Visitors from all over the world enjoy the Hamilton Gardens.

Dip your toes into The Tron and you'll discover that it's much more than just Auckland's little brother.

1. VISIT THE GARDENS

Hamilton Gardens are among the best in the world, taking visitors on a journey through gardens of different places and times, from the Chinese Scholars Garden to the Italian Renaissance Gardens. Considered the Waikato's most-visited attraction with around one million visitors every year, this is a must-do.

2. DINE AT CHIM CHOO REE

This award-winning restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere and inventive menu - think beetroot and gin-cured salmon with crispy chicken skin, or pumpkin pie with popcorn ice cream. Yum. www.chimchooree.co.nz

3. DRINK NEW ZEALAND TEA

Zealong Tea Estate, New Zealand's only commercial tea plantation, is located on the outskirts of Hamilton. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, indulge in a high tea, or sip a cup of fresh oolong in the peaceful tea garden. zealong.com

4. WATCH A MOVIE AT LIDO CINEMA

Hamilton's elegant arthouse cinema is luxurious, spacious, and turns a night out at the movies into a special event. It's also the best place to catch independent, foreign or film festival screenings. www.lidocinema.co.nz

5. SEE THE RIFF RAFF STATUE

In 2004, Hamilton City Council erected a statue of Richard O'Brien's The Rocky Horror Picture Show character, Riff Raff, on the site of the former Embassy Cinema (where O'Brien used to spend a lot of time watching films). The bronze sculpture was designed by Weta Workshop, and radiates free wi-fi. Find it at 206 Victoria Street.