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Hamilton’s Central Business District (CBD) is undergoing a significant transformation, with several key buildings being refurbished and repurposed.

From the rooftop of 500 Victoria Street on a grey day, the view is still spectacular, revealing a city undergoing a remarkable metamorphosis.

Looking west, there is significant activity at the city’s tallest building in Ward Street, formerly known as the Government Life building.

It is set to become a $100 million Pullman hotel.

To the north, work is about to start on Norris Ward McKinnon House, while the former Housing Corporation Building on the corner of Victoria St and Claudelands Rd is bustling with activity.

Wellington-based Primeproperty Group, a private investment company, is behind the refurbishments of 500 Victoria and Norris Ward McKinnon House.

Property manager Richard Tait describes 500 Victoria as a tired building, once frequented by government, Telecom, and ACC workers.

“This is a building where we want to get tenants,” he says on a recent media tour, emphasising the goal of attracting new occupants.

Referring to these buildings as ‘old’ would be a disservice, as they were mostly built in the 1970s and 1980s and Hamilton has other more historic buildings of note.

Tait uses the word iconic for 500 Victoria, which is a stretch for the 38-year-old building, and landmark for the 1985 building at 711 Victoria St, which given its two top floor exterior balconies regularly attract attention from down below – onlookers always on the lookout for anyone standing on them – is apt.

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Journey + Co, a gift and homeware boutique owned by Nikki Carlyon and Krystal Roughton, has doubled its growth every year for the past four years.

“We measure the growth by looking at what we’ve done the same week or month the previous year,” Carlyon said. “Those sales have consistently doubled if not more.”

For Journey + Co, the seeds of their success were sown during the pandemic.

The shop moved from Anglesea St to Princes St “a couple of weeks before the second Covid-19 lockdown”, co-founder Krystal Roughton said.

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Discover the stunning collection of ballet gear and costumes designed for every dancer, from beginner to professional at That's a Wrap.

They offer a wide selection of:

- Leotards

- Tutus

- Shoes, including but not limited to ballet pointe and flats, character, tap, chorus, highland

- Tights, socks and stockings

- Hair accessories

Top brands with quality materials, craftmanship and comfort

With 40 years of experience in dance and theatre costumes, That’s a Wrap Ltd offer a diverse collection of costume pieces that meets a wide variety of fancy dress needs.

Visit in store to find the perfect fit for your unique expression.

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While throngs of visitors take the 45-minute trip out of Hamilton to live out their fantasies in The Shire (each to their own), those who stick to the heart of the ‘Tron will discover local treasures that are – in our opinion – just as precious.

On any given day in Hamilton, a world of natural beauty, rich Māori culture, creativity, and delicious moments set to impress both first-time visitors and long-time locals. Wander along the banks of our country’s longest river, lose track of time in award-winning gardens, find great coffee or cocktails down unassuming alleyways, feast at neighbourhood gems, meet makers and artists, and be utterly enchanted.

Once you realise how much ground there is to cover in Kirikiriroa, it can be tricky to know which way to turn. So, we’ve consulted a few in-the-know residents to put together a locally approved list of the best places to eat, drink, shop and explore next time you’re in Hamilton. Spoiler alert: it ends with ice cream.

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The Skin Spa is an urban oasis located on Alexandra Street in central Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. This quiet sanctuary is for people seeking a journey of relaxation and beauty – an exceptional spa experience to treat the mind, body and spirit.

For over 20 years, Skin Spa owner Kim Frandi has built a career that seamlessly blends artistry with business savvy.  But the journey hasn’t always been smooth.

From early beginnings in Tauranga and Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, to becoming a business owner and weathering the storm of multiple lockdowns, Kim’s story is one of resilience, creativity and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

For Kim, beauty isn’t just about looking good. It is about helping people feel better about themselves.

Her journey began in the early 2000s when she faced a choice for where to study beauty therapy. It was either an expensive school in Tamaki Makaurau or in Tauranga for a more balanced lifestyle. Choosing Tauranga allowed Kim to work part-time in a café while studying, providing her with a more manageable lifestyle at a slower pace.

She later moved to Auckland for further studies in electrolysis, along with mentorship from industry professionals. This set the foundation for a career that would eventually lead to business ownership in the late 2000s.

With a passion for beauty and a mind for business, Kim was prepared for the challenges of business ownership and the ever-evolving nature of the beauty industry.

For almost ten years, Kim continued to operate The Skin Spa out of the 2nd floor of the Alexandra Street building. When Kim shifted The Skin Spa into a street-front space in 2019, she was determined to create more than just a place of work. It had to be a space that resonated with her personality and creative spirit. Based on her experience in cafés and bars, Kim created a versatile area that offered a balance of openness and privacy, with both a welcoming reception area and quiet, intimate treatment rooms.

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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 offers individualised haircut services to all people and provides an environment that can cater to individual needs and sensitivities such as neurordiversity, LGBT, mental disabilities, and physical disabilities. This specialised service is called a "People Cut" and is a scheduled service with an experienced Hairstylist.

