Spring has sprung, and with it comes an exceptional line-up of cultural events inspiring you to get out and about. From theatrical events to exhibitions you won’t want to miss, our September Culture Guide is filled with everything you need to keep you happily busy this month.

Mary: The Birth of Frankenstein

When & Where: Now until Wednesday 17th September, ASB Waterfront Theatre

Step inside the storm-soaked night that birthed a legend. From playwright Jess Sayer and director Oliver Driver comes Mary: The Birth of Frankenstein — a blood-soaked, fever-dream reimagining of Mary Shelley’s infamous creation. Gothic horror collides with raw ambition and creative obsession in this unflinching and unmissable world premiere.

Liam Gerrerd — Diurnus

When & Where: Now until Sunday 14th September, Sanderson

This month, Sanderson presents Diurnus, a mesmerising new exhibition by Liam Gerrard. Drawing on the overlooked beauty of the natural world, Gerrard’s detailed works transform suburban gardens into intimate still lifes, where moths flutter, cats doze, and flowers bloom — a contemplative reflection on life’s fleeting moments of wonder.

Mother Play

When & Where: Thursday 4th — Saturday 20th September, Q Theatre

Hot off its critically-acclaimed run on Broadway, Mother Play is Paula Vogel’s searing take on family, identity, and the American dream unravelling. From 1950s denial to 1980s defiance, it’s a time-warping, gin-soaked rollercoaster with a whole lot of heart. 

Jonathan Van Ness

When & Where: Saturday 27th September, Auckland Town Hall

Jonathan Van Ness’ Hot & Healed is an unfiltered, high-energy comedy celebration packed with laughs, self-love, and surprises. Showcasing dazzling new sides of the Emmy-winning star, this wildly entertaining performance blends wit, joy, and iconic JVN flair into one unforgettable night.

Artland

When & Where: Saturday 20th September — Sunday 19th July 2026, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki 

Step into a world of wonder at Artland, the Auckland Art Gallery’s playful new installation by renowned Korean artist Do Ho Suh and his young daughters. Crafted from colourful modelling clay, this evolving, hands-on experience invites families to shape their own fantastical landscapes. 

A Century of Modern Art

When & Where: Now until Sunday 28th September, Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tāmaki

September is the final chance to view Auckland Art Gallery’s A Century of Modern Art — a landmark exhibition of visionary painting. 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.

World of Wearable Art

When & Where: Thursday 18th September — Sunday 5th October, TSB Arena, Wellington

Imagination becomes reality in the 2024 WOW show: Rise. Explore an unforgettable experience where the boundaries of arena spectacle, live music, dance, aerial choreography, and world-class wearable art are pushed to the extreme. Every night of the show season is a visual feast, offering a theatrical spectacle unmatched in both scale and impact. 

Diva

When & Where: Now until Sunday 19th October, Auckland Museum

Direct from London’s V&A and showing exclusively at Auckland Museum, DIVA is a glittering tribute to the performers who’ve defined — and defied — culture. With over 280 iconic pieces spanning fashion, film, music and more, this landmark exhibition showcases the ambition, power, and legacy of stars from Maria Callas to Madonna, Cher to Rihanna. An unmissable celebration of the diva in all her forms — flamboyant, fabulous, and forever fascinating.

Solstice by Commercial Bay

When & Where: Thursday 18th — Sunday 21st September, TSB Arena, Wellington

Returning to Commercial Bay this September, Solstice is a four-day celebration of fashion, music, and dining that captures the energy of spring’s arrival. Inspired by the power and renewal of the summer solstice, the precinct-wide event invites you to embrace bold style, indulge in vibrant flavours, and step into the new season. From exclusive shopping offers to live entertainment, curated dining experiences, and more, Solstice transforms Commercial Bay into the city’s ultimate stage — an unmissable fashion and lifestyle event to welcome longer days and brighter wardrobes.

The Monster in the Maze

When & Where: Friday 5th — Saturday 20th September, various locations country-wide

Presented by New Zealand Opera with the country’s leading orchestras and directed by Anapela Polata’ivao ONZM, The Monster in the Maze reimagines the myth of the Minotaur as a story of resistance, justice, and collective power. Young and community singers join professional performers in a groundbreaking, community-driven opera where every voice is essential — a bold, immersive celebration of courage, hope, and the transformative power of music.

Darklight

When & Where: Tuesday 2nd — Friday 5th September, Okahu, Auckland

Following its sold-out debut earlier this year, this September, Darklight: The Edge of Light transforms Auckland’s historic Okahu Bay Wharf into a glowing stage where art, light, and history converge. Over 100 metres of illumination, immersive installations, and collaborative works from Aotearoa’s leading artists create a sensory journey that moves from intimacy to scale. On Friday, 5th September, Darklight will close with Resonate, a one-night music experience which extends the sensory journey into sound.

Freida Market

When & Where: Saturday 6th September, 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.

Jon Tootill — Peita Waikano

When & Where: Now until Sunday 14th September, Sanderson

At Sanderson this month, Peita Waikano has a stunning exhibition of watercolours exploring Aotearoa’s seasonal landscapes. Through intricate grids and careful study of flora and fauna, Tootill blends indigenous knowledge, lunar cycles, and contemporary art, capturing the subtle colours, rhythms, and beauty of the natural world across the year.