Your guide to what’s on in Wellington over Matariki
Thursday, 9 July 2026
Our weekly arts listings, published free of charge, currently run on Fridays and cover the upcoming weekend and week ahead. From Saturday July 25, listings will move to The Post’s weekend edition, allowing us to include more events. They will also appear on our subscriber website thepost.co.nz
If you would like your event considered for the Saturday column, please email your information to arts@thepost.co.nz by noon the Tuesday before, using the following format:
Title of event:
Venue Date: (Jan 1 format)
Time:
One paragraph (50–60 words) describing the event
Ticketing or booking details: including a link to the ticket seller
Hi‑res photographs are welcome, as are videos up to one minute in length.
All listings, photographs and videos are published entirely at the discretion of the arts team.
It’s Matariki weekend, and the region is alive with celebrations marking the Māori New Year — from drag theatre and pottery festivals to waterfront fire installations, waiata, storytelling and whānau activities. Alongside the Matariki programme, the city also hosts major concerts, dance‑floor takeovers, jazz performances and community events. Here are some of the highlights across Pōneke and the wider region.
Matariki
MĀREIKURA – The Tīwhas
Circa Theatre, to July 11, various times
A fierce theatrical drag concert honouring wāhine past and present, followed by a shared supper included in the $75 ticket. Read Scott Weaver’s review here Tickets: Circa Theatre
Matariki with Noku te Ao Capital E
Capital E, to July 25, various times
Tamariki can screen‑print clothing, make Maramataka calendars or try presenting the weather with MetService. Costs may apply.
Matariki Nights
Various locations & times, to July 11
Live music, art, kai and connection featuring Hollie Smith, Rei, Kenzie from Welly, The Mokos, Soul Paua, comedy by Ben Hurley and a mural by Otis Frizzell. More info: matarikinights.co.nz
Star Glaze Festival
Ōtaki Māori Racing Club, July 10–11, various times
Ceramic artists gather for a two‑day celebration of pottery, Matariki and whānau activities, with demos, exhibitions and hands‑on experiences. Friday gate charge: $10; koha welcomed.
Matariki at Pātaka
Pātaka Art + Museum, July 10, 12pm–4pm
Live courtyard music, kōrero on harbour restoration, VR experiences with Wiremu Grace and Matariki face painting for tamariki. Free . More info: pataka.org.nz
Matariki at Toi Aro
Toi Aro, Market Lane, to July 12, various times
All‑day projections, evening storytelling and a community gathering with Māori Wardens at Wellington’s new home for artists.
Matariki at Te Papa
Te Papa has a full programme of Matariki events including a whanau day on July 10, running from 10am -2pm, with workshops and activities. The line-up also includes Mānawatia a Matariki exhibition hub. For all the activities see tepapa.govt.nz
Rangatuone: Weaving Gestures and Sound – Riki Pirihi
Toi Aro, July 12, various times
A workshop and public performance exploring Indigenous musical traditions and contemporary composition. Registration required.
Matariki Ahi Kā
Wellington Waterfront, July 9–12, 6pm–9pm
Fire, projections, storytelling, kai courts, kapa haka and nightly remembrance ceremonies in a major free celebration of Matariki and Puanga.
