A Melting Pot of Culinary Delights

Walk in and you’ll smell charcoal, spice, and sugar. Stalls serve a wide range of food: Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Indian, and Kiwi favourites. Expect sizzling noodles, fresh dumplings, bao, skewers, sushi, curries, and more. Dessert lovers can find crepes, churros, ice cream, and cakes.

What makes this market special is authenticity. Many vendors cook family recipes passed down through generations. Every bite comes with real stories and solid technique.

Affordable and Family-Friendly

Prices are fair and portions are generous. It’s a smart choice for families, students, and anyone who wants good food without spending too much. Share plates to try more. The vibe is relaxed, with music and performers many weeks. Seating is available, and the crowd is friendly.

A Hub for Cultural Exchange at Hamilton Night Market

This market is a meeting place. You’ll meet people from many backgrounds, and stallholders are happy to chat about ingredients, cooking methods, and the story behind their dishes. Dinner comes with a conversation.

Craft Stalls and Local Goods

It’s not just food. You’ll also find handmade goods—jewellery, art prints, candles, soaps, and gifts from local makers. It’s a great spot to pick up something unique and support local creatives.

Community Spirit

For many locals, Friday night at the market is a weekly ritual. It’s where people catch up, try new flavours, and back small businesses. Everyone is welcome.

Sustainability and the Future

More stalls now use recyclable or biodegradable packaging and source local produce where possible. The market keeps growing, with new vendors joining often, so there’s always something fresh to try.

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Location & Hours (NEW)

• Friday: University of Waikato, Carpark 2B (Gate 2B, Knighton Road), 5pm–11pm

Tips

• Parking: Aim for Carpark 2B via Gate 2B. Arrive early for easier parking.

• Payments: Entry is free. Many stalls take contactless; some may still prefer cash.

• Peak time: 6:30–8:00pm is the busiest. Come early for shorter queues.

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Night Market Pricing & Stallholder Info (Guide)

These are guidance figures and can change without notice. Prices are typically listed excluding GST.

• Friday (Hamilton – University of Waikato):

  • Food stalls: $250

  • General stalls: $40

Power

• Food stall fees include standard power. Heavy users may pay extra.

• General stalls that need power usually pay an extra $10 per market.

Payment

• No long-term contract. Pay the fee on the night to the Duty Manager.

Holiday/December Surcharge

• Extra $20 for food stalls and $10 for general stalls may apply.

Important

• Prices can change anytime without notice. Always confirm current fees with the organiser.

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Stallholder Rules (Summary) — Updated

• No alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, or illegal/counterfeit goods.

• No loud music, shouting, or disruptive behaviour.

• Follow instructions from market staff; they assign stall locations.

• Pay your stall fee before setting up.

• Keep your area clean and remove all rubbish at the end of the night.

• Use biodegradable or recyclable packaging; avoid plastic bags and polystyrene.

• Food stalls must show a current Council food registration (Food Control Plan).

• No unloading or setup before 4:00pm.

• No selling before 5:00pm.

• Do not block access ways when loading or unloading.

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Final Word

Same market soul, fresh location energy. Whether you want dumplings, bao, smoky skewers, or something sweet, the Hamilton Night Market still delivers—now at the University of Waikato (Fridays, 5pm–11pm). Bring your appetite, bring your friends, and enjoy Hamilton’s flavours under the night lights.