Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s so much to rediscover and enjoy. Start your journey with lovethecentre.co.nz, your ultimate guide to the best places to eat, shop, and experience in Hamilton’s central city.
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.
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."
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.
©HamiltonCentralBusinessAssociation
