Waikato taniwharau. He piko he taniwha, he piko he taniwha.
There's always something new to discover in the heart of Hamilton city. Let us be your guide as you rediscover the charm, culture, and character that make our city centre unique.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a moment of peace can be a challenge. At Oriental Spa, they aim to provide a serene escape from the daily grind, allowing you to immerse yourself in relaxation and holistic wellness. Their spa is designed to cater to your every need, offering a range of treatments inspired by ancient Eastern traditions combined with modern techniques. Here, they will explore the various aspects of our spa, the treatments they offer, and how they can benefit your overall well-being.
Oriental Spa also embraces modern advancements in wellness. Their facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, providing a comfortable and luxurious environment for our guests. From tranquil treatment rooms to soothing ambiance, every detail is curated to enhance your experience.
Their menu features a blend of classic treatments and innovative therapies, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you’re seeking a traditionall massage or a ontemporary facial, their offerings are designed to meet your needs while maintaining the essence of Eastern wellness practices.
Signature Treatments at Oriental Spa include:
Traditional Massage Therapies
Thai Massage
Shiatsu Massage
Balinese Massage
Rejuvenating Facial Treatments
Asian Herbal Facial
Rice Bran Facial
Pearl Glow Facial
Holistic Wellness Therapies
Acupuncture
Aromatherapy
Meditation and Mindfulness
Founded and curated by Laura, Skin Depot is a place where you can have some much needed time out as well as always leavingwith glowing skin. Bespoke skin plans & treatments & a LED light loungeare on offer.
Skin Depot offer:
Tailored Facials: Their signature "Facial Skinsations" come in Glow, Illuminate, and Luxe options, each customised to your skin type and concerns
Advanced Treatments:
Dermal Needling (collagen induction therapy)
LED Light Lounge (quick, non-invasive light therapy for collagen stimulation and radiance
Skin Quiz & e-Book: Tools to help clients identify their unique skin type and build a personalised skincare routine
Curated Skincare Packs: Options for dry, oily, sensitive, and normal skin, featuring clean, clinical, and luxurious products
Skin Depot emphasises results and relaxation - a fusion of modern technology and traditional techniques to deliver glowing, healthy skin. Steering clear of generic beauty treatments, focusing instead on skin health and transformation.
Krystal and Nikki are the friendly faces greeting you at Journey+ Co and are only too happy to help you find the perfect gift for any occasion.
Known for their thoughtfully curated selection of quality brands and artisan goods. Situated at 6 Princes Street, they offer a warm, boutique shopping experience that caters toa wide range of gifting needs—from stylish home décor to unique personal gifts.They stock popular brands such as Hinza, Glasshouse Fragrances, Frank Green, Ecoya, Pepper & Me, Moana Road and many more.
Corporate gifting made easy! Journey + Co specialise in corporate gifting, providing welcome home packs and celebratory packages.
When you purchase from Journey+ Co you are supporting Local Artisans with the store proudly showcasing local craftmanship, offering handmade and creative items that reflect New Zealand’s vibrant artisan culture
With in-store and online shopping available you have the flexibility to purchase that special item.
For a quarter of a century, Nes has been craftingtimeless fashion in New Zealand—designed for women who know themselves, andthose still discovering who they are. Their pieces are more than clothing;they’re a quiet rebellion against fast fashion, a celebration of individuality,and a companion in every chapter of life.
They believe style should evolve with you. That confidencegrows with every wear. And that fashion should be lived in, layered, and loved.
Made for women. Made in New Zealand.
Discover flattering, contemporary pieces created for womenon the move. With a signature blend of innovation, edge, and enduringstyle, Nes is fashion that empowers—designed to last, designed tolead.
Venues across the country are firing up their grills and melting their best ingredients between two slices of golden bread. Let the cheesy, crunchy, pickle-packed pilgrimage begin.
