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.
Matariki Flavours Buffet
Every Thursday & Friday in June
Experience seasonal dishes inspired by Matariki. Each evening is a journey through flavours connected to te taiao (the natural world), guided by the stars of the Matariki cluster – Tupuānuku, Tupuārangi, Waitī, and Waitā – at Te Puia’s exclusive Pātaka Kai buffet. Bookings recommended.
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.
Ka Mua Ka Muri
12 June
Presented by Atamira Dance Company, this contemporary dance experience explores both the significance of whakapapa while defining new aspirations for the future. Where tradition collides with innovation, and past, present, and future converge on stage.
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 Shows
19 & 20 June
From 8pm, witness a breathtaking Matariki storytelling experience in the night sky above Lake Rotorua. The FREE drone and light shows, presented on two nights, bring mātauranga Māori to life through cutting-edge technology and a mesmerising blend of light, sound, and narration by Ngāti Whakaue/Te Arawa artists.
Rotorua Night Markets at Village Green
19 & 20 June
From 5–9pm, enjoy two fun evening markets with kai, crafts, and culture from past Aronui Māori Market vendors alongside market favourites. Coinciding with the drone show, this is the perfect way to enjoy the Matariki long weekend. FREE entry.
Ngāti Whakaue Hautapu Ceremony
20 June
Join this iwi-led, traditional Matariki New Year ceremony held commencing at 4.30am at Whakatāhuna Ngaru, a special area at the Rotorua Lakefront. FREE to join.
Matariki Hautapu Ceremony at Te Puia
20 June
Gather at 4.30am for a time of remembrance, reflection and renewal. A deeply spiritual start to Matariki, rooted in tradition and cultural practice. Admission is FREE but registration is required.
Whānau Fun Day at Te Puia
20 June
From 9am-3pm, bring the whānau for a day of interactive fun at Te Puia, with cultural performances, kids’ activities, kai, and more. A joyful celebration of the Māori New Year for all ages. Admission is FREE but registration is required.
Te Mātahi o te Tau with 1814
21 June
Celebrate Matariki with a powerful night of music and culture, presented by ARONUI Indigenous Arts Festival. Te Kapa Haka o Ngāti Whakaue and Nikau Grace open with He aha te aha, a tribute to Tā Bom Gillies and the 28th Māori Battalion, followed by 1814, Jordyn with a Why, and R67. 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.
Manu Samoa vs Flying Fijians
6 September
Rotorua will come alive this September as Manu Samoa take on the Flying Fijians at Rotorua International Stadium. On 6 September, the two Pacific giants will clash in a powerful celebration of pride, passion and culture – right here in Rotorua, Samoa’s home away from home.
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.
