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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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Whether you're stepping into a new role, suiting up for a big occasion, or simply upgrading your everyday wardrobe - they're here to help you look sharp and feel your best.

Their collection covers every moment, from tailored suits and blazers to smart casual wear, all designed with one goal in mind: to fit you. That means more than just sizes -  it’s about proportions that flatter, fabrics that move with you, and thoughtful details that make a difference. They’ve been dressing men since 1946, so when it comes to fit, style and quality, you’re in expert hands.

They offer ready-to-wear styles in a wide range of sizes, including short and tall fits you won’t find everywhere. Need something more precise? Their made-to-measure service delivers suits, shirts and blazers crafted just for you- the ultimate in personal style and comfort. They also provide expert alterations to make sure every garment feels like it was made for you, because it should.

Their in-store team are fit experts. They’ll help you find your ideal size, style, and cut - no guesswork, no pressure. Just good people who know what works, and how to make you feel confident in it.

Because at Rembrandt, fit isn’t just how something sits on your shoulders - it’s how it makes you stand taller.

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The Cut Hut provides haircut services to people in an environment that can cater to individualised needs and sensitivities such as neurodiversity, LGBT, mental disabilities and physical disabilities. The specialised services is called the 'People Cut'. and is a scheduled service with an experienced hair stylist.

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Appointment (15 minutes) - $20 includes consultation 'People Cut' and finish.

Appointment (30 minutes) - $40 includes consultation, hair wash, 'People Cut' and finish.

Appointment (45 minutes) - $60 includes consultation, hair wash, "People Cut' and finish.

Appointment (1 hour) - $80 includes consultation, hair wash, 'People Cut' and finish.

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Seniors, Tertiary, Secondary, Primary and CSC holders receive 10% off their individualised 'People Cut'.

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Contact Lee directly for any enquiries on 022 479 6615 or to schedule an appointment.

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Alternatively you can use the book now button on The Cut Hut Facebook page to request an appointment time that suits you. Please leave your name, number and haircut service requirements. An appointment time can be scheduled accordingly.

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The Cut Hut is located at 12 Hood Street, Hamilton

When Charoenvach Suntronchatchavach and his partner took over Dora’s Café in 2023, it wasn’t just a new business venture - it was the continuation of a deeply rooted family tradition in hospitality.

For nearly a decade, the couple worked alongside Suntronchatchavach’s parents at the Jasmine Thai restaurants in Ōtorohanga and Taumarunui.

“It was six days a week, 10am to 9pm,” he recalls. “It was a bit too much for 10 years.”

Seeking a new pace and a fresh opportunity, the pair found themselves drawn to Hamilton’s city vibe - specifically, the little café his partner Pathitta Raksadee had grown fond of while studying at Wintec.

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Every Sunday for the past 25 years, a mother and her son have walked into Scotts Epicurean and ordered the same dish.

It started with a one-week-old in a capsule, tucked beside her table. Now, that baby is almost 25, and their Sunday ritual continues - a weekly pilgrimage for a plate of aglio olio.

“Just yesterday, a customer sent me a photo of her with her one week old son in a capsule over there, and the son's coming up 25 now, and they still come in every Sunday,” says current owner Donna Ferguson.

The enduring love for aglio olio - the simple yet unforgettable combination of spaghetti tossed with garlic, chilli, parsley, olive oil, and parmesan - has become something of a legend in Hamilton.

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The Crate Coffee serves up great coffee and a delicious range of sweet and savoury treats, all crafted with care.

Known for their famous cinnamon scroll, they're the perfect spot for a quality coffee break or a little something special on the go.

Friendly service, bold flavours and a welcoming atmosphere is what The Crate Coffee is all about.

They also have a name board out the front so if you see your name on the board it is your day for a free coffee!

A new wellness hub in the Hamilton CBD will soon have pilates, yoga, ice baths, meditation and massage all in one place.

O-Studio, at 18 London Street is under construction and will be run by ex-Black Sticks hockey player Brooke Hayde and her husband Cam .

The studio, in a building being developed by Stark Property, has a target opening date of June.

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Get ready for a relaxing evening of candle-making and unleash your inner creativity.

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Visionary Hamilton developer Matt Stark is putting more skin in the game and taking the city to new heights with a $100m-plus investment in the Federated Farmers block.

It’s the latest Stark Properties development, and Stark says the “well over $100 million” project is part of their investment in making Hamilton a “great place to live and work”.

The Waikato Farmer Trust announced the sale of its property portfolio to Stark Property on Tuesday.

The significant 12,094m² landholding includes the six-storey Farmer Trust building, existing tenanted buildings, car-parks and vacant land.

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A recent deal between Tainui and a big US investor shows how Hamilton and its surrounds are on an economic roll say business and political leaders.

And others from outside the region are also knocking on the door, says the mayor.

