A GRAND ADVENTURE

UNO editor Hayley Barnett and her right-hand man tootle over the hill to get a fresh perspective on a little town with a lot going for it. This is an accessible getaway if ever there was one.

Though it might have a reputation as the “town of trees and champions”, over the past decade Cambridge has become a destination known more for its polished hospitality and thriving shopping scene. Over one fun-filled weekend, the quaint equestrian town proved itself to be a surprisingly perfect pick for a romantic getaway.

One Friday afternoon, my husband and I drove over from Tauranga, stopping at the Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum on our way in. This is a place I’ve been dying to visit, but on our many drives to Auckland, it has never seemed like the right time.

Built in a former quarry and now spanning hectares of regenerated landscape, the park weaves more than 100 sculptures through a 2km walking trail of ponds, cliffs and thousands of trees. It’s basically an art gallery in nature, and makes for a great hike before the beginning of an indulgent weekend ahead.

The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum.

From there, we headed into a different vibe entirely. Cambridge’s centre is compact and refined, with independent boutiques, cafés and galleries lining the streets.

We checked into The Clements Hotel, a new concept in an old heritage building right in the middle of town. Having been given a contemporary polish of late, the rooms are modern yet also traditional, consistent with the building’s historic character. Its central location makes it an ideal base for a weekend away.

Cambridge is known for being walkable, and staying here meant most of our weekend unfolded on foot. Dinner was easy. We simply went downstairs to the hotel’s light-filled, gallery-style restaurant that leans into seasonal New Zealand produce.

The Gallery at The Clements Hotel.

In keeping with its understated nod to tradition, the offering veers confidently towards the classics – beef tartare, slow-cooked pork belly, glazed duck breast, confit chicken. Nothing feels overly complicated or intimidating, yet the execution is exceptional.

Canning our vague plans to hit the town after dessert – black forest chocolate brûlée, no less – we admitted defeat and agreed a movie might be more appealing. The charming Tivoli Cinema is just around the corner, offering intimate viewing spaces and the option to enjoy a glass of wine.

The next morning started at the local markets, where the region’s produce and small-scale makers are on full display. Cambridge is known for its quality food and artisan goods, and the weekly market is a great way to experience everything it has to offer. Fresh baking, locally made products… It’s a relaxed, unhurried way to begin the day.

Cambridge Distillery Co.

Later, we made our way to the Cambridge Distillery Co, a small operation owned by two couples who joined forces during lockdown to create a business that reflects the wider craft movement in the region. Tastings offer a glimpse into the area’s growing food and drink scene without feeling overly commercial.

Takapoto Estate winery.

A short drive out of town took us to Takapoto Estate winery, near Lake Karāpiro, which combines a vineyard and show-jumping event grounds. Sitting outside with a glass, looking out over the landscape, it’s easy to see why the cellar door is packed with weekend tasters. We settled in with a cheese platter and watched the entertainment unfold between a couple of hen’s parties, proving it’s also a popular spot for celebrations too.

Te Awa River Ride at Lake Karāpiro.

On Sunday, we decided to get a little more active. With Riverside Adventures, we set out on an e-bike ride along the Waikato River, starting at Avantidrome, New Zealand’s national cycling hub. The route follows part of the Te Awa River Ride, a mostly flat, well-maintained trail that connects Cambridge with the wider region. Even for casual cyclists, the e-bikes make it an easy, enjoyable ride. The path winds along the river, through farmland and native bush, before opening out towards Lake Karāpiro, known for its calm waters and scenic setting.

The journey itself is a chance to move through the town and outskirts at a pace that still allows you to take it all in, and being picked up and returned to town makes the whole trip feel seamless.

Alpino in the town centre.

Back in Cambridge, the afternoon slipped easily into more wandering, with a few last stops at boutiques, a coffee and yet another visit to the Cambridge Distillery.

The combination of experiences in art, food, cycling and shopping, all within close reach, makes Cambridge an easy trip for anyone who loves culture, adventure and food.

For couples in particular, that balance is hard to beat. There’s enough to fill a weekend, but also plenty of space to do very little at all. And it’s surprisingly hard to leave.