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 exhibitions, and this year’s jam-packed Auckland Pride month, we’ve rounded up the must not miss events of the season.
Opera in the Park
When & Where: Saturday 1st February, Auckland Botanic Gardens, Manurewa
Celebrate summer in Tāmaki Makaurau with the second and final enchanting performance 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.
Final Curator’s Tour — Modern Women: Flight of Time
When & Where: Sunday 23rd February, 3—4pm, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Celebrate the final day of Modern Women: Flight of Time with a special curator-led tour by Julia Waite. Discover how the exhibition’s creation and visitor engagement have shaped her insights into the artworks and themes, highlighting the overlooked contributions of pioneering women artists. This free event offers a unique chance to explore the journey behind this remarkable showcase — registration is recommended.
BNZ Lantern Festival
When & Where: Thursday 13th — Sunday 16th February, Manukau Sports Bowl
The BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival is set to light up the Manukau Sports Bowl this February to mark the Lunar New Year and the beginning of the Year of the Snake. This free-ticketed event features 500+ spectacular handmade lanterns, a series of cultural performances, an outdoor cinema screen showcasing familiar favourites, and mouthwatering street food. With free Auckland Transport access included, it’s easier than ever to enjoy one of Auckland’s favourite cultural celebrations.
Auckland Shakespeare in the Park
When & Where: Saturday 15th February, PumpHouse Theatre
Experience the magic of Shakespeare this summer as Richard III graces the stage at The PumpHouse Theatre. 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.
Huseyin Sami: Rhythm & Cuts at Sumer Gallery
When & Where: Thursday 31st January — Saturday 1 March 2025, Sumer Fine Art
Sumer Gallery presents Rhythm & Cuts, the first Aotearoa solo exhibition by Sydney-based artist Huseyin Sami. Known for his playful approach to abstraction, Sami’s ‘cut’ paintings merge modernist influences with vibrant spontaneity. His signature sliced canvases, echoing Lucio Fontana, create layered, almost whimsical forms that dance between structure and fluidity. On view until March 1st, this exhibition is a must-see for contemporary art enthusiasts.
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.
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.
