Hamilton Retains Crown As NZ’s Fastest Growing City

It’s official, Hamilton’s population has climbed to 192,000, confirming its status as New Zealand’s fastest growing urban centre. Provisional estimates from Statistics NZ show that, even as national growth slows, Hamilton continues to expand across all metrics and assert its position as a thriving economic and residential hub.

So far this year, Hamilton city has grown by an impressive 1.4%, which makes it the fastest growing city in the country for the third straight year, followed by Auckland and Christchurch, each with one percent growth.

Hamilton’s rise is underpinned by a net international migration gain of 1,900 and a natural increase of 1,500, resulting in a total population boost of 2,600 residents. The Waikato region as a whole grew by 1%, placing it among New Zealand’s strongest-performing areas.  These numbers affirm the Hamilton property market is in great shape indeed, something savvy investors have been aware of for some time.

Over the past decade, Hamilton growth has been relatively steady, but the uptick in recent years signals a shift; while its property market has long been a laggard of Auckland, it's now very clearly charting its own course.

Region's such as Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Nelson and Marlborough saw small population declines in recent years, but throughout this period Waikato and Hamilton continued to attract both new residents and businesses.

Nearly two out of three Kiwis now live in cities, and further urban drift set to strengthen the Hamilton property market even further.

We’re proud to call Hamilton home and to help our clients take advantage of the city’s dynamic growth.  Looking ahead, things are showing no signs of waning!

Exciting developments on the horizon:

• Waikato Regional Theatre: This world-class performing arts venue is set to open in January 2026 drawing top-tier productions and events to the CBD.
• Te Awa Lakes: An ambitious riverside development that will offer a mix of housing, recreational spaces, and retail, transforming the northern gateway to the city.
• Te Kowhai Airpark: A unique residential community under development, located just outside Hamilton, allowing homeowners to park their planes right next to their homes.
• Pullman Hotel: Hamilton's hospitality scene is being elevated by the opening of the Pullman Hotel in 2026, providing premium accommodation and facilities for both visitors and business travellers in the heart of the city.
• Union Square expansion: The ongoing growth of Union Square is boosting the city's commercial sector, with new office spaces, retail outlets, and amenities enhancing Hamilton’s reputation as a business hub.