Tainui Group Holdings’ agreement with major international asset manager Brookfield Asset Management is set to provide $1 billion-plus benefits for developing the Ruakura Superhub in a major boost for Hamilton, the Waikato and the wider country.

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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.

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Do you want to party in town after the French test this July but you're worried everywhere will feel like a bit of a scrum?

Well you can “touch, pause, and engage” without any pushing and shoving at The Bank “Golden Oldies” After Party! That’s right, there'll be no pushing and shoving on our dance floor, just DJs inside, a live band outside, and a great crowd enjoying all the old school songs from the 80s and 90s that you know and love.

Tickets start at just $10 and numbers will be limited to make sure that everyone who attends has plenty of room to have a great time. So, if you’re heading to the French test in Hamilton this July, grab a ticket to the “Golden Oldies” After Party too, and we’ll see you at The Bank.

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Lugtons' Round the Bridges Super Saver Entry OPENS Monday July 7! Eight decades of community spirit, the iconic course, and shared memories!

Celebrating 80 Years Running

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.

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Limited tickets available - get in quick!

Hear from local colour-analysis expert, Chrystall Kerr from Colours to Keep

Opportunity to confirm if you are a silver, gold or rose gold

Giveaways and discounts

Refreshments provided

A fun event and supporting local business. Grab your tickets today!

$20pp

email enquiries@preciousmetals.co.nz or purchase in store.

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Find out what's on in the central city in July!

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The Comedy Zone at Skycity Hamilton will host the best comedians from New Zealand and the rest of the world every single month starting this July!

Big 2 hour show on a Friday night featuring the best in professional comedy. The stars of 7Days, Taskmaster, The New Zealand Comedy Gala, Spelling Bee to name a fewWe kick off in July featuring international TV, Movie and Comedy star Josh Thomson.Josh has been a mainstay on local comedy shows like 7Days, Have You Been Paying Attention, was the regular comedian on The Project and was the champion of Season 3 of TaskMaster NZ. As an actor he’s appeared internationally in Prime’s The Office Australia, Netflix’s The New Legends Of Monkey, NBC’s Young Rock and local hits Good Grief, Creamerie, Wellington Paranormal, Educators, Time Bandits and the Emmy winning INSiDE.

Joining Josh will be 2024 Billy T Award winner, Lana Walters!Lana Walters is a comedian and writer whose standup has been called 'masterful mum comedy'. She has appeared on TV shows like 7 Days, The Project, The Comedy gala and The Great Comedy debate.Comedy Zone will be hosted each month by most recognisable hairy face in NZ Comedy, Ben Hurley.

Tickets from just $39 (+ $4.28 booking fee).

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.

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Dates: 26th July - 9th August

Produced by: Hamilton Operatic Society

Get ready to celebrate Bastille Day in style at SkyCity Hamilton! Join us a night filled with French flair and festivities.

Indulge in a delicious dinner inspired by French cuisine, followed by a spectacular show featuring live music, Cabaret entertainment, and more!

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of France. Book your tickets now and join us for a night to remember at SkyCity Hamilton.

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Step into a world of wonder with Illusionist Anthony Street, in a thrilling magic show crafted to captivate audiences of all ages! Anthony, renowned as the creator and star of the world-famous Celtic Illusion, brings his unique blend of breathtaking illusions, mind-bending magic, and boundless charisma to the stage. Prepare to be amazed as he conjures impossible feats before your eyes, blending traditional magic with modern spectacle, creating an experience that’s both heart-pounding and heartwarming.

From larger-than-life illusions to mind tricks that will leave you questioning reality, Anthony’s show is packed with surprises and interactive moments. Watch as the audiencebecomes part of the magic, as you gasp in disbelief, and everyone shares in the laughter, suspense, and pure joy that Anthony brings to every performance. Don’t miss the chance to see this truly wonderful spectacle this July and August across New Zealand!

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An exhibition by Alberta Harmer, Edward Riwai, and Darren Wise.

He rangi tā matawhāiti, he rangi tā matawhānui

A person with narrow vision has a restricted horizon; a person with wide vision has plentiful opportunities.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Based on Lloyd Kaufman’s cult film and winner of the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Off-Broadway Musical, with book and lyrics by Joe DiPietro and music and lyrics by David Bryan. The Toxic Avenger is a charming love story and laugh-out-loud musical that has it all: an unlikely hero, his beautiful girlfriend, a corrupt New Jersey mayor (Courteney Mayall) and two guys who play… well, everyone else … bullies, mobsters, old ladies and stiletto-wearing back up singers.
Enter Melvin Ferd the Third (Alex Pelham Waerea), an aspiring earth scientist. Who wants to clean up Tromaville, the most polluted town in New Jersey (just off Exit 13B on the Turnpike). Foiled by the mayor’s bullies, (Bailey Lindsey and Marangai Wainohu-Savage)

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