Opus Orchestra presents Beethoven Unwrapped

Let Opus Orchestra take you on a journey of discovery into one of the real gems of Beethoven’s works. With guest conductor Michael Joel as your musical guide, Beethoven Unwrapped! invites audiences to experience Beethoven’s Symphony No. 4 in a way they’ve never heard before. In a new concept developed by Opus Orchestra in 2025, Michael and the orchestra will “unwrap” the music in the first half of the concert—bringing out key themes, rhythms, and harmonies, and sharing insights into Beethoven’s ideas and emotions through the music itself. This is not a lecture, but an invitation: an open, playful, and informal way to get closer to Beethoven’s genius. After a break with the chance to chat to the musicians, the orchestra returns to perform the entire symphony in full. With new understanding and familiarity, the second half becomes an unforgettable listening experience. Known for his energy and ability to connect with audiences, Hamilton-based conductor Michael Joel has stood on the Opus Orchestra podium twice before in much-loved performances of Hairy Maclary’s Greatest Hits and Carnival of the Animals. He has also been leading the orchestra’s community outreach work to local libraries for 2 years. Michael is passionate about making orchestral music accessible, exciting and fun for all.

Tauranga Public Lecture - Bislama

A case study in language ingenuity. Withover 130 indigenous languages spoken across its 83 islands, is Vanuatu the mostlinguistically diverse nation in the world. Born from contact with European andother Pacific languages, Bislama is now one of Vanuatu's official languages. Tocelebrate Vanuatu Bislama Language Week, this presentation will explore thehistory of one of the youngest languages in the world and the ways it issimilar and different to the languages that played a part in its development.

Creatures great and small - an evening of poetry

Join us for an evening of poetry, musings and insights, as Stephanie Smith, local poet and historian, shares her latest findings. Even if you don’t live with a pet to boost your wellbeing and sense of home, chances are that animals of some kind are still part of your everyday life. Our houses and gardens harbour many small creatures – insects, spiders, snails, birds. Some of them might not be so welcome, especially when they come indoors. But they are all interesting to observe and to write about. If you recall Stephanie’s poetry evening from last year, you won’t be surprised to learn that there are a few saints in the mix too. Some saints had remarkable relationships with animals and could make friends with the fiercest. Lions and wolves were apparently just as able as humans to recognise sanctity when they saw it.

Free Mums & Bubs training session

BreastFriend, the Tauranga-founded brand behind The Breasties wearable breast pump, has partnered with The Lab — NZ's flagship hybrid training facility — to gift local new mums a free MUM CLUB session. The initiative is founder-led: BreastFriend's Marie-Claire Houtsmuller built the brand after struggling to find adequate pumps or support as a first-time, exclusively pumping mother. She was also in need of a village, and this is what this is. MUM CLUB is a baby-friendly training session designed to give new parents a rare hour to move, connect, and recharge — babies and prams welcome, no cost to attend. Quote from Marie-Claire Houtsmuller, Founder, BreastFriend NZ:

Don't Act Your Age: Author Talk with Leigh Elder

Getting older is inevitable but feeling old is not. Join author Leigh Elder as he shares how a wake-up call in his seventies reshaped his approach to health, fitness, and everyday life. Drawing on insights from his book Don’t Act Your Age, Leigh explores why we often delay looking after ourselves, and how simple, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference over time. This engaging session will cover movement, strength, nutrition, and mindset, with a focus on practical ways to boost energy, maintain independence, and support long-term wellbeing. If you want more energy and a better quality of life as you get older, this session may challenge your thinking and inspire action.

Tofiga – Fresh Since Ages Ago

“Fresh Since Ages Ago” is a collection of hilarious skits bringing back Tofiga’s family characters like Aunty Tala, Uncle Sam, Kung Fu master Tavita and also introducing new characters to the mix. Working together with social media sensation and content creator Laban Miller this show is going to take “fresh” to a whole new level. Don’t miss this great show full of laughter and music!

