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.
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.
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.
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
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 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
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
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 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
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 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
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.
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.
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.