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There’s something magical about walking down a laneway in a city anywhere in the world.
It makes you feel like you’re discovering a space that not everyone knows about. More often than not, a laneway develops its character through word-of-mouth, the collective vibe created by the sum total of offerings down the lane.
When places with individual personalities sit alongside each other, they create something new: a destination and a feeling that you need to be part of what’s on offer.
While main streets tend to stay fixed in their character, laneways are more changeable. They move with the times, adopting a chameleon approach, attracting like-minded or complementary businesses, shifting from one vibe to another almost seamlessly. Casabella Lane is the perfect case study.
In the early years, around the mid2000s, this slightly tucked-away treasure was Hamilton’s go-to for fashion and brands. Names such as Bella Boutique, Annah Stretton, and Red Currant graced the shopfronts, drawing shoppers seeking designer clothing, shoes and homewares. It held this reputation for several years before becoming a more culturally curated space with the rise of the artists.
The lane transformed into a creative sanctuary. Already anchored by Gordon Harris, supplier to budding and established artists, new tenancies The Art Studio and The Pottery Studio moved in, bringing with them the smell of paint, the whir of pottery wheels, and an entirely different energy. Same location, completely new vibe.
Today, Casabella Lane has evolved once again, this time into a hospitality haven. Recent additions include Iris Cafe, where the grab-and-go options are just as tempting as the stay-and-linger menu. Then there’s Scran, serving up homemade local and Scottish fare in a retro fitout that’s as charming as the food is hearty. For those navigating dietary requirements, Hello Rosie delivers gluten-free meals and sweet treats that don’t compromise on flavour, while Bamboo Sweets provides those luxurious chocolatier moments we all deserve. Add long-time favourites Kino Sushi, Basil Thai and Vietnamese Kitchen into the mix, and you’ve got yourself quite the international dining experience.
Of course, hospitality isn’t the whole story. Still keeping true to its retail origins, Zebrano, Sills, Parlour and Renting with SB carry on the designer wear tradition, while Poppy’s Bookshop offers that perfect browse-and-relax atmosphere. Health, beauty and wellness are well represented with Natures Spa, Heidi Christian Hair, Blush Hair, Spa & Co and Varda hairdressers. And let’s not forget the jewel in the crown, Midas Jewellers, adding genuine sparkle to the lane.
If you haven’t visited recently, we recommend popping in and reconnecting with the fabulous vibe and tenancies at Casabella Lane.
Hamilton punters looking to head out for dinner and drinks could be rounding off their meal with a tipple - of fuel, that is.
In a case of “locals supporting locals supporting locals” Waitomo Group and Overproof - the group behind a number of Hamilton venues - are offering diners a $10 fuel voucher when they spend $100 at Reggies, Mr Pickles, Everyday Eatery, or Hamilton Hotel.
It’s an initiative to get diners into the CBD and show them a good time amid fuel prices putting a squeeze on people’s discretionary spending, hospitality heavyweight Mat Pedley said.
In turn, it also supported local hospitality venues.
Hamilton-based tech innovator, Lance Bauerfeind, of Company-X, has been recognised at the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence to Industry for his role in transforming how New Zealand Navy divers train using virtual reality technology.
Bauerfeind received the Auahatanga – Innovation Award for leading the development of an immersive training system that allows Navy divers to practise complex rescue scenarios in a virtual underwater environment, augmenting traditional pool and open water training with portable VR simulation.
Lieutenant Commander Nick Davey, Programme Manager Maritime Simulation, said, “Navy Divers experience some of the biggest risks within the NZDF and it’s our job to reduce those risks as low as reasonably possible.”
In a first for the Royal New Zealand Navy, this multiplayer simulation capability allows instructors to enter training scenarios alongside trainees in real time, helping monitor performance, correct poor habits immediately and improve preparedness in a controlled environment.
"This is the first time that we’ve used virtual reality in a multiplayer environment”, said Davey.
“Navy divers operate in some of the highest-risk environments in the NZDF, so having an instructor/trainer alongside you in simulation to immediately course correct your mistakes rather than wait until after the training session is a game-changer. It’s another step toward managing safety,” Bauerfeind said.
“You can’t always recreate dangerous or complex scenarios repeatedly in the real world, but people still need to be prepared for them.”
Company-X Co-founder and Director, David Hallett, said the technology reflected growing demand for simulation and immersive training tools across a range of industries.
“Simulation technology is becoming increasingly important in environments where organisations need people to train safely, repeatedly and at scale,” he said.
“The same technologies being used in defence training can also be applied across industries, including emergency response, manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure.”
Speaking at the awards ceremony at Parliament, Defence Minister Chris Penk acknowledged the important role New Zealand companies play in supporting Defence capability, resilience and innovation.