Tauranga Taps Beer Festival

Tauranga Taps Launches Inaugural Craft Beer Festival Celebrating Bay of Plenty Breweries Local craft beer community Tauranga Taps is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Tauranga Taps Beer Festival, bringing together some of the Bay of Plenty's finest independent breweries for an afternoon of great beer, food and community. The festival will be held on Saturday 8 August 2026 and will feature six local breweries, food vendors, live entertainment and the opportunity for beer lovers to discover and sample a wide range of locally crafted beers.

Salon Risqué - ReVulva a Spy Story

Salon Risqué: ReVulva A Burlesque cabaret where glamour meets espionage and the fate of the world rests in the hands of the fabulously fierce Curves O Plenty. With funds running dry and stakes running high, the Curves must go undercover—serving secrets, seduction, and swagger—to save the day. Featuring sensational guest stars from across Aotearoa, this is a high-camp, high-heat adventure is packed with cheeky comedy, sultry tease, and outrageous twists. Funny. Sexy. Slightly unhinged.

Rolling In The Deep – Songs Of Adele - Sung by Caitriona Fallon

International vocalist Caitríona Fallon, former lead-singer for Riverdance the Show and Tarnished Frock and Divas, is joined by her 10-piece band to present a selection of your favourite Adele tunes. Caitríona takes us on a journey of the emotional, exhilarating and vulnerable work that Adele has produced through the years. Passionate lyrics written through experience – relatable to her audience and cementing Adele’s position as one of the best singers of our time. Performed in a theatre setting, Caitríona’s exquisite and passionate performance will be accompanied by backing vocalists and live musicians led by Musical Director Mark Dennison. A two-hour showcase of Adele’s songs spanning three decades including Chasing Pavements, Rumour Has It, Hello, Set Fire to the Rain, Rolling in the Deep and many more.

The Music of Leonard Cohen - That's How the Light Gets In

Presented by Imperfect Offering Acclaimed nine-piece band Imperfect Offering presents That's How the Light Gets In — a concert commemorating the enduring spirit of Leonard Cohen. The performance includes many of Cohen's most loved songs - "Suzanne", "Hallelujah", "First We Take Manhattan", "Bird on the Wire", "Dance Me to the End of Love", "If It Be Your Will", and "Anthem" - Ring the bells that still can ring / Forget your perfect offering / There is a crack in everything / That's how the light gets in. Imperfect Offering has been performing around Aotearoa since 2016 to sell-out audiences and the warmest praise - "you guys are better than the original!" "the best night of music I've been to in many many years" "a profound experience".

TMBC Biosecurity Symposium

Biosecurity in a rapidly changing world. Join us for an informative and interactive day designed for everyone dedicated to the future of our environment. We will be joined by biosecurity doers and thinkers who are navigating this new reality and creating change.

Hawkins Community Open Day - Tauranga High and District Court Project

Hawkins Community Open Day - Tauranga High and District Court Project Rā Tuwhera a Hapori - Te Koti Matua Me Te Koti A-Rohe O Tauranga The community is invited to a special open day at the Tauranga High and District Court construction site, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s major public projects.

EPIC Families LIVE

Extraordinary Parents. Incredible Children. EPIC Families. Experience the playbook for raising the unique minds who will change the world. Bay Paediatrics brings you New Zealand's largest event for neurodiverse families — and this year, we're more EPIC than ever. Beyond awareness. Beyond survival. Beyond just getting through the day. On stage: Sonia Gray: TVNZ host, actress & host of the award-winning No Such Thing As Normal podcast. Diagnosed with ADHD, raising a daughter under the neurodivergent umbrella.

