Lifestyle
The Hunter is one of Australia’s most diverse and picturesque regions, offering a lifestyle envied the world over. Just some of its delights are:
- The pristine beaches of our beautiful coast which boasts some of Australia’s top surf breaks;
- Lake Macquarie, Australia’s largest inland saltwater lake, which brings the world of boating to your doorstep with its yacht clubs, fishing spots and quiet sun-soaked inlets;
- World-famous vineyards;
- Dolphin and whale watching at Port Stephens; and
- Barrington Tops National Park and World heritage-listed sub-tropical rainforests.
Newcastle offers a relaxed and welcoming lifestyle with all the city comforts. Getting around is hassle-free – traffic snarls are few and far between, so you spend minutes (not hours) on your daily commute.
Dining
Award-winning restaurants and cafes are peppered throughout the Hunter, where there is something for every tastebud. Indulge in the vibrant café lifestyle of the city and harbour precincts or enjoy an exquisite dining experience in the vineyards.
Shopping
From trendy boutique shops expanding shopping centres with all the big-name brands, the Hunter has your retail therapy covered.
Entertainment
Outdoor concerts in the vineyards and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre attract national and international stars. The elegant Civic Theatre is one of Australia’s great historic theatres and hosts a wide range of concerts, musicals, plays, dance and other events.
Music and Arts Centres and Festivals
The Hunter is home to the Newcastle Region Art Gallery, Newcastle Regional Museum, This is Not Art Festival, the Shootout Film Festival, the conservatorium of Music and a vibrant live music scene.
Galleries include:
- Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
- Newcastle Region Maritime Museum
- Maitland City Art Gallery
- Gloucester Gallery
Sport
The love of sport is firmly entrenched in the Hunter’s psyche. Whether it is participating or watching, people love getting involved. The Hunter is the proud home of Premiership-winning Newcastle Knights and Newcastle Jets and Surfest is Australia’s largest annual surfing event.
There are numerous gyms and sports facilities to choose from, including The Forum operated by the University of Newcastle and Balance Health Club, operated by the Wests Group.
