Explore

We all know what it’s like to try on (what feels like) millions of jeans in a shop until you inevitably leave feeling frustrated and hopeless. Thankfully, Texas Radio is here to change that. This is a true denim speciality shop (there’s only a handful left in the country!). They carry as many as 25 brands - including the classic and coveted Levi 501s - so you’re sure to find a pair of jeans that suit your figure. The passionate and knowledgeable staff make you feel right at home while they get to work finding you the ideal fit for your preferences and body type.

This co-operative store brings together eight passionate collectors, each offering their own carefully curated collections to the community. From records and decor to rare memorabilia, there is a diverse and ever-changing mix of items for passionate collectors and curious shoppers alike.The idea for Fossick was born from a group of friends with extensive collections looking for a way to sell their items. By pooling resources and sharing responsibilities, they were able to ensure consistent hours in its first year of opening, one of the keys to Fossick’s initial success.

HANRAD is a creative space where founder Barry and his team work with their clients to create rugs that are truly unique to them. To some, rugs are just rugs, but at HANRAD each rug is bespoke, a work of art. The concept is simple: each client experiences an individual journey to arrive at the perfect rug, and whether it’s an art inspired design or one of HANRAD’s in-house designs, each rug can be customised to the ideal size, shape or colour.Barry’s inspiration for design stems from his love of art and, in particular, contemporary art. Previously based in Beijing for 10 years, Barry worked on exciting interior design projects, sourcing inspirational design solutions.

At the helm are Dida and Erin, two individuals whose love for florals is only matched by their knack for bringing people together. Add to the mix their resident mascot (a mastiff border collie cross named Boy), and you’ve got the heart and soul of a place that’s as much about the banter as it is about the blooms. Drag your eyes away from the creative window displays and the store’s aesthetic is a striking blend of untamed natural beauty and thoughtful design. Plentiful greenery cascades from wooden shelves and hanging pots, creating a botanical haven that feels calming to the soul. The choice of wooden accents and earth-toned decor seamlessly marries the store’s urban setting with a rustic, wild charm.

Here, you have permission to lose yourself in all things eclectic and colourful, celebrating the true meaning of New Zealand-made art, crafts and treasures.Founder Lisa Voigt’s vision for the gallery was to “create a haven where people could come to appreciate a melting pot of New Zealand art and design.” It’s safe to say she’s absolutely nailed that.Upon entry, your eyes are spoiled for choice, with a range of paintings, glasswork, prints, ceramics and jewellery (and much more) to peruse. You’ll spot favourites from established Kiwi creatives as well as up-and-coming artists.

Housed within the Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery is Exscite, an interactive discovery centre offering a vibrant and engaging learning experience. Exscite’s seamless blending of fun with education makes it an ideal destination for families, especially those with children under the age of 15. Exscite reopened in July 2024 with a whole new look. It spans two floors, each level providing a unique focus. The ground floor, known as Exscite: Home, highlights the role of science in everyday life, while the upper floor, Exscite: Taiao, draws inspiration from the awa (Waikato River) and New Zealand’s interconnected natural environment.

Their annual street art festival has been breathing life into the streets of Kirikiriroa since 2015. You can still find their early murals hidden down curious little laneways around the inner city, but recent years have seen them commissioning both local and international artists to take over iconic hero walls across the city. ‘Art everywhere, everyday’ is Boon’s vision in a nutshell. The crew at Boon are big fans of public art and what it can do for the people who live and work in that area.

If you just can’t face another treadmill, and the thought of stepping into a gym makes you feel sick—we hear you. For those who are tired of the status-quo exercise tropes, listen up: Hamilton is home to a boutique fitness studio that will shake up your next sweat sesh.Founded by competitive pole dancer and qualified AntiGravity Fitness Instructor Laura Lockhart, HIGH ABOVE is a fitness hub like no other. Specialising in both aerial and pole classes, working out here is all about getting fit through having fun.

Something like a plush lounge meets garage: low-lit, slightly grungy and carpeted, of course. Hamilton’s Last Place Bar doesn’t have to be the last place you visit in a night, in fact, it’s well set up to be the beginning, middle or end of your evening, depending on your mood. Offering good beer, bad beer and everything in between, the crew at Last Place Bar are confident there will be something on the menu for every beer drinker. How could they not when they have one of the most extensive beer menus in the city? There are 10 brews on tap and over 100 beers in the fridge.

In addition to the number of keen buyers and sellers, it’s the city’s security measures that are working in its favour, according to owner owner Henrik Stovring.Some buyers and sellers have embraced the concept of an offline Facebook-like marketplace and 163 stalls have popped up since it opened on May 1 yet there’s still space for another 400 to 600 stalls.

NORTH & SOUTH + Hamilton Business AssociationThe revitalization of central business districts is a global phenomenon, with cities adapting to new realities in a post-COVID world. Hamilton is no exception. The city’s central area is transforming into a vibrant hub that merges business, social, and experiential elements, ensuring it remains relevant and competitive. We spoke with Vanessa from the Hamilton Central Business Association to understand how local businesses are navigating this landscape and thriving in the new normal.

Sometime in the 1990s, Hamilton acquired the unofficial, ironic slogan “City of the future”.Lacking the cosmopolitan airs of Auckland or Wellington’s theatre scene, Hamilton was viewed by many as nothing more than a daggy blip on SH1.But these days, thanks to relatively inexpensive housing, significant investment in the city’s infrastructure both by the council and property developers like Stark Property, and the completed Waikato Expressway, Kirikiriroa is the fastest-growing city in New Zealand – and it’s got the hospitality scene to match.

From humble beginnings on Hood St to becoming a stronghold in Hamilton’s culinary scene - popular restaurant Gothenburg has had quite the journey.Now, the foodie hotspot is celebrating its 15th year in business.Gothenburg was founded by Susanna Rislund Fullana and Carl Bloxam in a small location on Hood St in 2009.

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.