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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.
Palate Restaurant stands out as a beacon of innovation, flavor, and hospitality. Founded in 2005 by award-winning chef Mat McLean, Palate has grown from a modest 45-seater into one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed restaurants, now located in the stylish SkyCity Hamilton complex on Victoria Street.
Mat McLean is regarded as one of New Zealand’s top chefs. A graduate of Waikato Polytechnic, Mat honed his skills in prestigious kitchens across London—including Michelin-starred restaurants Leith and The Capital Hotel—before heading to Melbourne, where he served as Head Chef at Middle Brighton Baths.
Returning to Hamilton in 2004, Mat saw an opportunity to bring Melbourne’s relaxed, high-quality dining vibe to his hometown. He opened Palate in early 2005, and despite a rocky start, quickly built a loyal following through his commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and technically refined cooking.
For over six decades, Gail’s Floral Studio has been a cornerstone of Hamilton’s floral scene, offering exquisite arrangements and world-class design from its central location on Worley Place. Founded in 1963 by internationally acclaimed floral designer Gail Jones, the studio has grown into a symbol of creativity, elegance, and dedication to the art of floristry.
Gail Jones is not just a florist—she’s a global floral ambassador. With a career spanning more than 60 years, Gail has represented New Zealand on the international stage
Gail’s Floral Studio is known for its premium floral arrangements and gift services, catering to all occasions:
- Wedding bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres
- Custom floral designs for events and corporate functions
- Nationwide flower delivery across Hamilton, Waikato, and New Zealand
- Curated gifts and dried flower arrangements
Fresh flowers are their specialty, and every arrangement reflects the studio’s commitment to quality and artistry
An independently owned bookshop tucked away in the picturesque Casabella Lane, Poppies Bookshop is a charming and thoughtfully curated independent bookstore that has become a cornerstone of Hamilton’s literary community.
The team at Poppies takes pride in offering an eclectic mix of popular, literary, and quirky titles, catering to readers of all ages and interests. Whether you're after the latest bestseller, a hidden gem, or a beautifully illustrated children’s book, you’ll find something special here
In addition to books, Poppies also stocks gorgoues greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery and gifts for book lovers.
Their collection is constantly updated, and the staff are always happy to help you find the perfect read—or even track down a hard-to-find title.
Tucked away in the charming Casabella Lane, Midas Diamond Jewellers is a beacon of craftsmanship, luxury, and personalised service. With over 43 years in business, Midas has earned its reputation as Waikato’s premier specialists in diamonds and colored gemstones.
Established in 1981, Midas is led by seasoned jewelers Paul and Suzanne, who bring over 50 years of combined expertise to the art of jewellery making.
At Midas, the focus is on bespoke craftsmanship. Their on-site designer workshop is always busy with:
Whether you're designing a one-of-a-kind engagement ring or restoring a family heirloom, Midas provides expert guidance and meticulous attention to detail.
If you are considering transforming your old gold and gemstones into a stunning new piece talk to Midas!
Precious Metals & Diamonds at Centre Place Shopping Centre offers a dazzling experience for jewellry lovers. Known for its exquisite craftsmanship and elegant designs, this store has become a trusted name in New Zealand’s jewellery scene.
Their collections include both New Zealand designers and international brands, offering something for every taste—from timeless classics to modern statement pieces
One of the highlights of Precious Metals is their custom design service, allowing customers to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect personal stories and milestones. Whether you're redesigning a family heirloom or crafting a new engagement ring, their expert team guides you through every step.
They also offer:
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Precious Metals & Diamonds offers a luxurious and memorable shopping experience. Step into their store and discover jewelry that’s as unique as you are.
Again & Again is more than just a clothing store—it's a thoughtfully curated consignment boutique that celebrates sustainable fashion and timeless style. A go-to destination for fashion lovers who appreciate quality, individuality, and eco-conscious shopping. Founded by Jahdiel Mason, Again & Again is driven by a passion for giving once-loved items a new lease on life.
Again & Again specializes in gently worn designer clothing, footwear, and accessories. Each item is handpicked to ensure it meets the store’s high standards for quality and style. Whether you're looking for a chic coat, a pair of designer heels, or a statement handbag, you’ll find pieces that are both fashionable and affordable.