Events
Jagged Little Pill, the Musical
Otaki Players, Otaki Civic Theatre, July 9-25
Jagged Little Pill is a contemporary musical featuring the music of Alanis Morissette, centering on the Healys, a seemingly perfect suburban Connecticut family whose life unravels due to hidden traumas and modern pressures. The story tackles addiction, sexual assault, race, and gender identity as the family works toward healing. Tickets: tryticket
The Jungle Giants
Meow Nui, July 10, 8pm
The Jungle Giants return with their fifth album Experiencing Feelings of Joy, joined by The Tullamarines and First Reserve for a high‑energy night for tastemakers and dance‑floor fans. Tickets: Ticketek
AREA:51
Shed 6, July10, 5pm
A one‑night‑only transformation of Shed 6 into a high‑energy, other‑dimension dance floor featuring heavy sound, mind‑bending visuals and sets from Badger, Benny L, Holy Goof and more. Tickets: Moshtix
Peter Hook and The Light
The Opera House, July 10, 7:45pm
Peter Hook performs Get Ready in full for its 25th anniversary, alongside classic Joy Division and New Order tracks including Love Will Tear Us Apart and Blue Monday. Tickets: ticketmaster
Postmodern Jukebox — The Future is Vintage
The Opera House, July 11, 7:30pm
Postmodern Jukebox reimagines modern hits, rock classics and film favourites with dazzling vintage swing, jazz and big‑band flair on its The Future is Vintage tour. Tickets: ticketmaster
Kiri Te Kanawa Song Quest 2026
Michael Fowler Centre, July 11, 7:30pm
The prestigious Grand Final showcases six emerging opera talents performing with the NZSO before an internationally acclaimed judging panel, continuing a legacy of launching major operatic careers. Tickets: ticketmaster
Raise the Roof Art Show and Sale
Ngaio Union Church, July 11, 1.30pm
Affordable original artworks raising funds to repair the church roof, with afternoon tea, music and demonstrations from local artists. Exhibition continues July 12–17, 12–3pm daily.
Vocalist Erna Ferry with Zanzibar Jazz Ensemble
Memorial Hall, Paekākāriki, July 12, 2.30pm
Mulled Wine Concerts hosts Erna Ferry with the Zanzibar Jazz Ensemble performing jazz favourites with Lance Philip, Nick Grenville, Dan Hayles, Kaito, Ben and Oscar. Tickets: via marygow@gmail.com
Tawa Rotary Book Fair
Tawa Scout Hall, Coronation Park, July 11–19, various times
A community book fair offering fresh stock only, with all proceeds supporting local projects. Thousands of titles and new discoveries for readers of all ages in this annual fundraiser.
LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition
Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre, to Oct 26
LEGO Star Wars: The Exhibition brings the galaxy to life through spectacular LEGO creations by Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught, featuring iconic characters, scenes and cinematic nostalgia. Tickets: premier.ticketek.co.nz
Land of the Long, Long Drive
Circa Theatre, to July 18, 10am & 11.30am
Wētā, Tuna and Kārearea journey to Gary the Glowworm’s cave rave, discovering teamwork and friendship in a lively, imaginative adventure for young audiences. Tickets: circa.co.nz
Wellington Ice Rink
Queens Wharf, to July 19, various times
A month of winter skating returns to Queens Wharf with lighting effects, music and sessions for all ages. Hire from 400 skates and glide day or night. More info: WellingtonNZ website
Hay Fever – Wellington Repertory Theatre centenary season
Gryphon Theatre, to July 11
Rep marks its 100th year with Noël Coward’s classic comedy of bad manners, as the chaotic Bliss family hosts a disastrously mismatched weekend of guests. Tickets: wellingtonrepertory.org.nz
Toi Aro Arts Centre Programme
Toi Aro, 3 Market Lane, various dates & times
A vibrant winter programme of theatre, dance and mana whenua storytelling, including Waenga by Te Rākau, Footnote residencies and a mana whenua exhibition. Details: ToiAro.nz
Mrs Llama the Very Kiwi Farmer
Gryphon Theatre, to July 10, 11am daily
Come see ToyBox’s latest children’s show. On her lively New Zealand farm, Mrs Llama is trying to keep everything under control… but between some very pesky rabbits and a cast of unforgettable animal characters, things quickly spiral into hilarious chaos. Bookings: wellingtonrepertory.org.nz/bookings
Wellington Raw Comedy Quest heats
Fringe Bar (every Thursday to Aug 6)
The capital’s premier open mic comedy competition returns for another year. Witness the freshest and funniest local talent before they become household names. The top comedians each week will go head to head at the semifinals on August 21 & 28, before the Wellington final takes place on September 5 at Hannah Playhouse.
