Online Dating in Waikato

Hamilton has carried a reputation for being a somewhat sleepy town for most of its life, but a resurrection of the town’s main street more recently has seen this reputation flip on its axis. Known now more for its lively nightlife, café culture and great food, Hamilton has become a destination worthy of a first date, particularly if your date’s interest happens to be piqued by food and drink. There’s more to it than this though, for before the good eats the folk of Hamilton amused themselves with activities of the more daring variety, swinging from rocks and off bridges, careering down the town’s greyish-coloured river and barrelling against some of the country’s greatest offshore breaks are just some of the activities you can get your kicks from here. Image via fotographiejc on Flickr.

 

Getting out and about

Fan of the great outdoors? How about immersing your date in nature for the day (or night). The Maungatautari Ecological Island Reserve is the place to spot native birdlife which for the most part has remained unchained for loads of years. The reserve is 40 minutes from Hamilton but with a variety of great walks and guided night tours on offer, this could be a great first date impresser.  If you’d rather something closer to home (and don’t mind getting a bit wet) then dip your paddle into the water with Wiseway Canoe Adventures. Whether guided tours or go-it-alone trips are more your styles, you’ll be sure to have a blast. Image via fotografiejc on Flickr.

 

Make a souvenir

If you want to create a lasting memory on your date then don’t just settle for a selfie, take your date to the Raglan Bone Carving Studio where pendants can be carved by the both of you in four hours. You can book a private lesson to make it an extra special occasion.

 

Beach bums

 

If you want to escape the town for the day then Raglan, a small area of black sand coast is sure to satisfy most tastes. If you or your date surf it’s absolutely a must-see attraction. Manu Bay is where you should head if you’re experienced – it’s said to be the longest and most consistent left-hand break in the world. If lounging is more your thing then Ocean Beach is a more attainable target. There are some spectacular coastal walks in Raglan too, with Bridal Veil Falls taking the top spot for most scenic and romantic vista. Of course, the more experienced hikers head for Mount Karioi or following in the footsteps of your Maori ancestors along the Te Toto Gorge track. Image via Keith’s pix on Flickr.

 

Satisfy your palate

If all this activity has got you salivating then you’re in luck in Hamilton. Gourmet breakfasts can be taken at River Kitchen and with a menu including delights like salmon hash you could even stay for lunch. After breakfast, a coffee is in order and you can’t go far wrong with Rocket Coffee – the staff occupying this warehouse-cum-coffee grinding house really know their beans. Dinner should be taken at a finite establishment, and although the kitsch furniture gives nothing away from the food really is to die for at Chim-Choo-Ree. Palate is a slightly classier looking venture where a New Zealand-centric menu offers tantalising taste combinations. If there’s one thing for sure about a first date in Hamilton, it’s not going to be dull. Background image via PhillipC on Flickr.