Hamilton City Council’s annual cemetery tour returns next Saturday, offering a rare glimpse into the lives and legacies of those buried at one of the city’s oldest cemeteries.

Taking place at Hamilton West Cemetery on Saturday 1 November at 10am, the free guided tour will be led by local historian Lyn Williams and will explore the fascinating stories behind the headstones – some poignant, some surprising, and all part of Hamilton’s rich history.

Council Cemeteries Manager Erin Harris said the tour is an opportunity to acknowledge Cemeteries Week 2025, which is running from 31 October to 8 November, as well as help connect Hamiltonians with this special place in the city.

“Hamilton West Cemetery holds so much rich history and is in a highly visible location right next to FMG Stadium Waikato, yet many people wouldn’t have spent any time there. We hope the tour will help our community feel more comfortable visiting our heritage cemeteries and build a stronger sense of connection with our city’s history,” he said.

Hamilton City Council provides, manages and maintains three cemeteries – two heritage cemeteries (Hamilton West Cemetery on Willoughby Street and Hamilton East Cemetery on the hill near Hamilton Gardens) and Hamilton Park Cemetery in Newstead.

“We’re very proud to create spaces where people’s memories can be honoured and celebrated – and part of this is ensuring that their stories continue to be shared,” said Harris.

“Lyn has extensive knowledge and fantastic storytelling skills and always does an exceptional job of bringing the stories of our heritage cemeteries to life.”

The Hamilton West Cemetery tour is free, with everyone welcome. Pre-registration is not required – attendees should wear sensible footwear and meet by the gates at 10am on Saturday 1 November.

Can’t attend the tour? You can also use the Hamilton Historic Cemeteries Heritage Walks booklet available online for self-guided walks at the city’s two heritage cemeteries.

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