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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.

One of the last remaining stores of its kind in all of New Zealand lies here, in the centre of Hamilton.

It's on Victoria St - or more precisely at 37.78S 175.75 E - but plenty of items inside could help guide you through the maze of gridlines, street names and compass points to get you to The Map and Chart Shop.

In an age where the paper map has given way to the GPS enabled smartphone this cartographic kingdom of carefully folded, gridded print somehow remains.

It’s a specialised repository of the oft forgotten but hard-won knowledge to get you from A to B using the non-electronic. And for those who need such a thing, it’s vital.

Liam Emery, a former orienteer and avid outdoorsman, is one.

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Wintec - Waikato Institute of Technology welcomed members of the Hamilton Central Business Association to Te Kōpū Mānia o Kirikiriroa Marae at their City Campus for a special Matariki hāngī lunch on Wednesday 23rd July.

It was a great chance for our team to connect with local businesses over kai (food), share kōrero (discussion), celebrate Matariki, and enjoy the sunshine!

Connections like this bring value to our ākonga (students) and kaimahi (staff), supporting the future of our region.

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Have you ever wandered down a street and felt like you've discovered a secret treasure trove that only locals know about? That's exactly the experience waiting for you on Barton Street in Hamilton’s city centre. This charming stretch is home to some of the most distinctive specialty shops in the Waikato region, each offering something unique you simply won't find in mainstream shopping centres.

Whether you're a passionate collector, fashion enthusiast, or art lover, Barton Street delivers an authentic shopping experience that celebrates New Zealand made products, vintage treasures, and curated collections that tell a story. Let's explore four standout stores that make this street a must visit destination.

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Fossick Collectables: A Vintage Treasure Hunter's Paradise

Tucked away in Racquet Lane off Barton Street, Fossick Collectables is a delightful cooperative store bringing together eight passionate collectors under one roof. This vintage and retro treasure trove opened in 2023 and has quickly become a destination for those seeking unique finds.

What makes Fossick special is the ever changing inventory curated by different collectors with diverse interests. You'll discover an eclectic mix of:

• Vintage records and music memorabilia
• Retro clothing and accessories
• Collectible toys and figurines
• Nostalgic homewares and decor
• Rare books and ephemera

The shop's welcoming atmosphere encourages exploration, with each corner revealing new surprises. Many visitors comment that they intended to pop in for just a few minutes but found themselves happily browsing for hours.

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've created a special place where passionate collectors can connect with like minded shoppers.

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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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New Year's Eve
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Party kicks off from 8pm
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Main Gaming Floor,  Amuse Bar & Kitchen,  Number Eight Bar
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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.

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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.

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Tuesdays, 10.30-11.15am, Central Library

Taking place during Term Time Only

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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.

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

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

Dates:

21st December, 2025 (Sun) 4:00pm
21st December, 2025 (Sun) 7:30pm

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The Greatest Christmas Show is New Zealand’s #1 family Christmas event, blending heartwarming moments, spectacular dance, and world-class entertainment into one unforgettable night.

Prepare for a breath-taking spectacle featuring soaring vocals that will fill the theatre with the spirit of Christmas, while our cast of incredible dancers and a jaw-dropping cirque aerial act bring the stage to life in a flurry of wonder, skill, and glittering costumes.

From high-flying feats to touching moments that capture the true meaning of Christmas, and a very special visit from Santa Claus himself, this is a show that will warm hearts, inspire smiles, and create cherished memories for the whole family.

🎟Don’t miss the magic. Don’t miss the laughter. Don’t miss the #1 family show this Christmas.

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After racking up over a million followers online and making audiences across the globe laugh until they cry, Blake Pavey is hitting New Zealand with his brand new hour of stand-up! Fresh off two national tours and a YouTube comedy special, Blake’s bringing plenty of cheeky stories, sharp punchlines, and his signature charm across the ditch!

“Pavey’s stand-up delicately weaves elements of darkness and light, moving the audience to the brink of tears, before landing a hefty punchline that leaves them in (metaphorical) stitches.” – The Age

Get your tickets and come see why he’s more than just “that guy off TikTok!”.

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Running time: 70 mins

Content warning: 18+, adult themes, coarse language

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Saturday, 13th December, 11:00 am - Sunday, 21st December, 6:00 pm

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After a sellout season last year Apocalypse Lounge Room Break returns to the Meteor with a new pop-up escape room: ‘The Christmas Tree Mystery’.

Impatient youngsters have snuck down early on Christmas morning. But their puzzle loving parents are one step ahead and if they’re going to have to work for it. Your team has one hour to crack the codes and unwrap the mystery.

If your workplace or friends are looking for an end of year experience that’s a little outside the box, this might be for you.

“The Christmas Tree Mystery’ runs from December 13 to 21st at The Meteor. Limited places so book now.

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1 ticket per session. Each session is designed for a group of 4-6 people.

Running time: 60 mins

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We’re back by popular demand! The Meteor fam return for another night of brain baffling boffin-ry. Gather your team and test yourselves on a range of knowledge!

The bar is open, the clues are ready, so bring your biggest brains and compete for some fantastic prizes.

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Doors open 6.30pm, Quiz starts at 7pm.

1 ticket per table. Each table can hold a maximum of eight people.

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