Explore

In 2024 design students from Aotearoa, Ecuador, Indonesia, Singapore, and the UK asked their elders:
“If you could give one piece of advice to the people in your city, in 20 words or less, what would it be?" Their responses became over 120 powerful posters — with a curated selection now on show in the Hamilton CBD (Corner of Alexandra Street and Garden Place (by the Game Centre).

Check out the exhibition, vote for the poster that speaks to you the most, and you could win a framed copy!

The Vote & Win competition will run until 20^thJune.

Two of Hamilton’s newest bridges have got “massive” international recognition, showing they measure up against projects including billion-dollar transit hubs.

Te Ara Pekapeka and the Taurapa pedestrian bridge, which connect Hillcrest and the future Peacocke development, got a special mention at the Architizer A+ Awards, placing them among the top 5% of global entries.

The international awards recognise excellence in architecture and design. Out of more than 3500 submissions, the Hamilton bridges stood out in the infrastructure category, placing them alongside mega projects like European train stations and billion-dollar transit hubs.

‍

Waikato-based Mark McGoldrick from Harcourts Monarch Real Estate Hamilton was this week crowned Australasia’s top auctioneer, fighting off tough competition from Australia's heavyweights in the Australasian Auctioneering Championships hosted in Adelaide, South Australia.

One of three Kiwi’s in the Senior Division final, McGoldrick delivered a commanding masterclass in auctioneering, having earned a hard-fought spot in the final after first having to make the cut on New Zealand soil at the REINZ nationals.

“It’s been 10 long years, trying to knock these ­buggers off,” says McGoldrick, referencing Sir Edmund Hilary during his acceptance speech at the awards.

McGoldrick, already a multi-award-winning auctioneer and reigning LVD Auction Champion, delivered a masterclass in control, clarity, and charisma throughout the competition. Facing intense challenges designed to test even the most seasoned professionals, including complex bidding scenarios and curveballdistractions, his performance stood out among the five finalists at the iconic Adelaide Oval.

Hosted by the Real Estate Institute of South Australia (REISA), the AUSTROs are the most prestigious event on the Australasian auctioneering calendar, showcasing exceptional skill, speed, legal acumen, and performance under pressure. Harcourts Hamilton director Campbell Scott says his team has long believed that auctions are the most transparent, competitive, and effective way to sell property, and theirresults back that up.

Harcourts has outpaced thecompetition, calling more auctions in the past two years than all other majorbrands combined — proof they don’t just talk auctions, they lead them.

“This win highlights the world-class auction culture we've grown in ourlocal team. We’re delivering shorter days on market, unconditional sales, andstrong buyer competition for sellers,” says Scott.

“This isn’t just a win forMark, it’s a win for our clients, our auctioneering team, and every seller whochooses to list with Harcourts. We’re beyond proud of him,” he adds.

Trent Finlay, also a director of Harcourt's Hamilton said witnessingMark’s Adelaide performance under immense pressure was nothing short ofextraordinary.

“His meticulous preparation led to a moment that truly showcased the talent we witness every week in our Auction room. To have his skills recognised as the best in Australasia is a proud moment for the entire Harcourts family.

To add to the win, Harcourts NZ is celebrating a double triumph afterTama Emery, from Harcourts New Age – Papakura, took out the Novice Division.This clean sweep shows Harcourts has firmly cemented its place at the top ofthe auction world.

‍

It’s been under wraps for a while, but the full “face” of the $80 million Waikato Regional Theatre can now be seen on Victoria St.

The last of the scaffolding shielding the old Hamilton Hotel façade facing Hamilton’s main street was taken down on Friday.

Passers-by now have an almost unfettered view of the newly-restored 102-year-old architecture.

Momentum Waikato communications and marketing manager Mark Servian said the scaffolding removal was a small but significant step in the saga of the theatre’s manifestation.

“I have lived in Hamilton since the mid-1980s, and Victoria St now looks better than at any time I have seen it in the last 40 years.”

‍

Hamilton’s Central Business District (CBD) is undergoing a significant transformation, with several key buildings being refurbished and repurposed.

From the rooftop of 500 Victoria Street on a grey day, the view is still spectacular, revealing a city undergoing a remarkable metamorphosis.

