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Hamilton Central is where the city comes to play. Think weekend bowling, hands-on craft workshops, trivia nights, and pop-up events. It’s a place for exploring new hobbies, catching live shows, and diving into the buzz of local happenings.
Tired of hearing “I’m bored” on repeat? Give your little artists a screen-free, hands-on adventure with our Kids' Pottery Workshop!
What’s in Store?
Squishy, squashy, super-fun clay play
Giggles, creativity, and a little bit of (controlled) mess
Their very own handmade masterpiece to keep!
We have plenty of spaces available, so gather the kids and join us for some school holiday magic!
Let’s turn school holiday boredom into clay-filled fun!
Collect an activity sheet from our kaimahi at the front desk and then hop around the galleries to find the twelve 'Easter eggs' we've hidden in plain sight.
Once your whaanau has completed the scavenger hunt, there will be a tasty chocolate prize to take home and enjoy.
18th - 21st April
10am - 5pm
Grab free kids’ tickets to Astronomy Photographer of the Year for Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April 2025 exclusively. With more than 70 stunning images, you don’t want your family to miss out on this exhibition of the best photography in the universe.
Landing in Aotearoa New Zealand for the first time, Astronomy Photographer of the Year is the largest international competition of its kind, produced by Royal Museums Greenwich, London.
In person lunchtime circus sessions.
Take a break from your screen, get a dose of fresh air, and discover just how fun (and good for you) circus skills can be. No need to book — just turn up and give it a go!
To kick 2025 off to a good start while the sun is still shining, Creative Waikato will be offering in person lunchtime circus sessions in Garden Place. These will be facilitated by professional circus performers and are a great opportunity to re-explore something that perhaps you haven’t done since you were a kid!
Designed for busy professionals and CBD workers, these sessions are a chance to get moving, refresh your mind, and try something new. No prior experience required, just a willingness to give it a go!
Every Tuesday 12-1pm starting 18 February until 25 March
Garen Place
A 30 minute lesson (hula hoops or juggling) followed by free practice time. We’ll rotate skills each week but will always have props available, so you can choose your challenge!
Wear: Comfortable clothing
If you love art and puzzles, then this is for you!
Confinement Games and Boon Art is perfect for you! With cryptic directions and clues, find the art, solve the question, and move on. Learn about the artist, the artwork, have fun exploring the city, and discover artworks you may have never seen!
Choose which area you want to explore, grab your team, or go it alone. For groups, we recommend the purchase of individual games so that each player can have access to the app on their own device. This way players can read and play at their own pace. There is no minimum or maximum number of people that can play at any given time.
Can be played anytime with no time limit either as a team or an individual. Solve clues, find the art!
You and your colleagues decided it would be good to meet for drinks and canapes at Sisterfields, located in the heart of the CBD, on Victoria Street, Hamilton. You joined in with the Party group that had gathered and everything was going well. You are mixing and mingling, and then an alarming announcement is made over the intercom speaker! "A body has been near the bathroom, and it is clear a murder has just been committed". The venue is put into lockdown, and everyone is asked to get into their own teams. Together you and your friends must hunt for clues, solve all the puzzles, and see if you can identify who the killer is!
Light canapes will be served on arrival, and you are encouraged to book for dinner o dessert after the game. A great setting with live music to enjoy the rest of the evening.
If your team enjoys Quiz Nights or Escape Rooms, you will love this special puzzle-solving event!
Family-friendly circus sessions
This summer, Garden Place will come alive with creativity and fun as Circus in the Centre brings a series of family-friendly circus sessions to the lawn.
These open-air sessions will offer a unique opportunity for whānau to explore the joy of circus in a welcoming and unstructured environment. Whether you're dropping by for a quick spin with a hula hoop or immersing yourself for the full two and a half hours to get your three-ball juggle, there’s something for everyone—regardless of age or experience.
This collaborative initiative is supported by Love the Centre and Creative Waikato and is hosted by the experienced team at Black Sheep Circus Entertainment.
Welcome to Escapist NZ, Hamilton’s premier destination for immersive escape rooms, mind-bending puzzles, and a haven for board game enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzle solver or a curious newcomer, their unique blend of adventure and relaxation promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Immersive Rooms and Puzzles
Step into a world of mystery and intrigue with their meticulously designed escape rooms. Each room offers a unique storyline, challenging puzzles, and an immersive environment that will transport you to another world. Work together with your team to uncover clues, solve riddles, and escape before time runs out. The rooms are perfect for friends, families, and corporate teams looking for a fun and engaging activity.
Board Game Café
After your escape room adventure, unwind in the cozy boardgame café. With a wide selection of classic and modern board games, there’ssomething for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a strategicgame of Settlers of Catan or a light-hearted round of Codenames, the friendlystaff are always on hand to help you find the perfect game.
Retail Store
Take a piece of the adventure home with you from the retail store. They offer a variety of board games, puzzles, and escape room-themed merchandise. Whether you’re looking for a new game to add to your collection or a unique gift for a friend, you’ll find it here.
Visit Today
Located in the heart of Hamilton, Escapist NZ is the perfect place to escape the ordinary and dive into a world of fun and excitement. Book your escape room experience today and discover why they're a favorite spot for adventure and entertainment.
A game of wits and teamwork - find locations and solve cryptic puzzles to unlock secrets!
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hamilton with Te Ahurei Māori Tourism. Founded by Les Tuteao, a descendant of local Māori teachers and storytellers, Te Ahurei offers an authentic and engaging experience that brings the history and art of the Waikato region to life.
Experience the Art and Stories of Hamilton on a captivating two-hour walking tour that highlights seven significant public artworks throughout Hamilton. Led by Les Tuteao, this tour intertwines local historical narratives with the stories behind each artwork, including Michael Parekowhai’s“ Tongue of the Dog” and the interactive sculpture “Tōia Mai.” These pieces transform the streets of Hamilton into an open-air gallery, showcasing the talent and creativity of local artists.
For more information and to book your tour, contact Les -tuteao@teahureimaoritourism.nz
Discover the heart and soul of Hamilton with Te Ahurei Māori Tourism. Your journey into the rich tapestry of Māori culture awaits.
Available from early December. Pre-order now!
This beginner's essentials kit is packed with the tools and guidance needed to craft delicious, artisan-quality bread at home.
Designed for both beginners and aspiring bakers, this kit combines essential tools, expert guidance, and thoughtful touches to set you up for sourdough success.
At HOYTS, we’re known for more than just our signature extra-comfy powered recliners. Sit back, relax, and discover why our cinema experiences are loved by all.
The action never stops at Hamilton's only bowling alley. Located on Level 2 of SkyCity Hamilton, Bowl and Social features world-class technology and bowling lanes.
There’s also a great lineup of arcade games, air hockey and a pool table. Plus, you can order a drink and a meal from the lanes or enjoy the incredible view of the Waikato River from the deck. This indoor activity is great for family and friend groups, and perfect for the school holidays.
They're not only known for their great bowling atmosphere, but also our delicious food and drinks! From pizzas, hot dogs, nachos and sides, you’ll find something tasty to fuel you while you bowl. And you can order from the comfort of your lane using your kiosk.
They've also got packages for individuals and groups that give you great bang for your buck.
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