Hamilton

Hamilton City

Our City Hamilton is a metropolitan hub on the banks of the Waikato River, offering everything expected of a thriving city - and then some. With great shopping, a vibrant arts scene, award-winning restaurants and a bustling nightlife, Hamilton offers a myriad of urban entertainment options to choose from. Visitors can take a stroll through the award-winning Hamilton Gardens, visit SkyCity Hamilton's new dining precinct, soak up some history at the Waikato Museum, discover animal encounters at Hamilton Zoo or relax with a picnic at Hamilton Lake. Classic cars, river cruises, micro brewery tours and more are all on offer, and for a truly spectacular view of Hamilton and the wider Waikato region, a hot air balloon ride is definitely a must!

while you're here

Wander through the stunning Hamilton Gardens: The international award-winning gardens are a 'must do' and the perfect place to spend a day Visit an art gallery or museum: A thriving arts and cultural scene is on display at the various boutique galleries and museums .

Wine (or beer!) and dine: Choose from the many awardwinning eateries and craft breweries with something to suit all tastes

Do the Time Warp: Check-out the life-size statue of Rocky Horror Picture Show creator and Hamilton native, Richard O'Brien dressed as iconic character Riff Raff.
Take the kids for a gentle cycle or walk along the mighty Waikato River
Peaceful views and tranquil picnic spots are aplenty along the river paths Hamilton is a thriving hub of activity, centrally located in the Waikato region making it the perfect base to explore the central North Island.

Just an hour and a half south of Auckland, it's the nation's fourth largest city. Ari expanding list of awardwinning eateries and artisan producers of honey, bread, pure oolong tea, cheese, ice cream and more, is quickly putting Hamilton on the map as a national foodie hotspot, offering a tantalising range of gourmet experiences.

Shopaholics are also spoilt for choice, from boutique fashion and gifts, quirky laneways with the latest trends, homewares and art, to large shopping complexes, including The Base, the largest shopping centre in New Zealand. Hamilton's thriving arts scene, along with local, national and international events highlight the cultural and creative diversity of the city.

From sporting events, theatrical performances, large-scale concerts, the annual iconic Balloons over Waikato hot air balloon festival, New Zealand National Agricultural Fieldays and the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival, Hamilton's event calendar is bursting with reasons to stay and play. Outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty to do, from a scenic cruise on the Waikato River, a hot air balloon ride over the city, a stroll or cycle along the river side or exploring the awardwinning Hamilton Gardens.
There's plenty for families to do too, with everything from playgrounds to tenpin bowling and top attractions such as Hamilton Zoo, interactive kids exhibitions at Waikato Museum and more.