sample fresh local produce and handmade crafts. It's a great place to have lunch while mingling with locals and experiencing the community vibe.
Wind down at one of the lakefront parks for a picnic dinner while watching the sunset. This is a perfect way to relax after a busy day filled with exploration.
Spend your morning wandering through the Cambridge Botanical Gardens, admiring the diverse plant species and manicured gardens. This serene environment is ideal for taking photos and enjoying the tranquility.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café nearby before visiting the Cambridge Museum to learn more about the town's history. The museum features various exhibitions that highlight local culture and heritage.
Dine at a charming restaurant in the town center. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the town's beautifully lit streets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural landscape and scenery.
- Strong sense of community and friendly people.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and fishing.
- Proximity to other major cities like Hamilton and Tauranga.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and tourism.
- Limited public transport options.
- Potentially high cost of living compared to nearby areas.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Can experience a lack of diversity in cultural offerings.
- Traffic congestion during peak times due to population growth.
Best Activities in Cambridge
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride around Lake Te Koutu, featuring beautiful scenery, picnic spots, and a playground.
Explore the scenic Greenways network with walking and cycling paths that connect various parks and attractions throughout Cambridge.
Hike up Maungakawa for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to see native wildlife.
A great spot for family picnics, this reserve offers open spaces and playground facilities for children.
Take advantage of the numerous horse riding trails available in and around Cambridge, which cater to all levels of riders.
Attend local rugby matches and other sports events for a taste of the community spirit and local culture.
Stroll through the scenic Kahikatea Walkway, offering a peaceful environment surrounded by native trees and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cambridge with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cambridge
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside, popular for photography and water activities.
Conservation sanctuary with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for bird-watching and nature photography.
Provides a beautiful panoramic view of the Waikato region and is great for hiking and photography.
Charming town with historical buildings and beautiful streets, perfect for capturing the essence of Cambridge and its heritage.
Food in Cambridge
Cambridge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Kiwi dessert, consisting of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits. Must-try at local bakeries like Good Union or the Cambridge Market.
Must-Try!
A New Zealand classic featuring vanilla ice cream studded with small, solid lumps of honeycomb toffee. Available at the local dairy shops or artisanal ice cream parlors.
Thick-cut fries made from sweet potatoes, often served with a side of aioli. Can be savored at the food stalls during the town's Saturday farmers' market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cambridge better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, the market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade preserves, and ready-to-eat treats like gourmet pies and smoked meats. Perfect for a leisurely morning stroll and sampling local delicacies.
A vibrant gathering of food trucks and stalls offering a diverse range of global cuisines, from spicy Thai curries to Mexican street tacos. Open on Fridays, it's a go-to spot for a casual outdoor feast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cambridge is known for its beautiful parks and rural landscapes. It's important to show respect for the environment by not littering, staying on designated paths, and taking care of local wildlife while enjoying outdoor activities.
Understanding the significance of haka and other Maori customs is essential. If attending a performance or ceremony, be respectful in your behavior, and take time to learn about their customs to show appreciation for the rich local heritage.
Kiwi culture values friendliness and a laid-back attitude. It's customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' When interacting, maintain a respectful tone and be open to conversations, as locals usually appreciate genuine interest in their community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cambridge with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cambridge
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cambridge, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice, as service charges are typically included in the price of goods and services. It is generally appreciated if customers leave a small tip for exceptional service in restaurants or cafes, but it is not obligatory.
Payment methods in Cambridge include cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payment options such as PayWave. Many businesses also support mobile payment apps. It is common for service providers to offer receipts for transactions, and some may accept online payments for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cambridge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see flowers in bloom and enjoy mild temperatures
Ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying warm weather
Great for colorful foliage and cooler temperatures
Opportunity to experience winter activities and see frosty landscapes
Cambridge at Night
Hiking in Cambridge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic spot perfect for a walking and hiking experience around the lake, surrounded by lush greenery.
A popular hiking destination with a well-maintained track leading to the summit, offering stunning views of the Waikato region.
A local park with walking trails and picnic areas, great for a leisurely hike and a family outing.
A series of walking paths and tracks along the Cambridge area, perfect for an easy hike within the town.
An adventurous hike leading to the top of Kakepuku with panoramic views, ideal for more experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cambridge through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cambridge by plane.
Located approximately 130 km from Cambridge, Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, offering international flights to numerous destinations.
Situated about 30 km from Cambridge, Hamilton Airport provides both domestic and a few international flights, serving as a regional hub.
Approximately 80 km from Cambridge, Rotorua Airport mainly serves domestic flights but also offers some international connections.
Located around 100 km from Cambridge, Tauranga Airport primarily focuses on domestic services, with limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, primarily of European descent, including a significant number of New Zealand European residents.
The indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, making up a notable portion of Cambridge’s population.
Includes various ethnic groups such as Chinese, Indian, and other Asian nationalities contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
A demographic including individuals of Pacific Islander descent, contributing to New Zealand’s diverse cultural landscape.
This group encompasses a variety of other ethnic backgrounds, combining diverse cultures and communities.
The Soul of Cambridge
Discover the essence of Cambridge through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Cambridge, with a strong community presence and local clubs competing at various levels.
Netball is widely played in Cambridge, with teams for different age groups and skill levels, reflecting its popularity among women and girls.
Cricket has a rich tradition in Cambridge, with local clubs offering opportunities for both junior and senior players to participate in the sport.
Cycling is popular in Cambridge, with many residents participating in recreational rides and competitive cycling events.
Running is a favored activity in Cambridge, with various events and clubs that encourage participation in different running disciplines.
Swimming is a popular sport, especially with the presence of local pools and swimming clubs for both competitive and casual swimmers.
Football has been growing in popularity, with local clubs providing opportunities for youth and adult players to engage in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambridge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cambridge boasts numerous eateries with robust vegetarian options, ranging from plant-based burgers to nourishing Buddha bowls. Notable mentions include Onyx, serving up hearty veggie-packed salads, and Little India, offering aromatic vegetarian curries.
Vegan diners will find a welcoming array of choices in Cambridge, such as the plant-based delights at Oliver's Real Food, and the creative vegan dishes at Paddock Cafe & Lifestyle. Additionally, most restaurants are accommodating and can customize dishes to be vegan-friendly.
For those requiring gluten-free options, Cambridge's dining scene is attuned to catering to this need. The gluten-free pizzas at La Trattoria, and the hearty gluten-free breakfasts at The Bikery Cafe, are noteworthy options among many others.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cambridge with these cultural adventures.
