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The big white cross will soon be replaced by Golden Arches on northern Victoria St, with fastfood giant McDonald’s to take over a prominent city site occupied by the Gateway Church.

The church has sold its property to McDonald’s Restaurants and will be moving to the corner of Clyde St and Grey St in Hamilton East - until recently the premises of Ebbett Waikato’s Audi showroom.

The sale is being hailed as potentially the trigger to a revitalisation of the northern end of Victoria St, which is fast becoming the go-to part of the city for dining out.

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The big Union Square development in the CBD has kicked off its new $20 million Building B multi-storey office block project, the latest step in its expected $200 million overall spend at the site.

It’s the fourth of six Union Square buildings to begin construction - a sod turning ceremony for Building B is being held on Tuesday at the site between Anglesea and Alexandra streets.

Chief executive of Foster Develop Rhys Harvey said on Monday the total cost of Building B would be about $20 million.

The existing three completed projects at the site are the Rabobank building (finished 2021), Building A carparking (2022) and the Building E offices (2023). Buildings C and D will also eventually provide office space.

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If you’re on the hunt for vibrant, authentic Malaysian cuisine right in the heart of Hamilton, look no further than three standout eateries: Madam Woo, Penang Street Food, and On a Roll Eatery. Each has its own unique flair, offering a culinary experience that immerses you in the rich flavours and lively atmosphere of Malaysia.

Madam Woo - 6 Sapper Moore-Jones Place

Madam Woo is the epitome of Malaysian charm with a dash of contemporary flair. As soon as you step through the doors, you’re enveloped in an energetic ambiance that instantly lifts your spirits. The menu is full of fresh food from zesty salads to succulent grilled meats marinated in traditional spices, every bite is a celebration of flavour. Known for their Hawker Rolls, Char Kway Teow, and Hainanese Chicken Rice every bite showcases a commitment to quality and freshness. With a strong emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, Madam Woo doesn’t just serve food; it presents a genuine taste of Malaysian culture. It’s the perfect place to gather with friends and enjoy the warmth of community dining.

madamwoo.co.nz

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Penang Street Food - 941A Victoria Street

Penang Street Food encapsulates the hustle and bustle of Malaysian street food culture. This eatery stands out for its commitment to authenticity and flavour.

The variety of flavourful and traditional dishes like Char Kway Teow, Nasi Lemak, Laksa and Mee Goreng transport you straight to the streets of Malaysia. Each plate is a vibrant palette of colours and textures, offering a culinary adventure. The menu is packed with flavour and rooted in family heritage.‍

The decor reflects the vibrant streets of Malaysia, creating a lively and casual atmosphere where you can kick back and enjoy your meal. Whether you’re dining solo or with a group, the inviting space is a welcoming spot to visit

Whether you're craving creamy butter chicken, fiery chaats, or plant-based fusion, Hamilton’s Indian food scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors for every palate. From North Indian classics to South Indian specialties and vibrant street food, here’s your guide to the top Indian restaurants in town. 

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Breeze Indian Restaurant - 16 Hood Street

Breeze blends traditional Indian flavours with modern presentation. Known for its momos, tandoori platters, and gelato desserts, it’s a great spot for dine-in or takeaway. The restaurant is designed with comfort and elegance in mind, offering a culinary experience that spans both North and South Indian cuisine. From appetisers to desserts, Breeze is food that fuels your hunger and feeds your soul.
breezerestaurant.co.nz  

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Indian Chimney - 4 Alexandra Street

A warm and inviting restaurant perfect for casual dining or special occasions. Indian Chimney specialises in authentic North Indian cuisine, including tandoori chicken, chaaps, and vegetarian platters. With friendly staff and a cosy atmosphere, it’s a favorite among both meat lovers and vegetarians.
indianchimney.co.nz

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‍Naughty Naan - 250 Victoria Street
Naughty Naan offers a bold and modern take on Indian cuisine. Drawing inspiration from across the subcontinent, the menu features curries, tandoori specials, and street food favorites like pani puri and goat biryani. Whether you're celebrating or just indulging, this stylish kitchen and bar promises a memorable dining experience.
naughtynaan.co.nz 

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Wonder Horse is a cocktail bar that’s become a cornerstone of Hamilton’s nightlife. Since opening in 2012, it has built a reputation for handcrafted cocktails, top-shelf spirits, and an atmosphere that draws in locals and visitors alike.

