Hamilton Central is the thriving centre of Hamilton City. It is located on the bank of the Waikato River, about 130 kilometres outside of Auckland city.
Hamilton city is home to many tertiary institutions, leading to an influx of about 25,000 tertiary students each year. Hamilton has a substantial shopping area, a large amount of cafés, primary and secondary institutions and a wealth of sporting opportunities.
Hamilton Lake is a 64 hectare lake formed in the crater of an ancient volcano. It is 2.4 metres deep on average, but can get up to 6 metres deep. Water from the lake moves through an underground fissure to the Maeroa Gully. The lake hosts sailing during 9 months of the year with the Hamilton Yacht Club sailing the western side of the lake. Motor boats, apart from yacht rescue boats, are prohibited on the lake, making for a peaceful yachting experience.