Waipā is Cambridge and Te Awamutu, and a tale of two charms. Cambridge does English-village elegance, tree-lined avenues, thoroughbred studs and a velodrome that’s launched Olympic medallists. Te Awamutu does roses and rock royalty, being the town that raised the Finn brothers of Crowded House fame.

It’s prime dairy and bloodstock country in the heart of the Waikato, prosperous and tidy, with Lake Karāpiro nearby for the rowers. Cambridge has become a sought-after spot for families and commuters, so it’s not the bargain it once was, but the lifestyle’s the genuine article and Hamilton’s just down the road.

There are 18 suburbs and localities across the district. This page lays them out so you can compare without guessing: who lives where, what you’ll pay, how the schools rate, and which spots suit families versus the rural life.

Racehorses, roses and a famous velodrome. Have a browse and see which town suits.