What's on this February
Written by: Nadia Shaw-Owens
Summer flings to keep you busy this February.
Celebrating its 35th year, NZ Fringe returns for a three week celebration of all things bold, brave and innovative. In the three-week season, there will be over 800 artists presenting boundary-pushing events under an array of art forms. Don’t miss out on Garage Project’s limited edition flavour for the 2024 fest. fringe.co.nz
Auckland Pride Festival
1 – 29 February
Auckland
Celebrating Tāmaki Makaurau’s rainbow community through an aray of community events and art. Don’t miss the curious performance from London-based artist Krishna Istha, who interviews hundreds of people to find the perfect sperm donor for them and their partner, and the late night club party Misbehaviour, a diverse night of music and outrageous spectacle. aucklandpride.org.nz
10 February
Marlborough
Sample wine from many of Marlborough’s top wineries, satisfy your tastebuds with gourmet street food creations, indulge in a spectacular musical line-up, and soak up the atmosphere the event is renowned for. Drax Project will perform as the festival’s headline act, alongside Reggae-fusion band Sons of Zion. marlboroughwinefestival.com
1 – 25 February
Nationwide
India Meets Ireland, presented by Arts on Tour NZ, will visit 25 towns across the country. This unique fusion of Indian classical music with contemporary and traditional Irish music creates a joyful collaboration that showcases the colourful contrasts and musical magic created by these two cultures. aotnz.co.nz
On now until 29 March
Nationwide
UK folk-fusion duo Good habits are returning to NZ for a huge tour throughout January to March. Bonnie and Pete are a couple and a musical duo, who arrived here as the pandemic kicked off but ended up staying, making music and touring extensively. After a few years back home playing some of the UK largest festivals, including Glastonbury, they are over the moon to be returning to their second home. goodhabitsband.com
13 – 19 February
Napier
The story of Romeo & Juliet is performed with a full orchestra and cast of world class opera singers – experience yourself swept into the renaissance era via the lush melodies and symphonic production. napiermunicipaltheatre.co.nz
Good Bones, Dowse Art Museum
On now until 28 April
Lower Hutt
The exhibition Good Bones by Dunedin based artist Michele Beevors features life-sized sculptures of skeletal animals knitted in yarn. Consisting of 14 pieces including elephants, gorillas, and giraffes, it is inspired by natural exhibits and Michele’s feelings of grief on extinction. dowse.org.nz
Meatstock
24 – 25 February
Hamilton
Meatstock, the barbecue and music lover’s dream, is back after a 3-year hiatus – the Mystery Creek Events Centre is set to come alive with the sizzle of grills, the aroma of smoked meat, and the tunes of New Zealand legends Shihad, Katchafire, and The Black Seeds. Enjoy the best live fire barbecue experts and pitmasters in the country, and play a little axe-throwing and archery while you are at it. meatstock.com.au
Hamilton Arts Festival Toi Ora Ki Kirikiriroa
23 February – 3 March
Hamilton
The festival will showcase some 1200 artists with music, theatre, dance, comedy, musical theatre and whanau-friendly shows across 46 ticketed events. Bic Runga, The Mockers, NZ Opera, Jazmine Mary and Tom Sainsbury are just a few of the artists on the line-up. hamiltonartsfestival.co.nz
Wairarapa Wines Festival
11 February
Wairarapa
Experience a merge of Wairarapa’s finest wineries, high-profile restaurants, and food producers for a day of indulgence set amidst the stunning backdrop of ancient native trees and a riverside setting. Check out the Masterclass events that feature 8 experimental wines and a look under the bonnet on how local wineries are pushing the boundaries of traditional wine making. wairarapaharvestfestival.co.nz
Related Stories
The Insiders Guide: Wellington
Heading to our stylish capital city? Wellington local, Sopheak Seng, has shared their hottest spots and hidden gems, with everything from great coffee shops to memorable day trips, so you can make the most out of your stay.
