What’s on over the month of October and beyond? We let you in our favourite picks.
Teddy Swims
9 October
Spark Arena
Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist Teddy Swims returns to New Zealand for his biggest shows yet. Performing with his band Freak Freely, Swims promises electrifying performances of global hits like Lose Control alongside tracks from his acclaimed new album.
NZTrio
8 October
Auckland Town Hall
Australian soprano Emma Pearson will be joining NZTrio for a Chamber Music New Zealand Tour of Four Last Songs. The concert also features New Zealand composer Salina Fisher’s piece called Kintsugi, and Vocalise by Sergei Rachmaninoff, which has no words and is only sung with a single vowel.
BIBI
15 October
Kiri TeKanawa Theatre
Korean singer and actress BIBI brings her first world tour, EVE, to New Zealand, marking a milestone in her global rise. Known for bold artistry and genre-blending hits, BIBI promises electrifying performances that showcase her distinctive style, storytelling, and dynamic stage presence, solidifying her status as an international music force.
Highwic Sweatpea & Plant Fair
40 Gillies Avenue
Set in the picturesque grounds of Highwic, this event promises a wonderful day out. Visitors can browse plants, explore the gardens, enjoy hands-on activities, connect with fellow garden enthusiasts, and savour delicious coffee and food in a relaxed, community-focused setting.
The Phil Gala: Trivia Night
21 October
Auckland Town Hall
Auckland Philharmonia’s biggest fundraiser of the year will be a glittering night of glamour, fine dining and music – with a twist. This event takes the elegance of a gala and adds a playful edge, turning the classic quiz into a dazzling evening of gourmet dining, drinks, live music and fierce-but-friendly rivalry — with all proceeds helping support the orchestra’s concerts, music education and outreach across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Trent Dalton’s Love Stories
16–19 October
The Civic
In 2021, bestselling author and journalist Trent Dalton set up his sky-blue Olivetti typewriter on a Brisbane street corner, asking strangers to share love stories. The result was Love Stories, a heartfelt collection now adapted for the stage by Sam Strong and Tim McGarry, creators of Boy Swallows Universe.
Ryan Adams
18 October
Bruce Mason Centre
In 2021, Ryan Adams marks 25 years of his debut album Heartbreaker with the Heartbreaker ’25 World Tour, arriving down under this October. Fans can expect an intimate, acoustic set featuring timeless tracks from the iconic album alongside highlights from Adams’ expansive, genre-defying catalogue.
Faulty Towers
21–26 October
Auckland Irish Club
This international smash-hit has been delighting audiences for over 28 years, paying loving tribute to John Cleese and Connie Booth’s classic BBC series series of a similar name! Expect an improvised, interactive, and immersive night featuring Basil, Sybil, and Manuel, complete with a ‘70s-style three-course dinner. Created by Kiwi Alison Pollard-Mansergh, it remains the world’s longest-running Fawlty Towers show.
Tom Sainsbury
25 October
SkyCity Theatre
Tom Sainsbury, celebrated comedian, actor, and writer, is renowned for his sharp character comedy and viral impressions. From Taskmaster NZ to Wellington Paranormal and his award-winning podcast Small Town Scandal, Tom’s uniquely Kiwi humour, quirky characters, and unforgettable performances have made him one of our most prolific and distinctive entertainers.
