What's On in Rotorua
Rotorua hosts world-class events year round
We love hosting events! We love how they bring communities together, help the city grow, showcase our creativity, entertain the masses, and celebrate our unique treasures such as geothermal wonders, Māori heritage, and gold-level mountain biking trails.
Sporting events connect us like no digital experience can, whether you're competing, supporting a loved one who's competing, or cheering from the side lines. The same goes for performing arts, festivals, concerts, Crankworx Rotorua, and so many more.
The next time you're looking for somewhere to nip away for the weekend, check this page for what's on and join us here in Rotorua!
Lakeside Concert Rotorua
3 February
Free, family-friendly event brings together a star-studded line up of the best artists and performers from around New Zealand.
Wooden Boat Parade
3 February
Check out the amazing collection of special boats at the 27th annual Lake Rotoiti Classic & Wooden Boat Parade from the onshore viewing area near Okere Falls Store.
Waitangi Day celebrations
6 February
Formerly held at Ōhinemutu, this free event at Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa will feature entertainment, food and merchandise stalls, interactive displays, and much more.
Waitangi Day celebrations
6 February
This new event at Te Puia will showcase traditional Māori arts and crafts, hands-on pā activities such as poi and haka lessons, cultural performances and guided tours.
UCI BMX Racing World Cup
10-11 February
Catch the non-stop action when 300 of the world’s best BMX riders compete for international glory and Olympic qualification points.
Mario Lanza Valentines Fantasy
14 February
International Samoan opera tenor Sani Muliaumaseali’i and special guest superstar Maisey Rika present favourites like Be My Love, Because You're Mine, and more.
Tarawera Ultramarathon
17-18 February
New Zealand’s most prestigious trail ultra sees runners completing 21km, 50km, 102km or the ultimate 100-mile endurance run.
Mana Wahine
2 March
A theatrical event that draws on traditional culture of song and dance to create a vision of strength that empowers women around the world.
Off-road Trail Run/Walk
3 March
An off-road half marathon, 10km, 5km, and a Little Devils Race for kids, all in the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest.
The Michael Jackson History Show
5 March
Featuring a live band, choreographed dancers, authentic costumes, state-of-the-art sound and theatrical lighting, vision and effects, get the full Michael Jackson concert experience.
Hatupatu: Forbidden Love
14-17 March
The story of survival and love between the young Te Arawa warrior Hatupatu and the unique bird woman that is Kurungaituku comes to life on stage.
Legend of the Lake Swim Series
16 March
This family-friendly open swim on Lake Tikitapu includes 500m, 1,000m or 3.5km distances, and 100m and 200m courses for kids 7-10 years.
Rotorua Walking Festival
16-17 March
Now in its 30th year, this event offers several distances from 5km to 42km along various routes through Rotorua’s most scenic spots.
Crankworx Rotorua
16-24 March
Now in its 10th year, the world’s largest mountain biking festival sees hundreds of the world’s best riders compete in several events.
Phantom of the Opera
24 March - 4 April
Rotorua Musical Theatre presents this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic of the infamous story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House.
Our stories
Great ideas on what to do and experience in Rotorua.