The Waikato is heating up a number of fantastic events this summer and centrally located, Ventura Inn and Suites in Hamilton, is the perfect place to stay.

These events include:

Skycity Hamilton Waikato Cup

On Saturday December 16 the Waikato Racing Club's premier Raceday - the SKYCITY Hamilton Waikato Cup - will take place at the picturesque Te Rapa Racecourse. This great day out features the GR II Cal Isuzu Stakes, GR III SKYCITY Hamilton Waikato Cup and the GR III JSWAP Contractors Sprint. There will be live entertainment and performances, free kids entertainment, food and public bars and of course great horse racing action.

HSBC New Zealand Sevens 2018

Hamilton City is set to host the New Zealand leg of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series on February 3 and 4 2018. “This is an exciting event for Hamilton this will be the first time that the event will be held in our own backyard,” says Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites of Hamilton.

Pirongia Boxing Day Races

New Zealand’s oldest racing club, the Alexandra Racing Club, plays host to the Pirongia Boxing Day Races. Enjoy a flutter on the horses, soak in the summer sun and relax the social atmosphere with this iconic Boxing Day tradition. “This is a great event for both Locals and visitors alike, so pack a picnic and claim your spot among the shady trees surrounding the track for a fantastic Boxing Day experience,” adds Kenneth.

BLACKCAPS v West Indies, 2nd Test

See some world class cricket as the New Zealand Blackcaps take on the West Indies. Seddon Park is a beautiful international cricket facility with a village green setting and picnic-like atmosphere in the heart of Hamilton City. “Seddon Park is a unique cricket ground where spectators are always close to the action at every point in the ground,” advises Kenneth.

Karioi Trail Run

For fitness junkies and athletes, the Karioi Trail Run on December 9 in Raglan is a must do. With three race categories to choose from – the 24km single or team relay; 1-km run or walk and Mini Karioi Trail 2km for kids 12 years and under – there is something to suit all levels of fitness. Set against the picturesque Waikato country side “the track ascends to 1850m on Mt Karioi and must be completed within 8 hours, making it a challenge for even the seasoned off-road trail runner,” adds Kenneth.

Waikato Museum

The Waikato Museum have a huge range of events and exhibitions this summer. Waikato Museum (Te Whare Taonga o Waikato) is located on the banks of the Waikato River, in the heart of Hamilton's cultural precinct. It has 13 indoor galleries, including a hands-on science gallery for children.

Behind Closed Doors: Collection Tour - 24 November 2017Tree-mersion - 25 November 2017Maaori Arts and Crafts: Koowhaiwhai - 1 December 2017Santa Trail - 1 - 24 December 2017Family Fun Day: World Soil Day - 9 December 2017Sunday Recital: Pianist Liam Wooding - 10 December 2017Freedom & Structure: Floor Talk - 16 December 2017Christmas Crafts - 16 - 17 December 2017Christmas Music with the Cambridge Brass Quintet - 24 December 2017

New Zealand’s Biggest Christmas Tree

At 27 metres tall with 186,100 lights, the Hamilton Christmas tree, located in Garden Place will light up the nights throughout December until the New Year. The tree will dominate Garden Place once again in 2017 and be a great focal point for the community to gather, watch, perform and celebrate the festive season. Rides, Food Trucks and Face Painting will start at 5pm on December 2 with the Tree Lighting up from 9pm.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Clarence St Theatre, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Exciting news for Hamilton fitness nuts and health buffs, Anytime Fitness will be opening its newest location on Clarence Street right next door to leading Hamilton accommodation provider Ventura Inn & Suites later this month.

“We are excited for our guests to have world class gym facilities right next door to our central location,” says Ventura Inn & Suites owner Kenneth Mitchell.

On a prime site formerly occupied by the Valentines restaurant building on Clarence Street, Anytime Fitness is the world’s largest 24-hour, co-ed fitness company.

Anytime Fitness will be having is grand opening on Thursday 19 October between 5.00pm - 9.00pm where there will be special membership offers, equipment and class demonstrations, kids activities, prizes to be won and much more.

