Hamilton, New Zealand

File:Hamilton coat of arms.png

Hamilton

General Information
Name	Hamilton, New Zealand
Native Name	Kirikiriroa
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	37°47 S°175
Map
Population
Total	176,500
Density	per km²
Area
Total	110 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Hamilton (Māori: Kirikiriroa) is a city in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is the country's fourth most populous city, with a population of approximately 176,500 as of 2023. Hamilton is situated on the banks of the Waikato River, which is the longest river in New Zealand.

History

Hamilton was originally known by the Māori name Kirikiriroa, which means "long stretch of gravel". The area was settled by various Māori iwi (tribes) before the arrival of European settlers. The city was officially founded in 1864 during the New Zealand Wars, when British troops established a military settlement.

The city was named after Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton, a British naval officer who was killed in the Battle of Gate Pā, Tauranga. Over the years, Hamilton has grown from a small military outpost to a major urban center.

Geography

Hamilton is located in the central part of the Waikato region, approximately 130 kilometers south of Auckland. The city covers an area of 110 square kilometers and is situated at an elevation of 40 meters above sea level. The Waikato River flows through the city, providing a scenic backdrop and recreational opportunities.

Economy

Hamilton is a major economic hub in New Zealand, with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, education, research, and manufacturing. The city is home to the University of Waikato and the Waikato Institute of Technology, both of which contribute significantly to the local economy.

The surrounding Waikato region is known for its dairy farming, and Hamilton serves as a center for agricultural research and innovation. The city also has a growing technology sector, with several tech companies and startups based in the area.

Education

Hamilton is an important center for education in New Zealand. The University of Waikato is a prominent institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university is known for its research in fields such as environmental science, education, and business.

The Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) provides vocational training and education, offering courses in areas such as engineering, health, and creative industries.

Culture and Recreation

Hamilton hosts a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Hamilton Gardens are a popular attraction, featuring themed gardens from around the world.

The city also hosts several annual events, including the Balloon Festival and the National Agricultural Fieldays, which is the largest agricultural event in the Southern Hemisphere.

Transportation

Hamilton is well-connected by road and rail. The city is served by the Hamilton Airport, which offers domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand. The Waikato Expressway provides a direct route to Auckland, and there are regular bus and train services to other parts of the country.

Also see

• Waikato River
• University of Waikato
• Waikato Institute of Technology
• New Zealand Wars
• Auckland