Hallett said Company-X had already delivered multiple immersive training solutions for the Royal New Zealand Navy, including virtual reality flight deck officer training that allows personnel to practise the procedures, communication and coordination required to safely land helicopters on a frigate.
Company-X continues to develop immersive simulation and training technologies for defence and adjacent industries.
The recognition follows Company-X’s signing of an agreement with global defence company Babcock International at the Indo Pacific maritime exposition last year, aimed at taking New Zealand-developed simulation training technology to defence forces around the world.
The Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence to Industry recognise organisations and individuals delivering exceptional service, innovation and support to New Zealand’s defence sector.
Let's shine a light on some businesses that have recently opened their doors in the central city. Whether you're after your next favourite coffee spot, looking to prioritise your wellbeing, or simply curious about what's new, these five recent arrivals deserve a visit.
Iris Café – 307 Barton Street, Casabella Lane
Settle into a cosy corner with your morning coffee or enjoy a spot to work quietly for an hour. That's the everyday magic you'll discover at Iris Café. More than just great coffee, this is a space built on connection and community.
As a social enterprise connected to Rainbow Hub Waikato, every cup you enjoy here supports something bigger. It's the kind of place where you can pause, breathe, and feel genuinely welcomed.
Open Tuesday to Saturday | 9am to 2.30pm
iriscafe.co.nz
REMAX – 660 Victoria Street
The REMAX Flagship team, led by Harry Luther, has transformed their Victoria Street location into a stunning new office space. This marks an exciting chapter in the brand's growth story across New Zealand, and it's brilliant to see this level of investment in our central city.
Open Sunday to Friday | 9am to 5pm
remax.co.nz
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The world’s best surfers are heading our way! From May 15 to 25, Manu Bay in Raglan will host Stop No. 4 of the World Surf League Championship Tour!
While elite athletes from around the globe tackle that iconic left hand point break, we’ve installed a vibrant 3D pavement mural in Civic Square (beside Garden Place) that celebrates this incredible event.
Here’s your chance to feel like a pro without getting wet. Jump on the surfboard, strike your best surfer pose, and snap a photo!
Location: Civic Square, Worley Place, Hamilton
Free photo opportunity
All ages welcome
Art by @spijkerbosch
@wsl
Corona Cero @originalbonsoy @purenewzealand
There’s something magical about walking down a laneway in a city anywhere in the world.
It makes you feel like you’re discovering a space that not everyone knows about. More often than not, a laneway develops its character through word-of-mouth, the collective vibe created by the sum total of offerings down the lane.
When places with individual personalities sit alongside each other, they create something new: a destination and a feeling that you need to be part of what’s on offer.
While main streets tend to stay fixed in their character, laneways are more changeable. They move with the times, adopting a chameleon approach, attracting like-minded or complementary businesses, shifting from one vibe to another almost seamlessly. Casabella Lane is the perfect case study.
In the early years, around the mid2000s, this slightly tucked-away treasure was Hamilton’s go-to for fashion and brands. Names such as Bella Boutique, Annah Stretton, and Red Currant graced the shopfronts, drawing shoppers seeking designer clothing, shoes and homewares. It held this reputation for several years before becoming a more culturally curated space with the rise of the artists.
The lane transformed into a creative sanctuary. Already anchored by Gordon Harris, supplier to budding and established artists, new tenancies The Art Studio and The Pottery Studio moved in, bringing with them the smell of paint, the whir of pottery wheels, and an entirely different energy. Same location, completely new vibe.
Today, Casabella Lane has evolved once again, this time into a hospitality haven. Recent additions include Iris Cafe, where the grab-and-go options are just as tempting as the stay-and-linger menu. Then there’s Scran, serving up homemade local and Scottish fare in a retro fitout that’s as charming as the food is hearty. For those navigating dietary requirements, Hello Rosie delivers gluten-free meals and sweet treats that don’t compromise on flavour, while Bamboo Sweets provides those luxurious chocolatier moments we all deserve. Add long-time favourites Kino Sushi, Basil Thai and Vietnamese Kitchen into the mix, and you’ve got yourself quite the international dining experience.
Of course, hospitality isn’t the whole story. Still keeping true to its retail origins, Zebrano, Sills, Parlour and Renting with SB carry on the designer wear tradition, while Poppy’s Bookshop offers that perfect browse-and-relax atmosphere. Health, beauty and wellness are well represented with Natures Spa, Heidi Christian Hair, Blush Hair, Spa & Co and Varda hairdressers. And let’s not forget the jewel in the crown, Midas Jewellers, adding genuine sparkle to the lane.
If you haven’t visited recently, we recommend popping in and reconnecting with the fabulous vibe and tenancies at Casabella Lane.
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