With friendly and supportive staff, Anytime Fitness a offers full suite of state-of-the art machines, 24 hours, seven day a week access and virtual classes on the big screen. The Anytime Fitness franchise in Hamilton is part of a 3,000-strong worldwide gym community, attracting people of all fitness levels and ages.

“We are very too keen to be supporting our guests with healthy lifestyle options. Now there is no need to stop your workout routine while travelling,” adds Kenneth.

Ventura Inn and Suites supports the lifestyle philosophy of Anytime Fitness, which takes a holistic approach to wellness, including input on fitness, nutrition and weight loss, as well as supplying inspirational resources on motivation and goal setting.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Clarence St Theatre, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Kenneth Mitchell, owner of leading Hamilton hotel Ventura Inn and Suites, is among those in the accommodation sector now looking at other options for pay-TV services.

“At Ventura we are upgrading our in-house room entertainment which ultimately we want to be on a par with that offered in-flight on airlines,” Mitchell said.

“We still retain Sky in our hotel but my main concern is that hotels and motels have to look closely at the excessive ongoing fees that Sky charges,” Mitchell said.

“The charges have to be considered expensive in terms of what you get,” he said.

As an alternative Ventura has introduced Apple TV boxes including Netflix and a growing range of apps into the guest rooms at Ventura Inn & Suites which provide a very good alternative at a much lower cost. “It has meant a cost saving at Ventura Inn & Suites in the order of $22,000 across our 50 rooms.”

He also comments that a lot of the content offered by Sky TV is out of date. “Many of Sky TV’s 50 channels provide old content which is frequently repeated and does not have the same appeal.

“The only benefit of having Sky TV is the sport options it offers and we have certainly not axed it altogether,” Mitchell said.

Ventura Inn & Suites enjoys a reputation among corporate travellers, thanks to its spacious conference room and features a full range of audio visual equipment.

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Ideal for corporate, leisure and all types of guests, Venture Inn & Suites in Hamilton has 50 rooms and a variety of suite options so that there is something to cater for everyone. All guest rooms are air conditioned for your total comfort.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Leading Hamilton hotel Ventura Inn and Suites is the ideal conference venue for any corporate stay, conference or event.

Ventura Inn & Suites enjoys a reputation among corporate travellers, thanks to its spacious conference room and features a full range of audio visual equipment.

“Our conference room can seat up to 70 people theatre style, as it is fully air conditioned, has WiFi and a full range of audio visual equipment is available to ensure that your conference goes off without a hitch,” says Kenneth Mitchell, owner/operator of Ventura Inn and Suites.

Choose from a variety of catering options which include our popular working lunch menus, or customise a menu to suit. “Your delegates can relax in the lobby café seating area or in the outdoor courtyard during breaks,” adds Kenneth.

Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, Ventura Inn & Suites has an abundance of facilities and benefits that will make it your favourite Hamilton hotel.

With Ultra-Fast Fibre, complimentary breakfast and free on-site parking it’s easy to see why Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is popular with the corporate traveller.

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Ideal for corporate, leisure and all types of guests, Venture Inn & Suites in Hamilton has 50 rooms and a variety of suite options so that there is something to cater for everyone. All guest rooms are air conditioned for your total comfort.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

LOCATED IN the heart of Hamilton, accommodation is not an issue for those who may travel for their love of the theatre.

Last Legs by Roger Hall is one of the upcoming shows to hit the Clarence Street Theatre, and will be available for your viewing pleasure on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of October. Ventura Inn & Suites in Hamilton is giving you the chance to win two tickets to go and see Last Legs by Roger Hall for free!

Ventura Inn & Suites can too be found on Clarence street, and serves as a great short walking distance option both to the theatre, and only a further ten-minute walk to the Hamilton city centre for a bite to eat.

Last Legs is a must-see comedy spectacular, that looks at the controversial areas in life such as sex, death, and politics; leaving an irresistible appeal to the old and bold of heart and young adults alike.

Last Legs is “Guaranteed to deliver a fun night out” according to theatreview, and is a compulsory viewing for those who show an interest in black comedy.

A great night experience of a show, a great central location of Hamilton, and well-suited accommodation at the Ventura Inn & Suites are all perfect offering attributes that make The Clarence Street Theatre a destination for an entertaining night in Hamilton.