The store’s inventory is constantly evolving, offering a fresh experience with every visit. From high-end labels to unique vintage finds, Again & Again caters to a wide range of tastes and sizes, making it a treasure trove for fashion-forward shoppers.
From the sound of clippers to the buzz of good conversation, it’s a place where grooming becomes an experience.
A blend of old-school barbering and contemporary flair, this barbershop has quickly become a favourite for locals seeking sharp cuts, clean fades, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Legacy Barbershop offers a full suite of grooming services tailored to men of all ages and styles. Whether you're after a classic cut or something bold and modern, their skilled barbers deliver with precision and care. Popular services include:
Combo packages available (like fade + beard trim) are a popular option for a full refresh.
Known for its clean cuts, friendly team, and top-tier service, it’s become a go-to destination for men’s grooming in the Waikato.
BarberShopCo is staffed by a team of qualified, professional barbers who are passionate about delivering sharp styles and great experiences. Whether you’re after a fade, a beard trim, or a full restyle, the barbers here take the time to listen and deliver exactly what you’re after.
If you’re after a sharp cut, a clean fade, or a classic shave — all delivered with precision and style — Cutthroat Brothers is the place to be.
Cutthroat Brothers is home to a team of highly skilled barbers, each trained through their in-house education programme. This ensures consistency, quality, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Cutthroat Brothers offers a full suite of grooming services, including:
Whether you’re after a quick tidy-up or a full transformation, Cutthroat Brothers delivers top-tier grooming with style, skill, and soul.
Tucked away in the artistic and tranquil Casabella Lane, Heidi Christian Hair is a salon that blends creativity, community, and personalised care. With its warm atmosphere and collaborative spirit, it’s become a go-to destination for those seeking more than just a haircut — it’s a place where artistry and connection thrive.
Founder and owner Heidi Christian has a deep love for the location and a passion for creating a welcoming, collaborative space, Heidi has built a salon that reflects her values: creativity, community, and authenticity.
Heidi Christian Hair operates on a rent-a-chair model, which means each stylist brings their own unique flair and client base while working together in a shared, supportive environment. This setup fosters a sense of independence and creativity, allowing stylists to truly shine.
The salon is more than just a place to get your hair done — it’s a creative hub where clients feel seen, heard, and pampered. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a strong focus on personalised service and collaboration between stylists and clients.
Tucked into the charming Casabella Lane, Blush'N Blondes is more than just a salon — it’s a creative hub for hair, makeup, and beauty that’s redefining what it means to feel confident and empowered.
Built on the belief that style is genderless and beauty is personal. Their approach is modern, inclusive, and refreshingly real. Whether you're after a precision cut, a bold colour refresh, or a nourishing treatment, their team is dedicated to helping you look good, feel good, and own your vibe.
Led by Phoenix, the salon’s Creative Director, the team at Blush'N Blondes is known for their artistry, warmth, and attention to detail. They’re not just stylists — they’re hair therapists, confidence boosters, and trendsetters. Every appointment starts with a thoughtful consultation to ensure your hair goals are understood and achieved.
Nestled in the stylish Riverbank Lane precinct, Fabrik Hair is more than just a salon — it’s a creative space where individuality is celebrated, sustainability is embraced, and every client leaves feeling like their best self.
Founded by Jamie Dryden in 2007, Fabrik has grown into one of Hamilton’s most beloved salons. Jamie brings over 20 years of international experience, having worked in top salons across Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Auckland before settling in the Waikato. His passion for precision cutting, especially short hair, and his creative vision have shaped Fabrik into a salon that’s both elegant and edgy
Jamie leads a talented team of stylists who are all about personalised service. They take the time to understand your hair, your lifestyle, and your goals — whether you’re after a subtle refresh or a bold transformation. The team’s vibe is warm, welcoming, and refreshingly down-to-earth, making every visit feel like catching up with friends who just happen to be hair geniuses.
Fabrik is committed to using ethical, sustainable, and high-performance products. hey also use bio towels (which are composted after use) and recycle all leftover foil, plastic, and paper — proving that great hair doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense
If you’re looking for a salon that blends creativity, professionalism, and a genuine passion for hair, Ktizo Hair Salon is your go-to. Ktizo has built a reputation as one of the Waikato’s leading salons — and for good reason.
