What's On in Rotorua
Rotorua hosts world-class events year round
Events bring communities together, help our city grow, showcase creativity, and often they celebrate our unique treasures such as geothermal wonders, Māori heritage, and gold-level mountain biking trails.
Sporting events are always fun whether you're competing, supporting a loved one who's competing, or cheering from the sidelines. The same goes for performing arts, festivals, concerts and more.
The next time you're looking for something to do, check this page for what's on and join us here in Rotorua.
Blues and BBQ Festival
28-30 November
Blues & BBQ festival featuring renowned blues artists and mouthwatering BBQ delights. Experience the best of blues music and BBQ delights at the NZ Blues and BBQ Festival.
NZSO: Summer Brass
11 December
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Summer Brass, presented by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra is a great concert for the whole whānau. The NZSO Brass and Percussion sections bring a bold, majestic style to Christopher Mowat's arrangement of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, Samuel Barber's Mutations from Bach and Henri Tomasi's Fanfares Liturgiques.
TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift
12 December
The Unofficial Tribute Show - Taylor: A Tribute to the eras of Taylor Swift music is coming this December. It was the biggest concert tour in history and now you can get amongst the fun, hype and excitement with this world-class tribute, recreating the best moments from the Eras tour, live on stage.
*Fan-sponsored – not endorsed by or affiliated with TAS Rights Management.
The Greatest Christmas Show
16 December
The Greatest Christmas Show is New Zealand’s #1 family Christmas event, blending heartwarming moments, spectacular dance, and world-class entertainment into one unforgettable night.
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny
23 – 24 January
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Jimmy Carr returns for two shows at Sir Howard Morrison Centre with his new show full of edgy one-liners.
Tarawera Ultra-Trail New Zealand
14–15 February
Discover Rotorua’s breathtaking landscapes as runners journey through native forests and past sparkling lakes and waterfalls. Welcoming athletes of all abilities, this iconic event celebrates endurance and connection while showcasing the beauty, manaakitanga and adventure that make Rotorua a truly unforgettable destination.
The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight
3 March
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
After entertaining 700,000 guests across the UK, USA and Europe, The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight is kicking off the first ever tour of New Zealand. Prepare for a spellbinding 90-minute spectacle that infuses iconic Rock & Metal anthems with a hauntingly beautiful energy.
Crankworx Rotorua
11 – 15 March
Skyline Rotorua
Crankworx Rotorua is back, offering a dynamic mix of elite competitions, participatory events, and cultural celebrations. With events ranging from Downhill to Slopestyle, the festival caters to every level of rider. This year, athletes will battle for crucial points in the King & Queen of Crankworx standings while fans cheer on their favourites in Rotorua’s unique, family-friendly atmosphere.
Menopause the Musical
26 March
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
This global hit, set to parodies of classic hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, is the ultimate ladies’ night out. Set in a department store, four women meet while shopping and quickly bond over memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and more.
Royal NZ Ballet: Dazzlehands
15 April
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Dazzlehands, the award-winning story, bursts from page to stage in a fun-filled ballet for tamariki and whānau. Presented by the Royal New Zealand Ballet, this joyful tale follows Pig - the unstoppable hero who teaches us how important a little sparkle can be.
Michael Jackson Live Concert Experience
23 April
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
The world’s #1 Michael Jackson Live Concert Experience is heading to Rotorua for the very first time.
The King of Pop show has sold out performances across Australia and Asia, bringing the energy and spirit of MJ to life. This is the closest you’ll ever come to experiencing the magic of Michael live.
Rock Tenors
16 May
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
The Anthems Reloaded Tour is a full-throttle celebration of the greatest rock hits of all time, featuring five of Aotearoa's finest. Paying homage to the worlds greatest rock anthems from artists such as Queen, Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, AC/DC, and more.
