As we find ourselves officially on the final countdown to summer, a calendar packed with cultural events is keeping us excited for the final month of spring. From exceptional exhibitions and captivating performances to live comedy and more, here we present our November Culture Guide, sure to satiate your creative cravings.
Amplify — The Creator Series by Warren and Mahoney
When & Where: Thursday 7th November, Warren and Mahoney, Auckland
Sign up to our free EDM subscription today.
Warren and Mahoney’s next Amplify — The Creator Series event is set to take place on Thursday, November 7th, presenting an enlightening conversation between Karl Johnstone, creative director, strategist, and founder of Haumi, and WAM’s Te Matakīrea Associate Principal, Te Ari Prendergast. Exploring the concept of ruku i te pō, ruku i te ao — a framework embracing the cyclical journey of understanding and the natural world’s influence — this event promises insight into our interconnected realities. Admission is complimentary, but spaces are limited; secure your spot here.
Trevor Noah — Off The Record Tour
When & Where: Tuesday 5th November, Spark Arena, Auckland
One of the world’s top comedians and former host of the Emmy Award-winning The Daily Show, Trevor Noah, is bringing his world-renowned comedy prowess to New Zealand this November. Reanimating the comedy clichés we all know and love, and sharing his astute observations on global mores and adventures on tour thus far, Noah offers an engaging and satirical show, solidifying his standing as the best in the biz.
Art for Good: A Collaborative Charity Art Auction
When & Where: Thursday 7th November, Gow Langsford Gallery, Auckland
Join Gow Langsford Gallery this November for Art for Good, a charity art auction supporting Kindness Collective’s Christmas Joy Store. Featuring exclusive works by renowned Aotearoa artists like Max Gimblett, Grace Wright, and Dick Frizzell, the event blends creativity with compassion to raise funds for families in need. Online viewing and bidding begin November 1st, with an in-gallery auction on November 7th at Gow Langsford’s Onehunga space. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate art and community, helping make Christmas brighter for children across New Zealand.
Crowded House
When & Where: Saturday 23rd November, Spark Arena, Auckland
Crowded House is back with the Gravity Stairs Tour across Australia and New Zealand in 2024, celebrating their new album release. Known for their platinum hits like “Don’t Dream It’s Over” and “Something So Strong,” the legendary band — led by Neil Finn — is set to captivate audiences once again. With over 15 million records sold and countless accolades, this tour promises a powerful, spirit-lifting experience, bringing fans together to share in their iconic sound and vibrant energy.
Freida Market
When & Where: Saturday 2nd November, Freida Margolis, Auckland
Kickstart your weekend at the lively Freida Market, held on the first Saturday of every month at Freida Margolis in Grey Lynn. Discover a curated selection of pre-loved and vintage clothes, unique finds, freshly baked goods, seasonal flowers, vinyl, handmade crafts, and more. Enjoy tasty bites as vinyl spins in true Freida’s style, adding to the warm, community feel.
Perpetual, Shintaro and Yoshiko Nakahara
When & Where: Now until Sunday November 10th, Sanderson Contemporary, Auckland
Perpetual showcases new paintings by Shintaro and Yoshiko Nakahara, exploring time through the motif of waves. Running from now until November 10th at Sanderson, the exhibition reflects the artists’ unique collaborative process, blending distinct strokes and colours to create unified compositions. Their works evoke a sense of deep time, capturing the fluidity of nature and the complexity of the universe, while drawing parallels to their shared experience as horologists.
Spring at Stardome
When & Where: Every Tuesaday until November 30th, Stardome Observatory & Planetarium, Auckland
Explore Māori astronomy with Ngā Wāhanga o te Tau: Kōanga every Tuesday at Stardome. This seasonal show delves beyond Matariki to reveal the stars of kōanga (spring) in Aotearoa’s skies, offering an introduction to the maramataka (Māori lunar calendar). Discover how these celestial markers guide our interaction with the taiao (natural environment). Perfect for all ages, this insightful journey through the spring sky is just $5 per ticket, making it a must-see event for curious minds.
An Evening With Stephen Fry
When & Where: Monday 11th November, Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland & Tuesday 12th November, St James Theatre, Wellington
Join multi-award-winning comedian, actor, and storyteller Stephen Fry for an unforgettable evening as he shares the highs and lows of his life and career. Known for roles in Blackadder, Jeeves and Wooster, and QI, and celebrated for his mythological retellings, Fry’s wit and charm promise a night of laughter and insight. With the chance to ask questions, audiences will be treated to the showman’s tales from showbiz, reflections on his craft, and perhaps even the meaning of life.
Camping
When & Where: Tuesday November 19th — Saturday December 7th, Q Theatre, Auckland
Get ready for a riotous night as Camping returns to Q Theatre this November. Comedy icons Chris Parker, Tom Sainsbury, Kura Forrester, and Brynley Stent star in this saucy, sex-positive hit, directed by Sophie Roberts. Watch middle-aged couple Les and Fleur clash with newlyweds Francis and Connie in a stormy, double-booked bach escapade full of hilarity, hormones, and wild antics. With cocktails, chaos, and an unforgettable bedroom scene, Camping promises laughter, lunacy, and a cheeky celebration of life and love.
Brad Williams
When & Where: Monday November 25th, SkyCity Theatre, Auckland
Don’t miss comedian Brad Williams as he brings his acclaimed stand-up tour to New Zealand. Known for his high-energy humour and sharp observations on disability, relationships, and life’s quirks, Williams has captivated audiences worldwide, with appearances on The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Netflix’s The Degenerates. His live shows are packed with laughter, often earning standing ovations. Catch Williams’ unfiltered, hilarious take on life in this must-see comedy event that Robin Williams once called “Prozac with a head.”
