Passenger numbers reach for the sky at Hamilton Airport

This March, Claudelands Bridge will close to vehicles and reopen as Bridge to Homegrown, a pedestrian-only link connecting Hamilton’s CBD with Jim Beam Homegrown at Claudelands Oval.

From 6am Saturday 14 March until 3am Sunday 15 March, the bridge will be closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians from 10am. Activity and festival atmosphere on the bridge will build later in the day, with the space becoming a lively, walkable connection open to everyone, not just festival ticket holders.

Jim Beam Homegrown, New Zealand’s largest all-Kiwi music festival, returns to the Waikato in 2026, bringing thousands of visitors into the city and providing a significant opportunity to showcase Hamilton as a host city for major events.

Bridge to Homegrown has been designed to safely move people between the city and the festival while activating one of Hamilton’s most iconic connections.

Sean Murray, Hamilton City Council’s General Manager Destinations Group says the bridge activation is about creating a positive city experience alongside the return of a major national event.

“Bridge to Homegrown is about making it easy for people to spend time in the city and support local businesses,” says Murray. “By creating a pedestrian-only connection between the CBD and Claudelands Oval, we’re encouraging people to arrive earlier, stay longer and explore Hamilton before and after the festival.”

Murray says the activation also plays an important role in creating an inclusive and enjoyable public space.

“Closing the bridge to vehicles and opening it up to people allows us to create a safe, lively environment that anyone can enjoy. It’s about connecting the city, supporting the local economy and showcasing Hamilton as a great host for major events.”

Clear wayfinding, maps and signage will guide pedestrians, while alternative routes and public transport options will remain available for road users during the temporary closure.

Bridge to Homegrown creates a shared space that invites people to walk, explore and enjoy the city, connecting the CBD and Claudelands Oval in a way that feels safe, celebratory and distinctly Hamilton.

Further information, including maps and access details, will be coming soon on hamiltonhostcity.co.nz

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Planning the perfect Valentine's Day celebration? You'll find everything you need right here in Hamilton Central, where romance meets convenience. Whether you're searching for an intimate dinner, stunning jewellery, or gorgeous flowers, Valentine's shopping in Hamilton Central offers something special for everyone.

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Dining Experiences

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Palate Restaurant – An Exquisite Evening

Located at 346 Victoria Street, Palate Restaurant invites you to spoil that special someone with an exquisite dinner for two. This is the perfect setting for an unforgettable Valentine's evening, where exceptional cuisine meets intimate atmosphere. Bookings are essential, so don't wait to secure your table.

Reserve your table here palaterestaurant.co.nz/events

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Le Rendez-Vous – French Romance

Bring your chérie to 113 Alexandra Street and celebrate love à la française at Le Rendez-Vous. This Valentine's Day, you're invited to enjoy an intimate dinner inspired by French romance. Their specially curated menu features authentic galettes and crêpes, crafted to be shared and savoured in a warm, cosy setting. Whether it's your first Valentine's together or one of many, they'll set the scene for a memorable evening filled with flavour, love, and French charm. Bookings are essential, reserve your table today here lerendezvoushamilton.com

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Furnace Steakhouse

Valentine’s Day Lunch Degustation!

Join Furnace at 150 Victoria Street on Saturday the 14th of February as they host an exclusive Valentine’s Day lunch degustation, featuring five courses curated by acclaimed Hamilton chef Andrew Clarke.

Designed for a leisurely and romantic afternoon from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, with a focus on sharing with your partner, this intimate event is limited to just 75 places. Tickets are $99 per person, or $129 with wine matches.

To book your table, email info@furnacerestaurant.co.nz

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Keystone Bar & Restaurant

Something for every couple at Keystone, 150 Victoria Street this Valentine’s Day, whether it’s burgers, pizzas, mains, or $12 plates that are perfect for sharing! Our tables are filling up so make sure to book now.

keystonebar.co.nz

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The Bank Bar & Brasserie

The Bank, 117 Victoria Street is the perfect spot for affordable dining this Valentine’s Day! They’ll have $15 lunches available from 11.30am - 4pm and $20 dinner mains from 5pm - late.

Book your spot early

thebank.co.nz

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The Helm Bar & Kitchen

Heat to the Helm at 22 Ulster Street and enjoy dinner followed by 2 for 1 Desserts!  

Chiefs live on screens with commentary and Happy Hour for the duration of the game.

Book a table today.

thehelm.co.nz

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Timeless Jewellery Gifts

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Goldsmiths Gallery – Stunning Selections

At 427 Victoria Street, showcases a wide range of stunning dress rings, pendants, earrings, bangles, bracelets, and chains. With so many beautiful options available, you're sure to find the perfect piece. Visit Goldsmiths Gallery to discover their collection.

goldsmithsgallery.co.nz

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Precious Metals – Your Unique Story

Located in Centre Place Shopping Centre at 501 Victoria Street, Precious Metals has made it their mission to help you celebrate your experiences in a way that is special and unique to your story. Discover Precious Metals and find a perfectly meaningful gift!

