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Waikato taniwharau. He piko he taniwha, he piko he taniwha.
There's always something new to discover in the heart of Hamilton city. Let us be your guide as you rediscover the charm, culture, and character that make our city centre unique.
Save the date: New Zealand’s newest world-class entertainment venue, the Waikato Regional Theatre, will officially open its doors on Monday, January 19.
And one of New Zealand’s best singer-songwriters will be taking part in a first week of events that promises to be a memorable chapter in Hamilton’s history.
The series of opening events comprise three nights of community opening celebrations titled To The Stars/Ki ngā Whetū - which is described as being “built through the hands, voices and imaginations of the Waikato community”.
This will be followed by theatre operators Live Nation’s official launch event on the evening of January 23 - further details on which will be revealed within the next few weeks.
The opening week will close out the following night with one of Aotearoa’s most beloved and awarded artists, Sir Dave Dobbyn, who will bring his Selected Songs Tour to the Waikato.
Hamilton Central Business Association is thrilled to announce that the prestigious Love the Centre Awards 2025, proudly sponsored by Spark Business and supported by Mediaworks, will be held at the stunning K'aute Pasifika Village Fale on 29 October 2025. This beautiful, purpose-built venue inspired by Pacific meeting house designs is situated on the Western Town Belt at 100 Seddon Road, forming part of Hamilton's significant green space surrounding the central city.
In a celebration that honours both innovation and heritage, winners will receive unique trophies crafted from Founders Theatre blocks, paying tribute to one of Hamilton's most cherished cultural landmarks that previously stood on the Western Town Belt. These meaningful awards symbolise the connection between Hamilton's rich history and its vibrant future.
"We're excited to bring the Love the Centre Awards to K'aute Pasifika, a landmark venue that represents community connection and cultural celebration," said Vanessa Williams, General Manager of Hamilton Central Business Association. "These awards honour the businesses and individuals who embody our vision to be a premier central city business destination in New Zealand. Their contributions create the vibrant, bustling environment that makes Hamilton central extraordinary."
Hamilton’s Centre Place is turning 40 but in the world of ever-evolving shopping habits, the only constant is change.
When the mall opened in 1985, Hamiltonians poured in for traditional retail shopping, browsing the latest fashion with the added novelty of grabbing a bite at the bustling food court.
Some locals even recall the basement once housing a nightclub, the walls all painted purple.
40 years on, Centre Place is still standing but shoppers’ priorities look very different.
No longer just a collection of retailers, the mall has evolved into an experience-driven plaza where entertainment and atmosphere is just as important as the products.
Centre Place Centre Manager Maureen Pearce says the mall has come a long way since the 1980’s.
At just 22, Lucy Nicholson has brought a slice of Scotland — and a burst of colour — to Hamilton’s Casabella Lane.
Nicholson, who co-owns new café Scran with her Kiwi husband Raukawa, grew up in her parents’ takeaway shop in Scotland and says she’s been hooked on hospitality ever since.
“I really grew up in there, worked with them a lot and I really love the work. I missed it when I moved over here,” she said.
The couple’s café is already turning heads with its retro vibes, bold colours and a menu that’s both quick and wholesome.
“It was a break from the office and something fast and easy but also having nutritious options,” Nicholson explained.
Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate believes the city can host big hitters such as Taylor Swift with a new theatre on the way and Homegrown making its return early next year.
The Government announced it’s putting $40 million into securing major international events from 2026, as part of a larger $70 million tourism fund.
Southgate said the $70 million investment will put New Zealand firmly on the events map.
However, she wants to see Hamilton join in on the action.
“There are big events and hubs like Auckland, Queenstown and Wellington but Hamilton has just as much to offer as those big cities and we would like to see the love shared around.”
It comes as Homegrown makes its return to the city next year at Claudelands Oval and the new, $80 million Waikato Regional Theatre is almost ready to go.
Anyone wanting the experience of seeing a show at Hamilton’s new $80 million Waikato Regional Theatre should mark off Saturday, March 28 in their diaries now.
That’s when the Soweto Gospel Choir will perform in the soon-to-open facility.
The choir last performed in Hamilton when they headlined the 2015 then-named Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival, to rave reviews.
The show will not be the first at the theatre - that is still to be announced, along with the opening date, however these are understood to be imminent.
Close to 500 people are now earning a living from Hamilton’s new five-star hotel, with crews swarming over the Mistry Centre on Ward St as it transforms into the Pullman Hamilton.