Looking west, there is significant activity at the city’s tallest building in Ward Street, formerly known as the Government Life building.

It is set to become a $100 million Pullman hotel.

To the north, work is about to start on Norris Ward McKinnon House, while the former Housing Corporation Building on the corner of Victoria St and Claudelands Rd is bustling with activity.

Wellington-based Primeproperty Group, a private investment company, is behind the refurbishments of 500 Victoria and Norris Ward McKinnon House.

Property manager Richard Tait describes 500 Victoria as a tired building, once frequented by government, Telecom, and ACC workers.

“This is a building where we want to get tenants,” he says on a recent media tour, emphasising the goal of attracting new occupants.

Referring to these buildings as ‘old’ would be a disservice, as they were mostly built in the 1970s and 1980s and Hamilton has other more historic buildings of note.

Tait uses the word iconic for 500 Victoria, which is a stretch for the 38-year-old building, and landmark for the 1985 building at 711 Victoria St, which given its two top floor exterior balconies regularly attract attention from down below – onlookers always on the lookout for anyone standing on them – is apt.

‍

‍

Journey + Co, a gift and homeware boutique owned by Nikki Carlyon and Krystal Roughton, has doubled its growth every year for the past four years.

“We measure the growth by looking at what we’ve done the same week or month the previous year,” Carlyon said. “Those sales have consistently doubled if not more.”

For Journey + Co, the seeds of their success were sown during the pandemic.

The shop moved from Anglesea St to Princes St “a couple of weeks before the second Covid-19 lockdown”, co-founder Krystal Roughton said.

‍

Discover the stunning collection of ballet gear and costumes designed for every dancer, from beginner to professional at That's a Wrap.

They offer a wide selection of:

- Leotards

- Tutus

- Shoes, including but not limited to ballet pointe and flats, character, tap, chorus, highland

- Tights, socks and stockings

- Hair accessories

Top brands with quality materials, craftmanship and comfort

With 40 years of experience in dance and theatre costumes, That’s a Wrap Ltd offer a diverse collection of costume pieces that meets a wide variety of fancy dress needs.

Visit in store to find the perfect fit for your unique expression.

‍

‍

‍

While throngs of visitors take the 45-minute trip out of Hamilton to live out their fantasies in The Shire (each to their own), those who stick to the heart of the ‘Tron will discover local treasures that are – in our opinion – just as precious.

On any given day in Hamilton, a world of natural beauty, rich Māori culture, creativity, and delicious moments set to impress both first-time visitors and long-time locals. Wander along the banks of our country’s longest river, lose track of time in award-winning gardens, find great coffee or cocktails down unassuming alleyways, feast at neighbourhood gems, meet makers and artists, and be utterly enchanted.

Once you realise how much ground there is to cover in Kirikiriroa, it can be tricky to know which way to turn. So, we’ve consulted a few in-the-know residents to put together a locally approved list of the best places to eat, drink, shop and explore next time you’re in Hamilton. Spoiler alert: it ends with ice cream.

‍

The Skin Spa is an urban oasis located on Alexandra Street in central Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. This quiet sanctuary is for people seeking a journey of relaxation and beauty – an exceptional spa experience to treat the mind, body and spirit.

For over 20 years, Skin Spa owner Kim Frandi has built a career that seamlessly blends artistry with business savvy.  But the journey hasn’t always been smooth.

From early beginnings in Tauranga and Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, to becoming a business owner and weathering the storm of multiple lockdowns, Kim’s story is one of resilience, creativity and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

For Kim, beauty isn’t just about looking good. It is about helping people feel better about themselves.

Her journey began in the early 2000s when she faced a choice for where to study beauty therapy. It was either an expensive school in Tamaki Makaurau or in Tauranga for a more balanced lifestyle. Choosing Tauranga allowed Kim to work part-time in a café while studying, providing her with a more manageable lifestyle at a slower pace.

She later moved to Auckland for further studies in electrolysis, along with mentorship from industry professionals. This set the foundation for a career that would eventually lead to business ownership in the late 2000s.

With a passion for beauty and a mind for business, Kim was prepared for the challenges of business ownership and the ever-evolving nature of the beauty industry.

