Your Guide to Wellington's Unmissable Events!
The capital’s never short on reasons to visit and right now, Wellington’s calendar is stacked. From once-in-a-lifetime concerts to indie theatre gems, open-air festivals to opera under the stars, this city doesn’t slow down and neither should you.
Whether you’re here for a headline act, a cultural deep-dive, or just a weekend of great food, strong coffee, and late checkouts, we’ve got your stay sorted.
At Sojourn Apartment Hotels, you’re always steps from the action, with flexible stays, stylish comfort, and insider recommendations that make your time here effortlessly exceptional.
Dive into what’s on. Then book a stay that keeps up with your plans.
October 26
NZSO – Four Last Songs
2 October | Michael Fowler Centre
An evening of extraordinary music in the heart of Wellington.
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra returns to the Michael Fowler Centre this October for a beautiful programme bringing together Strauss, Brahms and some exceptional musical talent.
Internationally acclaimed conductor Sir Donald Runnicles returns to Wellington to lead the NZSO, joined by award-winning New Zealand soprano Madeleine Pierard for Richard Strauss’ deeply moving Four Last Songs.
The programme also features the sweeping romance and brilliance of Strauss’ Rosenkavalier Suite, alongside Brahms’ Symphony No. 3 – making this a wonderful evening for anyone who loves the experience of hearing a world-class orchestra live.
And when the final note fades, there’s no need for the evening to end.
Enjoy dinner at one of Wellington’s many restaurants before the concert, take your seat at the Michael Fowler Centre, then wander back through the city to the comfort of Sojourn Ghuznee.
Beautiful music. A night in Wellington. And nowhere to rush home to.
Abracadabra
6 October | The Opera House
Magic. Laughter. And plenty of “How did they do that?” moments.
Looking for something a little magical to do with the family these school holidays?
Abracadabra is coming to The Opera House for a fast-paced live show packed with spectacular illusions, comedy, audience participation and plenty of surprises along the way.
Starring magician and entertainer Anthony Street, the show is designed to keep both kids and grown-ups entertained. With impossible tricks, big laughs and those wonderful moments when everyone in the family is trying to work out exactly what just happened.
Cornelia Parker
From 10 October | City Gallery Wellington
Bold. Surprising. And anything but ordinary.
This October, City Gallery Wellington returns to Te Ngākau Civic Square – and it’s reopening with an exhibition that promises to make you look at everyday objects in an entirely different way.
Internationally renowned British artist Cornelia Parker is known for taking the familiar and transforming it into something unexpected. Through large-scale installations, sculpture, photography, painting and film, her work explores ideas of destruction, reconstruction and transformation.
The exhibition also marks an exciting moment for Wellington’s arts scene, as City Gallery Wellington welcomes visitors back following its extensive strengthening and renovation.
Whether contemporary art is already your thing or you simply enjoy discovering something you haven’t seen before, this is a wonderful excuse to spend a few hours exploring Wellington’s creative side.
Sometimes the most memorable experiences are the ones you weren’t expecting.
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Che Fu & The Kratez – 25 Years of Navigator
11 October | Michael Fowler Centre
25 years. One iconic album. One very special night.
This October, one of Aotearoa’s most influential artists returns to the stage to celebrate a milestone in New Zealand music.
Che Fu, joined by his longtime band The Kratez, marks 25 years since the release of Navigator ; the number-one, multi-platinum album that brought together soul, reggae, hip-hop, rock and Pacific influences in a sound unmistakably his own.
Expect to hear favourites including Fade Away, Misty Frequencies and Waka, alongside songs from across Che Fu’s remarkable career.
And this is much more than an anniversary concert. With special guests Aaradhna, Betty-Anne and King Kapisi joining the celebration, it promises to be a night showcasing some of the artists and music that have helped shape modern Aotearoa.
If Navigator was part of your soundtrack, this is one night you won’t want to miss.
The Wiggles – Live in Concert
12 October | TSB Arena
Little voices. Big smiles. Plenty of Wiggling.
Calling all little Wiggles fans after a two-year break, The Wiggles are heading back to Wellington for a colourful, energetic live show at TSB Arena.