•Appointment (30 minutes) - $40

Includes consultation, "People Cut" & finish.

•Appointment (45 minutes) - $60

Includes consultation, hair wash, "People Cut" & finish.

•Appointment (1 hour) - $80

Includes consultation, hair wash, "People Cut" & finish.

Contact Lee directly on 022 479 6615 for any enquires or to schedule an appointment. Alternatively you can use the book now button on The Cut Hut Facebook page to request an appointment time

Payment options are cash, direct credit, or stripe payment (paywave only). 

Please use the name and account number below with The Cut Hut as the reference 

LEVIBLOOR T/A THE CUT HUT

12-3122-0411581-00

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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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HANRAD Gallery is delighted to present From Thought to Form – Materiality Speaking, a solo exhibition by acclaimed Swedish–New Zealand artist Sylvia Sinel. The exhibition opens on 6 November 2025 and runs until 18 January 2026, inviting viewers into a deeply sensory and contemplative experience of material, intuition, and transformation.

From Thought to Form is an interdisciplinary body of work that encourages audiences to connect with the mystical space where thought, surface, and soul intertwine. Sinel’s deeply rooted curiosity for materials and her continuous exploration of form have evolved into a distinctive artistic vocabulary and voice.

Through sculptural works, experimental surfaces, and poetic abstraction, the exhibition explores themes of transformation and transcendence. Each work acts as a vessel—holding memories, intuition, and knowing—extending an invitation to consider how matter might carry intention, and how viewers might engage not only with what is seen, but also with what is sensed.

Sylvia Sinel’s interdisciplinary practice spans over 35 years, with works held in private collections worldwide. Her creative drive is guided by a profound curiosity for materials and techniques, spirituality, and ancient wisdom traditions. The idea dictates the medium, and each piece is granted agency to find its own voice through an intuitive, responsive process.

Her unique form language draws inspiration from her Scandinavian heritage and evokes a sense of both familiarity and otherness.

Originally from Sweden, Sylvia emigrated to New Zealand in 2013 and settled in Hamilton, where she became an active contributor to the local art community. In 2025, she relocated to Auckland’s North Shore, where she is establishing a new studio and continues to teach at several local art centres.

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Summer Live Music in Garden Place!

Grab your lunch and head down to Garden Place for live music by great local musicians!

All live music sessions are weather dependent.

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Summer Line Up :

4th December - Sean Lurman

11th December - DJ KUDZ

18th December - DJ TAZ

15th January - Darze Keefe

22nd January - DJ DEGEN

29th January -Sean Lurman

5th February - DJ JAE

12th February - Andrew Price

19th February - DJ GETMELO

26th February - Darz Keefe

5th March - DJ TW3AK

12th March -Andrew Price

19th March - DJ CYPHR

26th March -TBC

Fashion For a Cause – A Night of Style, Culture & Purpose

The countdown has begun!

We’re just days away from Fashion for a Cause 2025 — a glamorous evening filled with style, purpose, and community spirit!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of fashion with heart at Fashion for a Cause, proudly presented by Rudra Entertainment and Rupal Solanki in support of St. John New Zealand.

This one-of-a-kind multicultural fashion show will showcase the incredible talent of local and emerging designers, featuring stunning collections from ethnic to modern and fusion styles.

But this event is more than just a runway. It is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and community spirit. A portion of all proceeds will go directly towards supporting St. John New Zealand, helping them continue their life-saving work across Aotearoa.

Expect an evening filled with inspiring designer showcases, live entertainment, cultural performances, red carpet moments, and a meaningful cause that brings fashion and community together.

Come dressed to impress, enjoy the glamour, and be part of a night that truly makes a difference.

Limited seats available – book your tickets now.

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Seddon Park will host the BLACKCAPS and West Indies in their 3rd ODI match of the series on Saturday, 22 November 2025.

Caribbean flair meets Kiwi fire.

BLACKCAPS v West Indies – tickets on sale now.

Big hits. Big names. Big series. Feel the electric atmosphere, soak up the summer vibes, and enjoy world-class cricket right here at home.

It’s the perfect day out for whānau, mates, or anyone who loves the game. These matches will be crowd favourites – secure your tickets now!

For hospitality packages and enquiries contact charlotte@ndca.co.nz

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Get ready for a massive night of groove, rhythm, and energetic music!

Versailles is bringing their electrifying mix of reggae, dub, and funk—seasoned with tasteful jazz influences—for a high-energy set that will keep you moving. They'll be playing some fresh, brand-new original material, along with a selection of well-known covers that will have you singing along!

Opening the show is the incredibly talented Sahara, the winner of Rockquest 2025. Her captivating solo singer-songwriter performance will perfectly set the stage for an evening of unforgettable entertainment.

A jam-packed show with tons of energy and entertainment to offer—you don't want to miss this!

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Worldwide sensation - the MAGIC MEN AUSTRALIA are finally coming your way!

