The aim of the Hamilton East Residential Character Zone is to protect the area from further inappropriate development to ensure that the amenity and special character enjoyed by residents is maintained and enhanced. The Hamilton East Residential Character Zone promotes new development provided it is appropriately located and designed to ensure that it contributes to and reinforces local character and amenity. The zone contains controls that seek to protect the streetscapes of Hamilton East through additional standards for street front sites.

All Special Character Zones are intended to be primarily for residential purposes and any other activities need to maintain residential character and amenity. In particular, the character and amenity of established residential areas need to be, where possible, enhanced by both public and private development.