Developers say the headcount — on site and across suppliers — underlines the project’s role as one of the CBD’s biggest employers right now, and a bellwether for the city’s confidence.
Developer Sanjil Mistry said the construction push had shifted up a gear in recent months and remained on schedule.
“The Mistry Centre project the Pullman Hamilton has made substantial progress in the last few months and we are still on track to complete the project in late 2026 as planned.
“Despite a challenging economic environment we are proud to say we look to support local trades and tradies where we can, and we estimate that the project employs close to 500 people - on and off site - in the region at any one time.”
Behind the glass and scaffolding is a $100 million overhaul of the city’s tallest building — 19 levels in total, 17 above ground — into a 191-room premium hotel with a rooftop bar and private lounge, plus conference and office space.
Fifteen years in, Dumpling House is still packing out tables — from its 25-seat Grey St original to the 80-seat CBD spot that’s been humming since 2018.
Owner Lei Wang says loyalty keeps the steam rising even as wallets tighten.
Wang came to Hamilton as an international student more than two decades ago, finished a management degree in marketing and finance, worked in senior roles, then teamed up with her mother, a fifth-generation hospitality hand who moved here in 2006.
If you’re looking for authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Classic is the perfect destination. They proudly serve a wide variety of dishes, from traditional Thai classics to modern fusion creations, all crafted with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.
As the sister restaurant of Chim Thai in Rototuna, Thai Classic continues the tradition of delivering exceptional flavors and warm hospitality.
Standout menu items:
• Curry Puffs – Minced chicken, potato, and yellow curry wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
• Duck Roti – Roast duck served on roti with cucumber, carrot, and homemade hoisin sauce.
• Massaman Curry – Traditional beef curry slow-cooked in coconut cream with cashew nuts, potato, and onion.
• Pad Thai – The famous Thai noodle dish with Asian chives, bean sprouts, eggs, and ground peanuts.
• Yummy Duck Sizzling – Marinated duck with honey and sweet chili sauce over vegetables, served sizzling hot.
• Thai Classic Sizzling – Your choice of meat with vegetables, cashew nuts, and Thai oyster sauce, sizzling to perfection.
• Sticky Pork Ribs – Tender pork ribs marinated in a sweet Thai glaze, served with vegetables.
They also cater to vegetarian guests with delicious dishes such as crispy spring rolls and more. Pair with a refreshing Thai Classic Sunrise mocktail for the perfect balance.
At Thai Classic, every dish is made to delight your taste buds and give you a true taste of Thailand.
Running Grid is New Zealand's 1st interactive gaming experience! Our mission is to combine the thrill of gaming with the excitement of physical activity, creating an innovative and engaging adventure for all ages.
At Running Grid, we bring "The Floor is Lava" – a popular game in Asia – to life right here in NZ. Our interactive games are all carefully designed to challenge your mind and body, providing a fun and immersive experience that keeps you coming back for more. We're the original and authentic choice for a unique interactive gaming experience that you can't find elsewhere!"
Homegrown organisers are signalling an at least 18-year commitment to Hamilton as they prepare to host fans in March 2026.
The Claudelands venue is about 2.5 times the size of the previous venue, Wellington’s waterfront, and keeps stages within walking distance of bars, eateries and hotels, they say.
And the design of the event channels spending into the city centre and across the Waikato, they told business people at the Waikato Chamber of Commerce’s Inspire series on Wednesday.
The Hamilton plan is built for the long haul — “something that could host us for the next 18 years,” managing director and chief executive Andrew Tuck said.
He and chief operating officer Michael Lamusse said Hamilton beat out six or seven cities on capacity, flexibility and the chance to keep the experience fresh.
The $80 million regional theatre is almost ready to raise its curtain but before the first performance begins, Hamilton’s hospo bosses are ready to steal the spotlight.
Five distinct hospitality offerings will open inside the precinct this November, promising everything from a French-inspired bistro and neighbourhood pub to a speakeasy cocktail lounge, a deli, and the rebirth of the city’s most iconic bar, Wonder Horse.
The vision belongs to hospo heavyweights Mat Pedley, Alex Hudson and John Moughan — the trio behind some of Hamilton’s busiest venues, including Reggie’s, Mr Pickles, Everyday Eatery, and Last Place.
Alongside is Jonathan Knapp, who is stepping in as general manager and co-owner of Hamilton Hotel, the anchor venue set to greet every guest as they enter the theatre complex.
“This is the biggest project in Hamilton,” Pedley said, calling the scale simply “awesome.” Hudson agreed, describing it as “pretty exciting,” and both said it was as much about investing in Hamilton’s CBD as it was about hospitality.
