[2] The temple has modernist geometry and kōwhaiwhai patterning with design elements specific to Maori and other Polynesian cultures.

A groundbreaking ceremony and site dedication were held on December 21, 1955, with the president of the New Zealand Mission, Ariel S. Ballif, conducting.

[4] During the construction phase, the temple faced various challenges, including material shortages due to World War II.

[11] The temple sits on an 86.4-acre plot atop a green hill, and the landscaping features large lawns, gardens, and paved concrete masonry pavers.

[13] The interior features murals, glass and crystal chandeliers, and gold detailing designed to create a spiritually uplifting environment.

The temple features carpeting in simple loop patterns made of nylon, dyed in a soft green shade.

The flooring throughout the building is composed of Butter Silk, a light yellowish cream limestone quarried in Palestine.

[13] The lighting fixtures in the temple feature a blend of metal, opal glass, or crystal, designed in a clean mid-century style.

The millwork and casework in Victorian Oak with a slightly tinted stain were crafted and installed by a local company in Hamilton.

[13] The ceilings are predominantly painted gypsum board on steel framing, reflecting the historicity of the original temple.

In sacred areas, decorative paint patterns or simple gold linework with plaster moldings are present around the perimeter.

[14] Incorporated into the design are symbolic elements representing the Bible and the Book of Mormon, which provide church members with deeper spiritual meaning to the temple's appearance and function.

[12][15] Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations to preserve its structural integrity, update facilities, and enhance its spiritual and aesthetic appeal.

[7] The temple's renovations focused on several key areas, including seismic strengthening and mechanical, plumbing, and electrical upgrades.

Each of these changes were made to ensure the temple's compliance with contemporary building standards and to accommodate the evolving needs of the church and its members.

[16] Although the exterior painted concrete masonry remained unchanged, one of the notable aspects of the renovation were the interior layout and furnishings.

Other features include oak millwork from Hamilton, New Zealand craftspeople and decorative painting derived from local Māori patterns.

New Zealand Latter-day Saints, approximately 12,000 at the time, were asked to contribute volunteer labor and supplies to support the project.

During his visit to the Hamilton construction site, McKay identified a hill adjacent to the college as the ideal location for a new temple to serve the growing Latter-day Saint population in the region.

Subsequently, at a national conference, 4,000 church members expressed support for adding a temple to the ongoing construction project.

[23][24] Notable presidents of the Hamilton New Zealand Temple include Glen L. Rudd (1984–87), Douglas J. Martin (1992–95), and Sidney M. Going (2013–2016).