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Hamilton’s Centre Place is turning 40 but in the world of ever-evolving shopping habits, the only constant is change.

When the mall opened in 1985, Hamiltonians poured in for traditional retail shopping, browsing the latest fashion with the added novelty of grabbing a bite at the bustling food court.

Some locals even recall the basement once housing a nightclub, the walls all painted purple.

40 years on, Centre Place is still standing but shoppers’ priorities look very different.

No longer just a collection of retailers, the mall has evolved into an experience-driven plaza where entertainment and atmosphere is just as important as the products.

Centre Place Centre Manager Maureen Pearce says the mall has come a long way since the 1980’s.

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At just 22, Lucy Nicholson has brought a slice of Scotland — and a burst of colour — to Hamilton’s Casabella Lane.

Nicholson, who co-owns new café Scran with her Kiwi husband Raukawa, grew up in her parents’ takeaway shop in Scotland and says she’s been hooked on hospitality ever since.

“I really grew up in there, worked with them a lot and I really love the work. I missed it when I moved over here,” she said.

The couple’s café is already turning heads with its retro vibes, bold colours and a menu that’s both quick and wholesome.

“It was a break from the office and something fast and easy but also having nutritious options,” Nicholson explained.

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Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate believes the city can host big hitters such as Taylor Swift with a new theatre on the way and Homegrown making its return early next year.

The Government announced it’s putting $40 million into securing major international events from 2026, as part of a larger $70 million tourism fund.

Southgate said the $70 million investment will put New Zealand firmly on the events map.

However, she wants to see Hamilton join in on the action.

“There are big events and hubs like Auckland, Queenstown and Wellington but Hamilton has just as much to offer as those big cities and we would like to see the love shared around.”

It comes as Homegrown makes its return to the city next year at Claudelands Oval and the new, $80 million Waikato Regional Theatre is almost ready to go.

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Anyone wanting the experience of seeing a show at Hamilton’s new $80 million Waikato Regional Theatre should mark off Saturday, March 28 in their diaries now.

That’s when the Soweto Gospel Choir will perform in the soon-to-open facility.

The choir last performed in Hamilton when they headlined the 2015 then-named Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival, to rave reviews.

The show will not be the first at the theatre - that is still to be announced, along with the opening date, however these are understood to be imminent.

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Close to 500 people are now earning a living from Hamilton’s new five-star hotel, with crews swarming over the Mistry Centre on Ward St as it transforms into the Pullman Hamilton.

Developers say the headcount — on site and across suppliers — underlines the project’s role as one of the CBD’s biggest employers right now, and a bellwether for the city’s confidence.

Developer Sanjil Mistry said the construction push had shifted up a gear in recent months and remained on schedule.

“The Mistry Centre project the Pullman Hamilton has made substantial progress in the last few months and we are still on track to complete the project in late 2026 as planned.

“Despite a challenging economic environment we are proud to say we look to support local trades and tradies where we can, and we estimate that the project employs close to 500 people - on and off site - in the region at any one time.”

Behind the glass and scaffolding is a $100 million overhaul of the city’s tallest building — 19 levels in total, 17 above ground — into a 191-room premium hotel with a rooftop bar and private lounge, plus conference and office space.

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Fifteen years in, Dumpling House is still packing out tables — from its 25-seat Grey St original to the 80-seat CBD spot that’s been humming since 2018.

Owner Lei Wang says loyalty keeps the steam rising even as wallets tighten.

Wang came to Hamilton as an international student more than two decades ago, finished a management degree in marketing and finance, worked in senior roles, then teamed up with her mother, a fifth-generation hospitality hand who moved here in 2006.

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If you’re looking for authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Classic is the perfect destination. They proudly serve a wide variety of dishes, from traditional Thai classics to modern fusion creations, all crafted with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.

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As the sister restaurant of Chim Thai in Rototuna, Thai Classic continues the tradition of delivering exceptional flavors and warm hospitality.

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Standout menu items:

• Curry Puffs – Minced chicken, potato, and yellow curry wrapped in flaky puff pastry.

• Duck Roti – Roast duck served on roti with cucumber, carrot, and homemade hoisin sauce.

• Massaman Curry – Traditional beef curry slow-cooked in coconut cream with cashew nuts, potato, and onion.

• Pad Thai – The famous Thai noodle dish with Asian chives, bean sprouts, eggs, and ground peanuts.

• Yummy Duck Sizzling – Marinated duck with honey and sweet chili sauce over vegetables, served sizzling hot.

• Thai Classic Sizzling – Your choice of meat with vegetables, cashew nuts, and Thai oyster sauce, sizzling to perfection.

