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Apt Collections might not be a name familiar to many in Hamilton, but the tides are changing as the store opened its doors for the first time in Hamilton in February. Apt Collections is born from Longbeach Apparel, a New Zealand owned company that has been operating out of Christchurch for more than 45 years. You may be more familiar with the brands they stock; womenswear labels such as Foil, Newport, Preen, Memo, Design Nation, Neris, Seeking Lola, Billie the Label, and Leila & Luca.

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At the helm of Apt Collections is Jane Coleman, the vivacious General Manager based in Christchurch, whose energy mirrors the vibrancy of the designs her brands bring to women across the globe. "We take pride in embracing bold colours and prints," says Jane. "Our goal is to make shopping a joyful experience for every woman."

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Apt Collections is a 100% Kiwi-owned business, dedicated to helping women celebrate their individuality. Jane's key piece of fashion advice? "Don’t feel pressured to wear something just because it’s ‘on trend.’ There are so many options available today. Choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable, so you can look great and be your best self."

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Selecting which styles to develop is a collaborative team effort. The majority of Apt's collections are designed in-house in Christchurch, where a talented design team manages everything from concept to completion. "Our team oversees every step of the process, from design and product development to manufacturing, marketing, sales, and delivery, "Jane explains. "We put a tremendous amount of research into fabric selection and fit to ensure quality across all our brands, resulting in a collection with broad appeal."

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With the arrival of the spring/summer collection, Jane is excited about the vibrant prints, bright colours, and sophisticated monotones. "Natural fibres like cotton, linen, and breathable viscose are key this season, which is perfect as the weather warms up."

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Gone are the days when brows were considered an afterthought to your beauty regimen. Nowadays, folks will pay top dollar for an Instagram-worthy brow, and there’s only one place to go if you’re looking for just that in Hamilton: Lab Brows + Body.

Tucked away down Barton Street and cosied up beside Rocket Coffee Roasters, the brightly coloured and funky patterned exterior catches your eye with a welcoming and upbeat vibe.

The action never stops at Hamilton's only bowling alley. Located on Level 2 of SkyCity Hamilton, Bowl and Social features world-class technology and bowling lanes.

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There’s also a great lineup of arcade games, air hockey and a pool table. Plus, you can order a drink and a meal from the lanes or enjoy the incredible view of the Waikato River from the deck. This indoor activity is great for family and friend groups, and perfect for the school holidays.

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They're not only known for their great bowling atmosphere, but also our delicious food and drinks! From pizzas, hot dogs, nachos and sides, you’ll find something tasty to fuel you while you bowl. And you can order from the comfort of your lane using your kiosk.

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They've also got packages for individuals and groups that give you great bang for your buck.

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Check out some of the top spots to grab delicious noodles!

Garden Place Noodle Bar
Location: 21 Worley Place, Hamilton Central
Signature dish: Hand-pulled Lamzhau beef noodles & Belt noodles with chilli sauce

Sichuan Style Restaurant
Location: 24 Collingwood Street, Hamilton Central, Hamilton
Signature dish: Noodle soup with beef brisket

Saigon Noon
Location: 103 Alexandra Street, Hamilton Central
Signature dish: Noodle Soup - Pho

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Whether you are looking for a place to unwind after work or a spot to enjoy a long lunch with friends, The Mercury Room offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

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Known for their long lunch where you can enjoy a delicious platter of food for two hours, with options for a bottomless experience. They offer three different time slots: 2-4pm, 5-7pm, and 8-10pm or join one of their quiz nights and test your wits while enjoying great food and drinks.

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Garden Place Noodle Bar not only has noodles in its name, but it also makes them by hand, from scratch, and thumps them into shape right in front of your eyes.

.HELLO ROSIE - 9A Casabella Lane

The food caravan with a cult following in the BOP grew up and turned into a bricks and mortar eatery in Casabella Lane. Hello Rosie will defy what you think vegan food is and should be, with a cabinet of the most tempting sweet treats and a menu packed with all-time favourites like their macn cheese bites or the Rosie burger, a vegan twist on a Big Mac.

