Hamilton

Just a short drive from Auckland International Airport, the Hamilton & Waikato region is a destination waiting to be discovered.

Hamilton Airport is a 20-minute drive from the CBD, with regular domestic flights to and from destinations throughout New Zealand.

Hamilton has so much to offer, unique and exciting attractions, amazing dining experiences and a rich array of natural wonders. The diverse region is located in the heart of the North Island, and encompasses New Zealand’s fourth largest city, the country’s longest river and many of New Zealand’s iconic attractions including Hobbiton Movie Set, the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, the international award-winning Hamilton Gardens, Raglan surf beach and Zealong tea plantation – producers of the world’s purest tea.

The main metropolis of Hamilton boasts a rich cultural mix coupled with a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene, extensive shopping options and leading art galleries to complement the world-class events and visitor activities on offer.

"We are proud of our partnership with NZEA and are delighted to collaborate in celebrating innovation and excellence in event management. The Eventing the Future Conference consistently provides a valuable opportunity for our industry to connect, learn, and collaborate building on our industry’s success. We look forward to welcoming you all to Kirikiriroa Hamilton, the mighty Waikato region, and most of all, Claudelands Events Centre." H3 Director, Ben Slatter says

Where to stay

Novotel & Ibis Tainui Hamilton

These hotels have kindly offered 10% off their best available public rate for all guests attending NZEA. These two properties are located around 15 minute walk from Claudelands.

Quest Hamilton

Quest Hamilton resides in a stunning refurbished heritage building just a stone’s throw away from the Waikato River and a 4 minute drive to the Claudelands Event Centre. Quest have kindly offered 10% off the website rate for studio and one bedroom rooms. Promo Code - NZEA2025 for bookings made from 1 April 2025.

Quest on Ward

Conveniently located in Hamilton CBD, Quest on Ward is a 6 minute drive to the Claudelands Event Centre. Quest have kindly offered 10% off the website rate for studio and one bedroom rooms. Promo Code - NZEA2025 for bookings made from 1 April 2025.

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

A half an hour walk to Claudelands. This accommodation provides a range of rooms to suit different budgets. They have kindly offered $40 off per room. From $249 per room.

Travel

  • Claudelands is located approximately 90 minutes south of Auckland. There is plenty of parking available at the venue and surrounding areas.

  • There is a 9am flight on 1 September, which will have you arrive in Hamilton ahead of the Practical Skills Sessions, and the Event Exchange.
    There are also two flights that depart from Wellington that will have you arrive at the venue ahead of the conference on Tuesday 2 September.
    6:30am & 9am

    To get home, there are two evening flights post-conference that means you can get home the day the conference ends.

  • There is one morning flight on the 1 September, departing at 8:45am, which would have you arrive in Hamilton with plenty of time for the practical skills sessions and the Event Exchange.
    If you wish to only attend conference, there is a flight which departs at 8:30am on 2 September 2025 which will have you arrive at the venue ahead of conference commencing.
    To get home, there is a 6:15pm flight which will get you home same day as conference concludes.

  • There is a 6:35am flight that departs Dunedin on either the 1 September or 2 September, via Wellington which will arrive in time for the formalities to begin.

    To return there is a 4:55pm flight via Wellington which will get you home the day conference concludes.

  • Sun Air does fly this route - please check with the airline for costs and availability.
    This is a 4 hour drive.

  • The 8;55am flight from Queenstown via Christchurch will have you arrive in Hamilton by 2pm, which is enough time for the Event Exchange on 1 September.
    There are no flights available on the 2 September to get you to Hamilton in time for the start of conference.

Famils

There are a few famils to choose from, with Hamilton and Waikato Tourism offering discounts to each. These will take place on Monday 1 September 2025.
These are subject to numbers.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (from $120pp)

Step into the real Middle-earth™ at Hobbiton Movie Set in Waikato. Explore the Shire™, iconic Hobbit Holes™, and Bagshot Row™ interiors. Wander past The Millhouse, cross the stone bridge, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon™ Inn. Discover movie magic on this guided tour through stunning landscapes.

Sanctuary Mountain (from $65pp)

Surrounded by one of the world’s longest pest-proof fences, we are New Zealand's largest fenced eco-sanctuary. Our ancient forest is home to many of New Zealand's unique and endangered wildlife. Come and experience the mauri (life force) of our mountain.

Raglan Charters (from $65pp)
Experience Raglan from the water. They provide fun, narrated Lunchtime & Sunset Boat Cruises of the Raglan Harbour, and a Private Event location within Whaingaroa Harbour. Our Public summertime Raglan Sunset Cruises and daily Lunchtime Cruises are "Insta-Famous". Sit back and relax, while you take in the stunning scenery. Enjoy 90 minutes of good humour from our crew, great music, plus enjoy a wine or beer available to purchase from the bar. We also serve fresh Fish & Chips from the famous "Raglan Fish". This is a good vibe local operation.  Come aboard and join us for your scenic Raglan harbour cruise.