The WSA school holiday programmes have been running for many years now. They are tutored by experienced and qualified art tutors with no more than 8 students per tutor and a maximum of 16 students in total per day.
These run from 9am to 12pm, Monday to Friday with every day having different activities for 5-12 year olds.
The arts and entertainment sector in Hamilton began 2026 with a hiss and a roar, with numerous major events happening - mainly at the new BNZ Theatre.
But any impression it was going off the boil following a series of big-name concerts at the theatre, as well as the Hamilton Arts Festival and this weekend’s Homegrown festival, would be false.
The schedule at the BNZ Theatre is being frequently added to by a succession of announcements. One of the latest is a May 17 concert in which the Waikato’s own Opus Orchestra will get their first opportunity to test the venue’s acoustics.
Featuring pianist Stephen De Pledge and conducted by Peter Walls, it is described as “an afternoon of orchestral and vocal drama” that pairs Gillian Karawe Whitehead’s landmark New Zealand opera The Journey of Mataatua Whare (performed in concert form) with Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 (popularly known as The Emperor).
Hamilton developer Matt Stark says he is in no rush to find a tenant for one of the city centre’s largest remaining development sites, as he searches for a major occupier for the former Federated Farmers block.
The Stark Property director outlined his vision for the Tristram and London Street site - touted as one of the largest commercial land sales in the central city - to attendees on a behind the fence tour of their adjoining Fonterra office development on Thursday.
The landholding, purchased by Stark Property in April 2025, includes the six-storey Farmer Trust building, existing tenanted buildings, car-parks, and vacant land.
“We don’t really have many large parcels of land left in the city, so we thought it was a great option to buy this,” Stark said.
He said the Waikato Farmers Trust building, first opened in 1968, would be getting a face lift to meet demand for refurbished space in the central city.
Let's shine a light on some businesses that have recently opened their doors in the central city.
If travel is calling your name, Travel Collective at 109 Ward Street (corner of Nisbet and Ward) is ready to help. These travel professionals have built genuine connections with local guides, hotels, and communities around the world. They know the hidden spots, the unforgettable experiences, and the stories that make travel truly meaningful.
Cavelh Homeware & Décor at 441 Victoria Street is where modern design meets traditional craftsmanship. Step inside and you'll find a carefully curated collection that turns a house into a home. Whether you're after that perfect statement piece or something subtle to tie a room together, this is your new go to spot.
Over at 1000 Victoria Street, Kythara Collective has just opened its doors this month! This luxury lash and brow studio is evolving into a complete beauty and wellness destination. Think of it as your retreat right in the heart of the city.
Feeling the tension in your neck and shoulders? Dynasty Remedial Massage has opened at 384 Victoria Street, bringing professional remedial massage therapy right to your doorstep. This March, Dynasty Remedial Massage are offering a 30-minute neck, shoulder and back massage for just $49. It's the perfect midday reset or after work treat when you need to release that built up stress and tension.
Bespoke menus, dinner at the zoo, and over $200,000 fundraised for Ronald McDonald House Charities - for Waikato Supper Club guests, Wednesday evening was a night out to remember.
The 440 guests who attended the event helped raise funds to support Ronald McDonald House Charities in providing accommodation to families with a child in hospital.
Event organisers and McDonalds franchisees Rob and Linley Parry said they were “blown away” by people’s generosity on the night.
After running 15 Supper Club fundraisers in Rotorua and a seven year hiatus, this was their first time organising the event in Hamilton.
“We’ve been absolutely blessed with an enormous variety and number of auction items, and that was really exciting going into the auction knowing people had really good things to select,” said Linley.
“There are some really good people wanting to do really good things.”
While final figures were still being confirmed, the couple said the total funds raised was about $231,000.
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