Blue, Red, Yellow and Purple Wiggles will take to the stage for an interactive performance packed with music, dancing and plenty of opportunities for young fans to join in.
And, of course, they’re bringing some familiar friends. Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus, Captain Feathersword and the Tree of Wisdom will all be joining the fun.
There’s plenty for parents to enjoy too, with playful pop-culture parodies mixed in among the songs, while younger audience members can sing and dance along to favourites including Portaloo, Do Do Do Doo and Hootin’ Tootin’ Jump Suitin’, as well as the new release Sparkle!
After more than 35 years of entertaining generations of families, The Wiggles still know exactly how to get an arena full of little people on their feet.
If you have a preschooler in the family, prepare for some serious Wiggling in Wellington this October.
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Wellington Jazz Festival
Five days. More than 100 gigs. One seriously musical city.
Wellington is about to find its groove as the Wellington Jazz Festival celebrates 30 years in the capital this October.
For five days, theatres, bars, restaurants and intimate venues across the city will come alive with more than 100 performances spanning jazz, soul, funk, R&B and fusion.
This year's line-up brings some remarkable international talent to Wellington. Grammy-winning Macy Gray takes over the St James Theatre, while pianist Joey Alexander and New Orleans favourites Rebirth Brass Band make their New Zealand debuts. British Mercury Prize winner Benjamin Clementine will also make his first-ever Aotearoa appearance.
Closer to home, the festival showcases outstanding Aotearoa talent, including Zoe Moon's tribute to Roberta Flack and a new commissioned work from Hikurangi Schaverien-kaa.
But one of the best things about Wellington Jazz Festival is that you don't necessarily need a grand plan. With gigs happening all over the city, you can wander from dinner to a bar, follow the sound of a saxophone and discover something completely unexpected.
Stay at Sojourn Ghuznee, put on your walking shoes and let Wellington provide the soundtrack.
Five days. One city. And you never quite know where the music will lead you.
Macy Gray – Live
15 October | St James Theatre
That voice. Those songs. One unforgettable night.
Few voices are as instantly recognisable as Macy Gray’s. This October, the Grammy Award-winning R&B and soul artist returns to Wellington for a special performance at the St James Theatre.
Since bursting onto the scene with her triple-platinum debut album On How Life Is in 1999, Macy Gray has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, building a career around her unmistakable raspy vocals and distinctive blend of soul and R&B.
Wellington audiences can expect a night filled with favourites including I Try, Still, Do Something, Sexual Revolution and Sweet Baby, alongside her new single I’m Too Sexy from the upcoming album The Trouble With Truth.
Presented in association with the Wellington Jazz Festival, this is a rare opportunity to experience one of the defining R&B and soul voices of her generation live in the heart of Wellington.
Some voices you recognise from the very first note. This is your chance to hear one of them live.
NZSO – Elegance
16 October | Michael Fowler Centre
Mozart. Brahms. And a remarkable NZSO debut.
This October, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra welcomes acclaimed British pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason to Wellington for her highly anticipated NZSO debut.
One of the most exciting pianists of her generation, Kanneh-Mason takes centre stage for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27 ; the composer’s final piano concerto and a work filled with beauty, elegance and subtlety.
Under the baton of internationally acclaimed New Zealand conductor Tianyi Lu, the programme also features Brahms’ Serenade No. 1 and Elfrida Andrée’s rediscovered Andante Recitative.
Whether you’re a devoted classical music lover or simply enjoy the experience of hearing extraordinary musicians perform live, this promises to be a beautiful evening at the Michael Fowler Centre.
Björn Again – ABBA Forever Tour
18 October | The Opera House
Dancing Queens, this one’s for you.
Dust off the flares and get ready for an evening packed with some of the most recognisable pop songs ever recorded as Björn Again brings its ABBA Forever Tour to Wellington.
For more than 35 years, Björn Again has taken the music of ABBA around the world, performing more than 7,000 shows across 130 countries and earning the endorsement of ABBA members themselves.
Expect a hit-filled night featuring classics including Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Fernando, SOS, Take a Chance on Me, Super Trouper, Money Money Money and plenty more.
It’s fun, nostalgic and almost impossible to sit still through – the perfect excuse to gather your favourite dancing partners and enjoy a night of 70s Swedish pop in the heart of Wellington.
