Looking for something to do? Whether you’re a local, new in town or just passing through, we’ve rounded up the best things happening across New Zealand – from neighbourhood parties to restaurant pop-ups, boutique festivals and more.

Spring Wine Adventure at House Wine Event Graphic

A Spring Wine Adventure at House Wine

Wednesday 11 September
6:00pm – 8:00pm

New Plymouth & Taranaki
$42

Head to House Wine for a fun tasting that explores some of the most exciting wines of spring. Think interesting pet nat, rosés, crisp whites, aromatic orange wines and supple, fragrant reds. Ticket price includes wine tasting and snacks.

Bookshop Detectives at Schrödinger's Books Event Graphic

The Bookshop Detectives in Schrödinger's Books

Thursday 12 September
6:00pm

Wellington
$5

Head to Schrödinger's Books to listen to Gareth & Louise Ward talk about their debut novel 'The Bookshop Detectives - Dead Girl Gone'. Find out how they went from police officers in the UK, to running a bookshop in Hawke's Bay, to writing and putting out a bestselling novel.

Hamish and Zara standing in front of The Ōkato building

Grand Opening Party: The Ōkato

Saturday 14 September
4:00pm – Late

New Plymouth & Taranaki

Meet the new owners of The Ōkato, Hamish and Zara, and celebrate with live music, happy hour drinks and a special bar menu.

Vetro Spring Festival Event Graphic

Vetro Spring Festival

Saturday 14 September
9:00am – 4:00pm

Hamilton

Taking place on Rostrevor Street in and around Vetro Mediterranean, expect artisan market stalls, music, pizza, paella, pasta and even some Italian cars.

Coco's Clean Up Event Graphic

Coco's Cantina: Birthday Clean-Up

Saturday 14 September
2:00pm

Auckland

Together with Earth Action Trust, Coco's is hosting a special litter clean-up to give back to the community and celebrate their 15th year on Karangahape Road. Pick up trash and then head back to Coco's for pizza, bubbles and a slice of birthday cake.

Garage Project Beer Garden Event Graphic

Garage Project Beer Garden

Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 September

Wellington

In collaboration with Japan Festival Wellington, Garage Project is transforming their place into a buzzing beer garden with 8 local food trucks, an entire menu of their Japanese-inspired brews, and live music and DJ sets.

Black Estate x San Ray Event Graphic

Black Estate x San Ray

Wednesday 18 September
6:00pm

Auckland
$135pp

Join Black Estate at San Ray in Auckland for a four-course springtime menu matched with some beautiful North Canterbury wines.

Tappo Cheesemonger Event Graphic

Tappo Cheesemonger Series #1

Friday 20 September
From 5:00pm

Auckland

A wine and cheese party like no other. You don’t want to miss this Friday night in St Kevins Arcade.

Ponsonby Central Vintage Market Event Graphic

Ponsonby Central Vintage Market

Saturday 21 September
10:00am – 4:00pm

Auckland

Shop thousands of vintage treasures from over 30 vendors selling clothing, homewares, art, jewellery and more. Festivities will continue at Inca from 4:00pm with $10 margaritas, delish food and live music.

BOXed Quarter Spring Market Event Graphic

BOXed Quarter Spring Market 2024

Saturday 21 September
10:00am – 3:00pm

Christchurch & Canterbury

This spring, the ground floor of BOXed Quarter will be brimming with vintage stalls, vinyl, crafts and art, as well as coffee and international culinary delights.

Drag Queen Bingo at Salty's Diner Event Graphic

Drag Queen Bingo at Salty's

Friday 27 September
Arrive at 7:00pm

Kāpiti Coast

A night of fabulous fun and frivolity – and perhaps some good fortune too. Tickets available from Salty's.

Someone holding up a pastry cut in half with jam and custard in the middle

Savor Food Festival 2024

From 12 August

Auckland

It's time to break up with your couch. Starting in mid August, the Savor Food Festival features over 70 events across 60 days at Savor's various venues in Auckland. From wagyu tastings at Ebisu and fashion shows at Non Solo Pizza to unlimited pinchos at MoVida and celebrity collaborations, there's something for everyone.

Man on vespa in front of yellow building in Italy

Cinema Italiano Festival 2024

Throughout September

Tauranga, Christchurch, Nelson, Hamilton, Matakana

The 9th edition of the Italian Film Festival will be taking place in five different cities throughout September, with a diverse programme of must-see masterpieces. Check out the festival website to find your nearest cinema.