The Balloons over Waikato Festival is held annually on the edge of Hamilton’s central city lake. Between 30 and 40 highly colourful hot air balloons from around the world, participating in the five-day event, will provide a spectacle not to be missed. Amazing, new and different special shaped balloons, which have never visited New Zealand before, add interest to the line-up.

The exciting programme of events includes the mass ascension of balloons just after sunrise and again in the late afternoon, competitive flying tasks, fun activities to involve spectators and the extremely popular NightGlow with its music, sideshows, orchestrated “glowing” of balloons and fireworks display over the Lake. The Festival is an iconic event on the annual calendar in both Hamilton and the Waikato region. It is also New Zealand’s premier hot air ballooning event and one of the biggest and best in Asia / Australasia.

If you are you coming to Hamilton to see the Balloons over Waikato Festival and need accommodation have a look at some of the options on this New Zealand Accommodation site.

We have some suggestions for alternative accommodation towns that with a rental car are within reasonable driving distance of the venue.

Before or after the event New Zealand offers a world of experiences that are new and exciting. The spectacular scenery and easy driving conditions make it a perfect choice for a self-drive holiday. Choosing where to stay can be a highlight of planning your New Zealand holiday. From farm stays and cosy B&B's, through to unique luxury lodges, the choice is endless.

Even if you can't get to the Balloons over Waikato Festival it is still worth visiting beautiful New Zealand.

Wednesday 28 March - Sunday 1 April 2012

On the edge of Hamilton’s central city lake

Hamilton

 For Hamilton Try:
 Waitomo Caves 75 KM
 Rotorua 107 KM
 Tauranga 107 Km
 Thames 107 Km
 Auckland 127 Km