And when you’ve finally said Thank You for the Music, there’s no need to head home.
Make a night of it with dinner in the city, the show at The Opera House and a relaxing stay at Sojourn Ghuznee.
Take a chance on a Wellington night away – your inner Dancing Queen will thank you.
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Orchestra Wellington – Revelations
24 October | Michael Fowler Centre
Big music. Big ambition. One extraordinary night.
If you like your classical music with a sense of drama, Orchestra Wellington’s Revelations promises an evening on a truly impressive scale.
Orchestra Wellington joins forces with Orpheus Choir Wellington for a programme that begins with the atmospheric beauty of Debussy’s Nocturnes before building to the monumental centrepiece of the evening, Ferruccio Busoni’s Piano Concerto.
Renowned for its extraordinary scale and the demands it places on its performers, Busoni’s work brings orchestra, choir and soloist together on the Michael Fowler Centre stage for what promises to be one of Orchestra Wellington’s most spectacular concerts of the 2026 season.
For classical music lovers or anyone curious to experience something powerful and rarely heard live, this is an opportunity to experience music designed to fill both the stage and the concert hall.
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BLACKCAPS vs India – T20 International
27 October | Hnry Stadium
Big hits. Big rivalry. One huge night of cricket.
International cricket returns to Wellington this October as the BLACKCAPS take on India in what promises to be an electric T20 International under the lights at Hnry Stadium.
India’s 2026–27 visit is set to be one of the highlights of the New Zealand cricket summer, with two of world cricket’s biggest teams going head-to-head across all three formats.
But T20 is where things move fast. Big hitting, quick wickets and momentum that can change with a single ball make this a brilliant night out whether you’re a devoted cricket fan or simply love the atmosphere of a major international sporting event.
With a big crowd, two passionate sets of supporters and some of the world’s best cricketers on the field, Wellington will be buzzing.
Make a night of it. Enjoy dinner in the city, head to the stadium for the action, then return to the comfort of Sojourn Ghuznee when the final ball has been bowled.
BLACKCAPS. India. Wellington under lights. This is one to put in the calendar.
Amped Up 2026
24 October 2026 / Brewtown, Upper Hutt
Turn it up. Way up.
Labour Weekend is about to get loud as Amped Up 2026 brings six of New Zealand’s premier rock and metal acts together for one massive day at Brewtown in Upper Hutt.
Headlining the festival is Devilskin, returning after an extraordinary run that has seen the band reach number one on the Official Top 40 Charts. They’ll be joined by alternative rock heavyweights Villainy, Kiwi rock favourites Tadpole, industrial-metal pioneers Head Like A Hole, modern rock powerhouse Written By Wolves, and rising favourites The Boondocks.
Expect soaring choruses, crushing riffs, mosh pits and plenty of familiar anthems as some of Aotearoa’s biggest names in rock and metal take over Brewtown.
After the success of last year’s event, Amped Up is back with an even bigger reason to gather your mates, turn up the volume and make a Labour Weekend of it.
Six bands. One stage. And absolutely no chance of a quiet Saturday.
Royal New Zealand Ballet – The Sleeping Beauty
From 29 October | St James Theatre
A timeless fairytale brought spectacularly to life.
This October, the Royal New Zealand Ballet invites Wellington audiences into an enchanted world as The Sleeping Beauty returns to the beautiful St James Theatre.
One of ballet’s most treasured stories, this much-loved fairytale is brought to life through exquisite classical choreography, beautiful design and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score, performed with a live orchestra for the Wellington season.
There’s even a little extra Wellington magic behind the scenes, with Wētā Workshop helping create the enchanting world audiences will experience on stage.
Whether you’re a lifelong ballet lover, introducing someone to ballet for the first time, or simply looking for a special night out, The Sleeping Beauty promises an evening filled with beauty, romance and theatrical magic.
And with the St James Theatre just a short stroll from Sojourn Ghuznee, why let the evening end with the final curtain?
Enjoy dinner in the city, lose yourself in the fairytale, then wander back to Sojourn for a relaxing night away.
Dinner. Ballet. A night in Wellington. Sometimes a little escape is all the magic you need.