Their Valentine's catalogue has just dropped in to make your life easier. Click here to view catalogue.

Plus, every $100 you spend, you get an entry into our Valentine's Giveaway.

‍preciousmetals.co.nz

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Midas Diamond Jewellers – Handcrafted Excellence

Find Midas Diamond Jewellers in Casabella Lane at 307 Barton Street, where diamond specialists Paul and Suzanne bring 50 years of expertise to every piece. Paul is renowned for crafting exquisite, top quality handmade jewellery, specialising in one of a kind designs. If you're looking for something truly exceptional, visit Midas Diamond Jewellers today.

midasdiamondjewellers.co.nz

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There has been an exciting wave of new businesses to Hamilton Central, and you're going to want to add these spots to your must-visit list. From fashion boutiques to eateries, dessert havens to wellness clinics, there's something fresh waiting for everyone who loves exploring what's new in Hamilton city.

Whether you're a longtime local or just discovering the great options in our central city, these five new openings are bringing energy, innovation and plenty of reasons to venture into town. Check out below who's opened their doors recently and what makes each one unique.

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Fashion Forward at Parlour

If you've been searching for what's new in Hamilton city's fashion scene, you'll find your answer at Parlour, located at 307 Barton Street. This isn't just another boutique—it's the realisation of Ali's lifelong passion for fashion, brought to life with her husband Josh and an incredible community of supporters.

After over 12 years immersed in fashion design, retail, production and brand relationships, Ali stepped away to focus on family and pursue her second dream of psychology. But fashion called her back, and towards the end of 2025, the perfect location appeared. Within weeks, Parlour transformed from concept to reality.

The name itself tells a story. Inspired by the warmth and nostalgia of an old school ice cream parlour, this is a space where good vibes are guaranteed and every visit feels like a treat. Parlour is where everyday ease meets curated sophistication, designed to empower anyone who walks through the doors. You'll find thoughtfully selected pieces that work for real life, chosen by someone who genuinely understands both fashion and the people who wear it.

Ready to refresh your wardrobe? Visit Parlour at 307 Barton Street or explore their collection online at parlournz.com

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Farm Fresh Dining at Moos Table

Say hello to Moos Table at 149 Alexandra Street—your new destination for healthy, honest food in Hamilton Central. This isn't just another café; it's a restaurant, café and gelato spot that's redefining what's new in Hamilton city's dining landscape.

What sets Moos Table apart is their proud partnership with Pikiroa Organic Farm. This means what lands on your plate is as close to the farm as it gets—real food, grown with care, served with integrity. Their signature organic steak is just the beginning. You'll also find organic chicken, fresh salmon, wholesome sides, barista-made coffee and small-batch gelato that's worth coming back for.

Bring the family, catch up with friends or simply treat yourself to a solo meal. Open every day from 9am to 8pm, Moos Table makes it easy to enjoy organic, farm-to-table dining whenever the mood strikes.

Find them at 149 Alexandra Street or follow their journey on Instagram @moos.table

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The Suzuki Fronx is the perfect fit for navigating our central city streets. Its hybrid technology means we're moving forward sustainably, while its compact SUV design combines practicality with undeniable style. Whether we're connecting with businesses, supporting events, or simply getting around town, this vehicle embodies the energy and forward-thinking approach that defines both Love the Centre and Winger Motors Hamilton.

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A Partnership Built on Shared Values

What makes this partnership truly special is the alignment of values. Winger Motors Hamilton understands that supporting local business isn't just about vehicles, it's about connecting people, fostering community, and supporting the unique character that makes Hamilton's central city such an incredible place to be.

"This sponsorship reflects our commitment to Hamilton's business community," says the team at Winger Motors Hamilton. Their support comes at an exciting time as the central city continues to grow and evolve, with new businesses opening and fresh energy flowing through our streets.

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Looking Ahead

A huge thank you goes to Courtney Hurley, Paul Burborough, and the Winger Motors Hamilton team for believing in our vision and recognising all there is to love about Hamilton's city centre.

With Winger Motors Hamilton on board, Love the Centre is ready to accelerate our work championing Hamilton's central city. Whether you're visiting for dining, shopping, entertainment, or business, there is always something to love at the city centre.

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Winger Motors Hamilton has joined Love the Centre as a valued sponsor and associate member, providing a vehicle sponsorship that puts our team in the driver's seat of a stylish Suzuki Fronx! This partnership represents more than just getting from A to B, it's about supporting a shared vision for Hamilton's city centre.

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Image: Paul Burborough, Vanessa Williams, Courtney Hurley and the stylish Suzuki Fronx!