From unique art exhibitions to film and theatre, vintage cars, choirs and cuisine, we've picked some of the best things to see and do around Aotearoa this winter.
Visa Wellington on a Plate
Wellington's culinary scene comes alive this August with the return of Wellington on a Plate. Running from August 1 to 31, WOAP celebrates the city's finest food and drink, with a host of events, pop-ups, and special menus.
Wellington on a Plate 1-31 August. For more information and to book your culinary adventures, visit www.visawoap.com
New Zealand International Film Festival
Cinephiles across Aotearoa are in for a treat this winter as the Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) arrives in theatres nationwide. From 31 July to 4 September, immerse yourself in a curated selection of cutting-edge cinema from around the globe, with screenings in cities across the motu.
New Zealand International Film Festival, 31 July - 4 September. Visit www.nziff.co.nz for schedules and ticket information.
Christchurch Art Gallery exhibitions
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū presents a dazzling array of exhibitions this season, including a retrospective on the influential New Zealand artist Marilynn Webb. Running from 8 June to 13 October, explore Webb's evocative prints and paintings in the Folded in the Hills exhibition, alongside a variety of other local and international talents.
For more details, visit www.christchurchartgallery.org.nz
WOW: Dream Awake, Wellington
Prepare to be mesmerised by the World of WearableArt (WOW) as it returns to Wellington with this year’s Dream Awake show. Fashion, art, and theatre converge at the TSB Arena with performances, aerial artistry and state-of-the art staging.
WOW: Dream Awake 26 September -13 October. For more details and to buy tickets, visit www.worldofwearableart.com
Vintage Car Club Daffodil Rally
Hundreds of classic cars will take to the streets this 25 August as part of the Vintage Car Club's Daffodil Rally for Cancer. This family-friendly event showcases a stunning array of vintage vehicles, on the road or on display, to raise money for the Cancer Society.
To find out more about your local Daffodil Rally, visit www.vcc.org.nz
Alpine Winter Festival, Hanmer Springs
Held in the picturesque village of Hanmer Springs, the Apline Winter Festival offers a winter wonderland getaway with plenty of family fun, including ice skating, light displays and a range of winter activities for all ages. Experience the magic of winter at the Alpine Winter Festival from 6 to 16 July.
Alpine Winter Festival, 6-16 July. Visit www.alpinewinterfestival.co.nz for details.
World Choir Games, Auckland
More than 11,000 singers from over 30 countries will visit Auckland from 10 to 20 July for the World Choir Games. Dubbed the Olympics of choral music, this international event brings together singers of all ages and backgrounds for a celebration of musical excellence and cultural exchange. Enjoy a series of concerts, competitions, ceremonies, workshops and more from Aotearoa and beyond.
World Choir Games, 10-20 July. For more information and tickets, visit www.worldchoirgames.com
Explore more from AA Directions magazine while you're here:
- Tips for new owners on how to make the most of your EV.
- Suburban spice: visit Sandringham in Auckland to sample authentic South Indian cuisine.
- Road trip: head to the central North Island for indulgent hot pool experiences.