November 2026
Bee in the City / 14 September – 8 November / Wellington Waterfront
Wellington has a new kind of buzz this spring, and it's impossible to miss!
Thirty giant bee sculptures have landed in the capital, transforming the city into a colourful outdoor art adventure.
Whether you're exploring Wellington with the kids, enjoying a weekend away or simply taking a stroll along the waterfront, Bee in the City is a fun excuse to get outside, discover some remarkable creativity and see the capital from a different perspective.
And there's more to this colourful trail than meets the eye.
Each bee has been individually decorated by New Zealand artists and community groups, celebrating the stories, creativity and character of Aotearoa.
Best of all, it's completely free!
Pick up a trail map or download the app, then see how many bees you can discover as you wander along Wellington's beautiful waterfront. You can even collect rewards along the way.
But there's a wonderful cause behind all the fun. Bee in the City is raising funds for LifeFlight, supporting its lifesaving emergency services, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. At the end of the trail, the sculptures will be auctioned to help support this important work.
So, grab your walking shoes, bring the family and see if you can spot all 30 bees before they fly away on 8 November.
Thirty giant bees. One beautiful waterfront. And a great cause worth supporting.
High Tide Festival 2026 / 7 November / Waitangi Park
Big beats. Festival energy. One unforgettable day by the waterfront.
If your idea of a great Wellington weekend involves live music, dancing and a crowd ready to have a good time, High Tide Festival 2026 deserves a spot on your calendar.
Returning to Waitangi Park on 7 November, High Tide brings a multi-genre music festival to one of Wellington's most spectacular waterfront locations.
Expect a mix of sounds, international flavour and the kind of atmosphere that makes a live festival so much more than just the music.
There's something special about enjoying a day of music with the harbour on one side and the city on the other. Add a group of friends, your favourite festival outfit and a line-up designed to keep the energy high, and you've got the makings of a memorable Saturday in the capital.
And why let the fun end when the music stops?
Make a weekend of it with a stay at Sojourn Ghuznee. Explore Wellington's cafés and restaurants, enjoy the festival, then head back to your own comfortable apartment hotel room rather than worrying about the journey home.
One festival. One waterfront. A whole lot of reasons to turn up.
Wellington Go Green Expo 2026 – Small Changes, Big Ideas for Better Living / 7-8 November / TSB Arena
What if living a little healthier, spending a little smarter and being kinder to the planet were easier than you thought?
That's the idea behind the Wellington Go Green Expo 2026, returning to TSB Arena this November for a weekend dedicated to healthier, more sustainable living.
Whether you're looking to make your home more environmentally friendly, discover natural health and wellness products, explore sustainable shopping options or simply pick up a few fresh ideas, there's plenty to discover.
From innovative products and eco-conscious businesses to practical ways of reducing waste and making everyday choices that are better for you and the environment, the expo brings a whole world of green inspiration together under one roof.
And you certainly don't need to be an environmental expert to enjoy it.
Sometimes the most useful discoveries are the simplest ones; a product that helps reduce waste, a healthier alternative you hadn't considered or a clever idea you can put into practice as soon as you get home.
A healthier lifestyle. A greener future. And plenty of ideas worth taking home.
Air Force in Concert with Bret McKenzie – A Very Special Wellington Collaboration!
8 November | Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
What happens when one of New Zealand's most creative musical minds joins forces with the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band?
Something rather special, we suspect!
This November, Wellington's own Bret McKenzie takes to the stage at the Michael Fowler Centre for an exciting collaboration with the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band, bringing together outstanding musicianship, homegrown talent and a little of that unmistakable McKenzie magic.
Best known as one half of the internationally acclaimed comedy duo Flight of the Conchords, Bret is also an Academy Award-winning songwriter and composer whose talents stretch well beyond making audiences laugh.
And while many know him for his wonderfully offbeat humour and clever songwriting, this concert offers a chance to experience his musical creativity in a very different setting.
With the impressive sound of the Air Force Band behind him, audiences can look forward to an entertaining celebration of New Zealand music and talent, all in the beautiful surroundings of Wellington's Michael Fowler Centre.
It's also a wonderful opportunity to introduce the family to the excitement of live music.
