Hamilton has a mild temperate climate with warm, humid summers and cool winters. The best time to visit for weather is December through March (New Zealand summer), when temperatures are regularly in the mid-20s Celsius and rainfall is moderate. January and February are the peak domestic holiday months and Hobbiton especially gets busy — book all activities in advance.
The Hamilton Gardens are worth visiting year-round. Spring (September–November) is good for the garden's flowering plants; autumn has its own appeal in the coloured deciduous sections. June is when the Fieldays agricultural show takes over Mystery Creek and fills the city's accommodation — book ahead if you want to attend or avoid the crowds. The Winter Games (August) occasionally bring events to the city.