Hamilton

Busy Hamilton Hamilton, hub of the Waikato plains and New Zealand's largest inland city, straddles the Waikato River about 138 km/85 miles south of Auckland. From its origin as a military settlement in 1864, Hamilton has grown into a busy fanning, industrial, and agricultural research center.

Dubbed the fountain city, Hamilton is rich in parks and gardens. The main commercial and shopping district lies west of the river; Victoria Street is its principal thoroughfare. In the heart of the city is Garden Place, a landscaped pedestrian mall.

A 48 km/30 mile scenic drive begins at the Chief Post Office on Victoria Street. For information on city walks and local attractions, visit the Public Relations Office, in the Irvin & Stem Building on Barton Street.

Parks and gardens. Parks border both banks of the placid Waikato, which meanders through the city. On the western shore, strollers enjoy Ferrybank Park, where steamers and ferries docked in Hamilton's early years. Parana Park and Memorial Park rim the eastern bank.

Hamilton's largest and most popular park borders Lake Rotoroa (often called Hamilton Lake), an aquatic and recreational playground just southwest of the central district.

Floral displays take the spotlight in Rogers Rose Gardens and Hamilton Gardens. jubilee Park preserves a remnant of the native forest that once covered this district.

Other attractions.

The Waikato Art Museum, 150 London Street, features a Maori gallery dominated by a long war canoe and exhibits on the history of Hamilton and the Waikato district. It's open daily except Monday.

Centrally located in Boyes Park is the Founders' Theatre, opened in 1963. The Riverlea Performing Arts Centre is located southeast of Hamilton off Highway 1.

Northwest of the business district, Hilldale Zoo Park on Brymer Road has an extensive collection of animals and birds; you can visit daily from 9 A.M. to 5 P.m.

Swimmers will enjoy the impressive facilities of the indoor outdoor Centennial Swimming Pool complex on Garnett Avenue. Nearby, racing fans watch some of New Zealand's best horses compete at the Te Rapa Racecourse. For trotting contests and greyhound racing, visit Claude lands Showgrounds, which also hosts the Waikato A & P Show and other annual events.