About Hamilton

Hamilton is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities. It’s young, passionate and ambitious and its energy is reflected in the people and iconic events.  Hamilton’s portfolio of events such as the V8 Supercars Street Race, National Agricultural Fieldays, World Rally Championships, Balloons over Waikato and the World Rowing Champs in 2010 is increasing our reputation as being New Zealand’s premier events city. 

Hamilton is the gateway to the rich agricultural region of the Waikato, whose lush, green countryside is just minutes from the city. The majestic Waikato River provides a magnificent backdrop to many outdoor activities and venues. 

Conferences and Functions

Choose from the wide range of venues catering for downtown city meetings, riverside conferences, country retreats with views of the bush, major conventions and elegant evening functions.  Complementing the venues is a host of services such as entertainers, out caterers, theming artists, promotional goods suppliers and conference organisers.

What’s on offer?

First-class city amenities, superb riverside walks, magnificent gardens, fine cuisine and entertainment, art galleries and cultural tours – it’s all in Hamilton. And what’s more, it’s a friendly city!

 The historic south end of town offers a diverse range of cuisine with plenty of cafés, restaurants and bars - from the exotic to the eclectic. Evenings offer more - from viewing the latest blockbuster or a festival movie to bar hopping, live comedy, music or theatre.  For the high rollers, SKYCITY is the home to a casino and entertainment zones. It’s all just a short walk away!

The Hamilton Gardens are deservedly the most popular visitor’s destination in the city.  These amazing gardens are like a canvas alive with colour…sample the living Persian carpet in the Indian Char Bagh Garden, the tranquillity of the Japanese and the Chinese Gardens, the romance of cottage England or the grandeur of Renaissance Italy. Cruise along while viewing the city from a different angle aboard the paddleboat, Waipa Delta.

Art has a vibrant voice in Hamilton, reflecting the city’s diverse heritage. The city has become a magnet for the arts, from a calendar of contemporary music performances to galleries and public art.  The secret is diversity.

Around Hamilton

Lush farmland and green, bush-clad hills dominate the mighty Waikato River and complements the many spectacular waterfalls, creeks, lakes, and wetlands.  Visitors to the ex-Lord of the Rings at Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours, near Matamata are intrigued with the stories about making the movie and inspired by the picturesque landscapes.  Another unique attraction is the Maungatautari Ecological Island , where kiwi, native birds and wildlife have been reintroduced to their original pest-free environment.   Those who crave adrenaline enjoy activities, such as hot laps in a rally car, hot air balloon and jet boat rides. Not to be missed are the magical, limestone glowworm caves at Waitomo on guided tours or adventure trips, which can include abseiling into caves and black water rafting.

Slow the pace down for natural hot mineral pools, wineries and antique trails.  Or take in a laid back beach experience at Raglan.

Getting there and around

No traffic problems in Hamilton, because it’s easy to move between venues, accommodation and activities.  Leave your venue to refresh your mind with novel activities in a new environment. Try team tasks, cultural experiences, restful breaks and daringly crazy experiences.

Over half of NZ lives within two hours from the city, meaning real savings in travel time for delegates from the North Island.  By road from Auckland, Rotorua or Tauranga takes 90 minutes, and the city is just 15 minutes from Hamilton International Airport.