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.
September 2026
LEGO® Star Wars™: The Exhibition Until 26 October | Tākina Wellington Convention & Exhibition Centre
A galaxy far, far away has arrived in Wellington! Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars™ fan or simply love incredible creativity, LEGO® Star Wars™: The Exhibition is an experience not to be missed.
Making its international debut at Tākina, this spectacular exhibition brings iconic characters, epic battles, towering starships, and unforgettable scenes from the Star Wars universe to life using more than 8 million LEGO® bricks. Created by renowned LEGO Certified Professional Ryan "Brickman" McNaught and his talented team, the exhibition features the largest collection of life-sized LEGO® Star Wars™ models ever assembled.
But it's more than just an exhibition. Visitors can build their own LEGO® creations, design a custom lightsaber, help construct giant Star Wars™ landscapes, and even bring their creations to life in interactive digital space battles. It's a hands-on adventure that's just as much fun for adults as it is for young Padawans.
Whether you're travelling with family, friends, or simply embracing your inner Star Wars fan, this world-first exhibition is one of Wellington's must-see attractions this season.
Judy's Encore 29 August – 26 September | Circa Theatre
Step into the extraordinary world of one of Hollywood's greatest stars with Judy's Encore, a moving musical tribute to the life and legacy of Judy Garland.
Acclaimed performer Ali Harper brings Garland's remarkable story to life, celebrating her unforgettable voice, quick wit, and incredible resilience through more than 20 of her greatest songs. From dazzling moments of stardom to the personal struggles behind the spotlight, this captivating production offers an intimate portrait of a true entertainment legend.
Whether you're a lifelong fan of Judy Garland or simply love outstanding live theatre and classic music, Judy's Encore promises an evening of heartfelt performances, timeless songs, and unforgettable storytelling.
Talking Heads’ Stop Making Sense 3 September | St James Theatre
One of the most celebrated live albums and concert films ever made comes to life on stage in Wellington this September.
Talking Heads' Stop Making Sense is widely regarded as a masterpiece of live performance, earning five-star reviews and captivating audiences for more than 40 years. Now, some of New Zealand's finest musicians, including James Milne, Anthonie Tonnon, Dianne Swann, Julia Deans, and the acclaimed Come Together Band, will recreate this iconic concert in a spectacular live tribute.
Expect an unforgettable evening featuring timeless hits such as Psycho Killer, Burning Down the House, and Once in a Lifetime, performed with all the energy, creativity, and musicianship that made the original legendary.
Whether you're a lifelong Talking Heads fan or simply love outstanding live music, this is a show not to be missed.
Chris Parker - Take a Good Hard Look at Me 4 September |St James Theatre
Get ready for an evening of razor-sharp wit and laugh-out-loud comedy as one of New Zealand's favourite comedians, Chris Parker, brings his latest stand-up show, Take a Good Hard Look at Me, to Wellington.
Known for his quick humour, impeccable comic timing, and wonderfully self-deprecating storytelling, Chris has become a household name through Have You Been Paying Attention?, Thank God You're Here, his live comedy tours, podcasts, and countless television appearances.
In his latest show, Chris reflects on life, expectations, and growing older with his trademark honesty and charm. As he puts it: "I'm just a 35-year-old gay man who was told there was something special about him as a kid and has been grappling with that ever since." The result is an hour of clever observations, relatable stories, and the kind of comedy that has audiences laughing from beginning to end.
Whether you're already a fan or discovering Chris Parker for the first time, this promises to be one of Wellington's comedy highlights of the year.
Rhythm & Dance 4 September | Michael Fowler Centre
Experience an exhilarating evening where classical music meets the vibrant rhythms of jazz and dance in Rhythm & Dance, presented by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
This energetic programme celebrates the music of the Americas, featuring Leonard Bernstein's electrifying Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, capturing the excitement, passion, and drama of New York's streets. Audiences will also enjoy Aaron Copland's lyrical Clarinet Concerto, blending jazz influences with classical elegance, alongside John Adams's spirited The Chairman Dances, a colourful and captivating orchestral work full of movement and energy.
Whether you're a lifelong classical music lover or simply looking for an unforgettable night out, Rhythm & Dance promises an inspiring performance packed with rhythm, colour, and world-class musicianship.
Mel Parsons – Castle Hill Tour 5 September | The Opera House
Award-winning New Zealand singer-songwriter Mel Parsons returns to the stage this September with her highly anticipated Castle Hill Tour, celebrating the release of her latest album.
Known for her heartfelt songwriting and captivating blend of indie folk and alt-country, Mel has become one of Aotearoa's most respected artists. Backed by her longtime band, audiences can look forward to an evening of soaring harmonies, rich musicianship, and songs that are both deeply personal and wonderfully uplifting.
The concert will feature tracks from Castle Hill, recorded in the stunning Southern Alps, including fan favourites Post High Slide, Brick By Brick, Be Here Now, and Grain by Grain. With a career spanning more than 15 years and multiple New Zealand Music Awards, including Best Folk Artist, Mel Parsons continues to captivate audiences with her authentic storytelling and unforgettable live performances.