Participating central city venues:
@frankfoodnz - McClure's Pickleback Short Rib Focaccia
@furnacesteakhouse - Lord of the Rinds - Matt’s Pork Scotch Bacon Melt
@joesgaragenz - Schnitz & Giggles
@keystonehamilton - Lamb and Chorizo Smash Toastie
Check out the toasties on The Great NZ Toastie Takeover website in the comments below...they look so unbelievably cheesy and delicious!
Only for a limited time!
You wouldn’t think of a building as having a central nervous system - but deep in the interior of the new Waikato Regional Theatre there is a special room that will be exactly that.
It’s a hub where the theatre’s peripheral nerves - the 30 kilometres of glass fibre optic cables that flow throughout the entire structure - meet and connect, carrying audio, video, paging, and other forms of raw data from the main auditorium to all other parts of building.
The $80 million theatre is undoubtedly the most advanced such building to be constructed in New Zealand for decades and the sound system, once completed, will be the equal of any such facility anywhere in the world.
“For a building built around sound and vision, this is the heart of it,” said Mike Orum, one of the eight data technicians who are charged with the task of ensuring that every last strand of cable is correctly connected to each of about 600 termination points in 205 different locations.
Right now, it looks like a spaghetti factory.
And unravelling the strands are two local firms - Structured Technologies and Feisst Electrical.
“It’s cool it’s being done by all Hamilton companies,” said Orum. “There’s not busloads of labour being brought in from somewhere else.”
Hamilton’s vibe is hard to pin down, but impossible to ignore. Emerging suburbs and hidden laneways lined with undiscovered gems paint the picture of a city undergoing an evolving urban transformation.
At every corner, this unassuming city surprises those who take the time to look beyond the surface. With cosy bars tucked away from the main drag, breathtaking gardens that transport you to another time, and serene river views, there’s a bit of everything. Whether you’re up for a well-crafted cocktail, keen to uncover your next read, or just want to bask in the sun by the river, we’ve uncovered the best seats in the city for all of the above.
Whether you prefer small, intimate settings or large entertainment spaces that can host over 1,000 people, our city centre has itall. Enjoy performances from both local and international artists at these venues.
Last Place Bar – 54 Collingwood Street
A vibrant spot known for its great atmosphere, tasty food, and a solid line up of gigs two to three evenings each week. Also known to have one of the most extensive beer menus in the city. Check out the What’s On page of their website to find upcoming gigs.
lastplacedivebar.co.nz
Nivara Lounge – 266 Victoria Street
An underground retro lounge with a great live music line up each month of both local and touring musicians. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and Event Finda to keep up to date with what’s coming up.
nivaralounge.com
The Factory – 28 Alexandra Street
The Factory is a large entertainment venue that hosts a widerange of concerts and gigs, featuring both local and international artists. Find out what’s coming up on their website and social pages.
thefactoryhamilton.co.nz
Biddy Mulligans -17b Hood Street
Biddy Mulligan’s is Hamilton’s only authentic Irish pub! A great spot to go for live music from Monday to Sunday along with their great pub food and Guiness. Hamilton Blues Society Blues are at Biddy's every Sunday afternoon from 3pm.
biddyshamilton.com
It’s not often you’d think to send a postcard while travelling to someone at a retail shop back home, but for visitors to Colin’s store, that feels like exactly the right thing to do.
An outdoor enthusiast in every sense, we grab Colin Hancock, owner and operator of Trek ‘n Travel, to hear some tales of what it’s like to live in the ‘gateway of adventure’.
It’s not often you’d think to send a postcard while travelling to someone at a retail shop back home, but for visitors to Colin’s store, that feels like exactly the right thing to do.
An outdoor enthusiast in every sense, we grab Colin Hancock, owner and operator of Trek ‘n Travel, to hear some tales of what it’s like to live in the ‘gateway of adventure’.
There are few better ways to feed your spirit than a day spent exploring Hamilton’s best boutiques and galleries. Slinging the works and wares of Kiwi artisans, you’re sure to stumble upon some inspiration and quality goods. From conscious fashion and homewares stores to traditional and modern galleries, here’s how to get your creative fix in Hamilton.
