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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.
You wouldn’t think of a building as having a central nervous system - but deep in the interior of the new Waikato Regional Theatre there is a special room that will be exactly that.
It’s a hub where the theatre’s peripheral nerves - the 30 kilometres of glass fibre optic cables that flow throughout the entire structure - meet and connect, carrying audio, video, paging, and other forms of raw data from the main auditorium to all other parts of building.
The $80 million theatre is undoubtedly the most advanced such building to be constructed in New Zealand for decades and the sound system, once completed, will be the equal of any such facility anywhere in the world.
“For a building built around sound and vision, this is the heart of it,” said Mike Orum, one of the eight data technicians who are charged with the task of ensuring that every last strand of cable is correctly connected to each of about 600 termination points in 205 different locations.
Right now, it looks like a spaghetti factory.
And unravelling the strands are two local firms - Structured Technologies and Feisst Electrical.
“It’s cool it’s being done by all Hamilton companies,” said Orum. “There’s not busloads of labour being brought in from somewhere else.”
Hamilton’s vibe is hard to pin down, but impossible to ignore. Emerging suburbs and hidden laneways lined with undiscovered gems paint the picture of a city undergoing an evolving urban transformation.
At every corner, this unassuming city surprises those who take the time to look beyond the surface. With cosy bars tucked away from the main drag, breathtaking gardens that transport you to another time, and serene river views, there’s a bit of everything. Whether you’re up for a well-crafted cocktail, keen to uncover your next read, or just want to bask in the sun by the river, we’ve uncovered the best seats in the city for all of the above.
Whether you prefer small, intimate settings or large entertainment spaces that can host over 1,000 people, our city centre has itall. Enjoy performances from both local and international artists at these venues.
Last Place Bar – 54 Collingwood Street
A vibrant spot known for its great atmosphere, tasty food, and a solid line up of gigs two to three evenings each week. Also known to have one of the most extensive beer menus in the city. Check out the What’s On page of their website to find upcoming gigs.
lastplacedivebar.co.nz
Nivara Lounge – 266 Victoria Street
An underground retro lounge with a great live music line up each month of both local and touring musicians. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and Event Finda to keep up to date with what’s coming up.
nivaralounge.com
The Factory – 28 Alexandra Street
The Factory is a large entertainment venue that hosts a widerange of concerts and gigs, featuring both local and international artists. Find out what’s coming up on their website and social pages.
thefactoryhamilton.co.nz
Biddy Mulligans -17b Hood Street
Biddy Mulligan’s is Hamilton’s only authentic Irish pub! A great spot to go for live music from Monday to Sunday along with their great pub food and Guiness. Hamilton Blues Society Blues are at Biddy's every Sunday afternoon from 3pm.
biddyshamilton.com
It’s not often you’d think to send a postcard while travelling to someone at a retail shop back home, but for visitors to Colin’s store, that feels like exactly the right thing to do.
An outdoor enthusiast in every sense, we grab Colin Hancock, owner and operator of Trek ‘n Travel, to hear some tales of what it’s like to live in the ‘gateway of adventure’.
It’s not often you’d think to send a postcard while travelling to someone at a retail shop back home, but for visitors to Colin’s store, that feels like exactly the right thing to do.
An outdoor enthusiast in every sense, we grab Colin Hancock, owner and operator of Trek ‘n Travel, to hear some tales of what it’s like to live in the ‘gateway of adventure’.
There are few better ways to feed your spirit than a day spent exploring Hamilton’s best boutiques and galleries. Slinging the works and wares of Kiwi artisans, you’re sure to stumble upon some inspiration and quality goods. From conscious fashion and homewares stores to traditional and modern galleries, here’s how to get your creative fix in Hamilton.
True
302 Barton Street, Hamilton Central, Waikato
True focuses on ‘unique designs, ethical production and elevated quality.’ This boils down to respect for the highest quality fabrics and expert craftsmanship, ultimately championing clothing that moves us towards a more sustainable future. In short, they only stock garments from designers with reputable production processes. Here you’ll find international brands like VEJA and Bassike, as well as local names like Mahsa and Caitlin Crisp.
Sisters on London
61 London Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
Get your global fashion fix in the heart of Hamilton, thanks to the stylish sibling duo over at Sisters on London. Slinging collections from the likes of Sass & Bide, Zimmermann, Karen Walker and P.E Nation, you’re covered from head to toe with these designer threads. On the accessories front, you’ll find bags from Deadly Ponies and Status Anxiety, as well as jewellery by Meadowlark and Stolen Girlfriends Club.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery
1 Grantham Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
For a taste of New Zealand history through Hamilton’s lens, book in time at Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato. As the beating heart of the CBD’s creative district, the museum offers plenty of new experiences, exhibitions and events to discover. We recommend blocking out a whole day to unpack everything on offer across the themes of art, history, Tangata Whenua and science. From craft workshops to the annual Contemporary Art Award exhibition, there’s never a dull moment at the museum.
ArtsPost
120 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
The heritage candy-coloured facade is your first hint that ArtsPost is worth the trip. Inside the former Post Office, you’re sure to uncover something new thanks to the ever-rotating collection of artists. Wind your way through three thoughtfully curated galleries, and you’ll be greeted by a frenzy of whimsical pieces like textiles, pottery, artwork and jewellery.
Soul Gallery
300 Barton Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
If you need a dose of inspiration, hightail it to Soul Gallery over on Barton Street. Here, you have permission to lose yourself in all things quirky and colourful, celebrating New Zealand-made art, crafts and treasures. Founder Lisa Voigt’s vision for the gallery is to “create a haven where people could come to appreciate a melting pot of New Zealand art and design.” It’s safe to say she’s absolutely nailed that.
