As is always the case, summer is proving to be the busiest season on the social calendar, packed with a raft of exceptional cultural events to keep you occupied. From a series of international touring artists to uproarious comedy shows, myriad festivals, and this year’s jam-packed Auckland Pride month, we’ve rounded up the must not miss events of the season.
SailGP
When & Where: Saturday 18th — Sunday 19th January, Waitematā Harbour
On January 18th — 19th, SailGP makes its much-anticipated debut with the ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix, returning to New Zealand for the third successive season. With over 10,000 fans expected, the exhilarating F50 fleet races on Waitematā Harbour, just moments from downtown Auckland, promise an unforgettable experience, as passionate locals and visitors cheer on this world-class sailing spectacle.
Benson Boone
When & Where: Friday 24th January, Spark Arena
With more than 1.9 billion (yes, billion) global streams to his name, US-singer/songwriter Benson Boone is having a remarkable year. In January, the global sensation is bringing his highly anticipated world tour Down Under, performing his chart-topping hits in what is sure to be a show for the ages.
Childish Gambino
When & Where: Tuesday 28th January, Spark Arena
Grammy Award-winning artist Childish Gambino, the musical alter ego of multi-talented entertainer Donald Glover, returns to the global stage with The New World Tour. Known for his genre-blending sound and electrifying performances, Gambino will blend old with new in what is set to be an unforgettable showcase.
Kurtis Conner
When & Where: Friday 31st January, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre
Conner, a sell-out performer and global YouTube sensation, brings his sharpest material to the stage in his latest stand-up tour. Named one of Variety’s Top 10 Comics to Watch, Conner blends puns, potty humour, and excessive expletives with insightful character analysis, delivering a hilarious mix of mindless fun and cultural commentary.
New Year’s Day Races
When & Where: Wednesday 1st January, Ellerslie Racecourse
Kick off 2025 with the return of the iconic SkyCity New Year’s Day Races at Ellerslie. This event is always a thrilling affair, with acres of lush green spaces offering the perfect spot to unwind — whether you’re shaking off the night before, or just looking to relax while the kids enjoy the free entertainment. Known as a highlight of Auckland’s holiday calendar, this event offers top-tier racing, family fun, and exceptional hospitality for those looking to elevate their New Year’s celebration.
Opera in the Park
When & Where: Saturday 25th January, Glover Park, St Heliers & Saturday 1st February, Auckland Botanic Gardens, Manurewa
Celebrate summer in Tāmaki Makaurau with two enchanting performances of opera open-air. Part of Auckland Council’s Music in Parks series, this free event features acclaimed Aotearoa talent, breathtaking music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Bring a picnic and revel in the magic of live performance.
TAB Karaka Millions
When & Where: From 3pm on January 25th, Ellerslie Racecourse
The sell-out TAB Karaka Millions is back, blending high-stakes racing with unrivalled glamour, and with millions in prize money up for grabs, it’s New Zealand’s richest night of sport. Last year’s hospitality sold out in days, and it’s easy to see why. The evening boasts three $1M+ races, attracting the elite of the racing world and Auckland’s social set.
From thrilling races to stylish celebrations — with an epic style spotter prize up for grabs, it’s a night not to be missed. And, after the horses have had their moment, the real party begins. The epic afterparty, hosted by The Grand Tour and featuring crowd favourites Sweet Mix Kids, is one for the books. Tickets are disappearing fast — secure yours now.
Auckland Shakespeare in the Park
When & Where: Saturday 18th January & Saturday 15th February
Experience the magic of Shakespeare this summer as The Taming of the Shrew and Richard III grace the stage at The PumpHouse’s Outdoor Amphitheatre. With outdoor evening performances and indoor matinees, this family-friendly event promises captivating storytelling, dynamic local talent, and unforgettable moments. Children 12 and under attend free — perfect for a memorable summer night out.
Auckland Gin Festival
When & Where: Friday 31st January — Sunday 2nd February, The Cloud
Sip, savour, and discover at Auckland’s ultimate gin celebration. Showcasing craft distillers from New Zealand and Australia, this tasting experience includes unlimited gin samples (across a 3.5 hour period), masterclasses, and exclusive take-home treats. With food trucks, expert insights, and premium spirits galore, it’s the tastiest ticket in town for gin lovers.
Jack & Michael Whitehall Live
When & Where: Thursday 23rd — Monday 27th January, various locations country-wide
Join comedian Jack Whitehall and his father Michael for a hilariously candid evening of family antics, wild travel tales, and unseen photos. With Hilary on hand as referee, expect pranks, rants, and secrets from their Netflix adventures. From Chernobyl to fatherhood, this duo promises laughs, surprises, and plenty of family drama — babysitter permitting.
