Getting Lost in the Mighty Waikato

Discover the picturesque location of LCW New Zealand. When selecting a host region for a LCW global race, location, people and landscape are a major part of that decision. Karāpiro, and the surrounding Waikato, tick all these boxes and more. An area based around the hydroelectric lake on the Waikato River provides endless opportunities to be active, engage with the local Māori culture, major international attractions and plenty of dining and accommodation options. There is plenty to see and do outside of race weekend. This informative insight has been derived from personal team experiences with both spectators and athletes in mind – you may not want to leave after your visit.

Location

Karāpiro is based in the Waikato Region of New Zealand, a sports tourism hub due to national teams basing themselves here. The race weekend is based out of The Mighty River Domain alongside Lake Karāpiro and the onsite Sir Don Rowlands Event Centre.

The area is easily accessible from all neighbouring towns, cities, and regions by car. With the nearest airport being 30 minutes away in Hamilton. Flights from other airports around New Zealand arrive regularly, catering for those further afield. Whilst international visitors can fly to Auckland or Wellington airport and transfer to Hamilton via air or hop in a rental car and road trip to Karāpiro. Less than two hours from Auckland Airport and a more lengthy but explorative opportunity of six hours from Wellington Airport.

The Locals

Locals to Karāpiro are warm, friendly and love welcoming new visitors to this beautiful part of the Waikato. 2024 sees the LCW New Zealand being held in Karāpiro for the second time and we are excited to see local residents embrace the event's return.

Accommodation

Staying close to the event venue will not be an issue for you. There are lots of options to suit every taste and budget, from simple camping to luxurious houses and apartments. Our advice is to stay in either Karapiro or Cambridge as you’ll be at the doorstep of the Long Course Weekend New Zealand. If you need to go further afield, Hamilton will still ensure a short drive but provide more hotels and city feel. Tirau and Te Awamutu are also a short drive away, allowing small town vibes. All accommodation options are easily booked through the standard booking sites.

Where to Fuel Your Body

There is an abundance of great eateries dotted around the area. Here are some of the great options within minutes of the finish line. Good Union are about good people, good food and good beer, providing an authentic BBQ experience cooking locally sourced meats “low and slow” for up to 15 hours, as well as servicing their locally brewed Good George beer and cider. The Bikery Café is located at the Avantidrome and serves up fresh, wholesome locally sourced food for breakfast, brunch or lunch. A great place to stop in when checking out the Avantidrome. For a modern eatery in the heart of Cambridge, you’ll have to visit Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar for one of the Waikato’s best dining experiences. Cheese fans, you’ll have to stop in at Over The Moon Deli for New Zealand’s widest range of specialty handcrafted cheese. Whereas any fans of Mexican, South American or New Wave Asian cuisine should visit Pony Bar + Provisions for a relaxed street food style dining experience.

Whatever your taste or budget, there are ample choices locally and further afield. We suggest wandering the streets or seeing where the road takes you to explore all the options and maybe even find a hidden gem we have not listed.

Good Union
The Bikery Café
Alpha Street Kitchen & Bar
Over the Moon Deli
Pony Bar + Provisions

Relax & Explore

Karāpiro and the surrounding Waikato region has lots to keep you occupied around your race weekend.

The area of Karāpiro and surrounding towns have ample activities for you to explore. From having a go cycling on the world-class Avantidrome in Cambridge to exploring local dairy farms or recovering along the walk and cycle trails. Take a trip to Matamata to visit the real Middle-Earth, Hobbiton. Glow worm caves, jet boating or Black Water Rafting will appeal to more adventurous types, whereas the local markets, art trails and culture sites will tick boxes for visitors wanting a slower-paced weekend.

Now We Have Your Attention

LCW New Zealand is a must for both beginners and elite athletes alike. The location lends itself to fast, flat racing with stunning views of the countryside. There is plenty to do around the race weekend with opportunities to relax and recoup in the luscious Waikato countryside. The proximity to large cities offers a great array of variety and exploration, as well as accessibility to The LCW New Zealand. The area is renowned for its community and high performance sporting environment, and small town feel for a unique experience.

If you'd also like to know more about the Mighty Waikato and what it has to offer - please head to the Mighty Waikato website here.