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THE VEGAN BUFFET - 645 Victoria St

This vegan institution in Hamilton, which was once on Ward Street, recently moved to Victoria Street. While still 100% vegan it is no longer a buffet, but perhaps changing location and the name would be too much for this secret local eatery. Fresh, healthy and delicious dishes at a reasonable price along with the friendly service are what have kept The Vegan Buffet a cult favourite.

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BEEJI DHABA - 587 Victoria St

Serving authentic North Indian dishes made from fresh ingredients, Beji Dhaba’s extensive menu is 100% vegetarian, with many being vegan. Dhabas in India are

traditional roadside stalls or restaurants serving heartyfare for travellers and truck drivers, so the menu has a big focus on famous North Indian street food.

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ANN FERN - 9 Knox St

This small espresso shop in the foyer of South Bloc offices has an array of toasties, soup, and sweet treats (all with vegan options).

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BÁNH MÌ CÀPHÊ - Riverbank Lane, 298 Victoria St

This trendy Vietnamese joint that spills out onto Victoria on the River offers a complete vegan menu. You’ll find rice paper and spring rolls along with their famous Bánh Mi

in two flavours, not to mention salad, noodles, curry and pudding.

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BAMBOO SWEETS - Casabella Lane

One of the new kids on the block (or down the lane), but well worth seeking out for their boutique handmade chocolates.

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THEOBROMA CHOCOLATE LOUNGE - Bryce Street entrance, Centre Place

From hot chocolates to handmade chocolates, every sweet tooth is satisfied.

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GONG CHA - 11 Worley Place

Forget bubble tea, you need to try bubble waffles! Direct from Hong Kong, a rich warm waffle is wrapped around ice-cream and decadent toppings.

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LA PROMESSE BAKE HOUSE - 5 Ward Street
For the best sweet pastries in town.

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CREAM - 14 Garden Place
For truly tempting treats, from doughnuts and cinnamon rolls to decadent slices.

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KOPI, RIVERBANK LANE - 298 Victoria Street
Not just great coffee, apparently the brownie is the best in town.

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LE RENDEZ-VOUS - 113 Alexandra Street

Didn't make it to the Paris Olympics? No problem, Le Rendez-Vous have a crépe-load of tempting French treats.

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DOT & WINNIES - 127 Alexandra Street
Yoyo, listen up, Dot and Winnies make the best melting moments in town.

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SNOWTOWN - 104 Alexandra Street
Dessert like you have never tasted it. But why wait until dessert time. They're open from noon Tuesday to Sunday.

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MARKYLES CAFÉ - Hood Street
For the best custard squares around.

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RAZZLE DAZZLE CAKES - 148 Ward Street
Sometimes the answer is cupcakes.

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As Hamilton’s first mini putt bar, it offers a unique twist on traditional golfing, inviting guests to enjoy themed courses while sipping on creative cocktails and local craft beers.

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Tipsy Putt features nine movie-themed holes, each designed to immerse players in a playful and engaging environment. From a “Jurassic Park” obstacle with a mini T-Rex to a “Wizard of Oz” section bursting with colour, the imaginative designs enhance the golfing experience. With plans to add another nine holes, the excitement is set to grow even more.

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There are ample food and beverage options available at "The Club House" bar, including burgers, pizzas, and loaded snacks. The drinks menu is equally enticing, featuring specialty cocktails, five tap beers, wines, RTD's and non-alcoholic choices, catering to all preferences.

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The store is manager Sharyn Cawood’s fifth op shop after creating four stores in the past for Hospice Waikato. The Op Shop for Breast Cancer has been running since Covid.

Clinical researcher Jenni Scarlet, (“who we’re doing all of this for,” says Cawood), called Cawood during Covid, and said a new charity store would be helpful for funding clinical trials.

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One of the great benefits of the central city is the vast number of experiences on offer and there is no better one than the annual central city progressive dinner.

This exciting event is the opportunity for the public to enjoy the traditional progressive dinner model with a vibrant and exciting twist in the big city. With five restaurants on offer – each providing a meal course with a matching drink – this is a fantastic way to enjoy some of the central city’s best restaurants all in one evening.

One of the joys in exploring a city is finding spaces and places that appear off the main streets, often characterised as laneways.