Wonder Horse is all about quality drinks and good times. Their menu features a mix of classic cocktails and tailored creations.

You’ll also find:

• Craft beers and fine wines
• Top-shelf whiskies
• Light snacks and nibbles from 5pm Wed through Saturday
• A rotating cocktail menu that keeps things fresh

Wonder Horse is the perfect venue for staff parties,birthday celebrations or corporate functions. They can also tailor make nibble and cocktail menus to suit.

And if you thought Wonder Horse was just about cocktails think again, they also hold regular Whisky Nights, featuring rare tastings, curated pours, perfect for connoisseurs and curious sippers alike.

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Dora’s Café is one of Hamilton’s best-kept secrets. With its warm ambiance, friendly staff, and consistently delicious food and coffee, it’s no wonder this café has become a local favorite for breakfast, brunch, and casual catch-ups.

A mix of classic café fare and unique treats. Popular menu items include:

• Thai curry – a flavorful surprise on a café menu, often praised by regulars
• Hot chocolate & coffee – rich, smooth, and expertly brewed
• Brunch staples – eggs benedict, toasties, and muffins
• Freshly baked goods – including daurade (a Mediterranean-style fish dish) and sweet pastries

Dora’s Café is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates good food, great coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere. Stop by and discover why this little café is making a big impression.

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A café that’s quietly become one of Hamilton’s most celebrated coffee spots.Demi Urgos is more than just a café—it’s a destination for coffee lovers who appreciate quality, community, and a touch of artistry.

While coffee is the star, Demi Urgos also offers a satisfying menu of baked goods and light bites.

Demi Urgos is known for its unpretentious, cosy vibe making it a great spot to catch up with friends, enjoy a solo coffee break, or even work remotely.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a great café in Hamilton, Demi Urgos is a must-visit.

Beast Style Fitness is more than just a gym—it’s a movement. Founded by a passionate husband-and-wife team, Simon and Harmony, this boutique fitness centre is built on the belief that everyone deserves access to a supportive and empowering fitness environment, no matter their goals or schedule.

Beast Style Fitness offers a personalized, community-driven approach to health and wellness. With both founders certified in personal training and nutrition coaching, members benefit from expert guidance and tailored support.

Their services include:

• One-on-one personal training
• Group fitness sessions
• Nutrition coaching
• Goal-specific programs for weight loss, strength, and endurance
• Supportive community events and challenges

Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or looking to push past a plateau, Beast Style Fitness provides the tools and motivation to help you succeed.

Whether you're training for an event, recovering from injury, or simply want to feel stronger and healthier, Beast Style Fitness is the place to be. Join the movement, challenge yourself, and become the best version of you.

24/7 gym access

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Hamilton’s dessert scene just got a whole lot sweeter with the arrival of Kori Desserts, a vibrant new café on Ward Street that’s serving up a delicious mix of Korean-inspired treats and Instagram-worthy creations. Since opening early July 2025, it’s quickly become a go-to destination for anyone with a sweet tooth—and for good reason.

Kori Desserts specialises in Asian-style sweets, with a focus on Korean and Japanese flavors. Their menu features a mouthwatering selection of:

• Soufflé Pancakes – light, fluffy, and topped with fresh fruit, ice cream, and cream
• Snowflake Bingsu – Korean shaved ice desserts with toppings like red bean, mango, and injeolmi (roasted soybean powder)
• Mochi Ice Cream – chewy, creamy, and packed with flavor
• Monaka Ice Cream – crisp wafer shells filled with rich ice cream
• Seasonal puddings and parfaits – beautifully layered and perfect for sharing

Prices range from $11 to $28, with generous portions designed to be shared—though you might want to keep them all to yourself!

Every dish at Kori Desserts is a visual delight. From the towering soufflé pancakes to the vibrant bingsu bowls. If you are looking for a dessert that tastes as good as it looks, this is the place to be.

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Rocket Coffee Roasters has long been a local favorite for coffee lovers. But in 2025, this humble café made international headlines—ranked 62nd in the world on a prestigious list of top coffee shops. Rocket Coffee is the only New Zealand café to earn a spot on the global stage.