Here are a few for you to go and check out.
INDIAN CHIMNEY - 4 Alexandra Street
Bringing the rich flavours, spices, and soul of India to the heart of the city. Expect authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, inviting interior.
DUCKY CHINESE RESTAURANT - 242 Victoria Street
As its name suggests, this cute little eatery specialises in duck dishes, but that's not all.
NAN HOTPOT - 232 Victoria Street
A fun and interactive dining experience! Nan Hotpot,a proud ambassador of traditional Chinese hotpot culture, brings the rich, bold flavours of China to your table.
DIVINE DESSERT LOUNGE - 148 Ward Street
Got a sweet tooth? Divine Dessert Lounge offers sweet treats and rolled ice cream - where sweet dreams come true.
KORI DESSERTS - Ward Street
Discover fluffy souffle pancakes, bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert), and mochi ice cream.
MUNCHIES - 68 Bryce Street
Got the munchies and only $10? Decadent baked goods, croiffles, bubble waffles, pasta and more and nothing is over $10 at Munchies.
STATUS THE VEG EDGE - Dining on Bryce, Centre Place
Fresh, local and 100% vegetarian food with vegan and Jain options available.
THAI GRANDMA HOUSE - 1238 Barton Street
Savour the authentic flavours of Thailand including the best wonton noodle soup in town.
KUMAR KITCHEN (KK) INDIAN STREET FOOD - 541 Victoria Steet
An extensive vegetarian menu from chaat to burgers, momo (dumplings) to South Indian and Indo Chinese dishes.
SAIGON '60s - 643 Victoria Street
Offering authentic Vietnamese food and the best pho noodle soup in town.
New Year's Eve
Party kicks off from 8pm
Main Gaming Floor, Amuse Bar & Kitchen, Number Eight Bar
Get ready to shine, sparkle and dance your way into 2026!
This New Year's Eve, SkyCity Hamilton is turning back the clock with a full-blown Disco-themed celebration - glitter, groove and good vibes guaranteed.
Feel the funk with high energy live music from Groove Street and Gold Dust Divas in Amuse Bar & Kitchen and Number Eight Bar.
What's New Years' Eve without a little extra excitement? We'll be having cash prize draws at 8.30pm, 10.30pm and 12.30am, with $2,026 cash up for grabs at each draw - find out more here.
Dust off the sequins, bring your best dance moves, and let's celebrate the new year the disco way!
See you on the dance floor.
R20
Game Responsibly.
The Breeze Waikato is proud of the return of the Breeze 12th Day of Christmas. To show the love this Christmas, we have teamed up with Love the Centre to bring you a morning full of Christmas cheer!
Meet Stu and Camille at the centre! They will be set up at Garden Place, outside the Christmas Tree, from 7:30 am on Friday, 12th December, with a massive range of prizes, thanks to the love from local businesses.
Each hour starting from 6am until 9am on Friday, 12th, we will be uploading a giveaway to the Breeze Waikato Facebook page, valued at over $2,000 from 25 businesses.
We will be giving away 4 prize packs, including:
Prize 1: $568
Prize 2: $560
Prize 3: $570
Prize 4: $570
After taking Australia by storm, Pleasure P brings A Night of Pleasure to Aotearoa for the very first time! Performing his timeless solo hits and Pretty Ricky anthems live, this is the ultimate throwback for R&B; lovers — an intimate concert experience filled with passion, rhythm, and connection.
Powered by Titan Entertainment, the New Zealand run features nine cities across the country, delivering the full R&B; experience to fans from the South Island to the North.
✨ Proudly supported by Hamilton City Council as part of Summer in the City ✨
Get ready to celebrate the festive season with Carols in the City — a magical evening filled with live entertainment, delicious food, and the Christmas spirit right in the heart of Hamilton! 🌟
📅 Date: Friday, 19th December 2025
🕔 Time: 5 PM – Late
📍 Location: Garden Place, Hamilton CBD
Enjoy a fun, family-friendly night featuring:
🎤 Live Music
🍔 Tasty Food Stalls
🎶 Christmas Carols
🎬 Outdoor Movie Screening
Bring your whānau, a picnic blanket, and your best singing voice — it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season together! ❤️
🚌 Getting There:
Catch a free bus ride with BUSIT to and from the event — Hamilton services only!