An afternoon with Deborah Wai Kapohe

Inachord Singers Tauranga are proud to invite you to a warm, community‑minded afternoon with Southland soprano treasure Deborah Wai Kapohe. Deborah will share stories from her extensive and varied professional career — a life lived across opera, contemporary Māori music, musical theatre, songwriting, guitar performance, arts leadership, and law. Bring a cushion (though seats provided!) and your favourite mug to maximise feeling at home, and settle into a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere as she opens the door to her creative world with humour, insight, and generosity. Following an intensive workshop the day prior, the afternoon will also feature a small selection of songs from both Deborah Wai Kapohe and Inachord Singers Tauranga, offering a gentle touch of live music to complement the storytelling. With afternoon tea available, free tickets for children under twelve and a portion of proceeds supporting local charities, this gathering promises inspiration, wonder, beauty, and through fellowship, genuine community spirit. Come for the stories, stay for the songs, leave with connection.

Front of House Accessibility Training Workshop

Welcoming Deaf and disabled visitors to Baycourt: front of house accessibility workshop. Part of the new training series facilitated by Arts Access Aotearoa. Learn how to provide an accessible, dignified and equitable events experience to all visitors, and gain more confidence in your abilities to meet the needs of Deaf and disabled people. For all levels of experience with accessibility in the arts, the session is ideal for theatre, venue and event staff and anyone working in front of house and customer facing roles.

2026 National Poetry Day: Poetry readings plus Lines & Lyrics poetry competition

2026 National Poetry Day Event We are calling for poetry-lovers, both readers and writers, to join Lines & Lyrics for a celebration of poetry!

HobbyCon Card and Collectibles event

HobbyCon comes to Tauranga! HobbyCon brings collectors, players, vendors, and hobby enthusiasts together for a huge day of buying, selling, trading, and connecting with the community. Explore a packed show floor featuring trading cards, sports cards, collectibles, and plenty of hidden finds.

Aroha String Quartet

Acclaimed as demonstrating “accomplished brilliance, soulfulness and sublime intensity in perfect balance and tonal unity” (The Dominion Post), the Aroha String Quartet is firmly established as one of New Zealand’s finest chamber music ensembles. Violins: Haihong Liu & Konstanze Artmann Viola: Eli Vincent

Harp in the Library

Come along to hear our very own local artist, Margaret Harper, play a selection of enchanting music and song. Experience the beauty and sound of the harp, this most magical instrument, whilst you browse our collections. Hear Margaret at all our branches:

2026 NPC & FPC | Double Header | Steamers vs Manawatu | Volcanix vs Canterbury

The action kicks off at Tauranga Domain on Saturday, 5th September with the Volcanix taking on Canterbury, followed by the Steamers facing Manawatu Rugby. Don’t miss this full day of rugby, from the speed and skill of the Volcanix to the power and intensity of the Steamers, it’s a showcase of NPC rugby at Tauranga Domain. Tickets on sale now!

New Zealand Mountain Film Festival - Tauranga

The 2026 New Zealand Mountain Film Festival was held in Wanaka and Queenstown from 18-23 June. A selection of top films will be selected to showcase the best of the best, featuring films from New Zealand and around the world. This September the festival will be screened at Tauranga Boys College. The night promises to have a mix of action-packed excitement, high drama, and inspiration for your own next great adventure.

Latin American Spring Festival

Celebrate the spirit of Latin America in Tauranga! The Latin American Spring Festival returns in 2026 for a vibrant celebration of culture, community and connection. Join us for a full day of live music, spectacular dance performances, authentic cuisine, cultural experiences and family-friendly entertainment as we showcase the rich traditions of Latin America right here in the Bay of Plenty.

2026 NPC & FPC | Double header | Steamers vs Hawkes Bay | Volcanix vs Auckland

It’s a massive double header at Tauranga Domain! The “Battle of the Bays” sees the Steamers go head-to-head with Hawke’s Bay, after the Volcanix clash with Auckland to kick things off. Expect big hits, fast rugby, and plenty of Bay pride on the line. Be there. Feel the action.

FLAME: Reconnect with What Matters

There’s no shortage of advice about productivity, wellbeing, performance and happiness. This is something different. After almost two decades guiding audiences around the world, Brad Hook brings FLAME home to Tauranga. An evening of stories, neuroscience and practical tools for reconnecting with what matters most. There are demonstrations, laughter and a little magic.