Odlin’s Plaza, Wellington waterfront, to July 12, 6-9pm
Gather with friends and whānau to celebrate the Māori New Year on the waterfront. Matariki Ahi Kā, presented by Wellington City Council, is a free, immersive experience that honours culture, history, and family.
Sunday Concerts presents Elouan Quartet with Bridget Douglas
St Andrew’s on The Terrace, July 12, 3pm
The Elouan Quartet features NZSO players Jessica Oddie, Anna van der Zee, Alexander McFarlane and Ken Ichinose, joined by flautist Bridget Douglas. Tickets: Eventfinda or email sundayconcertsnz@gmail.com. $40 / $10 under‑26; school students free with full‑fee adult. More details: www.sundayconcerts.org.nz
He Tohu intergenerational learning experience
National Library of New Zealand, July 14-16, 12pm-1pm
A relaxed, interactive holiday session inviting whānau to explore Aotearoa’s founding documents through stories, kēmu, waiata and shared learning across generations. Free, no registration required.
ASQ International Music Academy 2026 Tutors Concert
St Andrew’s on The Terrace, July 15, 12.15pm, koha
The Aroha Quartet perform Piazzolla’s Tango Ballet, joined by guest tutors for Strauss’s Metamorphosen in its septet arrangement.
Royal NZ Ballet’s Winter Season
St James Theatre, July 16-18
The winter brings a programme of three works celebrating the heritage of the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the contributions of outstanding artists from its past, present and future. At its heart is the New Zealand premiere of Sir Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering. Completing the programme are Sarah Foster-Sproull’s exuberant Ultra Folly, and Andrea Schermoly’s Stand to Reason. Tickets: rnzb.org.nz
Come Together 2026 — Radiohead’s OK Computer
The Opera House, July 16, 8pm
Radiohead’s groundbreaking 1997 album OK Computer is performed live by Ed Knowles, Milan Borich, Seamus Johnson and the Come Together band, celebrating one of the defining albums of the 1990s. Tickets: ticketmaster
Accidental Death of an Anarchist
KAT Theatre, Cochran Hall, Khandallah, July 16–18 & 23–25, 7.30pm; July 19, 3.30pm
A riotous political satire on power and corruption, with Tom Basden’s sharp contemporary adaptation of Dario Fo’s classic farce. Tickets: kat‑theatre.org.nz/bookings
Exhibitions
Stone, Sea & Sky — Reflecting on Matariki
Pariwhero Gallery, Owhiro Bay, July 10–Sep 5, weekends 12–4pm
Five resident and guest artists present Matariki‑inspired works spanning fine‑art photography and descriptive pieces exploring winter skies, ocean depths and shared reflections on the season.
Kit Ong Exhibition – Impressions of Wellington
Alfred Memelink Artspace Gallery, to July 12, 10.30am–4pm (Wed–Sun)
Watercolour artist Kit Ong captures Wellington’s streets, moods and coastlines with vivid, atmospheric detail, including new works featuring the Te Ara Tupua cycleway. Free.
Robyn Kahukiwa: Tohunga Mahi Toi
Pātaka Art + Museum, to July 13, open daily
A major exhibition honouring senior Māori artist Robyn Kahukiwa, featuring key works including pieces from her iconic Wāhine Toa series. Free entry.
Afterimage
Nine Fathom Deep, to July 30, Tues–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–4pm
An exhibition of multi‑scaled paintings by Mark Soltero, exploring cinema as an autobiographical site of memory and recollection.
IHI
Pātaka Art + Museum, to July 19, open daily Three emerging artists explore ihi — a charged inner force — by shifting familiar forms into unfamiliar roles.
Ongo: (Re)sounding the Vā
Pātaka Art + Museum, to July 19, open daily
Ancient Tongan musical traditions are reimagined through contemporary practice, giving voice to ancestral knowledge, instruments and ways of being.
Manaaki Barrett
Te Māra Toi Gallery, Visitors Centre, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, to July 31, 9am–5pm daily
A photographic exhibition of Kāpiti Island taonga species, inviting visitors to meet manu eye‑to‑eye and reflect on restoration, kinship and biodiversity. Free
Broken River Train / Dreams of Travel
National Library of New Zealand, to Aug 15, opening hours
An exhibition exploring the idea that to be is to travel — physically, aimlessly, or purely in the imagination. Free.
