Our city: Hamilton

Hamilton is New Zealand's fourth-largest city, and is also one of the fastest growing.

With its strong economy, highly educated and diverse population this city is known for its well respected tertiary educational facilities, scientific research, world class stadiums and event venues, parks and gardens, fine cuisine and cafes and culture.
 

Hamilton(external link) is set to grow by 26% in the next 15 years. Developments to support this include the city's transport strategy; events centre and theatre redevelopment; and central city upgrade.

Hamilton International Airport(external link) offers flights to many destinations within New Zealand.

The Waikato River winds through the heart of Hamilton, creating delightful spaces for recreation and relaxation.

The Hamilton City Council website(external link) has more information about the city and events, and links to other websites of interest.

Balloons over Waikato

Just a few of Hamilton's regular events:

  • Fieldays is New Zealand's premier agri-business event, bringing buyer and seller together to create an agricultural hyper-market. It's hosted every year at the Mystery Creek Events Centre just outside Hamilton.
  • Balloons over Waikato is New Zealand's premier hot air balloon festival. Held annually, in Hamilton, this five-day event it is arguably the most popular event in the city.
  • Super 15 Rugby Competition includes regional teams from Australia, South Africa and New Zealand competing from late February to early August. Waikato Stadium is the home ground for the Chiefs team representing the Waikato/Bay of Plenty region.
  • Kudos Awards - Hamilton Science Excellence Awards were launched in June 2007 and are now an annual celebration of local scientific innovations impacting the Waikato region, New Zealand and the world.

Population

Urban population about 200,000. New Zealand's fourth largest urban area.

Economy

HamiltonEducation and research are important to the city – it has a university, technical institute and agricultural research centre. Manufacturing and retail industries also play a growing role.

Climate

Daily maximum temperatures range from about 22° to 26 °C (72°–79 °F) in January and February to 10° to 15 °C (50°–59 °F) in July and August. Crisp frosts, morning fog and cool sunny days can feature in winter just as commonly as rain.

City life

Casabella LaneDowntown Hamilton features fashion shops, boutique movie theatres, cafes and bars, while The Base/Te Awa shopping area 10 minutes to the north offers modern retail malls and outlet shops.

Leisure/Sport

A modern stadium and cricket ground attract top-class sports events on a regular basis.

Hamilton Gardens, Waikato River walkways and Hamilton Lake are popular spots for relaxing within the city.

Useful information