True
302 Barton Street, Hamilton Central, Waikato
True focuses on ‘unique designs, ethical production and elevated quality.’ This boils down to respect for the highest quality fabrics and expert craftsmanship, ultimately championing clothing that moves us towards a more sustainable future. In short, they only stock garments from designers with reputable production processes. Here you’ll find international brands like VEJA and Bassike, as well as local names like Mahsa and Caitlin Crisp.
Sisters on London
61 London Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
Get your global fashion fix in the heart of Hamilton, thanks to the stylish sibling duo over at Sisters on London. Slinging collections from the likes of Sass & Bide, Zimmermann, Karen Walker and P.E Nation, you’re covered from head to toe with these designer threads. On the accessories front, you’ll find bags from Deadly Ponies and Status Anxiety, as well as jewellery by Meadowlark and Stolen Girlfriends Club.
Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum & Gallery
1 Grantham Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
For a taste of New Zealand history through Hamilton’s lens, book in time at Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga o Waikato. As the beating heart of the CBD’s creative district, the museum offers plenty of new experiences, exhibitions and events to discover. We recommend blocking out a whole day to unpack everything on offer across the themes of art, history, Tangata Whenua and science. From craft workshops to the annual Contemporary Art Award exhibition, there’s never a dull moment at the museum.
ArtsPost
120 Victoria Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
The heritage candy-coloured facade is your first hint that ArtsPost is worth the trip. Inside the former Post Office, you’re sure to uncover something new thanks to the ever-rotating collection of artists. Wind your way through three thoughtfully curated galleries, and you’ll be greeted by a frenzy of whimsical pieces like textiles, pottery, artwork and jewellery.
Soul Gallery
300 Barton Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
If you need a dose of inspiration, hightail it to Soul Gallery over on Barton Street. Here, you have permission to lose yourself in all things quirky and colourful, celebrating New Zealand-made art, crafts and treasures. Founder Lisa Voigt’s vision for the gallery is 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.
Laree Payne Gallery
286 Victoria Street, Hamilton
Ideally situated between Riverbank Lane and the Waikato River, it’s easy to drop by Laree Payne Gallery on any day out in central Hamilton. Gallerist Laree prides herself on offering the only dealer gallery in Waikato, with new exhibitions popping up every month. It’s all about contemporary Kiwi artists here. Works span engaging mediums like three-dimensional wall hangings, thought-provoking sculptures, and serene nature-inspired pieces.
Ramp Gallery
111 Collingwood Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
With more than 20 years in the business, Ramp Gallery is an institution in Waikato’s creative scene. Fittingly situated adjacent to Hamilton’s Wintec School of Media Arts, Ramp delivers an inclusive space for students and locals to soak up work by Aotearoa’s contemporary artists. From provocative large-scale installations to poignant yet powerful artworks, there’s no doubt this spot will get your creative cogs churning.
Located at 68 Bryce Street in Hamilton Central, Munchies Eatery is a newly opened spot that’s quickly gaining popularity for its affordable menu—everything is under $10.
Designed to be a budget-friendly option for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of tasty food and drinks without breaking the bank.
Over 30 classes per term, tutored by experienced artists with Fine Arts degrees and/or teaching degrees. Classes are a maximum of 8 students so you have a high quality experience.Workshops run from time to time at WSA and to book simply click on the Workshop tab to take you to any coming up.
Over 30 classes per term, tutored by experienced artists with Fine Arts degrees and/or teaching degrees. Classes are a maximum of 8 students so you have a high quality experience.Select the class you want to enrol into. The majority of the classes run for 8 weeks each term.
Children’s classes have all materials supplied. Adults classes have the first lesson’s materials supplied and then the tutor will let you know what you need to bring.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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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Never miss a beat in Hamilton Central
10 Garden Place,
Hamilton Central