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Guide
Hamilton, New Zealand π³πΏ
#609
,
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Hamilton is located on the North Island of New Zealand, known for its vibrant arts scene and gardens. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population of 176,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 100 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | NZD (New Zealand Dollar); 1 NZD β 0.61 USD. |
π° Tap Water | Drinkable and of high quality. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type I sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Major providers include Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Common banks include ANZ, ASB, and Kiwibank, offering services for non-residents. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local rentals, and serviced apartments. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are widely accepted. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Bookabach are popular platforms for short-term rentals. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Hamilton offers budget-friendly lodging options. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Hamilton CBD area is recommended for its accessibility to attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Victoria Street has plenty of cafes and coworking spaces suitable for digital nomads. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Factory is a popular coworking space with good amenities. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Little Pomegranate Cafe is known for its excellent coffee and work-friendly atmosphere. |
πΌ Networking Events | Regular meetups hosted by Waikato Innovation Park. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Hamilton International Expats Group on Facebook organizes various social events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber operates in Hamilton, providing convenient ride options. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Hamilton City bikes can be rented through the Bike Hamilton program. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Raglan Beach, approximately 45 minutes away. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Air New Zealand serves regional flights from Hamilton. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Qantas and Jetstar offer international flights from Auckland. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Access via State Highway 1 and 3. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Hamilton Transport Centre is the primary hub for public transport. |
π Public Transport Passes | Bus services are operated by Bus It, with options for day passes. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses connect Hamilton to nearby cities like Auckland and Tauranga. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hamilton's Waikato Hospital is the main healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Ashtanga Yoga Hamilton offers classes for all levels. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Jetts Fitness and Les Mills provide fitness facilities across the city. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Wash n' Fold offers laundry services in the CBD. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | UberEats operates in Hamilton for food delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the local lamb dishes paired with MΔori vegetables. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Green Door serves a variety of vegan-friendly meals. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | The Chocolate Shop offers delicious handmade chocolates and desserts. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | The Hamilton Farmers Market is a great place for fresh produce and budget-friendly items. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Trade Me is a popular local online marketplace. |
π Grocery Delivery | Countdown offers online grocery shopping and home delivery services. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Victoria Street is known for its vibrant nightlife and bars. |
π» Local Brewery | Cambridge Brewing Co. offers tours and tastings. |
π· Wine Bars | Naked Vine is popular for its extensive wine selection. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Food trucks at Hamilton Night Markets serve diverse street food. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Eateries around Hamilton offer cuisine from Indian to Thai. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Hamilton Gardens is a must-visit with beautifully themed gardens. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Hamilton Art Gallery hosts various exhibitions and events. |
π° Historical Sites | The Hamilton Rose Gardens has historical significance with its rose varieties. |
π Religious Sites | St. Peters Cathedral is an important religious landmark. |
π Annual Events | Festival of Cultures takes place annually showcasing local diversity. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Arts District features galleries and creative spaces. |
π Theater Venues | The Founders Theatre hosts a range of performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Hamilton Night Markets offer a cultural shopping experience. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music is popular at local bars and venues like Live Rooms. |
π¨ Street Art | Explore street art on public buildings scattered throughout the city. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at the Hamilton Community Center. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Various independent art galleries showcase local talent. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The former Hamilton Post Office is a notable historic site. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The Waikato River is significant to local MΔori culture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Raglan and the Waitomo Caves are popular nature escapes. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Whirinaki Te Pua-a-TΔniki National Park is accessible and features breathtaking landscapes. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Hamilton River Walk offers scenic views along the river. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The hilltops around Lake Karapiro provide picturesque views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Lake NgΔroto is an excellent spot for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | The Hamilton Lake has designated areas for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | NZ Post provides reliable parcel delivery services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Plenty of tech shops, like Symbio, offer phone and device repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers host table tennis leagues and events. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools in the city offer various classes including Te Reo MΔori. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Waikato District Libraries are great for studying. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Hamilton Community Centre hosts various activities and workshops. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Arcade gaming lounges, like Mega Zone, are popular for entertainment. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | SkyCity Hamilton offers a casino experience with various games. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. NZD 4,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = NZD 180,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. NZD 3,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = NZD 140,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. NZD 4,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = NZD 252,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. NZD 3,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = NZD 192,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. NZD 3,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = NZD 304,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. NZD 2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = NZD 200,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 28% corporate tax rate. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% standard rate applies. |
π¦ Tax System | Residents are taxed on worldwide income, non-residents only on NZ-source income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 39% for income above NZD 180,000. |
π§Ύ VAT | 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST). |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are CFC rules in place for foreign holdings. |
π Property Tax | Yes, based on the value of the property. |
π Property Transaction Tax | No stamp duty, but a registration fee may apply. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No taxation on foreign income for non-residents. |