“Last Legs looks like it’s going to be a fantastic show. We wouldn’t want anyone to miss out on seeing this if they love the theatre, and we are very happy to be giving this prize away,” says Ventura Inn & Suites owner Kenneth Mitchell.

Valued at approximately $60 or more, this ‘tickets for two’ prize is a perfect way for you and a friend or partner to spend a night together, guaranteed to be full of laughs. Here’s how you can get your chance:

To be in to win this prize simply like The Ventura Inn & Suite Hamilton Facebook page and tag someone in a comment below, and share the ‘Last Legs’ Facebook post for an extra entry. T&C’s apply and can be found on their Facebook page too. Contest entries end 28/08/17 so make sure you’re quick to enter, before you miss out on this great opportunity for FREE tickets.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Clarence St Theatre, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: www.twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

The New Zealand Sevens Tournament, new inland ports, a new regional theatre and a new medical school are all on the cards for Hamilton’s future. And Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites of Hamilton, is enthusiastic about the upcoming projects and what it will mean for the city.

“Hamilton has excellent growth prospects, and with all the announced projects it’s hard not to be enthusiastic over what’s coming up for the city” says Kenneth Mitchell.

These projects will mean an influx of visitors to Hamilton city and Ventura Inn & Suites have stepped up to the plate as the ideal accommodation choice.

To fill in demand for quality hotel accommodation in Hamilton, Ventura Inn & Suites recently had major renovations and is now one of Hamilton’s leading quality hotels. Renovations at Ventura Inn & Suites have included the bedrooms and communal areas, replacing beds, redecorating and installing Waikato-themed artworks throughout the hotel.

“Ventura Inn & Suites has redefined itself to stay in step with this growing and vibrant city,” says Kenneth.

The comprehensive upgrade program, covering all aspects of the hotel, including all 50 rooms, will place the business firmly in the four-star category, appealing to a wide range of clientele.

To compliment the extensive upgrade, Ventura Inn & Suites has partnered with The Verandah Café to provide breakfast muffins and pastries, adding a gourmet touch to Ventura guests’ experience.

Upcoming Waikato Projects:

Two inland ports: One at Ruakura (Tainui Group Holdings). The other at Horotiu (Ports of Auckland).Roading projects: Plans for final link in Hamilton Ring Road. Waikato Expressway due to be complete by 2020.Peacocke development: $272m Government loan to start the southwestern suburb, through the Housing Infrastructure Fund.Fonterra factory: $20m expansion.NZ Sevens World Series: Moving to Hamilton from 2018.Regional theatre: Plans for a Waikato Regional Theatre in Hamilton CBD.Medical school: The University of Waikato and Waikato DHB have put a bid to the Government.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Quality In-House Massage Service Now Available At Ventura Inn & Suites Hotel in Hamilton

There is nothing better than getting a nice relaxing massage after a long and tiring journey. The newly renovated Ventura Inn & Suites hotel in Hamilton, is now offering their guests a relaxing and rejuvenating in-house massage service.

Six Sense Massages will be operating on an as-needed basis from the Ventura Inn & Suites.

“We are always looking for ways to improve our guests’ Ventura Inn & Suites experience. We want their stay as comfortable and fulfilling as possible,” says Ventura Inn & Suites owner Kenneth Mitchell.

Originally from France. Roxane Josse is a Senior Massage Therapist at Six Sense Massages who specializes in Deep Relaxation Massage. “I have learned massage in New Zealand and have a real passion for helping people finding their wellbeing state,” says Roxy. Roxy also specialises in healing massage, sports massage and back straightening massage.

Krish Von Roy Reddy is a Senior Massage Therapist at Six Sense Massages and has done training in Southern France, India, Australia, New Zealand and has more than 10 years’ experience in massage. Krish has also worked around the world gaining a high level of knowledge and understanding of different techniques.

Krish has trained in and can perform deep tissue, relaxation massage, healing massage, sports massage, pregnancy massage, pressure point relief massage, muscle manipulation massage, hot oil/wax massage, back straightening and body scrubs.

“Let's have a chat and find out what would work best for you!” says Roxy. Text 0279602156 to make a booking.

