Some of Hamilton’s most loved locations were celebrated on Wednesday night at the 2025 Love the Centre Awards. Waikato Times visual journalist Christel Yardley was there to capture the glitzy event.
Hamilton’s central city came alive at the Love the Centre Awards, sponsored by Spark Business and supported by Mediaworks on Wednesday 29 October. Taking over the stunning K’aute Pasifika fale, business people gathered for an evening that fizzed with energy, creativity, and pride, recognising the establishments that make Hamilton’s CBD a true destination.
The venue was transformed into a place of beauty with lush greenery and dramatic tiered grandstands, immersing guests in comfort and connection. As conversations flowed, guests were treated to Cream Eatery’s creative catering, including a wildly popular raw seafood bar and a decadent tiramisu bar, setting the tone for indulgence and celebration.
The awards ceremony, delivered in two halves, recognised and celebrated the businesses that stood out to a panel of judges. Throughout the night, the talented MC Kelvyn Eglinton ensured no moment went uncelebrated, while Royal Lab’s innovative design, SBI Production’s top-tier production and Moving Media along with Ruth Gilmour Photography captured every embrace, cheer, and triumphant smile. At half time Select FM DJs electrified the audience with a Homegrown artist showcase, reminding everyone of the major talent coming soon to Hamilton.
“This evening is a celebration of what makes central Hamilton thrive, our businesses, our people, our experiences,” said Vanessa Williams, General Manager of Hamilton Central Business Association. “It is an honour to recognise the talent, hard work, and resilience of our businesses. It is through dedication, passion and determination that the business community has turned Hamilton central into a place where people want to be!”
Spark Business, longtime sponsor, returned for the eighth year as the main sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to helping local businesses flourish. “Spark is proud to champion innovation and connection across Hamilton’s city centre,” said Fabian Pathirana, Business Lead, Spark Business. “The businesses recognised tonight are creating opportunities, building community, and showcasing exactly why people love being in the heart of our city.”
MediaWorks, supporting sponsor, echoed this dedication. “MediaWorks is here to help tell the stories of Hamilton’s most dynamic, driven businesses,” said Stewart Melrose, General Manager, Mediaworks Waikato. “Tonight’s event reflects the diversity and ambition that make the CBD such a remarkable place.”
The awards ceremony, produced by Hamilton Central Business Association, is a highlight on the business calendar, a night devoted to championing those making a lasting impact in the central city.
Some of Hamilton’s favourite places were celebrated on Wednesday night at the 2025 Love the Centre Awards, recognising businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of the CBD.
Winners include hospitality hot spots such as Mr Pickles, Cream and the Dumpling House, among others.
The awards were held at the K’aute Pasifika fale, which was transformed with lush greenery and tiered grandstands for the occasion. Guests enjoyed catering from Cream Eatery, including a raw seafood bar and tiramisu bar.
General manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association, Vanessa Williams, said the event recognised the contribution of businesses to the city centre’s vitality.
Hamilton Central Business Association's 'Love the Centre' initiative has been recognised internationally, winning the Best Traditional or Digital Marketing Award at the 2025 Mainstreet Australia Awards on the 18th September in Melbourne.
The 'Love the Centre' campaign, which showcases Hamilton's central city through innovative digital platforms and traditional marketing approaches, stood out amongst competitors from across Australia and New Zealand.
At the heart of the winning campaign is the newly launched website, lovethecentre.co.nz, which invites visitors to "Rediscover the heart of the city." The digital platform beautifully captures what makes Hamilton's central city special, showcasing local businesses, events, and hidden treasures that bring our city centre to life.
The website serves as a comprehensive guide to everything happening in Hamilton Central, from dining options to entertainment, shopping experiences to cultural events. Its user-friendly design and engaging content have increased connections between businesses and visitors.
©HamiltonCentralBusinessAssociation
