Major Events & Festivals in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, New Zealand, Auckland, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in Auckland, New Zealand

1. Auckland Arts Festival

Celebrating arts and culture for three weeks, featuring local and international performers.
  • Diverse Performances: Offers a wide variety of performances including theatre, dance, music, visual arts, and spoken word.
  • Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for the public to engage with artists through workshops and discussions.
  • Accessible Venues: Hosted in various venues across Auckland, making it easily accessible for visitors.

2. Auckland Pride Festival

A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring parades, events, and entertainment.
  • Cultural Diversity: Showcases the rich cultural diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.
  • Inclusive Events: Offers a wide range of events catering to different interests and age groups.
  • Advocacy and Empowerment: Provides a platform for advocacy, education, and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community.

3. Diwali Festival

A four-day celebration of the Hindu festival of lights, featuring food, dance, and cultural performances.
  • Cultural Education: Offers insights into Indian culture and traditions.
  • Community Bonding: Brings together Auckland's diverse Indian community for a shared experience.
  • Food and Shopping: Features traditional Indian food stalls and shopping areas selling handicrafts and gifts.

4. Auckland Lantern Festival

A nighttime event showcasing thousands of lanterns, cultural performances, and food stalls.
  • Visuals Spectacle: Offers a breathtaking visual experience with the display of thousands of colorful lanterns.
  • Cultural Exchange: Represents different cultures through various performances and exhibitions.
  • Food and Entertainment: Features a wide range of food stalls, live music, and street performances.

5. New Zealand International Film Festival

A showcase of the best in international cinema, with a focus on New Zealand filmmakers.
  • Cinematic Variety: Offers a wide variety of films across different genres and from various countries.
  • New Zealand Cinema Focus: Highlights the work of emerging and established New Zealand filmmakers.
  • Q&A Sessions: Provides opportunities to interact with filmmakers through Q&A sessions and panel discussions.

6. Tamaki Maori Village

An immersive cultural experience showcasing Maori culture and traditions.
  • Authentic Experiences: Offers a genuine and interactive Maori cultural experience.
  • Performances and Activities: Includes traditional Maori performances, haka lessons, and craft activities.
  • Dining Experience: Features a Hangi feast, a traditional Maori way of cooking food in an earth oven.

7. Auckland On Water Boat Show

A showcase of marine products and services, with a focus on boats, yachts, and related equipment.
  • Marine Products and Services: Provides an opportunity to learn about the latest marine products and services.
  • Boat Displays: Features a wide variety of boats and yachts on display, from small fishing boats to luxury yachts.
  • Expert Advice: Offers opportunities to interact with marine experts for advice and tips.

8. Sculptureum

An outdoor sculpture park featuring over 700 works of art, set amongst stunning gardens.
  • Artistic Diversity: Showcases a diverse range of contemporary and modern sculptures.
  • Natural Beauty: Set within beautiful gardens, providing a unique outdoor art experience.
  • Interactive Experience: Offers an interactive experience with many sculptures designed for visitors to touch and explore.

9. Auckland War Memorial Museum

A museum dedicated to New Zealand's military history, natural history, and Maori and Pacific cultures.
  • Historical Insights: Provides insights into New Zealand's history, culture, and military achievements.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.
  • Maori and Pacific Culture: Offers a deep understanding of Maori and Pacific cultures through exhibitions and artifacts.

10. Sky Tower

A iconic Auckland landmark offering panoramic views of the city, dining options, and skywalk tours.
  • Breathtaking Views: Offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of Auckland from its observation deck.
  • Dining Experiences: Features dining options, including the iconic Orbit Revolving Restaurant.
  • Skywalk and Skyjump: Offers thrill-seeking experiences such as the Skywalk and Skyjump.

11. Waiheke Island Wine Tours

A visit to multiple vineyards on Waiheke Island for wine tastings and island exploration.
  • Wine Tastings: Offers opportunities to taste a wide variety of wines from different vineyards.
  • Island Exploration: Provides an opportunity to explore Waiheke Island's beaches, art studios, and other attractions.
  • Lunch and Dining Options: Includes lunch at a vineyard or restaurant on the island.

12. Waitangi Day

A national holiday commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, featuring events and cultural activities.
  • Cultural Understanding: Offers insights into New Zealand's history and the relationship between Maori and non-Maori communities.
  • Community Celebrations: Features community events, performances, and cultural activities.
  • National Significance: A significant national event commemorating a key moment in New Zealand's history.

13. Auckland Zoo

Home to over 140 species, Auckland Zoo offers a variety of wildlife experiences.
  • Animal Conservation: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species through breeding programs and education.
  • Interactive Experiences: Offers opportunities to interact with some animals, such as the elephants and meerkats.
  • Educational Activities: Provides educational activities and talks about the animals and their habitats.

14. Auckland Seafood Festival

A celebration of New Zealand's seafood, featuring cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live music.
  • Seafood Variety: Offers a wide variety of fresh seafood to taste and purchase.
  • Cooking Demonstrations: Features cooking demonstrations from top chefs using local seafood.
  • Live Music and Entertainment: Provides live music, entertainment, and activities for visitors.

15. Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb

A guided climb of the Auckland Harbour Bridge offering stunning views of the city and harbor.
  • Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of Auckland City, Waitemata Harbour, and surrounding areas.
  • Safety Measures: Provides safety equipment and training for a safe climb experience.
  • Expert Guides: Led by experienced guides who provide insights into the bridge and its history.