Whether you're a longtime Bret McKenzie fan, love the sound of a great concert band or simply fancy a memorable Sunday outing, this is one Wellington performance worth putting in the diary.
One Wellington music legend. One outstanding Air Force Band. A collaboration worth hearing live.
Sir El Tom – A Rockin' Tribute to Two Music Legends! / 9 November /St James Theatre
Elton John or Tom Jones? Why choose when you can have both?
This November, Wellington's St James Theatre is set for a night of big voices, unforgettable songs and plenty of rock 'n' roll energy as Sir El Tom takes to the stage.
Bringing together the flamboyant showmanship of Sir Elton John and the powerhouse vocals of Sir Tom Jones, this entertaining tribute celebrates two of the most recognisable performers in music history.
Backed by a full live band, expect a lively evening filled with familiar favourites, singalong moments and a generous helping of nostalgia.
Whether you grew up listening to these legendary artists or simply love a night of great live entertainment, this is the kind of show that makes you want to sing along from the very first song.
Two legendary musical personalities. One stage. And a whole lot of timeless entertainment.
Flight of the Conchords -Wellington's Favourite Musical Comedians Are Coming Home! / 10 -16 November / Michael Fowler Centre
It's business time, Wellington! After 14 years without a national tour, Flight of the Conchords are back, and they're returning to the city where their extraordinary story began.
Wellington's very own Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement have become international comedy legends, winning fans around the world with their wonderfully awkward humour, brilliantly clever songs and unmistakably Kiwi take on life.
From their early days performing around Wellington to their hit HBO television series and sold-out international tours, the duo have built a devoted following with songs that somehow manage to be both ridiculous and ridiculously good.
And now they're coming home.
Whether you're a longtime fan who can sing every word of Business Time, Hiphopopotamus vs. Rhymenoceros and The Most Beautiful Girl (In the Room), or you've only recently discovered their unique brand of musical comedy, this promises to be a very special Wellington homecoming.
Expect clever lyrics, deadpan humour, musical surprises and the kind of laugh-out-loud moments that only Bret and Jemaine can deliver.
And what better excuse for a Wellington getaway?
Two Wellington legends. One long-awaited homecoming. And comedy that's still very much in business.
Dara Ó Briain: Re - Get Ready for a Night of Brilliant Comedy! /14 November /St James Theatre
Quick wit. Big laughs. And absolutely no idea where the conversation might end up.
If you enjoy comedy that's clever, spontaneous and laugh-out-loud funny, Dara Ó Briain is bringing his latest stand-up show, Re, to Wellington this November.
One of Ireland's most celebrated comedians, Dara has built an international following with his lightning-fast thinking, wonderfully sharp observations and remarkable ability to turn everyday situations into comedy gold.
Best known to many as the longtime host of the hugely popular British television show Mock the Week, he's also a master of live stand-up, combining intelligent humour, hilarious storytelling and audience interaction that makes every performance feel a little different.
And that's part of the fun. With Dara, you never quite know where the evening will lead. One minute he's making an observation about modern life, the next he's picked up on something from the audience and turned it into a brilliantly funny exchange.
No elaborate gimmicks. No unnecessary fuss. Just a very funny man doing what he does best. Whether you're already a fan or simply fancy an evening of outstanding live comedy, this promises to be a Saturday night well spent.
One brilliant comedian. A theatre full of laughter. And a Wellington night worth staying for.
Jesus Christ Superstar - The Legendary Rock Musical Returns to Wellington! /18-28 November / St James Theatre
One of the greatest rock musicals ever written. An unforgettable story. And a soundtrack that still gives audiences goosebumps more than 50 years later.
This November, Jesus Christ Superstar takes over Wellington's beautiful St James Theatre, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's legendary musical back to the stage.
First captivating audiences in the 1970s, Jesus Christ Superstar tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ through the eyes of Judas Iscariot, exploring friendship, loyalty, betrayal and the extraordinary events that changed history.
But what makes this production so remarkable is the music.
From the electrifying energy of Superstar to the emotion of I Don't Know How to Love Him and the powerful Gethsemane, the show's iconic songs have helped make it one of the most celebrated musicals of all time.
Expect soaring vocals, dramatic performances, spectacular staging and the kind of theatrical experience that stays with you long after the curtain falls.