Six Sense Massage at Ventura Inn & Suites

Healing Massage A very slow and soft massage to relax and heal body and mind

Relaxation Massage A medium pressure massage to relax - full body

Sports Massage A stronger massage to help relieve tension due to sport, work, stress or simply busy lifestyle - full body - ask your therapist if you want to spend more of the massage time in one specific area

Back straightening Massage A medium to strong massage, help to relieve sore back neck and shoulders - half body massage

30 minutes Massage -$29 Back neck and shoulders OR legs and feet

60 minutes Massage -$55 Full body (excepted for the back-straightening massage)

90 minutes Massage -$99 Full body- available for Healing and Relaxation Massages only.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

The Waikato tourism industry got together this week to celebrate the launch of the new look Ventura Inn & Suites in Clarence St, Hamilton.

Ventura Inn & Suites aims to help fill the gap in the Hamilton market for high quality accommodation.

“The event is firstly a celebration and a thank you to the ‘collaboration of creativity’ which has helped us develop our product to a new level of presentation,” says Ventura Inn & Suites’ Hamilton owner Kenneth Mitchell.

The night was officially begun with a traditional Maori welcome which set the scene for a memorable evening.

The event, attended by more than 60 guests, was officially opened by the Mayor Of Hamilton, Andrew King, who spoke of all the exciting upcoming events that are happening in Hamilton. “I meet with delegations and speak to business people and groups who all stay in Hamilton hotels. Hamilton is pumping,” said Mayor King.

“We are the hub of tourism in the Waikato and hotels like Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton are backing and enabling Hamilton’s strong growth. The renovations of Ventura Inn & Suites in Hamilton have empowered builders, plumbers, electricians, painters and many other tradesman, who all fed into Hamilton’s economy,” added Mayor King.

The audience was deeply moved by the Waiata and Karakia to unveil the Maori artwork done created by a local artist James Webster. James spoke of the connection between the land and all the different people who live on it and how that is represented through his mural art. Tainui Waka Tourism also spoke of their regional vision and The Waikato River Festival.

The keynote speaker - CEO of regional airline Flystark - Mr Ray Stark, who spoke of his career journey and how we can all benefit by thinking beyond business with a “generous” mindset to help our communities. His TALKINGTECH Foundation supports projects that improve education and healthcare for the disadvantaged through innovation and technology.

Hamilton & Waikato Tourism’s chief executive Jason Dawson congratulated Kenneth Mitchell and team for the successful refurbishment of Ventura Inn. The refurbishment of Ventura Inn is another welcome addition to Hamilton's increasing accommodation options. By showcasing photographs celebrating some of our key tourist icons and ‘hidden gems’ helps to remind visitors of what our region has to offer," says Jason Dawson, Chief Executive, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism.

“Hamilton and Waikato has emerged as a key visitor destination over the last few years, achieving the fifth highest regional visitor expenditure in New Zealand bringing in $1.419 billion annually into the local economy,” said Mr Dawson.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

The buzz around Hamilton this week is an upcoming event being planned to be held at Ventura Inn & Suites. Owner Kenneth Mitchell says the theme of the event is “fun” and will push the boat out after many months of hard work, renovating and refurbishing the longstanding accommodation establishment.

“The event is firstly a celebration and a thank you to the ‘collaboration of creativity’ which has helped us develop our hardware to a new level of presentation,” says Mr Mitchell.

“We will have drinks, nibbles, entertainment and a guest speaker who will inspire us about business and life.”

Renovations at Ventura Inn & Suites have included the bedrooms and communal areas, replacing beds, redecorating and installing Waikato-themed artworks throughout the hotel.

With a widely predicted shortage of accommodation in all parts of New Zealand for the upcoming tourist season, competition is tightening among providers of quality accommodation. Ventura Inn & Suites aims to help fill the gap in the Hamilton market for high quality accommodation.

“I’m looking forward to guests at our event seeing what a wonderful job everyone has done bringing the new-look Ventura Inn & Suites to life,” says Mr Mitchell.

“This event is a way to thank those who have been involved in that process. Beyond ‘thank you,’ we want to raise our profile in the local hospitality space and connect with tourism stakeholders so that they know we exist.”

