Vector Lights for Matariki Festival
19 June—11 July
Statehighway 1
For Matariki this year, enjoy the story of the host iwi, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and their journey to Tāmaki Makaurau, as portrayed through a light show across the Harbour Bridge. See this portrayal of their tribal lineage, pepeha, who came from beyond Aotearoa. This creative light display presents the rich history of the host iwi for this year. Light shows run every half-hour from 6pm until midnight. Varied weekend dates, check online for more information.
The Secret Piano Bar
1—4 July
12 Wellesley St, Auckland
Auckland has a secret bar! No, not the one for people who take care, or the fine apples of this world, we hear there’s another. Okay, we might as well spill, some things are too good to remain a secret! This hidden CBD bar has fabulous cabaret artists, musicians, cocktails and late night magic. The exciting ‘old carnival’ style intimate venue is ideal for date night, people-watching, or catching up with an old friend. To guarantee entry, book a space online.
Northern Lights Festival
2—10 July
Ngunguru or Tutukaka
For those who love adventure, the Northern Lights Festival is hosting a night paddleboarding experience. The water will be lit up, so you can see the sea floor and its inhabitants like never before as you float over the luminescent light. The boards are large and comfortable, no previous experience is needed. The guide is an expert and manages the small group of eight. Book online through Eventfinda.
Government House Garden Tour
6 July
Savannah St, Epsom
Government House has extended a rare opportunity for a limited number of people to explore their garden on a free guided tour. It must be booked in advance and ID is required upon entry. It will involve stairs, so isn’t suitable for anyone with limited mobility. Although, separate tours can be arranged for those with limited mobility or for large groups. Email bookings@govthouse.govt.nz for more information.
World to Tāmaki Makaurau
7 July—25 October
Auckland Museum
Over the next year, Auckland Museum is bringing the world to Auckland through exhibitions, whilst displaying our own heritage. Starting off with Sea Monsters this month, which showcases fossils from millions of years ago and huge ocean predators. Given New Zealand’s status in the world currently, we’re one of the few that can host these exciting exhibitions to the capacity they deserve to be seen.
Emma SavageEmma Savage Hayes Paddock
15 July—12 August
Sidewalk Gallery, Studio One Toi Tū, 1 Ponsonby Rd, Auckland
Emma Savage’s debut exhibition highlights nostalgic aspects of her childhood suburbia. Opening 5pm, 14 July, Hayes Paddock, Hamilton East exemplifies a relatively intact, architecturally coherent suburb embodying state housing ideals of the 1940s. In her acrylic paintings, these structures are celebrated along with gardens and other traces of those who have occupied these dwellings over the last 80 years.
The Glow Show
28—30 July
Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre
6 August
Takapuna’s Bruce Mason Centre
27 September
ASB Waterfront Theatre
The groundbreaking, glow-in-the-dark giant puppet extravaganza The Glow Show is in Auckland from July to September. Bring family, friends, schools and ECE groups to enjoy this year’s wild, wonderful and very Kiwi version of Alice in Wonderland. The Glow Show is a magical experience that fuses science and the arts, intriguing tamariki around Aotearoa and encouraging them to be their most creative selves: “Hei tino auhaha koe.” Visit glowshow.co.nz for info.
Masquerade Ball
31 July
The Civic
For those that have a dress or suit in the wardrobe that doesn’t see the light of day, or quality stage lighting often enough, here is your chance! Grab your fun mates or a date and make a night of it. The Masquerade Ball is back, this year it’s being hosted at The Civic in the stunning Wintergarden. Expect classic covers, disco, house and DnB. Masks provided, but awards provided to those with exceptional creativity.