For almost ten years, Kim continued to operate The Skin Spa out of the 2nd floor of the Alexandra Street building. When Kim shifted The Skin Spa into a street-front space in 2019, she was determined to create more than just a place of work. It had to be a space that resonated with her personality and creative spirit. Based on her experience in cafés and bars, Kim created a versatile area that offered a balance of openness and privacy, with both a welcoming reception area and quiet, intimate treatment rooms.

‍

One of the most prominent buildings fronting Garden Place is set for a revamp with Hamilton City Council to replace the ageing and damaged facade of the Hamilton Central Library.

The current facade of the 1970s building is at the end of its life, with years of water damage in difficult-to-access areas ruling out ‘quick fixes’ as an option, council said in a statement.

The six-month project will start in August and Rebecca Whitehead, Council’s Unit Director Community Services, said while the replacement is underway, the library will remain open and safe to use.

‍

The old Housing Corp building at 500 Victoria St - between Bryce St and the Claudelands bridge - is getting revamped inside and out under owner Primeproperty Group.

But the Wellington-headquartered company isn’t stopping there. It’s also set to spend $1m-plus on a second seven-storey project further up the street: the Norris Ward McKinnon (NWM) office building.

Primeproperty bought 500 Victoria St in 2016 for $8.1 million.

Project manager Richard Tait was positive about being able to get tenants in the current climate.

“We wouldn’t be doing it otherwise.”

They were targetting government clients or any “reasonable tenant”.

And, he added: “Potential tenants are telling us they want to be in Hamilton because that’s where the business is for them and there’s a large population.”

‍

In a world moving fast, RUBY Blink 2025 is your pause ~ a quiet flash of certainty; the kind you only catch if you’re truly looking.

Introducing RUBY’s winter 2025 collection, Blink captures that familiar winter feeling. The early sunsets, the cozy layers and the invitation to hibernate after a big summer ~ all signs point to a season of soft resets. And while the nights grow longer, the stars burn brighter ~ let Blink be the one you follow.

‍

It was the year 2000, on an overcast morning in May, when Vanessa Herbert (nee Nieper) launched her first fashion label and clothing store in Hamilton.

Now, 25 years, a rebrand and a change of hands later, NES is still going strong and preparing for a new chapter.

Herbert said she always had a passion for fashion, sewing her own clothes and sketching designs while working as a travel agent at Flight Centre in Auckland, but she didn’t think that she could turn it into a career.

‍

Calling all students and anyone who remembers what it's like to party like one. The Outback Inn is hosting Hamilton's biggest student New Year's Eve bash, with doors opening at 10pm on 31 December. Bring your energy, bring your friends for a great night. R18

If you're after something a bit more underground and electric, Nivara Lounge is serving up CLUB ZION, a themed New Year's Eve dance party with Matrix inspired vibes.  Cosplay encouraged. 8pm-1am. Tickets $20.00 + $3.25 fees or $30 on the door. R18 event.

When you want to dance until your feet hurt (in the best way possible), House on Hood has you covered. DJs will be playing from 9pm right through until 3am. R20

Lucky Finns is throwing open its doors at 10pm with DJs Kellyn and Ric Rush on the decks, free entry, and drink specials to keep the good times flowing. Enjoy a fun night out with your favourite people. R18

New Year's Eve
‍

Party kicks off from 8pm
‍

Main Gaming Floor,  Amuse Bar & Kitchen,  Number Eight Bar
‍

Get ready to shine, sparkle and dance your way into 2026!

This New Year's Eve, SkyCity Hamilton is turning back the clock with a full-blown Disco-themed celebration - glitter, groove and good vibes guaranteed.

Feel the funk with high energy live music from Groove Street and Gold Dust Divas in Amuse Bar & Kitchen and Number Eight Bar.

What's New Years' Eve without a little extra excitement? We'll be having cash prize draws at 8.30pm, 10.30pm and 12.30am, with $2,026 cash up for grabs at each draw - find out more here.

Dust off the sequins, bring your best dance moves, and let's celebrate the new year the disco way!

See you on the dance floor.

R20
Game Responsibly.

