If you are looking for affordable rental cars in Hamilton, you came to the right place. From small compact cars to station wagons, suv and minibuses. Easy online booking and free cancellation for your peace of mind.
Our branch is located in Frankton just off Kahikatea Drive.
Our friendly staff will be available to assist you from Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 to 18:00.
18 Grasslands Place, Frankton
✔ Free Cancellation up to 48hrs before pickup in Hamilton
✔ 100% Kiwi Owned & Operated for over 25 years
✔ Everyday low prices on Rental Cars Hamilton
✔ We don’t charge credit card fees on payments on Rental Cars Hamilton
✔ One way hires available to and from Auckland, Tauranga, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch
✔ We don’t charge for an additional driver – You can have as many as you want
✔ All hires come with 24hrs roadside assistance
✔ All hires come with free basic insurance for drivers over 25 and you can reduce your excess
✔ We have 15 branches nationwide: Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington & Christchurch
✔ We have a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to SUVs, people movers and minibuses in Hamilton
✔ Book the car instantly using our online booking system
✔ Superb customer service in Hamilton
20% Discount on your next car rental with BRC. Don’t wait, book it today!
Have you got a firm quote from another car rental company and their price is better than ours? No Problem, we can beat that price by 10%*
If you are part of NZ Emergency Services you can enjoy a 10% discount on your next rental*.
Tucked away in the lush green landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island, Hamilton is a city that often flies under the radar—but it shouldn’t. Located in the Waikato region, just a 90-minute drive from Auckland, Hamilton offers a diverse mix of culture, nature, and adventure that’s perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience without the hustle of more crowded destinations.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just passing through on your North Island road trip, here are five standout things to do in Hamilton that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Wander the World at Hamilton Gardens
Forget everything you know about botanical gardens—Hamilton Gardens is not your typical green space. Rather than simply showcasing plants, these gardens are designed around themes, each transporting visitors to a completely different time, place, or idea.
You might start in a serene Japanese garden, then step into a bright and geometric Italian Renaissance setting, only to find yourself in a mystical fantasy garden inspired by myths and legends. Each garden tells a story—sometimes historical, sometimes symbolic—and the transitions between them are as thrilling as the destinations themselves.
This ever-evolving attraction is free to enter and ideal for travelers of all ages. Bring a camera, as you’ll want to capture the striking contrasts between each garden zone.
Pro Tip: Check the events calendar—there are often free tours, seasonal markets, and cultural events held right within the gardens.
2. Dive into Local Culture at Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery
A visit to Hamilton isn’t complete without delving into the region’s rich heritage at the Waikato Museum. Located near the river in the city centre, this modern museum is an insightful stop for art lovers, history buffs, and curious minds.
Inside, you’ll find a compelling mix of Māori cultural exhibits, interactive science displays, contemporary New Zealand art, and rotating temporary installations.
Beyond the permanent exhibits, the museum often features live performances, guest talks, and community art projects that reflect the city’s creative pulse.
Best Part: Entry is usually free, making it one of the best value cultural experiences in Hamilton.
3. Spend a Wild Afternoon at Hamilton Zoo
For those traveling with kids—or just young at heart—the Hamilton Zoo offers a well-curated wildlife encounter that feels immersive but relaxed. The zoo spans 25 hectares and is home to over 400 animals from around the globe, including native New Zealand species.
What sets this zoo apart is its spacious, naturalistic enclosures and commitment to conservation. You can stroll through a free-flight aviary, watch the antics of chimpanzees, and stand just meters away from majestic Sumatran tigers. Keeper talks and feeding sessions are scheduled throughout the day, giving visitors deeper insight into animal behavior and welfare.
It’s a calm and beautifully maintained setting that doesn’t feel rushed—perfect for a half-day visit or a quiet break from urban life.
4. Walk or Cycle Along the Waikato River Path
The Waikato River winds gently through the heart of Hamilton, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy one of New Zealand’s most scenic riverfronts. The paved trails that run alongside the river are popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, providing a peaceful escape just minutes from the city centre.
Stretching for kilometers in both directions, the river paths pass through leafy parks, native bush, and open spaces that are ideal for picnics, birdwatching, or just soaking up the fresh air.
For a bit of extra adventure, hire a bike and cycle down to the southern stretches of the trail or pack a small lunch and spend the day hopping between the riverside cafes and rest areas.
Insider Tip: Sunset over the river is particularly magical—bring a blanket and enjoy the view as the sky glows over the water.
5. Take a Glowworm Cave Adventure in Waitomo (Day Trip)
While not technically in Hamilton, the world-famous Waitomo Caves are just over an hour’s drive away and absolutely worth the journey. These glowworm caves are one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders—and for good reason.
You’ll descend into ancient limestone caverns, where the walls are lined with stalactites and underground streams echo in the darkness. But the real highlight comes when you board a small boat and float silently beneath a ceiling lit by thousands of glowworms—tiny bioluminescent creatures that create a starry sky effect underground.
It’s surreal, beautiful, and unlike anything you’ll experience anywhere else.
Travel Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as Waitomo is a popular destination for both international and local visitors.
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