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.
Marlon Williams: Te Whare Tīwekaweka Tour
17 May
Touring for his first Māori language album, Williams will perform at Sir Howard Morrison Centre with KOMMI and some of the album’s collaborators.
Party Time! with Georgia Jamieson-Emms
24 May
Fun for the whole family! An interactive concert with Jamieson-Emms & Opus Orchestra at Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
Te Puia Matariki Buffet Dinner
Thursdays & Fridays throughout June
Experience Matariki-themed seasonal dishes at Te Puia’s Pātaka Kai restaurant.
More info to come...
Banff Mountain Film Festival
6 June
Since 1976, the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival celebrates mountain culture, showcasing inspiring adventure films worldwide. At Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
Tohunga Tūmau
13 June
Welcome in Puanga Matariki with an all-indigenous feast prepared by some of NZ’s most renowned Māori chefs. Your five-course menu will be complimented with fine wines from Māori-owned wineries, musicians, and entertainment. Held at Energy Events Centre.
Chris Parker: Stop being so dramatic
14 June
After a sellout show in 2024, Chris Parker is back in Rotorua with his hilarious new comedy special at Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
ARONUI Indigenous Arts Festival Matariki Drone Show
19 & 20 June
The FREE outdoor event at the Rotorua Lakefront features hundreds of colourful drones painting stories across the night sky in a mesmerising blend of light, sound, and narration created by Ngāti Whakaue/Te Arawa artists.
Rotorua Night Markets
19 & 20 June
From 5–9pm each evening, the Rotorua Night Market at the Village Green expands for Matariki with kai, crafts, and stalls from Aronui Māori Market vendors and favourites.
Matariki Hautapu Ceremony
20 June
Beginning at 5am, the Matariki Hautapu Ceremony at Te Puia will showcase the ancestral practices that acknowledge the past, present, and future through three key parts of the dawn ceremony.
More info to come...
Te Puia Matariki Whānau Day
20 June
Enjoy scenic train rides to Pōhutu Geyser, Matariki wānanga, carving, weaving, cultural performances, taonga market and delicious kai at Te Puia.
More info to come...
Te Mātahi o te Tau with 1814
21 June
Aronui presents a Matariki celebration headlined by legendary reggae band 1814, supported by Jordyn with a Why, R 67 and more acts to be announced. At Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
Matariki Glow Show
22 June
Matariki stories come to life with giant puppets, te reo Māori and English storytelling, and themes of whanaungatanga. A magical, educational experience for tamariki and whānau at Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
Dracula’s Sanctuary
4-5 July
Dracula’s Sanctuary returns with a carnal cocktail of the undead and criminally insane. From death-defying aerial acrobatics to knockout vocals – get ready for a blockbuster show, set to dazzle, and delight in a way only Dracula’s can.
Te Tangi a Te Tūī
10-11 August
This captivating performance explores love, loss and hope, blending te reo Māori with stunning circus theatre at Sir Howard Morrison Centre.
Secret event announcement coming soon!!
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny
24 January 2026
Jimmy Carr returns for two shows at Sir Howard Morrison Centre with his new show full of edgy one-liners.