Casabella Lane and Racquet Lane were described in my last column but Hamilton’s central city boasts two others that are also worthy of exploration: Bucks Way also off Barton St, and Riverbank Lane off Victoria St.Bucks Way is a laneway between Barton and Victoria streets alongside the Wilson’s car park, which is also home to the food truck markets on a Friday night.Bucks Way has a tenancy that is famous in the central city – Rocket Coffee.

Prepare for a magical experience with Stories in the Garden on November 9 and 23 from 10-11am in Garden Place. This enchanting hour of storytelling and games, hosted by characters from Enchanted Entertainment, is sure to ignite the imagination of children and adults alike. Don’t miss this chance for a story time adventure. For all the details, check out our event listing here.

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The annual Yamaha Rollo’s Marine Bridge to Bridge, takes place from November 8 to 10 on the mighty Waikato River from Grantham St. This thrilling event celebrates its 40th year and promises an adrenaline-packed adventure as water ski racers tackle the breathtaking course. It’s a must-see for thrill-seekers and families alike. For all the details, check out our event listing here.

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Celebrate Matariki with us 20th June 2025 - 21st June 2025

Matariki signals the Maaori New Year. It is a time of renewal and celebration in Aotearoa New Zealand that begins with the rising of the Matariki star cluster.

This year, Matariki will be acknowledged with two days of whaanau fun here at Te Whare Taonga. We're proud to be part of the Matariki Ki Waikato Festival with events across Kirikiriroa Hamilton.

Free entry.

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

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This years Matariki weekend three Kiwi culinary stars are coming out to shine atHamilton’s award-winning restaurant, Palate. 

As part of Palate’s 20-year celebrations Chef and owner, Mat McLean has extended an invitation to a few of his mates.  The result – a night not to be missed with three of New Zealand’s best chefs.

Collaborations with other chefs, Mat says “are always loads of fun and great experience forthe whole team as they get to rub shoulders with some amazing chefs”.  Andafter a couple of decades at the top of the game, Mat says he feels privilegedto be able to call on some of the top talent in New Zealand.

Kai Whetu will see Mat McLean, Jude Messenger and Jeremy Rameka come together tocreate a six-course meal at Palate with carefully match wines by Palates ownLarissa Muller (Cuisine Magazine’s 2024 Sommelier & Wine Experience of the Year award winner)

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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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The French Film Festival Aotearoa is returning to Lido Cinema screens on May 28th With a gala screening of the wonderful, Monsieur Aznavour, followed by 3 weeks of the very best films that France has to offer.

Peppa Pig is back touring New Zealand for the first time since 2018 in her oink tastic stage show, Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out LIVE! Prepare to sing and dance with colourful scarecrows, feed the penguins, build big sandcastles, and even swim in the sea! Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out LIVE! guarantees giggles and snorts for all Peppa fans and is a perfect introduction to theatre.

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Join Professor Penfold in his race against time to create a fantastical solution to the city’s rubbish problem!

With an impatient mayor breathing down his neck, an enthusiastic but clumsy nephew causing havoc in the lab, what more could possibly go wrong for the professor?

The Perfectly Peculiar Practice of Professor Penfold is a wonderfully wacky, and joyful experience for people of all ages – kids and parents alike!

Written by Scott Granville and Courteney Mayall

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1st July -Saturday, 5thJuly, 10:30 am & 1 pm (10:30 am only on Sat 5^thJuly)

For the first time ever, the All Blacks face France in Hamilton. Let’s make FMG Stadium a fortress! Get your tickets now before they’re gone.

The battle ends here. The final Test of the Lipovitan-D Series against France is more than just a game—it’s a statement.

For the first time ever, the All Blacks face France in Hamilton, so don’t miss the chance to witness history.

Wear the black jersey. Bring the noise. Make FMG Stadium Waikato a fortress.

Tickets from just $40.

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A great line up of events on each month at Last Place!

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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Take it to the limit, Desperado, Lyin Eyes and the world famous Hotel California.A six-piece band lead by Whalen Hughes and David Thompson as Don Henley and Glenn Frey, arguably the best sounding anywhere in the world.Secure your tickets now and be part of a night that pays homage to one of the greatest bands in history.