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites of Hamilton, has recently returned from a trip to Zimbabwe, an experience which left him in awe of the African country’s natural wonders and rich minerals, yet dismayed at the economic ruin and the plight of the Zimbabwean people.

“Could a country get any worse?” says Kenneth. “The answer is yes, but for the moment there are many problems to overcome, such as the ninety-five percent unemployment rate, degree-qualified citizens with no job and numerous people working without getting paid, hoping for a brighter future.”

Kenneth says many of the basic things New Zealanders take for granted, such as withdrawing cash from an ATM, are lacking in Zimbabwe.

“I saw queues of people at the ATM machines waiting to get their maximum twenty dollar withdrawal for the day. Some machines had run out of cash altogether.”

From a tourism perspective, Kenneth says tourism is making some incremental progress against the odds, as private tourism operators strive to make a living under Mugabe’s dictatorship.

“It’s easy to feel upset and angry about the situation and it’s understandable that people might want to avoid travelling there - but in the end the citizens of Zimbabwe shouldn’t be penalised for the mistakes of the government by tourists avoiding travel to their country,” says Kenneth.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Ventura Inn & Suites of Hamilton is only a short distance from the world famous Hamilton Gardens. If you have a car, it will only take you about five minutes to drive there. However, Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites, recommends hiring one of the hotel’s bikes. They have two bikes for hire, suitable for Hamilton’s riverside trails, which are available for guests at $25 for up to four hours.

Kenneth recommends riding to the gardens, which he says should take around 20 minutes at a comfortable pace, then locking up the bikes and having a walk around to explore the many and varied gardens. Cycling is not permitted within the gardens.

Entry is free and the enclosed gardens are open from 7:30am to 5:30pm every day throughout winter. Pre-booked tours are available for groups or you can collect a map from the information centre and explore the 22 themed gardens in your own time.

“The gardens are fantastic in summer,” says Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites, “but it can be invigorating to get rugged up against the winter chill and head down there to see what winter plant life is on offer.”

Daily and special events are frequently happening at the gardens. Upcoming events include the Waikato Wedding Expo on 25 June and the Hamilton Cat Club Cat Show on 2 July. More information can be found on the Hamilton Gardens events page.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.

Contact Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton

23 Clarence St, Hamilton

Ph: +64 7 838 0110

Email: reservations@venturainns.co.nz

Website: http://www.venturainns.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenturaHamilton/

Contact MediaPA:

Phone: 0274 587 724

Email: phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Website: www.mediapa.co.nz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MediaPA

Twitter: twitter.com/NZ_MediaPA

YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheMediaPA

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/NZMediaPA

Ventura Inn & Suites of Hamilton is more than just a place to sleep. The conveniently located hotel is known for its friendly, comfortable, safe accommodation for a weekend getaway, family holiday, corporate business trip or student accommodation.

The unique features of this hotel set it apart from the rest. Upon entering the newly renovated atrium area, which includes the reception desk and breakfast café, guests can’t help but notice the Waikato-themed art adorning the walls, giving a lush feel to the area, and tempting guests to relax on the comfortable seating inside or wander out to the courtyard to relax by the pool.

“We wanted the hotel to reflect the unique tourist activities Hamilton and the Waikato have to offer,” says Kenneth Mitchell, owner of Ventura Inn & Suites.

The friendly staff at Ventura Inn & Suites can recommend something to please every type of guest, in every type of weather, from the nearby Hamilton Gardens and Waikato Museum of Art and History, to the Hamilton Zoo and Freeflight Sanctuary, to the world-famous Hobbiton and Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves.

When guests arrive at Ventura Inn & Suites, they can unload their car no matter what the weather, with ample parking in the private parking area, including undercover parking and a back-door entrance to keep people and luggage dry even in the heaviest Waikato downpour.

About Ventura Inn & Suites:

Ventura Inn & Suites Hamilton is superbly located at the south end of the central business district, only metres from city businesses and the best restaurants, cafes and entertainment. Nearby attractions include the SKYCITY Hamilton Casino, Waikato Museum of Art & History, Hamilton Gardens and lots of shopping! We are only a short drive from the Claudelands Event Centre and Arena.