Laree Payne Gallery
286 Victoria Street, Hamilton
Ideally situated between Riverbank Lane and the Waikato River, it’s easy to drop by Laree Payne Gallery on any day out in central Hamilton. Gallerist Laree prides herself on offering the only dealer gallery in Waikato, with new exhibitions popping up every month. It’s all about contemporary Kiwi artists here. Works span engaging mediums like three-dimensional wall hangings, thought-provoking sculptures, and serene nature-inspired pieces.
Ramp Gallery
111 Collingwood Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
With more than 20 years in the business, Ramp Gallery is an institution in Waikato’s creative scene. Fittingly situated adjacent to Hamilton’s Wintec School of Media Arts, Ramp delivers an inclusive space for students and locals to soak up work by Aotearoa’s contemporary artists. From provocative large-scale installations to poignant yet powerful artworks, there’s no doubt this spot will get your creative cogs churning.
Located at 68 Bryce Street in Hamilton Central, Munchies Eatery is a newly opened spot that’s quickly gaining popularity for its affordable menu—everything is under $10.
Designed to be a budget-friendly option for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of tasty food and drinks without breaking the bank.
Over 30 classes per term, tutored by experienced artists with Fine Arts degrees and/or teaching degrees. Classes are a maximum of 8 students so you have a high quality experience.Workshops run from time to time at WSA and to book simply click on the Workshop tab to take you to any coming up.
Over 30 classes per term, tutored by experienced artists with Fine Arts degrees and/or teaching degrees. Classes are a maximum of 8 students so you have a high quality experience.Select the class you want to enrol into. The majority of the classes run for 8 weeks each term.
Children’s classes have all materials supplied. Adults classes have the first lesson’s materials supplied and then the tutor will let you know what you need to bring.
Alison is still floating!
"What an incredible honour to be named Business Person of the Year at the 2025 Wedding Industry Awards NZ.
Celebrating 25 years in business feels especially meaningful surrounded by so much support. I'm grateful to my incredible team— their dedication, creativity, and heart make all the difference. To my former colleagues and cherished friends, your encouragement has meant more than words can say.
I've been privileged to have been chosen by our beautiful clients, letting us be part of their love story.
Here’s to continuing to do what I love in an industry that celebrates love".
Feeling so grateful — and so lucky
Alyson
Join Goldsmiths Gallery Designer Jewellers as they celebrate their 25th anniversary, the week of 23rd to 28thJune 2025.
Goldsmiths Gallery started their journey at 426 Victoria Street, Hamilton, then moved to 441 Victoria Street, Hamilton and then moved once again to 427 Victoria Street, Hamilton, (as well as having their store at Chartwell Shopping Centre from 2014-2023). With each move came a bigger and more beautiful store.
Their exceptional workmanship has not changed over the last 25 years! While the manner of making Jewellery has changed their love for their craft has not. Their retail store is filled with stunning pieces, and they do repairs, custom CAD manufacturing, remodeling, hand-makes, all completed instore. It’s a one stop Jewellery shop.
They are incredibly grateful for the loyal customer support they have received over the past quarter-century and would love for you to celebrate with them.
Go instore and wish them a happy birthday. They will have a different surprise for you each day...including a guess the dollar value of the gold bar and go into the draw to win it!
There are also incredible specials- 15% off Gold; 20% off Diamond Rings;30% off Sterling Silver!
It's their way of saying thank you for being a part of their story.
Whether they’re ordering a “pretty insane” amount of steak or bringing in a mechanical bull, Hamilton venues are preparing for a full-on Fieldays week.
With crowds set to descend upon Mystery Creek from Wednesday until Saturday, bars, pubs and restaurants are gearing up for an influx of customers - whether its cockies or the “logistics and sales force” that comes with them.
And it’s not the only sector affected - out-of-town High Court judges won’t be brought in during a busy week which has already prompted warnings about traffic snarl-ups.
At Furnace Steakhouse in the CBD it’s all hands on deck, with a wagyu steak at Furnace being cooked by head chef Matt Gemmell.
Welcome to Beeji Food and Desserts — Hamilton Central
At the heart of Hamilton Central, Beeji Food and Desserts stands as New Zealand’s premier pure vegetarian and vegan-friendly Indian boutique restaurant. They take pride in offering an authentic culinary experience, staying true to the rich flavors, traditions, and diversity of Indian cuisine.
Their carefully curated menu showcases a wide range of pure Indian delicacies, thoughtfully prepared using time-honored recipes and the freshest ingredients. From vibrant street food classics to royal Mughlai dishes, and from wholesome vegan options to indulgent desserts — every plate tells a story of India’s rich culinary heritage.
Why Choose Beeji:
Hamilton Boys High School Marae
Wharenui & Wharekai
NZIA Waikato BOP Architecture Award 2025 - Education
PAUA Architects were engaged by the HBHS Board of Trustees to design a school marae.
The brief was to provide a new marae complex that the school can be proud of, with integrated learning spaces within the whare. Consultation with the Kiingitanga was instigated by the kura.
The site area is restricted, in the shadow of the 11m high gymnasium building at the west side, and surrounded by the existing rugby fields to the east and south of the site. This leaves little available natural grass atea space to the north.
Working with the traditional form of a marae, and a limited material selection to conform with the school guidelines, we attempted to provide a modern interpretation that pushes the envelope slightly to allow for the accomodation of class room and storage facilities.
The koorero of Taane ascending to the heavens to search for knowledge was the starting point for the design and shape of the wharenui, which has a roofline rising to the north, representing the striving and pushing higher, representative of the school and students’ desire to succeed.
The three pop-outs at each side of the building represent the three baskets of knowledge, and feature a brick pattern articulating the concepts of the three baskets.
Whare Ako Completed 2024
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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