• Sticky Pork Ribs – Tender pork ribs marinated in a sweet Thai glaze, served with vegetables.

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They also cater to vegetarian guests with delicious dishes such as crispy spring rolls and more. Pair with a refreshing Thai Classic Sunrise mocktail for the perfect balance.

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 At Thai Classic, every dish is made to delight your taste buds and give you a true taste of Thailand.

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Running Grid is New Zealand's 1st interactive gaming experience! Our mission is to combine the thrill of gaming with the excitement of physical activity, creating an innovative and engaging adventure for all ages.

At Running Grid, we bring "The Floor is Lava" – a popular game in Asia – to life right here in NZ. Our interactive games are all carefully designed to challenge your mind and body, providing a fun and immersive experience that keeps you coming back for more. We're the original and authentic choice for a unique interactive gaming experience that you can't find elsewhere!"

Homegrown organisers are signalling an at least 18-year commitment to Hamilton as they prepare to host fans in March 2026.

The Claudelands venue is about 2.5 times the size of the previous venue, Wellington’s waterfront, and keeps stages within walking distance of bars, eateries and hotels, they say.

And the design of the event channels spending into the city centre and across the Waikato, they told business people at the Waikato Chamber of Commerce’s Inspire series on Wednesday.

The Hamilton plan is built for the long haul — “something that could host us for the next 18 years,” managing director and chief executive Andrew Tuck said.

He and chief operating officer Michael Lamusse said Hamilton beat out six or seven cities on capacity, flexibility and the chance to keep the experience fresh.

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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.

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Here are a few for you to go and check out.

INDIAN CHIMNEY - 4 Alexandra Street  

Bringing the rich flavours, spices, and soul of India to the heart of the city. Expect authentic Indian cuisine in a warm, inviting interior.

DUCKY CHINESE RESTAURANT - 242 Victoria Street  

As its name suggests, this cute little eatery specialises in duck dishes, but that's not all.

NAN HOTPOT - 232 Victoria Street  

A fun and interactive dining experience! Nan Hotpot,a proud ambassador of traditional Chinese hotpot culture, brings the rich, bold flavours of China to your table.

DIVINE DESSERT LOUNGE - 148 Ward Street  

Got a sweet tooth? Divine Dessert Lounge offers sweet treats and rolled ice cream - where sweet dreams come true.

KORI DESSERTS - Ward Street  

Discover fluffy souffle pancakes, bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert), and mochi ice cream.

MUNCHIES - 68 Bryce Street  

Got the munchies and only $10? Decadent baked goods, croiffles, bubble waffles, pasta and more and nothing is over $10 at Munchies.

STATUS THE VEG EDGE - Dining on Bryce, Centre Place  

Fresh, local and 100% vegetarian food with vegan and Jain options available.

THAI GRANDMA HOUSE - 1238 Barton Street  

Savour the authentic flavours of Thailand including the best wonton noodle soup in town.

KUMAR KITCHEN (KK) INDIAN STREET FOOD - 541 Victoria Steet 

An extensive vegetarian menu from chaat to burgers, momo (dumplings) to South Indian and Indo Chinese dishes.

SAIGON '60s - 643 Victoria Street  

Offering authentic Vietnamese food and the best pho noodle soup in town.

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Exciting news for property owners in Hamilton! Rent My Home, has just opened its doors at 572 Victoria Street in the central city.

This local business offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to take the stress out of property ownership. From full residential property management to casual inspections, they've got you covered with solutions tailored to meet the needs of Hamilton's diverse property market.

With the Healthy Homes Standards being a top priority for landlords across New Zealand, Rent My Home provides specialised healthy home inspections to ensure your investment property meets all compliance requirements. Their team of professionals will identify any areas needing attention and help you navigate the sometimes complex world of property standards.

Maintenance issues can be a headache for even the most experienced property owners. Rent My Home's maintenance service connects you with reliable local tradespeople, handling everything from emergency repairs to routine upkeep, giving you peace of mind that your property is in good hands.

What sets Rent My Home apart is their local knowledge and commitment to building lasting relationships with both property owners and tenants. Their central Victoria Street location makes them easily accessible for face-to-face consultations, reflecting their dedication to personal service in an increasingly digital world.

Whether you're an experienced property investor or a first-time landlord, Rent My Home offers the expertise and support you need to maximise your investment while ensuring your tenants enjoy a well-maintained, comfortable living environment.

Pop in to 572 Victoria Street to meet the team and discover more about how they can help you as a property owner.

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For more than 90 years, the Waikato Society of Arts (WSA) has been at the heart of creative life in the region. One of the WSA’s defining strengths is our exhibition programme.