Rocket isn’t just a café—it’s a coffee destination. Co-owner Glen Crompton describes it as a place where the focus is purely on coffee. No food, no distractions—just expertly roasted beans and beautifully crafted drinks.

Beyond the beans, Rocket is deeply rooted in the Hamilton community. They highlight the farmers behind each coffee, support sustainable practices, and create a space where locals feel at home. As Crompton puts it:

“We let the coffees tell their story and their own flavours... This ranking is a reflection of the hard work and commitment to quality that we put into every cup.”

Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just looking for your next great brew, Rocket Coffee Roasters is a must-visit in Hamilton. Come for the coffee, stay for the story—and experience one of the world’s best right here in Aotearoa.

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Tucked away on Ward Street in the heart of Hamilton Central, La Promesse Bakehouse is a delightful bakery that’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Ling and Richard, this boutique bakehouse is all about quality, craftsmanship, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries.

La Promesse is known for its handcrafted pastries, made fresh daily with premium ingredients and a whole lot of love. Their display cabinet is a visual feast, often filled with:

• Classic Croissants – buttery, flaky, and golden perfection
• Almond Croissants – rich, nutty, and dusted with powdered sugar
• Pain au Chocolat – layers of pastry wrapped around dark chocolate
• Pain au Raisin – sweet, spiraled pastry with custard and raisins
• Brioches & Danish-style treats – soft, sweet, and indulgent

Whether you're a pastry connoisseur or just love a good croissant, La Promesse Bakehouse is a must-visit in Hamilton.

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If you're looking for bold flavors, festive vibes, and a true taste of Mexico in the heart of Hamilton, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina is your go-to destination.This lively cantina brings the spirit of Mexico to the Waikato with colorful décor, handcrafted cocktails, and a menu packed with authentic street food favorites.

El Mexicano Zapata serves up a delicious array of traditional Mexican dishes, including:

• Tacos – soft or crispy, filled with everything from fish to slow-cooked beef
• Burritos & Chimichangas – generously stuffed and smothered in sauce
• Enchiladas – cheesy, spicy, and full of flavor
• Quesadillas & Nachos – perfect for sharing
• Pollo al Mole – a rich, chocolatey chili sauce over tender chicken
• Churros – golden, crispy, and served with chocolate or caramel

They also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it a welcoming spot for all dietary preferences.

There wide selection of drinks include these favourites:

• Classic Margaritas (try the mango or jalapeño versions!)
• Mojitos & Tequila Flights
• Mexican beers like Bohemia and Corona
• Jarritos – traditional Mexican sodas in fruity flavors

Whether you're a taco lover, a tequila enthusiast, or just in the mood for a fun night out, El Mexicano Zapata Cantina delivers a fiesta every time. Come hungry, leave happy—and don’t forget to try the churros!‍

If you're craving bold flavors, vibrant spices, and the comforting warmth of Southeast Asian cuisine, look no further than Penang Street Food in Hamilton. This restaurant brings the soul of Malaysian street food to the Waikato with a menu that’s as rich in culture as it is in taste.

Penang Street Food is inspired by the bustling hawker stalls of Penang, Malaysia. The restaurant blends traditional Malay recipes with a modern dining experience, offering dishes that speak to heritage, family, and flavor.

Some of their standout menu items include:

• Nasi Lemak – coconut rice served with sambal, peanuts, egg, cucumber, and your choice of meat
• Char Kway Teow – stir-fried flat noodles with prawns, Chinese sausage, and crispy pork lard
• Laksa – rich coconut curry soup with noodles, tofu, and boiled egg
• Roti Canai – flaky flatbread served with curry chicken, lamb, or beef rendang
• Kungpao Squid – spicy stir-fried squid with cashews and vegetables
• Hainanese Chicken Rice – poached chicken with seasoned rice and dipping sauces

They also offer vegetarian options, crispy snacks like curry puffs and wontons, and refreshing Malaysian drinks like 100 Plus and A&W Root Beer.

