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The Hamilton Central Business Association has announced that entries are open for the annual CBD Awards.After a challenging few years, the association is delighted to be able to bring a sense of celebration to the central city with the Spark-sponsored awards, which are also backed by MediaWorks.

If you If you can't afford a trip to France, you should probably check out Le Rendez-Vous in Hamilton.Serving up sweet and savoury French cuisine, the small crepe shop on Alexandra Street often has French tourists to visit to experience its take on French food.

Kim Wren imports curry powder from Malaysia for one of his top dishes.Beef rendang and char kway teow are the bestsellers at Penang Street Food, the CBD restaurant where Wren, or “Owen” to his friends, creates Malaysian food with recipes from his home country.

At least that’s what Last Place bar has noticed. It doesn’t matter whether they come for the live music, or the sugary cocktails, the smash burger is what chef Connor Moore cooks up for customers the most.

A 23-year-old has turned creative challenges and the memory of a lost friend into a business he hopes will help others.Kieran Stephens started Gray Space as an events management company after his friend Gray’s suicide. When he was offered a space on Hamilton’s Victoria Street, he saw an opportunity to create a supportive hub for creatives.

After taking refuge in New Zealand from the Vietnam war, Anh Chaimontree’s parents used food as a way to keep their family connected to their culture.The family recipes that once filled Chaimontree’s school lunchbox are now on the menu at Banh Mi Caphe, Hamilton.

Cream Eatery’s bestseller is a meal that’s been on the menu since day one.Luke’s fried eggs, created by co-owner Luke Houghton, are a spin on classic fried eggs. Volare bread features, as well as a special spice mix.

Wonder Horse is one of Hamilton’s favourite bars, hosting more people every Friday and Saturday night than the small space can probably handle.

The Waikato is the next up-and-coming foodie destination - this is what a look at this year’s Cuisine Good Food Awards recipients show.

Almost 20 local restaurants, from Tuakau to Tūrangi, have received accolades.

The annual awards are run by Cuisine Magazine which crowns 20 category winners, as well as recipients of 1, 2 or 3 hats. The awards also crown so-called cuisine destinations.

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Dragon & Lion Dance, Magic Show, Live Cultural Performances & Food Stalls.

Event from 6pm with food stalls from 4pm.

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If you would like to enquire about having a food stall at the event, please email info@waikatoweekly.co.nz

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Printable event guide.

The soulful sounds of the sitar, the soaring melodies of the violin, and the rhythmic pulse of the tabla come together in a harmonious blend of traditional Indian classical and contemporary Western music. This innovative fusion creates a rich tapestry of sound that transcends cultural boundaries, transporting listeners on a sonic journey from West to East. From the intricate ragas of Indian classical to the improvisational spirit of jazz and Western Classical Music featuring:

Want to get your hands dirty with clay?

Or just here for the party vibes? Either way, you’re invited!

When: 31st Dec from 8pm - Midnight

Price: $55 per person

We’re all about good times, great company, and a kiln-full of fun! Everyone’s welcome—whether you’re here to create or just celebrate.

Let’s make this New Year’s Eve unforgettable together!

Book NOW:

E-mail: sam@potterystudio.co.nz

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Each show is being recorded and pitched to Netflix.

Tickets from $20, $25 cash at the door.

After a sold out series of shows last November and an appearance at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Coombe and Craig are hitting the road again and this time they are making it bigger!

Catch two of New Zealand’s top up-and-coming comedians this summer as they head out across the North Island with special guest Annie.

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Come down to Nivara Lounge to witness the best beatboxers in New Zealand go head-to-head with each other in an all new never seen before beatbox battle concept that will have you wanting more!

This event will be hosted by Crkzu, who is returning to New Zealand for the 24/25 summer!

The venue lawfully has a capacity of 110 patrons, so make sure to arrive on time, as you do not want to miss out!

The doors will open at 8pm; Performers and Beatboxers please arrive at 6pm if you wish to do a sound check!

Message Crkzu if you want to participate or perform at the event!

More information will be coming soon, click 'going' if you can make it and we will see you there!

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Whether you already love making zines or want to step up to sharing your creativity in printed form - nau mai, haere mai, welcome! Suitable for ages 14 years and older.

A zine is a small, handcrafted booklet, made from original or re-purposed writing and images. It's a great way to publish and share your own art, poems, opinions, or photos.

And if you already know how to zine, just come hang and make with us in a zine-friendly space.

We can koorero, write, glue, compose, stitch and disseminate our creative genius, our truth, our joy!

Suitable for ages 14+ years

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Inspired by the Museum's current exhibitions, these hands-on sessions will expand your child’s knowledge of art and science through creative crafting techniques. Suitable for ages 7-13 years.

$45 per session, booking fees may apply. Includes entry to Exscite for your child on the same day. Limited spaces!

Suitable for ages 7 to 14 years

Say goodbye to 2024 and ALOHA to 2025 at SkyCity Hamilton!

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Get ready to ring in the New Year, with a splash of tropical paradise!

Festivities kick off at 6pm, where you can collect your free entry wristband to go in the draw to win a share of our LUAU LOOT. Make sure you get in quick, as we have a limited number of wristbands available!

Hula your way into the New Year with an exciting line up of live entertainment:

Catch PACIFIC ELVIS live at Number Eight Bar

GROOVE STREET will be taking over the stage at Amuse Bar & Kitchen

Plus, their usual line up of delicious food and drink will be available for purchase all night long!

You won't want to miss this - so grab your best summer florals and enjoy the fun!

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1st and 2nd of March 2025 coming to a venue near you! A big thank you to BUSit for offering FREE bus rides to all our HCD events!

This is an event not to be missed, let’s come together and celebrate our children and whaanau!

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Keystone is your spot for live music this New Year's Eve. If you're in Hamilton on Tuesday the 31st of December, come bring in the New Year with Keystone!

Printable event guide.

Summer music sessions

Fridays in Garden Place

12.30pm - 1.30pm

All live music sessions are weather dependent.

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It's going to be an unforgettable summer of live music in Garden Place with an electrifying mix of DJs, sensational singers, and sax bringing live music to the central city!

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6th December - Sean Lurman

13th December - ARLO

20th December - Darz Keefe

17th January - DJ KUDZ

24th January - Carl Watkins

31st January - SAM DIEGO

7th February - JAE

14th February - Darz Keefe

21st February - TW3AK & CYPHR

28th February - Andrew Price

7th March - RNG

14th March

21st March - CULLY

28th March

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Names of all musicians will be added soon.

If you are a local musician and would like to be involved in the summer music sessions contact:

Vicky - admin@hamiltoncentral.co.nz

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