HANRAD Gallery is delighted to present From Thought to Form – Materiality Speaking, a solo exhibition by acclaimed Swedish–New Zealand artist Sylvia Sinel. The exhibition opens on 6 November 2025 and runs until 18 January 2026, inviting viewers into a deeply sensory and contemplative experience of material, intuition, and transformation.

From Thought to Form is an interdisciplinary body of work that encourages audiences to connect with the mystical space where thought, surface, and soul intertwine. Sinel’s deeply rooted curiosity for materials and her continuous exploration of form have evolved into a distinctive artistic vocabulary and voice.

Through sculptural works, experimental surfaces, and poetic abstraction, the exhibition explores themes of transformation and transcendence. Each work acts as a vessel—holding memories, intuition, and knowing—extending an invitation to consider how matter might carry intention, and how viewers might engage not only with what is seen, but also with what is sensed.

Sylvia Sinel’s interdisciplinary practice spans over 35 years, with works held in private collections worldwide. Her creative drive is guided by a profound curiosity for materials and techniques, spirituality, and ancient wisdom traditions. The idea dictates the medium, and each piece is granted agency to find its own voice through an intuitive, responsive process.

Her unique form language draws inspiration from her Scandinavian heritage and evokes a sense of both familiarity and otherness.

Originally from Sweden, Sylvia emigrated to New Zealand in 2013 and settled in Hamilton, where she became an active contributor to the local art community. In 2025, she relocated to Auckland’s North Shore, where she is establishing a new studio and continues to teach at several local art centres.

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Summer Live Music in Garden Place!

Grab your lunch and head down to Garden Place for live music by great local musicians!

All live music sessions are weather dependent.

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Summer Line Up :

4th December - Sean Lurman

11th December - DJ KUDZ

18th December - DJ TAZ

15th January - Darze Keefe

22nd January - DJ DEGEN

29th January -Sean Lurman

5th February - DJ JAE

12th February - Andrew Price

19th February - DJ GETMELO

26th February - Darz Keefe

5th March - DJ TW3AK

12th March -Andrew Price

19th March - DJ CYPHR

26th March -TBC

Fashion For a Cause – A Night of Style, Culture & Purpose

The countdown has begun!

We’re just days away from Fashion for a Cause 2025 — a glamorous evening filled with style, purpose, and community spirit!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of fashion with heart at Fashion for a Cause, proudly presented by Rudra Entertainment and Rupal Solanki in support of St. John New Zealand.

This one-of-a-kind multicultural fashion show will showcase the incredible talent of local and emerging designers, featuring stunning collections from ethnic to modern and fusion styles.

But this event is more than just a runway. It is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and community spirit. A portion of all proceeds will go directly towards supporting St. John New Zealand, helping them continue their life-saving work across Aotearoa.

Expect an evening filled with inspiring designer showcases, live entertainment, cultural performances, red carpet moments, and a meaningful cause that brings fashion and community together.

Come dressed to impress, enjoy the glamour, and be part of a night that truly makes a difference.

Limited seats available – book your tickets now.

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Seddon Park will host the BLACKCAPS and West Indies in their 3rd ODI match of the series on Saturday, 22 November 2025.

Caribbean flair meets Kiwi fire.

BLACKCAPS v West Indies – tickets on sale now.

Big hits. Big names. Big series. Feel the electric atmosphere, soak up the summer vibes, and enjoy world-class cricket right here at home.

It’s the perfect day out for whānau, mates, or anyone who loves the game. These matches will be crowd favourites – secure your tickets now!

For hospitality packages and enquiries contact charlotte@ndca.co.nz

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Get ready for a massive night of groove, rhythm, and energetic music!

Versailles is bringing their electrifying mix of reggae, dub, and funk—seasoned with tasteful jazz influences—for a high-energy set that will keep you moving. They'll be playing some fresh, brand-new original material, along with a selection of well-known covers that will have you singing along!

Opening the show is the incredibly talented Sahara, the winner of Rockquest 2025. Her captivating solo singer-songwriter performance will perfectly set the stage for an evening of unforgettable entertainment.

A jam-packed show with tons of energy and entertainment to offer—you don't want to miss this!

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Worldwide sensation - the MAGIC MEN AUSTRALIA are finally coming your way!

For One Night Only, MAGIC MEN AUSTRALIA is bringing the heat with Australia's Hottest Male Revue Show!

Tickets

Regular Patron - $50 General non-reserved seating

Deluxe - $75 Priority Seating for the best views!

Premium - $95 VIP Seating for the ultimate front-row experience!

18+ ONLY

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Roots Rising Tour – Presented by Titan Entertainment

Get ready for Roots Rising Tour, hitting Aotearoa across four incredible locations!

