The biennial Christchurch Arts Festival runs from August 12 to October 2, and offers a diverse programme of music, theatre, dance, visual arts, food and family events. This year the festival will have a distinctly Christchurch focus, with talented performers returning to their hometown and events reflecting the city's sense of community and creativity. Generous sponsorship means the shows are available at a low ticket price of $20.
Pacific treasures
Oceania, a collaborative exhibition project of visual art, culture and history from across the Pacific, runs at both Te Papa and City Gallery Wellington until October 23.
Oceania: Imagining the Pacific at City Gallery focuses on contemporary art while Oceania: Early Encounters is a collection of objects and taonga exhibited in Te Papa's Visa Platinum Gallery.
Mountain bike magic