Free Event
Mornings are better with hot air balloons
The best time for ballooning is in the early morning just after sunrise. The inflation process generally takes 15-30 minutes and once airborne, the balloons are expected to be in the air between one to two hours. Balloons fly in very light or no wind and dry weather.
Flying can only be confirmed on the day. If weather is favourable, all the balloons will fly from the main venue at Innes Common, Hamilton, each morning. Balloons Over Waikato is an outdoor event, and ballooning depends on very light or no wind and dry weather. Even wet grass can be a challenge. While we do everything we can to work with Mother Nature, the final decision to inflate and/or fly is always up to the pilot when they are onsite in the morning —with safety as the top priority.
Did you know…
Balloons Over Waikato is a competition
Pilot are competing in exciting daily challenges, showcasing their skill in navigating the skies. Here’s how the competition unfolds:
- Prizes are up for grabs with tasks set each morning by our Flight Director based on weather conditions and wind direction.
- Balloons will fly towards designated target zones where a large cross or another marker is set up.
- Pilots will throw small sandbags (baggies) towards the target, aiming to get as close as possible. Each baggy is numbered to match a specific balloon team. A friendly reminder: if you come across a beanbag with a long, ribbon-like tail, leave it alone – it’s a valuable point for a pilot! Email us if found after hours.
- Our official scorers measure the distance from the target to determine how well each pilot performed.
Date and Time
Dates:
Sat 21 March | Hamilton City Council Opening Fiesta
Sun 22 March | Flying Morning & Cash Grab Competition
Monday 23 March | Flying morning
Tuesday 24 March | WEL Energy Trust Muffins in the Morning
Wednesday 25 March | Flying morning
Thursday 26 March | First Credit Union Thursday Fun Day
Time: All events start at 7am, and are FREE to attend.
Location
Location: Innes Common, Hamilton Lake
Parking
We know everyone wants to park as close to the action as possible, but due to limited parking availability we recommend parking a little further away and walking to Innes Common. This will help ease congestion and make your arrival and departure smoother. Check out our event map for suggested parking locations, as well as details on road closures and roadworks. Plan ahead and enjoy the magic of Balloons Over Waikato hassle-free!
There is a limited number of accessible parking for valid permit holders at Innes Common. Access is via the Alison Street end of Lake Crescent.
Teams Attending
Each flying morning at Innes Common, we’ll welcome ballooning teams as they take part in the competitive flying element of Balloons Over Waikato. With precision flying, skill and strategy on display, these mornings showcase the very best of ballooning while filling the Hamilton skyline with colour and movement.
No two mornings are ever the same, making every launch at Innes Common a must-see experience
The Hits Winning Wheel
The Hits team will be onsite each morning with the Winning Wheel, giving you plenty of chances to win great prizes, including some awesome ZURU toys.
Ask Away!
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the call be made to postpone or cancel morning flying?
Although a fair indication will be given the night prior to each flight, flying can only be confirmed on the day. If weather is favourable, all the balloons will fly from the main venue at Innes Common, Hamilton, each morning.
Are these events wheelchair and pram friendly?
Absolutely!
Is there a cost to attend?
Mornings at Innes Common are free to attend, and do not require a ticket.
Do I need a ticket to attend?
No, you do not need a ticket to attend our morning flying events from Innes Common.
Will the Walk-Thru Balloon be at Innes Common each morning?
Yes, though the activity is weather dependent.
Eftpos and cash payment facilities will be available to participate in this activity.
How close can I get to the balloons at Innes Common?
You can get fairly close but please follow all instructions from the ballooning teams and event team. If you are asked to move back please do so. Please don’t breach any caution tape or rope lines and please ensure children supervised at all times.
I've found a beanbag?
If you see a beanbag with a long ribbon tail, please don’t touch it. It’s part of the competition. If it’s found after hours, just email us to arrange its return.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are allowed at Innes Common but must be on a leash. However, we highly recommend leaving your pooch at home – it’ll be loud, super busy, and could be quite stressful for them. We want everyone (including our furry friends) to have a good time, and this might not be the best environment for them.
All Festival Events
Morning Flights and Competitive Flying
Pilots are competing in exciting daily challenges, showcasing their skill in navigating the skies.
Hamilton City Council Opening Fiesta
Make the most of this magical week by getting up early to join in the fun at Innes Common, Hamilton Lake.
ZURU Nightglow
A fun family event open to for all public to attend. The ZURU Nightglow is a FREE ticketed event.
WEL Energy Trust Muffins in the Morning
Make the most of this magical week by getting up early to join in the fun at Innes Common, Hamilton Lake.
Balloons Visit South Waikato
A free, family-friendly evening in Tokoroa with hot air balloons, live entertainment and food trucks.
First Credit Union Thursday Fun Day
Make the most of this magical week by getting up early to join in the fun at Innes Common, Hamilton Lake.
The Base Basket Burn
The Base have teamed up with Balloons Over Waikato again to bring the Basket Burn to the Base.
Love the Center Walk-Thru Balloon
Head into the heart of the city and step inside a real hot air balloon at Garden Place.
Join the Fun!