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Relax and enjoy a 1 hour rejuvenating meditation suspended in an aerial hammock, while surrounded by the tranquil vibes of crystal sound bowls. This session will be guided by sound rather than verbal led meditation.This unique experience designed to relax your body and mind.Level: No aerial yoga experience required.What to wear: Comfortable warm clothing, no jeans, no zips or jewellery. Socks must be worn.Sessions run most Sundays with a Friday evening once a month.Limited spaces per session, online bookings are essential via HumantixPrivate group bookings available on request, email hello@highabove.co.nz to arrange24-hour cancellation policy applies for workshops.Due to the nature of this event, please ensure you arrive 5mins prior to start time, strictly no late admissions as this is disruptive to attendees.Cost $35 ppHigh Above use Antigravity hammocks which are specifically designed for purpose, each hammock is load tested to hold 450kg.

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Bottomless Brunch is every Saturday from 2pm.

This event is by reservation only.  

Cost $55pp

Your booking includes 2 hours of bottomless drinks service as well as any 2 share plates of your choice.

The full Bottomless Brunch food and drink menu can be found here.

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Celebrating 80 Years Running! Eight decades of community spirit, the iconic course, and shared memories!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of history — grab Super Saver entry from July 7 and join the celebration

‍Register Now

Every year thousands of runners and walkers descend upon Hamilton City Centre for one of NZ's oldest and most beloved annually contested events, Lugton's Round the Bridges!

Established in 1945 by the Hamilton Harrier Club (now known as Hamilton City Hawks), Lugton's Round the Bridges started out as a road race designed to showcase some of NZ's top athletes, with past participants having included Barry Magee, Peter Snell and Dick Quax. Given its popularity, the event grew from strength to strength, eventually becoming the fantastic community event you see today!

Nowadays the event welcomes people of all shapes and sizes, from primary school students right through to running legends. With finisher's medals for every participant, on-course musical entertainment and thousands of fun-loving runners and walkers, Lugton's Round The Bridges offers an awesome day out which the entire family can enjoy.

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Find out what's on in the central city in July!

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Step into the magical world of CATS – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical phenomenon!

Inspired by T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, Hamilton Operatic Society’s production will dazzle audiences with a spellbinding fusion of music, dance, and poetry.On one extraordinary night each year, the Jellicle cats gather for the Jellicle Ball. Under the watchful eye of their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, one special cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer—and be reborn into a new Jellicle life.Don’t miss your chance to experience the show that has captivated the world. CATS – a night of magic, mystery, and unforgettable music awaits.

Sat 9th August 2.00pm show will have sign language interpreters at the front of the auditorium.

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Dates: 26th July - 9th August

Produced by: Hamilton Operatic Society

After selling out over 100 shows across the world, the team from 'Silent Discos in Incredible Places' is now coming to Aotearoa New Zealand.

As international promoters, they have thrown parties and held silent discos in, well, some pretty incredible places! Come along and be part of the global phenomenon right here in Kirikiriroa Hamilton.

Expect three epic DJs playing all your favourite 80s tunes in the stunning, illuminated surroundings of Te Whare Taonga like you've never seen it before.

100's of like-minded 80's fans singing their hearts out whilst wearing state of the art LED headphones where you can select between 3 different channels of music.

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22nd August 2025 - First session 6.30pm to 9pm, Second session 9.30pm to 12am

This is strictly a 18+ event. Valid photographic I.D. may be requested on entry. Please take it as a compliment if you're asked to prove your age!

There will be a fully stocked bar on site for the entire event.

Tickets from $55.44

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Monthly Open Late sessions.

Instead of closing at 5pm, Te Whare Taonga will be open until 9pm so that you can enjoy the exhibitions after-hours.

With drinks and nibbles available to purchase from our bar, you can get in the groove with a DJ or live music. Each month we'll have a new floor talk or panel discussion to get ideas sparking as you check out the galleries.Come by and make a night of it with Open Late at the Museum!

Schedule

Wednesday 28th May: Dive into Ripples with Sasha from He Koniahi Story Circle.

Wednesday 25th June: A Matariki spectacular featuring a panel discussion on Toi Maaori.

Wednesday 30th July: Winter chill special.

Wednesday 27th August: The insider's guide to the National Contemporary Art Award.

Free entry.

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A great line up of events on each month at Last Place!

We invite you to join us for a night celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty, as we present the music of one of the world’s most iconic bands – from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others

All the hits that defined a generation, and have been passed on for many more – all in one night, live, on stage.

Creedence Clearwater Collective brings to the stage a band that captures the unique CCR sound.

You do not want to hear through the grapevine that you missed out on this howling good time.

Join us, a real-life travelling band.

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