2026 FPC | Volcanix vs Counties Manukau Rugby

The Bay of Plenty Volcanix take on Counties Manukau Women's Rugby in an exciting Farah Palmer Cup clash. Expect a fast, physical contest as the Volcanix showcase their skill, speed, and determination on home soil. Kick-off to be confirmed.

Oktoberfest Tauranga 2026

The German Beer Festival returns to The Cargo Shed, Tauranga Waterfront on Saturday 3 October 2026 — after a sold-out event last year. Think long tables, steins in hand, live music, and a lively beer hall atmosphere. Expect great beer, hearty food, interactive games, and a high-energy night out with friends. Your ticket includes a take-home stein, first beer on arrival, a warm pretzel, and access to all entertainment throughout the evening.

2026 NPC | Steamers vs North Harbour

The Bay of Plenty Steamers host North Harbour Rugby at Tauranga Domain for their final regular season home game of the year. Make it a Sunday well spent - come enjoy fast-paced NPC rugby, big hits, and a chance to cheer the Steamers on as they close out the season at Tauranga Domain. Tickets on sale now!

Creedence Clearwater Collective 2026

Presented by Carter Entertainment You're invited to a night of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty, as we celebrate the music of one of the world’s most iconic bands – from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others. From their album debut in 1968 to their last album in 1972, CCR was a juggernaut of phenomenal proportions. No other band has created such an impact in such a short time.

Macy Gray Live

Following her sensational sold-out 2024 tour, Macy Gray returns for her largest ever tour of Australia and New Zealand - and this time, Tauranga Arts Festival is proudly part of the journey. This is not just a concert tour - Macy Gray Live is a festival of soul. With over 25 million records sold worldwide, a Grammy Award, two BRIT Awards, and 10 studio albums spanning more than two decades, Macy Gray is one of the greatest R&B and soul artists of her generation - and Australia and New Zealand loved her first. I Try went straight to number one, while On How Life spent 44 weeks on the New Zealand Albums Chart - a long time before America fully caught on. Nobody puts on a show like Macy Gray. Expect a celebration of her chart-topping hits including I Try, Still, Do Something, Sexual Revolution, Sweet Baby, and so much more, plus her brand new single - the classic I'm Too Sexy from the upcoming album The Trouble with the Truth.

Tauranga Diwali Festival 2026

The clock is counting down for this Tauranga Diwali Festival for 2026 and preparations are well underway behind the scenes! We're already dreaming, planning, and building our wishlist of performers for the Diwali stage. If you are a lover of classical dance, Bollywood, Bhangra, kirtan music, drama performances, delicious Indian cuisine...this is for you, for only a gold coin donation at the entry gate. We will be showcasing some of Aotearoa's most established dancers, as well as artists breaking through as rising talents - with plenty more to be announced.

Beatlemania On Tour

Presented by Showtime The sound of a generation, and the music that has influenced every generation since – that’s The Beatles. And now you can relive the heyday of The Beatles with Beatlemania On Tour! Hear the greatest Pop and Rock songs ever written, performed live with exquisite attention to detail and in their original key, and brought to life on stage with authentic costumes, replica instruments and theatrical lighting.

Barkfest - Tauranga

Barkfest is the ultimate day out for everyone – whether you have a dog, love dogs, or simply want a fun-filled day with plenty to see, do, and enjoy with the whole family. There is something for everyone and every dog, with food, stalls, face painting, photo booths, masterclasses, and competitions for the everyday dog and their best friends. Following the success of the inaugural Cambridge event, Barkfest is excited to add a Tauranga event in 2026!

TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music

Presented by Showtime It was the biggest concert tour in history, and now you can re-live the hype when THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music comes to Baycourt Community & Arts Centre on Sunday, 22nd November 2026! Join us as we salute ‘Tay Tay’ and the indelible impact she’s had on Pop music with this joyous, effervescent concert experience, complete with sparkly costumes, cosmic stage production and over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career, including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.