Whether you've loved the music for decades or are discovering this extraordinary show for the first time, it's a wonderful excuse for a night out in the capital.
And with Sojourn Ghuznee just a short stroll from the St James Theatre, why not make the whole evening special?
Enjoy dinner at one of Wellington's excellent restaurants, experience the magic of live theatre, then wander back to the comfort of Sojourn.
One legendary musical. One spectacular Wellington theatre. An evening worth making a getaway of.
Stan Walker – A Symphonic Experience: An Extraordinary Voice Meets the Power of an Orchestra / 20 November / TSB Arena
Some voices are powerful enough to fill an arena. Now imagine one of New Zealand's most loved voices backed by the extraordinary sound of a full symphony orchestra.
This November, Stan Walker brings A Symphonic Experience to Wellington's TSB Arena for a very special celebration of music, culture and connection.
Since winning Australian Idol in 2009, Stan has become one of Aotearoa's most recognisable and respected performers, captivating audiences with his remarkable voice, heartfelt songwriting and deep connection to his Māori heritage.
From chart-topping hits to moving performances in te reo Māori, his music has always been about more than just entertainment. It's about identity, whānau, resilience and the power of bringing people together.
And now, with the richness and scale of an orchestra adding a whole new dimension to his music, audiences can look forward to hearing his songs in a way they may never have experienced before.
Expect soaring vocals, beautiful orchestral arrangements and those spine-tingling moments when a familiar song suddenly takes on a whole new life.
Whether you've followed Stan's journey from the beginning or simply appreciate outstanding live music, this promises to be one of Wellington's most memorable concerts of November.
One extraordinary Kiwi voice. The power of a symphony orchestra. A Wellington night to remember.
Chopper - Gold: 20 Years of Comedy That's Definitely Not for the Faint-Hearted! / 20 November / The Opera House
Twenty years. Countless outrageous jokes. And absolutely no sign of mellowing with age.
Australia's most gloriously inappropriate comedy character is back, and this November Chopper is bringing his anniversary show, Gold, to Wellington's Opera House.
Created and performed by Australian comedian Heath Franklin, Chopper has spent two decades entertaining audiences with his unmistakable moustache, trademark sunglasses, outrageous observations and hilariously blunt approach to just about everything.
Inspired by notorious Australian underworld figure Mark 'Chopper' Read, Franklin's larger-than-life comedy creation has become a cult favourite on both sides of the Tasman.
And now he's celebrating 20 years of saying the things most people wouldn't dare say out loud.
Expect sharp one-liners, outrageous storytelling, plenty of colourful language and the kind of comedy that leaves audiences laughing while wondering, "Did he really just say that?"
This certainly isn't a show for the easily offended. But if you enjoy your comedy bold, irreverent and completely unfiltered, Chopper's anniversary tour promises a night of seriously outrageous entertainment.
Twenty years of Chopper. One outrageous anniversary show. Absolutely no promises of good behaviour.
Courtney Barnett – Creature of Habit Tour: Indie Rock at Its Best! / 22 November / Michael Fowler Centre
Sharp lyrics. Brilliant guitar riffs. And a voice that's unmistakably her own.
If you love live music with a little attitude, Australian indie-rock favourite Courtney Barnett is heading to Wellington this November with her Creature of Habit Tour.
Known for her wonderfully witty songwriting, laid-back vocals and distinctive guitar-driven sound, Courtney has built an international following by finding the extraordinary in the most ordinary moments of life.
Since breaking through with songs like Avant Gardener, Pedestrian at Best and Depreston, she's become one of Australia's most acclaimed alternative artists, earning praise for her clever observations, honest storytelling and electrifying live performances.
Now she's back on the road with new music, bringing her signature blend of indie rock, raw energy and thoughtful lyrics to the Michael Fowler Centre.
Whether you've followed Courtney since her early releases or simply appreciate great songwriting and a live band that knows how to deliver, this promises to be a memorable night of music.
One remarkable songwriter. A night of outstanding indie rock. And a Wellington getaway worth planning.
Richard Dawkins – 50 Years of The Selfish Gene: An Evening of Big Ideas and Fascinating Questions / 23 November / Michael Fowler Centre
What if a book could change the way we understand life itself?
