Winetopia
7-8 August
Viaduct Events Centre
New Zealand’s biggest wine weekend returns to Auckland as Winetopia takes over the Viaduct Events Centre on 7-8 August. Meet more than 50 of the country’s top wineries, hear the stories behind the wines, enjoy masterclasses, pop-up dining experiences and discover this year’s Taste World-Class theme. Tickets available now.
Sir Dave Dobbyn
25 July
The Civic
One of the country’s most treasured musical voices, Sir Dave Dobbyn, recently announced one-night only of Selected Songs – Encore at The Civic. This show comes off the back of his hugely successful sold-out Selected Songs Aotearoa tour in 2025. Tāmaki Makaurau folk-Americana outfit Fables is the special guest.
Matariki Mākete
11 July
Waiwharariki Anzac Square
Takapuna’s Matariki Mākete returns showcasing Māori mahi toi – art, pounamu, ceramics, harakeke weaving – plus carver Uenuku Hawira demonstrating live, traditional kai to sample, musician Maranda performing waiata, and free workshops on weaving and Matariki star knowledge.
Sharp Teeth
21-25 July
Q Theatre
Tom Sainsbury, Lara Fischel-Chisholm and new Dynamotion “dactors” bring Sharp Teeth to Q Theatre. The comedy-dance-theatre work tackles love’s enduring mystery – equal parts romanticised, overanalysed and danced about – blending physical and emotional chaos in true Dynamotion fashion: somewhere between dance, acting, and being slightly unhinged.
Dinosaur Nights & Lights
3-18 July
Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo’s newly reopened Dinosaur Discovery Track glows after dark with Dinosaur Nights & Lights, running nightly from 3-18 July at 5.30pm–8.30pm. See the animatronic dinosaurs illuminated in a new light, grab some kai with whānau, and dance at the Silent Dino Disco. Timed entry – pre-booking online essential.!
Winter Lights Festival
30 July – 2 August
Takapuna
The free Takapuna Winter Lights festival returns after 2025’s record 60,000-plus visitors. Curated by light artist Angus Muir, the festival transforms Hurstmere Green, Potters Park and Waiwharariki Anzac Square with immersive light sculptures, live performances from Takapuna Grammar students, and family-friendly food. Wear your brightest outfit to win prizes.
Every Kind of Weather
23 July – 2 August
Q Theatre
Award-winning actor Stephen Lovatt and director Shane Bosher revive two of Bruce Mason’s greatest plays in repertory, honouring New Zealand’s most significant playwright. Timeless, universal and distinct, this double bill is a rare chance to encounter a true master of Kiwi theatre.
Harlem Globetrotters
18 July
Spark Arena
The legendary Harlem Globetrotters touch down to tour New Zealand this July, marking 100 years of global sporting history. Expect gravity-defying trick shots, comedy and elite athleticism in equal measure – high-energy, all-ages entertainment that’s a slam dunk for the whole family. An unforgettable live basketball spectacle not to be missed.