Best of the Bee Gees “Greatest” Show

Following their highly successful Saturday Night Fever Tour in 2025, the Best of the Bee Gees returns to Tauranga on Sunday 28th February to honour the Bee Gees album, “Greatest”, with iconic disco, ballads and songs written by the brothers for other legends. Endorsed by the Gibb family and original Bee Gees musicians, the core trio of Evan Webster (Barry Gibb), Russell Davey (Robin Gibb) and Greg Wain (Maurice Gibb), will be joined by special guests Cousins Gibb - Nick Endacott Gibb (Maurice Gibb’s son) and Debora McLane (Bee Gees’ niece). Evan Webster is the creator, producer and co-ordinator of the Best of the Bee Gees and has portrayed Barry Gibb for almost 3 decades, performing with his ‘on the road family’ throughout Australia, New Zealand, Manila, the UK and more.

The Traveling Wilburys Collection

Harrison. Petty. Orbison. Dylan. Lynne. The Traveling Wilburys. There’s never been a group, let alone a supergroup, in rock history quite like it. 4 years, 2 mega albums, a slew of hits, and a Grammy But the one thing they never did was tour. That is.. until now.. The Traveling Wilburys Collection bring together the collective talents, excitement, and magic that the original had to offer. Live. On stage. Like never before.

Running in the Shadows of Fleetwood Mac

Australia’s most celebrated Fleetwood Mac tribute, Running in the Shadows, are set to hit the road again, bringing the timeless music of Fleetwood Mac to audiences across the country. Renowned as Australia’s "longest-running Fleetwood Mac tribute", Running in the Shadows have earned their reputation for delivering authentic, high-energy performances that capture the essence of one of the world’s most loved bands. From Gypsy and Landslide to Rhiannon, Dreams, Go Your Own Way, and The Chain, the band faithfully recreates Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits spanning over five decades. Fronted by the charismatic Ursula Cain Stewart and powerhouse vocalist Bec Caruana, the six-piece ensemble is backed by an exceptional lineup of world-class musicians. Together, they channel the spirit, passion, and harmony that made Fleetwood Mac legendary.

Iti Pounamu - Toddler Time

Tuesdays 10.30-11am Songs, stories and fun for under 5’s. Iti Pounamu sessions are free and run during term time.

Wharf Street Winter Sessions

Wharf Street Sessions are back, offering Tauranga top-quality, free and live music for 8 weeks over the winter and to keep your Fridays vibing! Grab a bite to eat or a drink at one of our wonderful bars and restaurants along Wharf Street and boogie all evening long! Wrapping up warm is recommended! From 3rd July until late August, every Friday, from 6pm!

Sunday Board Games Group

Play, connect and have fun! Looking for a fun way to spend Sunday? Come along to our board games session. Whether you’re looking for players to join your game or a game to join, there’s something for every type of player. Our Sunday sessions give people the opportunity to learn and play longer strategic board games, as well as provide a space for families to play a game together, and for friends to take part in some 'friendly' competition.

Genealogy Drop-in at the Library

Need help with your family research? Call in at a drop-in genealogy help session hosted by local genealogy experts. Bring along your laptop if you have one and any details you have already collected. Free. No booking required.

Lines and Lyrics - Tauranga

Lines and Lyrics runs twice a month, at Greerton and Tauranga library An invitation to poets and poets-to-be. Meetings are informal, but focused sessions, that can help you with your poetry, both writing and performance, by interacting with others and learning from their responses.