Fifty years ago, evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins published The Selfish Gene, a groundbreaking book that challenged conventional thinking about evolution and introduced millions of readers to a new way of understanding the natural world.
Now, half a century later, Dawkins is coming to Wellington for a special live event celebrating the book's remarkable legacy.
One of the world's best-known science writers and public intellectuals, Dawkins has spent decades exploring some of humanity's biggest questions, from how life evolves to the relationship between science, belief and our understanding of the world around us.
His work has inspired generations of readers, scientists and thinkers, while also sparking lively debate and controversy.
And that's part of what makes this evening so intriguing.
Whether you've read The Selfish Gene, followed Dawkins' career or simply enjoy hearing challenging ideas discussed by someone who has helped shape modern scientific debate, this is a rare opportunity to experience him live.
Expect an evening of thought-provoking conversation, scientific insight and questions that may stay with you long after you
The Sweet Caroline Tour – A Tribute to Neil Diamond: Good Times Never Seemed So Good!
25 November | The Opera House, Wellington
Sweet Caroline… BA BA BAA!
Go on, admit it. You sang the next bit, didn't you?
Few songs can get an entire room singing quite like Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline. And this November, Wellington audiences have the chance to celebrate the music of one of the world's most loved singer-songwriters.
The Sweet Caroline Tour - A Tribute to Neil Diamond is coming to The Opera House for a night packed with timeless hits, wonderful memories and plenty of opportunities to sing along.
From Cracklin' Rosie and Song Sung Blue to Love on the Rocks, Forever in Blue Jeans and, of course, Sweet Caroline, Neil Diamond's remarkable catalogue has provided the soundtrack to generations of lives.
These are songs that take you straight back to a particular time, place or person. Songs you know the words to even if you haven't heard them in years. And songs that somehow sound even better when an entire theatre joins in.
With a live tribute performance celebrating Diamond's unmistakable sound and enduring musical legacy, audiences can look forward to an evening filled with nostalgia, energy and feel-good entertainment.
Whether you've been a Neil Diamond fan for decades or simply love a night of familiar songs and great live music, this promises to be a wonderful Wednesday evening in the capital.
Great songs. Wonderful memories. And one chorus everyone knows by heart.
Cat Power – The Greatest on Tour: A Very Special Night of Soulful Indie Music / 27 November / The Opera House
Some artists don't need big theatrics or elaborate stage productions to hold an audience. Just a remarkable voice, beautifully written songs and the ability to make every note feel personal.
Cat Power is one of those artists.
This November, acclaimed American singer-songwriter Chan Marshall, better known as Cat Power, brings The Greatest on Tour to Wellington's beautiful Opera House.
For more than three decades, Cat Power has captivated audiences with her haunting vocals, deeply personal songwriting and distinctive blend of indie rock, folk, blues and soul.
Her 2006 album The Greatest remains one of the defining recordings of her career, celebrated for its warm, soulful sound and emotionally honest songs. Recorded with legendary Memphis musicians, the album introduced a rich new musical direction that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Now, Wellington audiences have the opportunity to experience that remarkable music live.
Expect an intimate evening of beautifully crafted songs, understated musicianship and the kind of raw emotion that makes a performance stay with you long after the final note.
Whether you've followed Cat Power for years or are discovering her music for the first time, this promises to be a special night for anyone who appreciates authentic songwriting and an extraordinary voice.
One extraordinary voice. One unforgettable album. A night of music worth slowing down for.
Dermot Kennedy - The Weight of the Woods Tour: One Powerful Voice, One Unforgettable Night! / 27 November / TSB Arena
Some songs you simply listen to. Others stop you in your tracks.
Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy has a remarkable gift for the latter, combining raw emotion, powerful vocals and beautifully honest lyrics that connect with audiences around the world.
And this November, he's bringing his The Weight of the Woods Tour to Wellington's TSB Arena.
From the soaring emotion of Outnumbered and Power Over Me to the infectious energy of Giants and Better Days, Dermot has built an international following with music that blends heartfelt acoustic songwriting, folk influences and contemporary pop.
