We have our sights set on a raft of cultural experiences over the coming months. From musical performances to captivating theatre, world-class comedy and more, these are the events you don’t want to miss.
Jo Koy — Just Being Koy Tour
When & Where: Wednesday 4th June, Spark Arena
Comedy superstar Jo Koy brings his Just Being Koy tour to New Zealand, delivering laugh-out-loud stories inspired by his wildly relatable family life. With sold-out shows worldwide and Netflix specials under his belt, expect big energy, sharp humour, and irresistible charm on stage.
Kate van der Drift — Dance, Dance
When & Where: Wednesday 28th May — Sunday 22nd June, Sanderson Contemporary
In Dance, Dance, award-winning artist Kate van der Drift captures the complexities and paradoxes inherent in the concept of caring for the whenua (land) through cameraless photography. Created during her residency at Waitawa Regional Park, these ethereal lumen prints explore entanglements between nature and culture, colonisation and conservation — inviting us to reconsider what it means to care for whenua in a time of ecological precocity.
Teeks
When & Where: Thursday 5th June, Auckland Town Hall
Teeks joins the Auckland Winter Series for a one-night-only performance at Auckland Town Hall, accompanied by a string sextet and piano. With his soul-stirring voice and signature emotional depth, the celebrated artist promises an unforgettable evening of new music and heartfelt favourites in a truly special setting.
A Century of Modern Art
When & Where: Saturday 7th June — Sunday 28th September, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki
A landmark exhibition of visionary painting, A Century of Modern Art arrives exclusively in Auckland this June. On loan from the internationally-renowned Toledo Museum of Art, the exhibition features 57 masterworks by 53 groundbreaking artists — including Monet, van Gogh, Cezanne, Picasso, and Frankenthaler — charting the evolution of modern art from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism.
Ayrburn Winter Wonderland
When & Where: Friday 27th June — Sunday 27th July, Ayrburn, Queenstown
Ayrburn’s Winter Wonderland transforms Queenstown into a festive alpine escape, featuring dazzling Christmas lights, seasonal treats, and a charming ice-skating rink nestled in The Dell. Stroll beneath twinkling lights with a warm mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy winter-inspired menus across the precinct. Entry to the light display is free; ice-skating sessions are ticketed and include skate hire.
Japanese Breakfast with Phoebe Rings
When & Where: Saturday 7th June, Auckland Town Hall
Japanese Breakfast make their Aotearoa debut with The Melancholy Tour, performing their acclaimed new album For Melancholy Brunettes for one night only at Auckland Town Hall. Joining them are local dream-pop favourites Phoebe Rings, fresh off the release of their debut LP Aseurai. An unmissable night of lush, emotional soundscapes.
Ed Gamble — Hot Diggity Dog
When & Where: Monday 9th — Friday 13th June, various locations country-wide
Ed Gamble brings his razor-sharp wit and trademark rants to NZ this June with Hot Diggity Dog, following his biggest UK tour yet. The Off Menu podcast host and Taskmaster champion hits Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland for three nights of unfiltered, self-deprecating, high-energy stand-up.
Prima Facie & The Golden Ass
When & Where: Sunday 15th June — Sunday 27th July, various locations country-wide
The award-winning Prima Facie is set to tour the North Island this winter, starring Cassandra Woodhouse in a powerful one-woman performance. In Auckland and New Plymouth, select shows feature a double-header with Michael Hurst’s acclaimed The Golden Ass — presenting two masterful works in one unforgettable experience.
Auckland Live Cabaret Festival
When & Where: Tuesday 3rd — Sunday 15th June, The Civic
The Auckland Live Cabaret Festival returns to The Civic this June, promising a dazzling lineup of performances. Highlights include the Olivier Award-winning La Clique, Reuben Kaye’s sharp satire, Georgia Lines’ soulful concert with special guests, Catherine Alcorn’s tribute in The Divine Miss Bette, and Prinnie Stevens’ powerful Lady Sings the Blues Volume 2. Experience an unforgettable celebration of music, comedy, and theatrical flair.
Open Late: An Abstract Experiment
When & Where: Thursday 19th June, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki
Experience Open Late: An Abstract Experiment at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki — a lively, after-hours celebration of A Century of Modern Art. With jazz, DJ sets, interactive art activities, food trucks, and a pop-up bar, this free event invites you to explore modernist masterpieces, soak in the atmosphere, and even create your own digital artwork.
Roger Hall’s End of Summer Time
When & Where: Tuesday 17th June — Saturday 5th July, ASB Waterfront Theatre
Sir Roger Hall’s End of Summer Time follows a retired farmer navigating big city life, with sharp humour and heart. Starring Andrew Grainger, this charming solo show is a love letter to Auckland and a hilarious reminder that it’s never too late to start over.
Freida Market
When & Where: Saturday 7th June, Freida Margolis, Auckland
Kickstart your weekend at the lively Freida Market, held on the first Saturday of every month at Freida Margolis in Grey Lynn. Discover a curated selection of pre-loved and vintage clothes, unique finds, freshly baked goods, seasonal flowers, vinyl, handmade crafts, and more. Enjoy tasty bites as vinyl spins in true Freida’s style, adding to the warm, community feel.