This is a tour you don’t want to miss, featuring three of Aotearoa’s most soulful and powerful reggae acts — House of Shem, Son and Water, and Brutha Rodz — bringing uplifting energy, rich harmonies, and authentic roots music to the stage.

House of Shem are back and stronger than ever, performing all their classic hits alongside brand new music that’s been making waves across the country.

Joining them is Son and Water, led by the legendary Jamie Ferguson — the saxophonist and songwriter behind many of Katchafire’s biggest hits. Now performing alongside his sons, Jamie and the band are creating fresh, inspiring sounds that are capturing hearts all over Aotearoa.

Adding to the lineup is Brutha Rodz, a true roots reggae storyteller known for his smooth vocals, conscious lyrics, and powerful live performances that connect deeply with the crowd.

This will be the first time Son and Water perform in many of these cities, making it an extra special experience for fans of real Aotearoa roots reggae

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The "Sangamam 2025" NZ Tour featuring the legendary singer Srinivas & Sharanya Srinivas is proudly brought to life by Moksha Base. This marks a major milestone as Singer Srinivas and Sharanya Srinivas’s first-ever tour of New Zealand.

Singer Srinivas is a renowned Indian playback singer and composer, with a career spanning over three decades. His heartfelt vocals have graced more than 3,000 songs across Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema. His deep understanding of melody, combined with a mentor-like presence on reality TV, cements his status as an Indian music icon.

Sharanya Srinivas is a versatile and dynamic playback singer, known for her soulful voice and genre-spanning performances. Daughter of singer Srinivas, Sharanya has carved out her own space in the Indian music industry with playback credits in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi films. Trained in both Carnatic and Western music, she effortlessly blends classical precision with contemporary style.

Singer Srinivas and Sharanya Srinivas’s participation, alongside Moksha Base’s powerful live presence, elevates this concert tour into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending pure nostalgia for longtime fans with exciting new memories for the next generation.

This is not just a tour. It’s a celebration of identity, excellence, and the magic that happens when legends meet legacy.

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It was the biggest concert tour in history, and now you can re-live the hype when TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift comes to Aotearoa!

Join us as we salute 'Tay Tay' and the indelible impact she's had on Pop music with this joyous, effervescent concert experience, complete with sparkly costumes, cosmic stage production and over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor's biggest hits from every era of her career, including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.

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7th December, 2025 (Sun) 1:00pm7th December, 2025 (Sun) 4:00pm

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Directions Dance Academy's annual Dance Show: The Four Elements.

Dancers of all ages will showcase a variety of styles including jazz, contemporary, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop as they portray the elements of Earth, Water, Air and Fire.

From toe-tapping music, through to dazzling costumes, this is a spectacle which will delight the entire family.

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t Doesn’t Matter Where you Sit, as long as you’re there!

Prepare to be spellbound by the mesmerising live encounter of Cael O'Donnell – With his signature magnetic stage presence, Cael is gracing our town for one-night-only. Get ready for an evening filled with Psychic ability that’s absolutely unmissable! Cael, the Psychic everyone's talking about with 1 million followers worldwide and featured regularly on Australian TV, is set to captivate you with heartfelt messages that touch your soul and lift your spirits.

He's not just a psychic; he possesses a gift that's often described as “off the charts”. Picture a night where hope takes centre stage – this isn't just 'another psychic show'; it's an unforgettable experience that will have you buzzing with excitement and reminiscing with mates for decades to come!

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Luke Kidgell continues new World Tour in New Zealand in 2025!

Luke is known for his viral crowd-work interactions that often lead to some fairly unusual, yet hilarious encounters. Despite not having much control over his impulsive thoughts, Luke insists that deep down he means well, and this year he’s on a mission to prove it.

After touring Australia, the US, Canada, & Europe Luke is coming back to New Zealand with his brand-new show Good Intentions. This is not one to miss!

You’ve seen him on the internet, now it’s time to see him in real life, as Luke tries to prove that he really does have Good Intentions.

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Te Kawau Toi | Wintec Performing Arts students, under the direction of Kyle Chuen, present The Witches of Eastwick. Written by John Dempsy and Dana P. Rowe, this devilishly dark comedy musical is based on the classic 1987-film.

In the sleepy New England town of Eastwick, three (not-so-wicked) witches Alexandra Spofford, Sukie Rougemont and Jane Smart are divorcees feeling trapped in their everyday humdrum lives. One stormy night, high on Martinis and brownies, they make a crazy wish for the man of their dreams. When Darryl Horne arrives, they quickly find out their wish has consequences they could never have imagine.

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