Ktizo isn’t just another hair salon — it’s a community of award-winning stylists who’ve been pushing boundaries and unlocking potential for years. With a strong foundation built on dedication to clients, the industry, and rising talent, Ktizo has become a trusted name in hair care across the region.
At Ktizo, the journey begins with a personalised consultation. Stylists take the time to understand your hair goals, lifestyle, and preferences. Whether you’re after a bold transformation or a subtle refresh, they’ll guide you through options that suit your face shape, hair type, and personality.
Ktizo offers a full range of services, including:
They use premium products like Wella, Kerastase, and Evo, ensuring your hair gets the best care possible
Delicious Culinary
Live Music
Pop Up Stores
Feat: Imachef, Toro Churro, Panda Golden Ear Dumpling, Mizzoni Pizza, Meezie Kitchen, Patrons Blazing BBQ PLUS MANY MORE!!
Bar will be open with drinks flowing. Also boutique market stalls and live music.
in Casabella Lane on Saturday 11 October from 10 till 4pm
Spend $20 or more and get a lucky dip prize - there are books, totes, pens and more up for grabs.
Buy any two Penguin books and get your free 2025 Personal Penguin
Write a love letter to your bookshop to enter the draw for$250 in book tokens - 8 prizes to be won around NZ.
Keep an eye out for the Libro.fm Golden Ticket to win a year's audiobook subscription.
And pick up a copy of the brand new Summer Reading Guide. It's never too soon to start your Christmas wishlist!
Australian Irish dancing touring company PACE LIVE is bringing all the craic of an Irish Christmas to New Zealand with their high-octane show, A Celtic Christmas! The cast features Auckland champion Irish dancer Keely O’Grady, who was the 2024 New Zealand & International Rose of Tralee; and Christchurch champion Irish dancer Mitchell O’Hara. These New Zealand locals will perform alongside world-class musicians and exceptional Irish dancers to bring New Zealand audiences the very best in the industry, including world champion dancers from international hit shows such as Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. The family show brings the heart-warming spirit of an Irish Christmas into a feel-good extravaganza filled with laughter, Christmas cheer, and the pure joy of the festive season for the whole family to enjoy. The show has recently enjoyed a hit on off-Broadway in 2024, and will tour across the North and South Island of New Zealand throughout November and December 2025.
Audiences can immerse themselves in the magnificence of Christmas in Ireland as they are transported to a land where energetic music and dance embody the beating heart of good craic! This feel-good show aims to give audiences a bit of Irish charm and features a company featuring over 15 of the world’s leading Irish performers and musicians. Featuring a powerful mix of traditional tunes, heartfelt ballads and all your favourite carols, A Celtic Christmas combines incredible music with jaw-dropping dance talent in an unforgettable night of storytelling and Irish charm.
Two Shows:
17th November, 2025 (Mon) 7:30pm
17th November, 2025 (Mon) 3:30pm
Fire up the hot glue gun, mix up your paint pots, and sharpen your scissors! Whether you’re having yourself a Mini Little Christmas, or your tree puts the T in OTT, we want you to show us what the season means to you!
Tree registrations will close at 5pm on Saturday 15th November or until we reach our max number - so please get in quick!
The Trees at The Meteor exhibition will run from 10th-19th December 2025.
More info coming soon.
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Mark you calendar - Hamilton Central is the place to be this October!
Tickets from $20
Step into Exscite after dark for a Halloween adventure like no other. Hear ghost stories around the campfire, follow the trick-or-treat trail, and enjoy free face painting for all ages.
Activity for the whole family!
We'll have activity stations for the whole family, including code-cracking and treat-bag making.
Follow the trick-or-treat trail and collect stamps to unlock a bag full of treats to take home.
Get into the Halloween spirit with free face painting from our friends at Enchanted Entertainment.
Gather around the campfire in Exscite to hear local ghost stories that will send a shiver down your spine.
Make your own treat bag at our creepy craft station.
Look out for a special guest roaming Exscite for photos.
Come along in costume whether you're a kid or a grown up!
Jeremy Mayall will bring the music, you bring the craft. Bring a project from home to work on or enjoy a drink and soak in the vibes of our latest exhibitions.
29 October onwards
We're very excited to extend our hours for these monthly Open Late sessions.
