For those of you who haven’t managed to escape your city for labour weekend, don’t worry there are plenty of fun city-based activities on hand to keep you entertained. In fact, those of you who have waved goodbye to the city life will be left feeling pretty gutted that you’re missing out on this epic line-up.
From a boozy German-inspired festival, an outdoor music extravaganza, an Alice in Wonderland themed party, and epic light installations at MOTAT, you’re truly spoilt for choice. With only a day to go until the long weekend, you better get planning.
Check out the awesome events happening in and around New Zealand this weekend.
Oktoberfest
As much as we would all love to celebrate Oktoberfest in Germany, we know COVID has made that impossible, but never fear—K' road is delivering the goods by bringing Oktoberfest to us. Quench your thirst at this beer extravaganza—expect German music, German food, and most importantly, German beer! Whip out your lederhosen and bust out the Schuhplattler to live Bavarian folk bands and DJs. It’s going to be a wild one, so get amongst the fun and celebrate all things Deutschland.
Somersby FREQS Out EAST
As it’s long weekend Sunday is technically like another Saturday, so with that in mind go and get loose at Somersby FREQS out EAST. After eight sell-out shows the one-day festival is back at it again with a stellar line-up of NZ’s top DJs. George FM in association with Jägermeister is bringing their outdoor fest to life, with an intergalactic themed extravaganza. It’s one not to be missed!
Spring Classic
No plans for Labour Day weekend this month? Join George FM for a Sunday sesh like no other at the beautiful Matakana Stables. Spring Classic will bring you plenty of fun in the sun as well as some sick beats from Flowidus, Ekko and Sidetrack, Trei, P-money, Sin, Bad manners, Teto and Sammie.
Wonderland
Take a journey down the rabbit hole and discover the unknown. If you’re up for a musical extravaganza, then head to Auckland Town Hall for an immersive experience like no other. Wonderland is home to house, techno, drum 'n' bass and everything in between, so it’s guaranteed to be a wild night.
Night Lights At MOTAT
MOTAT is turning their heritage buildings, streetscapes and trams into beautifully lit works of art. Light-based art installations, created by New Zealand artists, will take over MOTAT as well as heaps of live acts to keep you entertained—think live music, aerial performances and a variety of food trucks to fill your bellies. Be sure to check it out over the long weekend.
Mary Poppins
Hold on to your umbrella, Mary Poppins is coming to town. The supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical is hitting The Civic this month and we couldn’t be more excited! Watch as your childhood dreams unravel in front of your very eyes. The magical story of the world's fave nanny is brought to the stage by the same people who brought us the sold-out season of Les Mis last year and Mary Poppins promises to be just as popular with its epic effects and unforgettable songs.
Q&A Screening Of Baby Done
If you love The Breaker Upperers and Hunt for the Wilderpeople then you're going to love new Kiwi flick, Baby Done, starring award-winning comedian Rose Matafeo and English actor Matthew Lewis (who you may know as Nevil from Harry Potter). Wannabe-adventurer Zoe freaks out when she falls pregnant to her long-term boyfriend Tim. As Tim embraces the prospect of fatherhood, Zoe attempts to rush through her dreams. Sounds like your thing? Then how about a special Q&A screening this weekend at Wellington's Embassy Theatre, where you get to delve into the minds of filmmakers Sophie Henderson, Curtis Vowell, Emily Barclay and musician, radio host & super mum, Anika Moa.
Wellington Diwali Festival
Wellington Diwali Festival takes over TSB Bank Arena this weekend to Celebrate Wellington's vibrant Indian culture. Join in the free festivities, with an exciting array of live music and dance, street theatre and plenty of workshops. Sink your teeth into the delectable range of Indian cuisine, whilst taking in the magical fireworks display.
Heading to Queenstown? Be sure to check out this epic new Mexican joint.
Image credit: Yang Miao