The diverse and natural wonders of Waipā have been singled out by a global travel report which names the Waikato Region as one of 2025’s top 10 trending destinations worldwide.
US-based Expedia Group gave the shout out to Waipā in its Unpack ’25 report, which reveals the 10 destinations that international travellers most want to discover in 2025.
Waikato is heralded alongside Abu Dhabi, Santa Barbara and Fukuoka as a ‘detour destination’, being less-crowded and offering a more unique experience than the tried-and-true hotspots.
Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari is highlighted as a particular drawcard for global adventurers looking for an unforgettable visit.
Waipā Mayor Susan O’Regan says it’s a richly-deserved accolade, and together with the recent announcement of the return of international flights to Hamilton Airport will lead to a major boost in tourism in the region.
“We’ve always known the Waikato is a truly special place – and Waipā, the Home of Champions, is right at its heart. It seems the secret is well and truly out!
“Maungatautari is New Zealand’s largest fence eco-sanctuary where people can experience ancient forests that are alive with rare and endangered wildlife.
“And that’s just one of the incredible experiences for visitors to Waipā – we have more than 2700 hectares in our conservation parks.
“The iconic Mighty River Domain at Lake Karāpiro showcases our champion sporting and cultural events. Of course, Karāpiro is also a great place to join Te Awa, the Great New Zealand River Ride, which meanders to Cambridge past some of our finest thoroughbred stud farms.
“And both Cambridge and Te Awamutu have distinctive and unique retail offerings, and some of the best dining in the region too.”
Hamilton and Waikato Tourism Chief Executive Nicola Greenwall says her team is proud to be the only New Zealand destination to feature on the Expedia list. “We’d encourage travellers to ensure their visit is lengthy, allowing plenty of time to explore the many unforgettable experiences awaiting them in the mighty Waikato.”
The Expedia report says 63 per cent of travellers are likely to visit a detour destination on their next trip. The study was conducted among 25,000 people across 19 countries among adults who have or who plan to travel for leisure in the next three years.
