Weekends In The City Centre

17 - 19 OCT, 2025:

Trent Dalton's Love Stories | 17 - 19 OCT | $59 - $99

Love Stories brings Trent Dalton’s whimsical, heartfelt world to the stage, where strangers share real-life tales of love - from first sparks to final goodbyes - on a battered Olivetti typewriter. This moving production weaves music, movement and raw emotion into a tribute to the beauty and resilience of the human heart.

Empire Tavern Turns 150 | 18 OCT | Free

One of Auckland CBD’s most iconic pubs is hitting a major milestone—Empire Tavern is celebrating 150 years of good times and unforgettable nights! Think live music, tattoos, food specials, photobooths, drink offers and giveaways all day long!

Sounds Fun for Kids with Suzy Cato, Spellodies & Mr Roberelli | 19 OCT | $12pp or $45 family

Have a joyful Sunday of music, learning and family fun featuring Spellodies – from Birkenhead, on the North Shore, family band Dad, Fen on guitar, mum Steph on keyboard/synth and vocals, 8-year-old Freddie on drums and bass guitar, and 4-year-old Charlie on percussion!

Open Late: in the web of Louise Bourgeois | 16 OCT | Free

To celebrate the opening of Louise Bourgeois: In Private View, the gallery is throwing its biggest Open Late of the year - a night of art, energy, and bold creativity. Expect live music, DJs, dance, food trucks, a pop-up bar, performances and workshops, all free to explore with no booking required.

All my pets keep dying - Josh Metcalfe | 16 - 18 OCT | $28 - $35

After a sell-out season at the NZ International Comedy Festival, Josh Metcalfe returns with his debut hour - a spectacular and slightly concerning stand-up about his lifetime of animal horrors and mysteriously short-lived pets. Known from Bullrush Improv, Snort and Educators, and a Raw Comedy Quest Finalist 2021, Josh invites you to decide if it’s bad luck or just him.

Midtown Market Day | 18 OCT | Free entry

Spend a cruisy Saturday morning discovering the many gems of midtown, including fresh new openings. Indulge in delicious eat and free samples from your favourite neighbourhood businesses, shop handmade crafts and enjoy free, whānau friendly activities.

Shrek Rave | 18 OCT | $27 - $32

Step into a wild night of fairy tale madness, rave beats, and unapologetic green chaos. Shrek Rave is bringing the swamp to the dancefloor with DJs spinning iconic Shrek tracks and high-energy bangers all night long.

Big Time | 16-18 OCT | $35

A tight friendship between drama school graduates Max and Sabrina is put to the test when one of them lands a life-changing role. A gutsy, empathetic story, exploring hope, envy, and the nuances of female friendship through the brutal lens of the entertainment industry.

Manahua – A Weavers’ Collective | 18 - 19 OCT | Free

Sign up for a weekend of weaving and connection with the eclectic Manahua weavers collective as they share their skills and journey in making kete, tāniko, kākahu, and korowai. 

24 - 26 OCT, 2025:

Bone Thugs & Harmony | 24 OCT | $149-$265

With over three decades of shared experience, success and legacy between them, legendary US hip hop crew BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY are relishing a new chapter of opportunity and greatness – reuniting to create new music and tour internationally once more! 

Seaside Shanty Singalong | 24 OCT | $35pp

Knock off work, grab a drink, and raise your voice in a sea shanty (or three). Join The Wellington Sea Shanty Society for a raucous evening of rollicking tunes, served alongside hot ham rolls, and rum cocktails inspired by the high seas, from of The NZ Rum Co.

World Pasta Day Italian + Fine Dining Collab | 25 OCT | $140pp

Executive Chefs Giulio Barducci (Toast & Oak) and Shaun Dowling (Bossi) come together in Auckland for an exclusive six-course dinner event. Hosted in Bossi’s stunning downtown restaurant, the evening will celebrate Italian heritage elevated with contemporary fine-dining flair. 