Marama Malama: Te Manavā Moana Women
Pātaka Art + Museum, to Aug 16, open daily
Celebrating 50 years of P.A.C.I.F.I.C.A. Inc with portraits of esteemed Pacific women in Porirua, honouring leadership, advocacy and intergenerational cultural wellbeing.
Wellington Museum, to Sept 6, 10am–5pm
A century of Wellington food innovators is celebrated in this exhibition honouring the mahi of makers, workers and tastemakers who shaped the capital’s culinary identity. Free for NZ residents; international visitor fees apply.
Te Whakanui i a Matariki - Diane Prince
Courtenay Place lightboxes, to Oct 4
A series of drawings that depict traditional kai, reflecting on survival and the tenacity it takes to survive. Throughout those journeys, humble ‘containers’ protected the plants and food that accompanied the people to their new island homes.
Max Oettli — In Two Parts
National Library of New Zealand, to Oct 7, opening hours
Showcasing Max Oettli’s photography, this exhibition brings together Auckland street scenes and portraits from the Turnbull collections. See the world through his lens. Free.
The Choice
Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery, to Oct 11, Tue–Sun, 11am–5pm
George Watson’s most substantial project to date weaves farm, villa and literary references into a richly layered sculptural environment.
Not a solitary feeling
Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery, to Oct 11, Tue–Sun, 11am–5pm
A group exhibition disrupting familiar images of the past and opening radical possibilities for how we imagine future worlds.
Ua Tafa Mai Ata: Matāli’i ki Wainuiātea
Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery, to Oct 11, Tue–Sun, 11am–5pm
Elisapeta Hinemoa Heta’s architectural installation centres gathering, dialogue and our collective relationships with the vastness of Moana‑nui‑a‑Kiwa.
Kirsty Lillico: Heavy Falls
Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, to Oct 25
A major exhibition of new work developed during Lillico’s Tylee Cottage residency, exploring weaving, materiality and sculptural forms shaped from everyday and reclaimed materials. Supported by Creative NZ.
He Ao Āpōpō, He Ao Tea: Māori Futures
Te Whare o Rehua Sarjeant Gallery, to Oct 25
A Puanga exhibition exploring Māori futures, inspired by Dr Rangitakuku Metekingi’s proverb about clarity and new beginnings, featuring leading Māori artists across diverse practices.
Slow Burn: Women and Photography | Ahi Tāmau: Māreikura Whakaahua
Te Papa, museum hours
A major survey of 150 works by 50 women and non‑binary photographers, tracing six decades of image‑making across identity, memory, protest and place. Read Thomasin Sleigh’s review here.
He Tohu
National Library, permanent exhibition, 9am-5pm weekdays, 9am-1pm Sundays
He Tohu is a permanent exhibition of three iconic constitutional documents that shape Aotearoa New Zealand – 1840 Te Tiriti o Waitangi, 1835 He Whakaputanga and the 1893 Women’s Suffrage Petition.
Mutumutu ki Mukukai: Freshwater to Saltwater
Pātaka Art + Museum, semi‑permanent, open daily
A partnership with Ngāti Toa exploring cultural values, kaitiakitanga and the interconnected waterways of the region, with a focus on restoring Te Awarua o Porirua.
Giveaway
Celebrate Matariki with the chance to win a Te Papa Store prize pack worth $300, featuring a scarf, beanie, and gloves with the new Matariki design by Tyrone Ohia, a new addition to the Tukutuku merino knitwear range, exclusive to Te Papa Store.
To enter, email arts@thepost.co.nz with “Matariki” in the subject line. The competition closes at 5pm on Sunday, July 12.
- _To be considered for inclusion in this weekly column, email your listing to arts@thepost.co.nz ‒ _clearly state the name of the event, venue, date and time, ticketing link and a short paragraph about the event itself.__