In recent years, the tourism sector in the mighty Waikato has faced significant challenges—global pandemics, cyclones, and reduced funding have all taken their toll. But it feels the tide is about to turn.
Nicola Greenwell
Hamilton Airport’s announcing the return of international flights in 2025 is a major step forward, reconnecting Hamilton Kirikiriroa with Australia and beyond.
In June Jetstar will launch three services a week from the Gold Coast and four from Sydney. This is fantastic news for tourism operators and also for the region’s retail, hospitality, and business event sectors. The increased visitor flow will provide a boost to local businesses, including event and conference venues, hotels, and event planners, who will benefit from international travellers having direct access to host and attend events in the region.
Hidden Lake Hotel, Cambridge
For a long time, we’ve advocated for more commercial accommodation across the city and the region. Progress is now visible, with The Clements in Cambridge undergoing renovations, set to be completed early 2025. In Hamilton Kirikiriroa, two new hotels announced—a Templeton Group project and a Pullman—are also on the horizon. Cambridge has announced a five-storey hotel development, further boosting our capacity to host more manuhiri.
The Waikato Regional Theatre is taking shape, with photos from inside showing stunning views of the Waikato River. Providing a multipurpose performing arts centre to seat around 1300 people, the theatre is expected to bring a wide range of events to our city. This too is due to open in 2025.
Hamilton Gardens has opened the new Gallagher Visitor Centre. The building is simply beautiful. If you haven’t been yet, it must be added to your calendar for a visit.
Hamilton Gardens, Ancient Egyptian Garden. Photo: Hamilton and Waikato Tourism
The great news above joins our already well-established visitor destinations of Hobbiton Movie Set, Zealong Tea, Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, Cambridge as a boutique township and Raglan’s left-hand surf break and bohemian vibes. We have a great food scene across the region with wonderful eateries and food producers.
While the opportunities are plentiful, Hamilton and Waikato Tourism has faced a significant funding setback as two of six funding councils have withdrawn entirely, while three decreased their contributions. This results a 20 per cent reduction of the Hamilton and Waikato Tourism budget. We remain committed to advocating for the reinstatement of funding, especially as two councils are currently reviewing their Long-Term Plans. With the right support, we can fully capitalise on the region’s growing potential.
As locals, we must remember we are all ambassadors for our city and region. By sharing our knowledge of the best places to visit, dine, and explore, we can play an active role in promoting the mighty Waikato to manuhiri. Let’s ensure we’re ready to extend a warm welcome to everyone.
The future is looking brighter than it has in years. With international connections, new developments, and vibrant projects ahead, now is the time to be prepared for the opportunities 2025 will bring.
Jetstar plane