Roses & Canapes in the Laneway | 24 - 26 OCT | $39pp

Soak up spring evenings at kingi with a glass of The Landing Rosé and a trio of elegant seafood snacks for $39pp. Sip, snack, and you could even win a Wine Tasting and Lunch at The Landing.

Captain Morrow & The Sands of Time | 24 - 26 OCT | $25 - $42.50

In just 60 minutes, two actors and one musician unleash over 40 characters in a wild, fast-paced pirate adventure packed with sea gods, monsters, and mayhem. Award-winning writing and nonstop comedy make this an unmissable romp on the high seas.

Halloween DIY Jewellery Cocktail Workshop | 25 OCT | $95pp

Calling all Halloween enthusiasts and jewellery lovers. Whether you’re a crafting pro or a total beginner, this workshop is the perfect way to tap into your spooky(special) creativity and create unique, Halloween-inspired jewellery that’s sure to turn heads.

31 OCT - 2 NOV, 2025:

Urban Art Village | 30 & 31 OCT | Free

Urban Art Village returns this October in a new home at Takutai Square, Britomart, featuring ten creative and interactive installations by emerging architecture and design students. Across two vibrant days (30–31 October, 10am–10pm), you can explore, play and join free guided Art Walks celebrating the next generation of urban designers.

ABBA Thank You For The Music | 1 NOV | $55 - $89

Get ready for a dazzling two-hour live concert celebrating the music and magic of ABBA, featuring all the hits from Waterloo to Dancing Queen. Performed by Narelle Ryan, Michelle Birmingham and a full live band, it’s a glittering tribute that brings the golden era of disco back to life.

Jack Ansett | 1 NOV | $27 - $30

Fresh from a sell-out run at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival, Jack Ansett returns with his best jokes and brand-new material. This will be his biggest New Zealand show yet — don’t miss it!

Cirque du Soleil Corteo | from 30 OCT | $79 - $330

Experience Cirque du Soleil’s Corteo at Spark Arena from October 30 to November 2, 2025, a joyous and theatrical parade imagined by a clown blending comedy, acrobatics and music. With a unique central-stage setup giving a performer’s-eye view, grand hand-painted sets and over 12 million spectators worldwide, Corteo is a magical celebration of humanity, humor and wonder.

Auckland Walks | 30 & 31 OCT | Free - booking required

Discover artworks across Britomart with free guided walks showcasing diverse art and creative expression.
Finish your tour at Takutai Square to explore the Urban Art Village, but book quickly as spaces are limited!

Hotel Britomart celebrates 5 years | 30 & 31 OCT | Various

Last chance to make the most of The Hotel Britomart 5 year celebrations - five years, five great promotions to celebrate their fifth birthday - think discounts, staycations, shopping and so much more!

More to see, do and love...

Auckland Theatre Company's 2025 Programme 

Auckland Theatre Company’s 2025 season is a thrilling showcase of storytelling, blending iconic works like Romeo and Juliet and Murder on the Orient Express with bold new voices and Kiwi narratives. With six dynamic productions spanning mystery, history, comedy, and drama, this programme promises to captivate and challenge audiences throughout the year  

Auckland Philharmonia 2025 Programme

The Auckland Philharmonia's 2025 season is a vibrant celebration of musical diversity, featuring world-class debuts, returning maestros and a rich blend of classical masterpieces and cinematic scores. From the fiery drama of La traviata to the sweeping sounds of Hans Zimmer, this programme promises unforgettable experiences for every kind of music lover. 

The Royal New Zealand Ballet's 2025 Programme

The Royal New Zealand Ballet’s 2025 programme is a bold fusion of tradition and innovation, showcasing timeless classics like The Nutcracker alongside powerful new works rooted in Aotearoa’s stories and landscapes. Under the visionary direction of Ty King-Wall, this season promises to enchant, challenge, and connect audiences through world-class artistry and uniquely Kiwi storytelling