Book Chat at Tauranga Library

Discover new parts of your Library with monthly themes and enjoy the company of our friendly group. For more information email library@tauranga.govt.nz Monthly themes:

Lights! Camera! Murder! - Christmas Murder Mystery

Looking for the perfect Christmas, End of Year, Midwinter or Mid-year night out with a deadly difference? Time to put on your detective hat to "Witness the Drama, Solve the mystery, Win the Prize!" “Get in on the action” with the new ‘Killer Night Out’ murder mystery dinner show, featuring a talented international cast of professional actors and comedians as The Prime Suspects. The Scene: You are hired as background extras on the set of a famous Director’s upcoming murder mystery movie. So don’t worry, you can sit back and enjoy as we’ll leave the real drama to the professionals! But will there be a “real” murder mystery within the murder mystery, turning innocent observers into the evening’s unwitting detectives? Catering for up to 120 guests per night, this show is ideal for companies as a team-building event or for smaller social groups and couples as part of a mixed-audience experience. Guests will mix, mingle and make friends as they enjoy a fabulous buffet dinner and a full evening of professional quality entertainment. Shows commence at 7pm with comedy, drama, high interaction and mystery until the dramatic finale at around 10pm, finishing with prizes before music and dancing until late.

Kawhe Whawhe

Nau kake mai, nau haere mai ki te Kawhe-whawhe! He reo Māori tāu? Kei te kimi koe I tētahi wahi anō ki te kōrero Māori? Koinei te kauapa tika māu!

Fiero Code Club - Term 3

Learn to code with friends, using the Fiero code platform. Learn how to build websites, video games, phone apps, and learn different coding languages. This is a self-guided, self-paced class that uses the FieroCode platform. Coders will direct their own learning through real life projects and tutorials and can share their learning with other coders.

Wild City Trail

Calling all explorers! Are you ready for an adventure? Nine local animals are hiding around Grey Street and they’re waiting for you to find them all! Grab a pencil, print the activity sheet and set off on a fun family trail through the city centre.

Alpha Pre-Marriage Course

Whether you are engaged or considering marriage, the Pre-Marriage Course helps couples build a strong foundation for a lifelong relationship. Instead of focusing on the wedding day, it focuses on what comes after — communication, conflict, finances, expectations, family, intimacy, and shared values. This course provides a relaxed and practical space for couples to connect, reflect, and grow together. Each session guides you through important conversations that many couples avoid until later in marriage. You will learn tools for better communication, handling conflict well, understanding each other’s backgrounds, and building alignment around money and future goals.

Italian Film Festival

In its eleventh year, the New Zealand Italian Film Festival brings a slice of Italy to the Luxe Cinema for three stellar weeks, 15 July-5 August. Owned and curated by an Italian filmmaker living in Hawke's Bay, Paolo Rotondo, the festival is as authentic as it is entertaining, with films ranging from dramas to documentaries, comedies to thrillers, historical to romance and even a couple of westerns. Don't miss the three weeks of the year Italy comes to Tauranga in all its colour and glory!

9 to 5 The Musical

Presented by Stage Right Trust Tumble outta bed and stumble to Dolly Parton’s hilarious musical! With a rip-roaring score by the Queen of Country, 9 to 5 The Musical is set in 1979 and tells the story of three workmates pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss. Concocting a plan to kidnap and turn the tables on their despicable boss, will the ladies manage to reform their office, or will events unravel when the Chairman of the Board pays an unexpected visit?

Tumble Time - Haumaru

BayActive has plenty of fun lined up to keep your preschool children aged 0–5 years active and entertained with Tumble Time at The University of Waikato Haumaru Sport & Recreation Centre! Have fun with moon hoppers, scooters, trikes, bikes, balls, balancing and gymnastic equipment, mega blocks, Little Tikes cars and much more. Tumble Time is designed to develop children's physical skills of balance, co-ordination, climbing, agility and fine motor skills. As this is a group environment, children also have the chance to develop their social skills as well as being a fantastic opportunity for parents to meet new friends too! No booking is required. Lock in the date and come along with your little one to get socialising at this fun and stimulating preschool playgroup!

Te Tira Toiere - Waiata Wenerei 2026

Nau Mai - Tomo Mai - Waiata Mai. Sing along to your favourite Waiata Māori: local anthems, waiata Matariki, and some old-school throwbacks. Lyrics provided. Led by Jeremy Hantler of local legends The Harmonic Resonators and supported by the Waiata Wēnerei crew from Tauranga City Council.