For One Night Only, MAGIC MEN AUSTRALIA is bringing the heat with Australia's Hottest Male Revue Show!

Tickets

Regular Patron - $50 General non-reserved seating

Deluxe - $75 Priority Seating for the best views!

Premium - $95 VIP Seating for the ultimate front-row experience!

18+ ONLY

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Roots Rising Tour – Presented by Titan Entertainment

Get ready for Roots Rising Tour, hitting Aotearoa across four incredible locations!

This is a tour you don’t want to miss, featuring three of Aotearoa’s most soulful and powerful reggae acts — House of Shem, Son and Water, and Brutha Rodz — bringing uplifting energy, rich harmonies, and authentic roots music to the stage.

House of Shem are back and stronger than ever, performing all their classic hits alongside brand new music that’s been making waves across the country.

Joining them is Son and Water, led by the legendary Jamie Ferguson — the saxophonist and songwriter behind many of Katchafire’s biggest hits. Now performing alongside his sons, Jamie and the band are creating fresh, inspiring sounds that are capturing hearts all over Aotearoa.

Adding to the lineup is Brutha Rodz, a true roots reggae storyteller known for his smooth vocals, conscious lyrics, and powerful live performances that connect deeply with the crowd.

This will be the first time Son and Water perform in many of these cities, making it an extra special experience for fans of real Aotearoa roots reggae

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The "Sangamam 2025" NZ Tour featuring the legendary singer Srinivas & Sharanya Srinivas is proudly brought to life by Moksha Base. This marks a major milestone as Singer Srinivas and Sharanya Srinivas’s first-ever tour of New Zealand.

Singer Srinivas is a renowned Indian playback singer and composer, with a career spanning over three decades. His heartfelt vocals have graced more than 3,000 songs across Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema. His deep understanding of melody, combined with a mentor-like presence on reality TV, cements his status as an Indian music icon.

Sharanya Srinivas is a versatile and dynamic playback singer, known for her soulful voice and genre-spanning performances. Daughter of singer Srinivas, Sharanya has carved out her own space in the Indian music industry with playback credits in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi films. Trained in both Carnatic and Western music, she effortlessly blends classical precision with contemporary style.

Singer Srinivas and Sharanya Srinivas’s participation, alongside Moksha Base’s powerful live presence, elevates this concert tour into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending pure nostalgia for longtime fans with exciting new memories for the next generation.

This is not just a tour. It’s a celebration of identity, excellence, and the magic that happens when legends meet legacy.

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It was the biggest concert tour in history, and now you can re-live the hype when TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift comes to Aotearoa!

Join us as we salute 'Tay Tay' and the indelible impact she's had on Pop music with this joyous, effervescent concert experience, complete with sparkly costumes, cosmic stage production and over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor's biggest hits from every era of her career, including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.

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7th December, 2025 (Sun) 1:00pm7th December, 2025 (Sun) 4:00pm

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Directions Dance Academy's annual Dance Show: The Four Elements.

Dancers of all ages will showcase a variety of styles including jazz, contemporary, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop as they portray the elements of Earth, Water, Air and Fire.

From toe-tapping music, through to dazzling costumes, this is a spectacle which will delight the entire family.

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t Doesn’t Matter Where you Sit, as long as you’re there!

Prepare to be spellbound by the mesmerising live encounter of Cael O'Donnell – With his signature magnetic stage presence, Cael is gracing our town for one-night-only. Get ready for an evening filled with Psychic ability that’s absolutely unmissable! Cael, the Psychic everyone's talking about with 1 million followers worldwide and featured regularly on Australian TV, is set to captivate you with heartfelt messages that touch your soul and lift your spirits.

He's not just a psychic; he possesses a gift that's often described as “off the charts”. Picture a night where hope takes centre stage – this isn't just 'another psychic show'; it's an unforgettable experience that will have you buzzing with excitement and reminiscing with mates for decades to come!

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Luke Kidgell continues new World Tour in New Zealand in 2025!

Luke is known for his viral crowd-work interactions that often lead to some fairly unusual, yet hilarious encounters. Despite not having much control over his impulsive thoughts, Luke insists that deep down he means well, and this year he’s on a mission to prove it.

After touring Australia, the US, Canada, & Europe Luke is coming back to New Zealand with his brand-new show Good Intentions. This is not one to miss!

You’ve seen him on the internet, now it’s time to see him in real life, as Luke tries to prove that he really does have Good Intentions.

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Te Kawau Toi | Wintec Performing Arts students, under the direction of Kyle Chuen, present The Witches of Eastwick. Written by John Dempsy and Dana P. Rowe, this devilishly dark comedy musical is based on the classic 1987-film.

In the sleepy New England town of Eastwick, three (not-so-wicked) witches Alexandra Spofford, Sukie Rougemont and Jane Smart are divorcees feeling trapped in their everyday humdrum lives. One stormy night, high on Martinis and brownies, they make a crazy wish for the man of their dreams. When Darryl Horne arrives, they quickly find out their wish has consequences they could never have imagine.

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