One of the Locals: An Insider's Guide to Kirikiriroa Hamilton

Interior of Cream Eatery in Hamilton with overview of cabinet and counter area
Taking the crown of New Zealand’s fastest growing city, you’d be a fool to underestimate what this town in the mighty Waikato has to offer. While throngs of visitors take the 45-minute trip out of Hamilton to live out their fantasies in The Shire (each to their own), those who stick to the heart of the ‘Tron will discover local treasures that are – in our opinion – just as precious.

O-Studio Hamilton

Yoga mats laid out in the studio at O-Studio.
Place Hamilton
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Hamilton’s O-Studio offers visitors a complete reset for both body and mind.

Exscite

Low seating inside Exscite Hamilton.
Place Hamilton
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Housed within the Te Whare Taonga o Waikato Museum and Gallery is Exscite, an interactive discovery centre offering a vibrant and engaging learning experience.

Boon Arts

Colourful murals painted on a block wall.
Place Hamilton
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It’s no exaggeration to say that Boon has redefined Hamilton's urban aesthetics.

HIGH ABOVE

Class of women using the aerial yoga studio.
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Founded by competitive pole dancer and qualified AntiGravity Fitness Instructor Laura Lockhart, High Above is a fitness hub like no other. Specialising in both aerial and pole classes, working out here is all about getting fit through having fun.

Hamilton Gardens

The tall sandstone-coloured walls at the entrance to the Ancient Egyptian Garden.
Place Hamilton Editor's Pick
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Committed to the environment with a range of sustainable practices, this dreamy garden is well worth the visit.