His distinctive voice, often moving from quiet vulnerability to an extraordinary intensity, has become his trademark. And it's on stage, in front of a live audience, that his music truly comes into its own.
With new music to share alongside the songs that made him a global favourite, Wellington fans can look forward to an evening of powerful performances, emotional moments and those wonderful occasions when thousands of voices join together in song.
Whether you've followed Dermot since his early releases or have only recently discovered his music, this promises to be one of November's standout concerts in the capital.
One extraordinary Irish voice. Thousands of fans. A Wellington night to remember.
An Audience with Sir Tony Robinson – History, Humour & a Cunning Plan! / 28 November / The Opera House, Wellington
Baldrick is coming to Wellington. And yes, we suspect he may have a cunning plan!
This November, beloved British actor, comedian, author and television presenter Sir Tony Robinson takes to the stage at The Opera House for a very special evening of stories, laughter and fascinating insights from an extraordinary career.
For millions of television viewers, Tony will forever be remembered as the wonderfully hapless Baldrick in the legendary British comedy series Blackadder, alongside Rowan Atkinson.
But there's much more to his remarkable career than questionable turnip recipes and increasingly ridiculous cunning plans.
As the longtime presenter of the hugely popular television series Time Team, Tony introduced generations of viewers to the fascinating world of archaeology, making history entertaining, accessible and, quite often, surprisingly funny.
From his early days in theatre to his celebrated television roles, bestselling books and passion for uncovering the stories of the past, Tony has spent decades entertaining and educating audiences around the world
Now Wellington audiences have the opportunity to hear some of those stories firsthand.
Expect an entertaining evening filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, memorable moments from his career, reflections on history and television, and plenty of the quick wit and warmth that have made him such a beloved personality.
Whether you're a devoted Blackadder fan, a Time Team enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story told by someone who knows how to tell one, this promises to be a wonderful evening.
One British television legend. A lifetime of fascinating stories. And perhaps a cunning plan or two.
An Evening of Idle Conversation – A Night of British Comedy Brilliance! / 29 November / St James Theatre
Always look on the bright side of life!
If those words immediately bring a smile to your face, this November's An Evening of Idle Conversation might be just the night out you've been waiting for.
Wellington's St James Theatre is welcoming a British comedy legend for an evening celebrating a remarkable career in entertainment, unforgettable characters and the wonderfully absurd humour that has delighted generations.
For fans of classic British comedy, there's something special about hearing the stories behind the performances, the creative moments and the personalities that helped make some of television and film's most memorable comedy.
And that's the appeal of an evening like this. Rather than simply watching a favourite performer on screen, audiences have the opportunity to enjoy the humour, memories and conversation in person.
Whether you've been a fan of British comedy for decades or simply love an evening filled with wit, nostalgia and entertaining stories, this promises to be a memorable night at one of Wellington's most beautiful theatres.
A legendary comedy career. An evening of stories and laughter. And a very good reason to look on the bright side of life.
Aldous Harding - Train on the Island: An Extraordinary Kiwi Talent Returns to Wellington / 29 November / Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Some musicians are easy to describe. Others create a sound and a world entirely their own.
Aldous Harding definitely belongs in the second category.
This November, one of Aotearoa's most distinctive and internationally acclaimed singer-songwriters returns to Wellington for a special performance at the Michael Fowler Centre.
Originally from Lyttelton, Aldous Harding has built a devoted following around the world with her haunting voice, wonderfully unconventional songwriting and captivating stage presence.
Her music moves effortlessly between intimate folk, experimental pop and something altogether harder to define. One moment it's delicate and understated; the next it's surprising, theatrical and impossible to look away from.
With acclaimed albums including Party, Designer and Warm Chris, Harding has established herself as one of New Zealand's most intriguing musical exports, earning international praise for her originality and fearless creativity.
Now, following a European tour, she's bringing her Train on the Island show to Wellington.
For longtime fans, it's a welcome opportunity to experience her remarkable music live. And for those who haven't yet discovered Aldous Harding, this could be the perfect introduction to an artist who sounds quite unlike anyone else.
Expect an evening of beautiful melodies, unexpected musical moments and the kind of performance that stays with you long after the final note.
One remarkable Kiwi artist. A sound entirely her own. And a Wellington night worth experiencing.