Afterschool Sew Love Club

This is your opportunity to learn to sew, flex your creativity, have some fun crafting and take home some special, unique items and garments, made by you! Each session we will have a special project to work on (patterns and fabrics included). If you'd like to work on a project that takes longer you can use these sessions for extra help on that journey. All sewing levels welcome! Sarah Sew Love is a self-proclaimed “hype girl for YOUR sustainable sewing journey”! She’s been sewing, blogging, gramming and teaching sewing for over 10 years through her sewcial enterprise Sew Love and she’s now calling Tauranga home. Sarah’s known for popping up workshops all over NZ; alongside markets, conferences, schools, community houses & recycle centres to share her passion for sewing skills and sustainable living. “DIYing the reusables we need, repairing the things we love, embracing sewing slow and sewing together with others - it all makes our lives more special!” In recent years she’s mostly known for her sellout upcycled scrap bum bags and dancing around on instagram but hosting workshops is her homebase of happiness. Rest assured the energy is just the same in real life so come join one of her workshops this winter in our Social Fabric room. With big smiles and rainbow fabric scraps, her workshops always provide a safe space and encouragement for everyone’s creativity and self-expression through sewing. Check out Sarah's website - www.sewlove.nz and be sure to follow her on Instagram - @sewlovenz and Facebook - Sew Love.

Alan Davies - Think Ahead Tour

Presented by Live Nation “One of the best stand-up comics out there” Guardian “Deeply funny” Big Issue

Lecture Series: Māori Art Through the Lens of Te Ao Māori

We are excited to announce Julie Paama-Pengell's four-part lecture series, Māori Art Through the Lens of Te Ao Māori, on Wednesdays, 5–26 Aug 2026, 5.30–7pm, at Toi Tauranga Art Gallery. This series explores the vitality of Ngā Toi Māori, using Julie Paama-Pengelly’s book Māori Art and Design (2010) as the foundation for examining the essential legacies of Māori creative practice. Māori art is framed as a dynamic, unbroken – though often shaken – lineage of values that persists through a changing, frequently challenging environment. In these lectures, we will explore how the artist’s hand ensures that customary practices evolve to embrace new possibilities while remaining a living embodiment of cultural authority – an uncompromising assertion of a core identity that empowers Māori to represent themselves as they see themselves, as Māori.

The Little Big Markets Tauranga Waterfront

We're bringing the magic of The Little Big Markets to the other side of the bridge! Join us from 10am–2pm on the Tauranga Waterfront for our monthly market filled with local artisan stalls, live music, free workshops, lawn games and more! Soak up the sun, support local, and enjoy all the good vibes you know and love from TLBM - now in the heart of the city!

Hayley Sproull - Sproull on the Prowl

What happens when a 36 year old walking tornado heads back out on the prowl after 15 years off? You’re about to find out. Cashing in hall passes. Stifling farts. Misreading what is in those wall pumps at the sex club. Even venturing into the depths of an Indonesian bush for an encounter with Jesus himself…

Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival

The largest film festival in the country is back! It’s the ultimate cinematic experience. Your winter just got a whole lot warmer with a wide selection of feature films, short films, and documentaries — all courtesy of the New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF). It’s all lights, camera, and action when the annual NZIFF presents 14 action-packed days of film over August and September. Artistic Director Paolo Bertolin and his team of film curators have scoured the world for independent, quirky, and award-winning movies. For 2026, this includes coming-of-age drama, a Mexican erotic thriller, campy animation, a Japanese exploration of grief, and a Kiwi mockumentary. Catch the diverse range of incredible cinema at Luxe Tauranga!

Third Space Symphony No. 2

After a completely sold-out debut season in 2025, Third Space Symphony returns to Baycourt for an even bigger celebration of pop, rock and disco — this time across two spectacular nights. Featuring the musicians of Third Space alongside a full symphony orchestra, Third Space Symphony No.2 reimagines some of the greatest songs of all time with the power, scale and excitement that only a live orchestra can bring. From soaring ballads and iconic movie themes to arena-rock anthems and dance-floor classics, this is a concert packed with unforgettable music and moments. Audiences can look forward to orchestral renditions of favourites from Queen, ABBA, Elton John, Adele, Journey, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Robbie Williams, The Beatles, Toto, Bon Jovi, Shania Twain, Split Enz and many more.