‍

After taking Australia by storm, Pleasure P brings A Night of Pleasure to Aotearoa for the very first time! Performing his timeless solo hits and Pretty Ricky anthems live, this is the ultimate throwback for R&B; lovers — an intimate concert experience filled with passion, rhythm, and connection.

Powered by Titan Entertainment, the New Zealand run features nine cities across the country, delivering the full R&B; experience to fans from the South Island to the North.

✨ Proudly supported by Hamilton City Council as part of Summer in the City ✨
Get ready to celebrate the festive season with Carols in the City — a magical evening filled with live entertainment, delicious food, and the Christmas spirit right in the heart of Hamilton! 🌟
📅 Date: Friday, 19th December 2025
🕔 Time: 5 PM – Late
📍 Location: Garden Place, Hamilton CBD
Enjoy a fun, family-friendly night featuring:
🎤 Live Music
🍔 Tasty Food Stalls
🎶 Christmas Carols
🎬 Outdoor Movie Screening
Bring your whānau, a picnic blanket, and your best singing voice — it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season together! ❤️
🚌 Getting There:
Catch a free bus ride with BUSIT to and from the event — Hamilton services only!
Let’s light up the city with joy, laughter, and Christmas cheer. 🎅🎁

Supported by J.Tajor+ Richie Cattell

This December, DJ Noiz, Kennyon Brown and Donell Lewis bring their signature island sound for a long-awaited New Zealand tour, hitting Wellington, Rotorua, Auckland and Hamilton.

Known for hit records 'Senorita', 'Chill', 'Amelia', 'Island Girl' and more, the trio have become global ambassadors of modern Pacific R&B — blending smooth vocals, island grooves and soulful production that’s earned them millions of streams and loyal fans worldwide.Joining them on the road is special guest and viral superstar J.Tajor known for his hit record ‘Like I Do’.

Together, they promise an unforgettable celebration of Pacific music, culture and connection — a summer tour that captures the soul of the islands.Buy tickets via futurenowmusic.comDoors 7pm • 18+ Only • ID Required

Christmas Sewing Workshops for Kids: aged 8 - 16

A little Christmas magic for the kids - and a few free hours for you!

Thursday 18th - Tuesday 23rd December

9:30am - 12:30pm

Our School Holiday Christmas Workshops introduce kids to the wonderful world of festive sewing in a structured and supportive environment.

These beginner-friendly workshops cover the basics - from threading the machine to sewing achievable projects. ‘Getting Started’ is about learning how to thread and use the machine safely while sewing a simple project. ‘Master the Basics’ is building on their skills to sew other projects while learning new techniques.

Led by a trained primary school teacher and a skilled assistant, you can be sure that your child will have a memorable workshop filled with loads of learning AND a finished project.If your child has never sewn before then ‘Getting Started’ is a must, after that, they can sign up for any of the other kids workshops in any school holidays.

Included: All fabric, tools and equipment, as well as a hot chocolate and a snack from one of our local cafes.‍

Wriggle & Rhyme takes place during term time only:

Wednesdays, 10.30-11.00am, Central Library

Looking for a relaxed, fun group where you and your baby or toddler can enjoy music and movement together? It's time to Wriggle & Rhyme! Classes combine singing, movement and rhythm, in a way that will delight and stimulate your child. This programme is aimed at babies and children under two years, but older siblings are welcome.

During school holidays or other times we are unable to hold Wriggle & Rhyme, you can see our playlist of Wriggle & Rhyme videos to enjoy classes at home.

Please note children under 14 must always be accompanied by a caregiver in our libraries.

‍

‍

Tuesdays, 10.30-11.15am, Central Library

Taking place during Term Time Only

‍

Storytime is a fun-filled preschool programme tailored specifically for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. The programmes feature stories, songs, movement and interactive fun which foster children's literacy. Caregivers can bond with their children while enhancing their social, cognitive, motor and musical skills.

During school holidays or other times we are unable to hold Storytime Puaawai, you can check out Suzy's Book Corner to watch at home.

Please note children under 14 must always be accompanied by a caregiver in our libraries.

‍

View a list of exciting events happening over summer in Hamilton!

Find out what's on in the central city in December.