Whether you're already a fan or discovering her music for the first time, this promises to be a memorable evening of outstanding New Zealand music.
Suzanne Vega 6 September 2026 St James Theatre
Experience an evening with one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the past four decades as Suzanne Vega returns to Wellington for a special live performance.
Renowned for her distinctive voice and thoughtful storytelling, Suzanne has captivated audiences around the world with timeless classics including Tom's Diner, Luka, and Marlene on the Wall. Her Wellington concert will feature these much-loved favourites alongside songs from her acclaimed 2025 album, Flying with Angels.
Joined on stage by longtime guitarist Gerry Leonard and cellist Stephanie Winters, Suzanne's performance promises an intimate and unforgettable evening of beautifully crafted music.
Whether you've followed her career since the 1980s or are discovering her music for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to see a true musical icon perform live.
Colossal 12 September | Michael Fowler Centre
Prepare for an evening of music on an epic scale as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra presents Colossal; a spectacular concert showcasing the power, emotion, and grandeur of live orchestral performance.
The programme opens with the world premiere of Joshua Pearson's Digital Fenua: Fakatili Te Kiloga Fou, an exciting new work inspired by contemporary Pacific identity and culture. The evening then builds to Hector Berlioz's monumental Requiem, one of the largest and most awe-inspiring choral works ever composed. Featuring a massive orchestra, choir, and brass ensembles, it's a musical experience that is both breathtaking and unforgettable.
Whether you're a devoted classical music enthusiast or simply looking to witness something truly extraordinary, Colossal promises a performance unlike any other.
World of WearableArt® Show: GLO! 17 September – 4 October | TSB Arena
Prepare to be amazed as the World of WearableArt® (WOW) Show returns to Wellington with its spectacular new production, GLO!
Recognised as New Zealand's largest live entertainment event, WOW is a breathtaking fusion of fashion, theatre, music, dance, aerial performance, and cutting-edge visual effects. Every year, artists and designers from around the world push the boundaries of creativity, transforming wearable art into unforgettable performances.
This year's theme, GLO!, promises six dazzling acts packed with colour, imagination, and high-energy entertainment. Every extraordinary garment you see on stage is a finalist in the prestigious World of WearableArt competition, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship, innovation, and storytelling from some of the world's most talented designers.
Whether you're attending for the first time or returning to experience the magic again, WOW is unlike anything else you'll ever see and one of Wellington's signature events.
Make the most of your WOW experience with a stay at Sojourn Ghuznee. Located just a short walk from TSB Arena, it's the perfect place to relax after an unforgettable evening of world-class entertainment.
Emerging Artists 23 September 2026 Michael Fowler Centre
Discover the future of New Zealand classical music as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra's Emerging Artists concert showcases some of Aotearoa's most outstanding young musical talent.
This inspiring performance gives gifted young musicians the opportunity to perform as soloists and alongside the NZSO, highlighting the next generation of performers destined for the world's concert stages. Many past participants have gone on to enjoy successful careers, appearing as soloists with the NZSO, the New Zealand Youth Orchestra, and leading orchestras throughout the country.
Whether you're a lifelong classical music enthusiast or simply looking for an uplifting cultural experience, Emerging Artists offers a wonderful opportunity to witness tomorrow's stars in an unforgettable live performance.
Matilda The Musical 23 September – 11 October | St James Theatre
One of the world's most beloved musicals is coming to Wellington! Matilda The Musical, inspired by Roald Dahl's timeless children's classic, is set to delight audiences of all ages with its unforgettable story, spectacular performances, and award-winning music by Tim Minchin.
Having captivated more than 11 million theatre-goers worldwide and won over 100 international awards, this acclaimed production follows the extraordinary Matilda - a bright young girl with a remarkable imagination, a love of books, and a determination to change her own destiny. Alongside the kind-hearted Miss Honey and a spirited group of "revolting children," Matilda stands up to the fearsome Miss Trunchbull in a heartwarming tale of courage, friendship, and believing in yourself.
Filled with dazzling choreography, catchy songs, laugh-out-loud moments, and plenty of theatrical magic, Matilda The Musical is the perfect family outing these school holidays.
Verb Wellington Literary Festival 25–27 September | Various Wellington Venues
Celebrate the power of stories as the Verb Wellington Literary Festival returns for three inspiring days of books, ideas, and conversation.
A highlight of New Zealand's literary calendar, Verb brings together acclaimed authors, emerging writers, poets, journalists, and storytellers from Aotearoa and around the world. The festival features an exciting programme of author talks, panel discussions, workshops, and special events, offering something for passionate readers, aspiring writers, and anyone who loves great ideas.
Whether you're discovering a new favourite author, hearing behind-the-scenes stories about the writing process, or joining lively conversations on culture, history, and current affairs, Verb is a wonderful way to experience Wellington's vibrant creative scene.
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.