Barrels By the Bay - Whisky Fest

Barrels By the Bay – Tauranga’s Premier Whisky Experience is back at The Cargo Shed for 2026! Whether you're a longtime collector or simply enjoy a well-poured glass, you’ll find plenty to discover, straight from the cask to your glass. Wander, swirl, and sample your way through a curated lineup of standout whiskies, from homegrown craft pours to international classics. Meet the makers, compare notes, and enjoy the kind of whisky conversations that only happen over a good pour. Your ticket includes samples from all exhibiting brands, plus access to a fully stocked on-site bar serving up your favourite drams in signature cocktails.

Wicked

Step into the magical world of Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz—long before Dorothy ever arrived. Now a global sensation both on stage and screen—following the hugely anticipated film adaptation, Wicked—this beloved musical reimagines the land of Oz from a fresh perspective. It follows the unlikely friendship between two young women: Elphaba, a fiercely intelligent and misunderstood girl born with emerald-green skin, and Glinda, a popular and ambitious socialite. Despite their differences, the two form a powerful bond at Shiz University—but as their lives take dramatically different paths, their friendship is put to the ultimate test. With soaring music, spectacular staging, and a story full of heart, humour, and unexpected twists, Wicked explores themes of identity, loyalty, and what it truly means to be “good.”

Tauranga Arts Festival 2026

Mark your calendars for Tauranga Arts Festival 2026 - the region's flagship annual arts event. Ten jam-packed days of music, theatre, comedy, arts, literature and so much more.

Machine de Cirque

Somersaulting in from Québec, Canada, are five internationally acclaimed contemporary circus performers for the premiere of their Aotearoa, New Zealand season. Their family friendly show follows the performers as they find themselves alone in an uncertain world, trying to contact other survivors with the help of a strange machine. Reckless, touching and comical, these five wacky characters share a contagious bond. They masterfully handle a teeterboard, juggling clubs, a drum kit and even a bath towel! Machine de Cirque blends their ingenious and deeply human storytelling with acts that dazzle the mind, touch the heart and move the spirit. Prices

The Sweet Caroline Tour: A Tribute to Neil Diamond

Presented by Showtime Celebrate one of the most enduring songbooks in popular music history - an era when songs were written with heart, soul and honesty, and melodies stayed with you for a lifetime. This outstanding live production recreates that feeling in the most authentic way possible, with a full live band, powerful backing vocalists and a frontman whose voice and presence capture the unmistakable spirit of Neil Diamond. From iconic stadium anthems to deeply loved classics, every performance is delivered with energy, respect and a deep love for the music.

Urzila Carlson - Fatty On a Yacht

Second show added due to popular demand - Thurday 17 December, 8:30pm Urzila Carlson, Aotearoa’s fan-favourite comedian, returns to Tauranga in 2026 with even more understated punchlines and her signature deadpan delivery in the brand-new show, Fatty On a Yacht. Ever felt like you don't belong? Like everyone else got the memo — and you turned up in the wrong outfit, on the wrong day, on the wrong yacht?

New Zealand Pipe Band Championships

The pipes are calling! Around 60 national and international pipe bands will converge on Tauranga in March 2027 to compete for national titles. A splendid street parade through the CBD on Saturday morning will be a showy tartan display with maces tossed in the air to the sound of the pipes and drums. At Tauranga Domain, the bands will enter the competition circle playing the more formal marches-strathspeys-reels (MSR), and later, more innovative medleys. Around 12 juvenile bands will also be competing - all players aged under 18. Rounding out the competitions will be a mace flourishing event with Drum Majors leading their band, giving instructions with the mace while twirling and tossing the staff high in the air - a thrilling spectacle. Finally all 60 or so bands will perform in the massed bands finale where all the bands play together as one!