Let’s light up the city with joy, laughter, and Christmas cheer. 🎅🎁
Supported by J.Tajor+ Richie Cattell
This December, DJ Noiz, Kennyon Brown and Donell Lewis bring their signature island sound for a long-awaited New Zealand tour, hitting Wellington, Rotorua, Auckland and Hamilton.
Known for hit records 'Senorita', 'Chill', 'Amelia', 'Island Girl' and more, the trio have become global ambassadors of modern Pacific R&B — blending smooth vocals, island grooves and soulful production that’s earned them millions of streams and loyal fans worldwide.Joining them on the road is special guest and viral superstar J.Tajor known for his hit record ‘Like I Do’.
Together, they promise an unforgettable celebration of Pacific music, culture and connection — a summer tour that captures the soul of the islands.Buy tickets via futurenowmusic.comDoors 7pm • 18+ Only • ID Required
Biddy Mulligan’s Annual Christmas Party - don’t miss it!
Check out the full lineup of festive events happening at Biddy’s this December, with something on almost every night, it’s the perfect spot to get into the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Sewing Workshops for Kids: aged 8 - 16
A little Christmas magic for the kids - and a few free hours for you!
Thursday 18th - Tuesday 23rd December
9:30am - 12:30pm
Our School Holiday Christmas Workshops introduce kids to the wonderful world of festive sewing in a structured and supportive environment.
These beginner-friendly workshops cover the basics - from threading the machine to sewing achievable projects. ‘Getting Started’ is about learning how to thread and use the machine safely while sewing a simple project. ‘Master the Basics’ is building on their skills to sew other projects while learning new techniques.
Led by a trained primary school teacher and a skilled assistant, you can be sure that your child will have a memorable workshop filled with loads of learning AND a finished project.If your child has never sewn before then ‘Getting Started’ is a must, after that, they can sign up for any of the other kids workshops in any school holidays.
Included: All fabric, tools and equipment, as well as a hot chocolate and a snack from one of our local cafes.
Wriggle & Rhyme takes place during term time only:
Wednesdays, 10.30-11.00am, Central Library
Looking for a relaxed, fun group where you and your baby or toddler can enjoy music and movement together? It's time to Wriggle & Rhyme! Classes combine singing, movement and rhythm, in a way that will delight and stimulate your child. This programme is aimed at babies and children under two years, but older siblings are welcome.
During school holidays or other times we are unable to hold Wriggle & Rhyme, you can see our playlist of Wriggle & Rhyme videos to enjoy classes at home.
Please note children under 14 must always be accompanied by a caregiver in our libraries.
Tuesdays, 10.30-11.15am, Central Library
Taking place during Term Time Only
Storytime is a fun-filled preschool programme tailored specifically for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. The programmes feature stories, songs, movement and interactive fun which foster children's literacy. Caregivers can bond with their children while enhancing their social, cognitive, motor and musical skills.
During school holidays or other times we are unable to hold Storytime Puaawai, you can check out Suzy's Book Corner to watch at home.
Please note children under 14 must always be accompanied by a caregiver in our libraries.
View a list of exciting events happening over summer in Hamilton!
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Find out what's on in the central city in December.
Dates:
21st December, 2025 (Sun) 4:00pm
21st December, 2025 (Sun) 7:30pm
The Greatest Christmas Show is New Zealand’s #1 family Christmas event, blending heartwarming moments, spectacular dance, and world-class entertainment into one unforgettable night.
Prepare for a breath-taking spectacle featuring soaring vocals that will fill the theatre with the spirit of Christmas, while our cast of incredible dancers and a jaw-dropping cirque aerial act bring the stage to life in a flurry of wonder, skill, and glittering costumes.
From high-flying feats to touching moments that capture the true meaning of Christmas, and a very special visit from Santa Claus himself, this is a show that will warm hearts, inspire smiles, and create cherished memories for the whole family.
🎟Don’t miss the magic. Don’t miss the laughter. Don’t miss the #1 family show this Christmas.
After racking up over a million followers online and making audiences across the globe laugh until they cry, Blake Pavey is hitting New Zealand with his brand new hour of stand-up! Fresh off two national tours and a YouTube comedy special, Blake’s bringing plenty of cheeky stories, sharp punchlines, and his signature charm across the ditch!
“Pavey’s stand-up delicately weaves elements of darkness and light, moving the audience to the brink of tears, before landing a hefty punchline that leaves them in (metaphorical) stitches.” – The Age
Get your tickets and come see why he’s more than just “that guy off TikTok!”.
Running time: 70 mins
Content warning: 18+, adult themes, coarse language
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