Hamilton is a fast-growing city that exudes unique New Zealand character, breathtaking scenery and innovative cultural aspects. The city is the perfect base from which to explore the north island, indulge in a relaxed lifestyle, and discover Maori history.

Built on a volcanic landscape, Hamilton boasts scenic parks and gardens and the country’s longest river, Waikato River – providing an exciting array of outdoor activities for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Hamilton Information

Population: Approx. 200,000
Area: 98 km²
Time Zone: UTC +12
Languages: English
Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZD) Order your travellers cheques and foreign cash here before you leave Australia.
Electricity: 220 – 240v 50Hz

Hamilton Climate

Hamilton boasts a temperate climate, with mild seasons and moderate rainfall. Autumn and winter are cool, with an average maximum temperature of 17°C and an average minimum of 7°C. Spring and summer are a bit warmer, with an average maximum temperature of 20°C and average minimum of 10°C. Hamilton is New Zealand’s foggiest city – low lying fog on the Waikato River is a renowned city feature.

• View local weather forecast for your holiday

Hamilton Airport (HLZ)

Name: Hamilton International Airport (HLZ)
Address: Airport Road, Hamilton
Distance to city: 14km
Opening Hours: The airport is open 24 hours. Check-in counters open 2 hours prior to departure.

Hamilton Transport

Car hire: Great choice of hire cars at mates rates from our car suppliers

Don’t forget your travel insurance.

Ibis Tainui Hamilton

3 Star Property

Situated on the banks of the Waikato River, Ibis Hamilton Tainui is your gateway to the Waikato region. Positioned in the heart of Hamilton City, just 20 minutes from Hamilton International Airport, the 126 room hotel is ideal for both leisure and business trips.

Kingsgate Hotel Hamilton

3.5 Star Property

Only minutes from the city centre and conveniently located to reach any out-of-town places of interest , Kingsgate Hotel Hamilton is a favourite with both business and holiday makers.

Novotel Tainui Hamilton

4 Star Property

Novotel Hamilton Tainui is a 4 star hotel in the heart of Hamilton, on the banks of the Waikato River and adjacent to the Skycity Casino and entertainment complex. Ideal for business trips and holidays.

The Sebel Trinity Wharf Tauranga

4 Star Property

Our Tauranga hotel is ideally situated in the stunning Pay of Plenty, close to all the natural delights of Mt Maunganui. The property is located 1.5 hours drive from Hamilton International Airport.

Dining

Hamilton’s vibrant café and bar scene is recognised as the most up-and-coming in New Zealand. A mix of modern eateries and long-running success stories populate the city streets and suburbs, affording Hamilton a great variety of dining options.

Victoria Street, in the city’s CBD, attracts a range of clientele with a number of great dining hotspots. Breakfast at Scotts Epicurean Café is locally renowned – enjoying river views, great coffee and a simple menu of childhood favourites, such as green eggs and ham. During the week business folk mix with lunching friends at Domaine; a trendy restaurant that celebrates modern New Zealand flavours. For a quality evening of fine food, Victoria Street Bistro is an excellent space in which to celebrate a special occasion.

A short drive from Hamilton’s centre sits Cambridge, a small town atop most New Zealand foodies’ lists. Located on Alpha Street, Onyx is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and seafood platters. The Boatshed Café offers a unique experience, serving coffee and cake overlooking the picturesque Lake Karapiro. Located on Mystery Creek Road – in between Hamilton and Cambridge – the Woodbox Winery Restaurant and Bar is a great escape in which to indulge in a menu of seasonal ingredients and local wines presented with flair.

Venture further out of town to discover the Waikato region’s renowned dairy industry. An hour from Hamilton city, in Putaruru, the Over the Moon Dairy Company produces 9,000kg of cheese per year… Free tastings, cheese making demonstrations and factory tours are available onsite.

Shopping

Hamilton’s fashion scene is dominated by mega shopping centres, which are scattered throughout the city. Located on Victoria Street, Centre Place is a modern shopping hub that offers a wide range of choice in clothing, footwear, electronics and dining. In Chartwell, international shopping giant Westfield provides a considerable choice of both local and overseas brands. The suburb of Te Rapa hosts Dress Smart Outlet Shopping; a sale lover’s heaven, which offers over 30 stores, with goods reduced by up to 70% off normal retail prices.

Outdoor precincts take the backseat in Hamilton’s shopping scene; however Victoria Street and Casabella Lane are not to be overlooked. Strewn with European influences Casabella Lane boasts a handful of specialty stores; while Victoria Street showcases the city’s culture, with great souvenir shops like Belmerino New Zealand.

Stroll the Hamilton Farmer’s Market at the River Road car park in the city centre to mingle with the locals and taste some of the north island’s finest produce. A historic community gathering place, the market offers locally grown and produced food and products.