Hamilton

 

 
 
 
 

Hamilton is a fast-growing, multicultural city situated on the banks of the Waikato River. With a current population of over 130,000, the city is young, passionate and ambitious. Its warm and welcoming spirit, rich history and many contrasting and exciting experiences await visitors.

The fourth largest city in the country Hamilton offers all the benefits of a big city less the hassles of big city living. The city's sophisticated, vibrant cafe scene is one of the most up-and-coming in New Zealand with award-winning restaurants and bars that ‘leave Auckland's Viaduct Harbour for dead' (14th Edition of Lonely Planet's New Zealand Guide).

A world of retail outlets also awaits, from high-street fashion to funky local designers and quirky homeware and gift stores, all located within walking distance from each other. The busy weekend farmers markets combining fresh produce artisan products and arts and crafts are also attract locals and visitors alike.

The city's flourishing CityHeart boasts a cultural precinct inclusive of the Waikato Museum  and Artspost which collectively deliver rich regional arts and culture via eight museum galleries.

Hamilton's ever-growing portfolio of signature events finds the city rapidly gaining a reputation as an events destination with a great blend of international, national and local world class events.

So whether you prefer the thrill of fast cars as a spectator at the Hamilton 400 V8 Supercars street race or you feel more comfortable enjoying thought provoking Kiwi theatre staged as part of the FUEL festival, Hamilton offers a host of annual events.

This collection of events includes World Rowing Championships, Fieldays, Balloons Over Waikato, Parachute Music Festival and Gallagher Great Race, just to name a few. The city's event website whatsonhamilton.co.nz provides an extensive range of events on offer in Hamilton.

Hamilton Gardens is undoubtedly one of New Zealand's most popular destinations with around 600,000 visitors per year. This visually stunning 58-hectare canvas is webbed by paths that journey through a stunning gallery of gardens authentically recreated from their country of origin including, romantic England, grand Italy, modern America, tranquil Asia, stunning India and culturally rich Maori.

The city also offers a wide range of family orientated activities including the Hamilton Zoo which is home to over 600 native New Zealand and exotic animals, canoeing or kayaking down the mighty Waikato River and an exhilarating hot balloon rides.

Hamilton's convenient proximity to regional destinations makes it the perfect base for taking day trips to the rugged west coast beach of Raglan, secluded east coastal townships of the Coromandel , picturesque snow capped terrains of Mount Ruapehu , adventure underground caving at Waitomo and trout fishing on NZ's largest lake in Taupo.

For more information click here.

For a map of Hamilton please click here.