Events
A symmetrical image of a dancer reaching their limbs outward with concentric strings suspended from above on a red background.

Innovative Indigenous performances on display at biennial arts festival.

Experience contemporary performances by leading Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and global indigenous artists. Kia Mau is a biennial festival. Led with Māori and Pasifika voices in mind, it seeks to celebrate Indigenous performance. The two-week festival will present dance, theatre, music, and visual art in a fresh way. Expect to be challenged and thrilled by new work from Aotearoa and beyond.

In te reo Māori, ‘kia mau’ is a call to hold fast. It’s about firmly holding onto what matters to ensure that it is kept and retained. Kia Mau festival celebrates the new while connecting to the past. The programme reflects this approach, with a curated selection of established art industry figures alongside emerging talents.

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Musicians perform on stage as part of Avaiki Nui Social Returns.

Avaiki Nui Social Returns

9 June 2025Michael Fowler Centre

Dances perform on a stage, bathed in golden light as part of Ka Mua Ka Muri.

Ka Mua Ka Muri — Atamira Dance Company

5 June 2025The Opera House

Five dancers wearing white under purple and turquoise lights.

New Zealand Fringe Festival

14 February – 8 March 2025

Image of Maoriland signage on top of a building. Large blue letters against textured orange and brown roof cladding.

Māoriland Film Festival

26 – 30 March 2025Ōtaki

Two street performers dresses in silver and blue with disco balls on their heads are dancing and waving as a part of the CubaDupa street festival in Wellington.

CubaDupa

29 – 30 March 2025

A smiling couple wearing sequin costumes are dancing in a lively discothèque.

Mamma Mia!

14 – 24 August 2025St James Theatre

Five theatre actors are on stage performing a scene from 'The Play That Goes Wrong'.

The Play That Goes Wrong

19 – 27 April 2025The Opera House

A frame from the popular children's animated television series 'Bluey'. Bluey and her family lie together on the living room floor with a few toys scattered around.

Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show

19 – 20 April 2025TSB Arena

Two people look at colourful expressionist and abstract paintings displayed in a gallery while drinking white wine.

The Wellington Art Show

28 February – 2 March 2025Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre

An actor performing in Dracula's: Sanctuary, an Australian cabaret show. They are centre-stage, singing and dramatically whipping their red cape.

Dracula’s: Sanctuary

11 – 12 July 2025St James Theatre