Instead of closing at 5pm, Te Whare Taonga will be open until 9pm so that you can enjoy the exhibitions after-hours.
With drinks and nibbles available to purchase from our bar, you can get in the groove with a DJ or live music. Each month we'll have a new floor talk or panel discussion to get ideas sparking as you check out the galleries.
For our October session, we'll enjoy a performance by Dr. Jeremy Mayall, composer/performer/innovator and CEO of Creative Waikato. While he performs, you are encouraged to sketch or write or craft to relax. Bring a project to work on from home or enjoy a drink and explore our latest exhibitions.
Held on the second Friday of every month (excluding December).
Take a creative lunch break to explore art through poetry.
These free drop-in poetry sessions are the perfect way for beginners and poetry lovers alike to explore their creativity.
With a focus on ekphrasis (poetry written in response to art), this is a fun and creative experience that is about expression, not perfection.
Be inspired by our exhibitions and explore new ways to look at art and language.
What to expect
Educator and poet Cassandra Barnett will introduce easy poetry techniques and prompts, help you see and connect with works of art, and encourage you to find your own creative voice.
Wander the galleries with pencil and paper, and support on hand, and poem what you see.
Poetry prompts
If you can’t join the lunchtime session, drop in at any time on the day of Poetry in the Galleries and pick up a poetry prompt. Let the galleries guide your words and enjoy writing at your own pace.
On a mission to create your dream home, renovate to sell, or ramp up the value of investment? Don’t miss the annual Waikato Home & Garden Show, where you’ll find everything you need to renovate, build, decorate and landscape your home under one roof.
As well as some great show-only deals, hundreds of exhibitors will be on hand to present exciting new products, stylish trends, innovative ideas and top quality service to help make your project a reality.
That’s not all – you’ll find something for the whole family including live cooking demos, seminars, demonstrations, food and drink, a kids zone and so much more!
10am - 5pm (4pm finish on last day of the show)
Come and celebrate the music of the Red Hot Chili Peppers with By The Way, NZs latest and greatest tribute band.
Be prepared to be transported to another galaxy, as the band perform the Chili Peppers greatest hits, with all songs you know and love - By The Way, Otherside, Californication, Under The Bridge…
Playing in Hamilton for one night only at the fabulous Nivara Lounge, doors open from 7pm with the band onstage at 8.30pm.
7pm Doors Open - 8pm Start
Earlybird Tickets $20
GA Tickets $30
TWO comedians, ONE night, ONE great price.
The most Haunted Comedian in all of New Zealand (Callum Wagstaff) and indie darling George Fenn (as Sexy Ghost Boy) are here to Split your Sides this Spooky Season, using comedy to defang all of your worst fears.
The show is strictly R18. It contains sexual themes and nudity up to underwear.
Doors open from 7pm, show at 8:30pm. There will be an intermission.
Tickets $30 waged / $20 unwaged / $35 on the door.*LIMITED* Early Bird 241 Tickets $15 each.
GEORGE FENN (he/she/they) George is a genre bending comedy theatre maker based in Ōtautahi specialising in audience interaction, described by witnesses as a hot mess mash up of Mr Bean and Marina Abramović.
Winner Organised Chaos Award (Auckland Fringe 2024) Bizarre and Charming Award (Hastings Fringe 2024) Spirit of the Fringe (2017 and 2020.) Nominated Outstanding Performer (Dunedin Fringe 2025)
“a theatrical alchemist, Fenn has the rare talent to create something utterly ridiculous yet very clever..." - Rosheen Fitzgerald, Theatreview
12th October
9th November
14th December
$10 Entry
Join Hamilton Operatic Society at Nivara Lounge to get your musical theatre fix and support local performers!
The 'Downtown Musicals' nights aim to provide a platform for up-and-coming theatre performers to get experience performing in front of audiences, as well as those wishing to try something new or who maybe haven't performed in some time.
Each night performers will pick their songs based on a theme. The theme for October is Cinematic Showstoppers.
Doors open at 7 pm with performances starting at 7.30 pm.
Note: These Nivara Lounge nights are now 18+ for performers and R16 for audience members accompanied by a parent or guardian. For performers under 18, please look out for our Downtown Musical Jr afternoon sessions.
For any queries or to use membership tickets, email Pip at admin@hamiltonoperatic.co.nz
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