Auckland Pride
When & Where: Saturday 1st February — Saturday 1st March, Auckland-wide
Celebrate connection and community at Auckland Pride 2025. With over 60 events across Tāmaki Makaurau, the festival embraces the theme Tētahi Ki Tētahi — ‘one to another and each other’, which honours the powerful truth that ‘we exist because we relate. Highlights including the vibrant opening at Seasons Gallery, powerful performances at Pride Elevates, the unmissable Big Gay Out, and the reimagined Waimahara closing event, uniting art, advocacy, and shared vision for liberation.
Tyler Childers
When & Where: Thursday 6th February, Spark Arena
Grammy-nominated country artist Tyler Childers is bringing his sell-out Mule Pull ‘24 Tour to Auckland this summer, for a single, unmissable show. Known for his stirring performances and soulful songwriting, Childers’ show will feature hits from his acclaimed album — Rustin’ In The Rain, in a transportive experience.
Moana Auckland
When & Where: Monday 24th February — Monday 24th March, Auckland-wide
New Zealand’s ocean festival is set to make waves this summer, bringing together on and off-water events that highlight our love affair with the ocean, with over 30 events taking place throughout the month-long event.
Sarah Millican
When & Where: Saturday 1st — Tuesday 4th February, Kiri Te Kawana Theatre
From a shy, friendless teen to a confident, goose-booing comedian, Sarah Millican’s Late Bloomer explores the observational British comic’s journey with her signature wit. Expect hilarious musings on dinners, lady gardens, and life’s quirks. Laugh with, at, or beside her in this unmissable new stand-up show from one of comedy’s sharpest voices.
Laneway Festival
When & Where: Thursday 6th February, Western Springs
With a reputation for having its finger on the global pulse, Laneway is back with a bang, with a lineup that is nothing short of extraordinary. Back with a stacked lineup including brat summer star Charli XCX, Beabadoobee, Clairo, BICEP who present their new AJ/DJ show Chroma, Barry Can’t Swim, Remi Wolf, Olivia Dean and many more, alongside an array of emerging talent, this is one summer event you won’t want to miss.
Flamingo Pier
When & Where: Saturday 8th February, Ahipao, Waiheke Island
Flamingo Pier is marking a decade of unforgettable dancefloor magic on Waiheke Island this summer. On February 8th, celebrate with a day-to-night party at Ahipao featuring global legends Sadar Bahar, Kamma, and Make A Dance, plus an incredible local lineup. Two dancefloors, timeless grooves, and island vibes — this is set to be a party for the ages.
A Mixtape for Maladies
When & Where: Tuesday 4th — Sunday 23rd March, ASB Waterfront Theatre
Ahi Karunaharan’s A Mixtape for Maladies is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of music. Set against the backdrop of 1950s Sri Lanka, Sangeetha’s world revolves around family, romance, and a love of songs — until civil war shatters their lives. Now, decades later living in Aotearoa, her son Deepan discovers a mixtape, uncovering the layered memories of his mother’s past. This intimate and powerful work offers both a new understanding of identity, and a testament to resilience through time and melody.
Champions Day
When & Where: Sunday, 8th March, Ellerslie Racecourse
Featuring the $3.5M NZB Kiwi, Champions Day is set to be a standout in the racing calendar. This brand-new spectacle introduces the sport’s first-ever slot race and plays host to The Ned Prix de Fashion — New Zealand’s answer to the Melbourne Cup’s most stylish fashion moments. With premium hospitality, free children’s entertainment, and an epic afterparty, Champions Day
is a racing experience like no other.
A Streetcar Named Desire
When & Where: Thursday 20th — Sunday 23rd March, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Aotea Centre
For the first time in Australasia, iconic Scottish ballet A Streetcar Named Desire is being showcased — the original score performed live by the Auckland Philharmonia. This adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ play is a contemporary narrative ballet, injecting dance into the beating heart of the famed tale, in a vital, achingly intense tribute.
Synthony in the Domain
When & Where: Saturday 29th March, Auckland Domain
Synthony in the Domain returns to Auckland in 2025, with the global premiere of Synthony No.6 with the Auckland Philharmonia conducted by Sarah-Grace Williams, and performances by Cyril, Example (UK), and more. This electrifying fusion of live orchestra, electronic beats, and immersive visuals promises a festival experience like no other.
