From Tauranga to Rotorua, discover upcoming events in the Bay of Plenty region.
November
Tuesday, November 25:
Operatunity’s It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas brings festive cheer to Rotorua Baptist Church from 11am to 12.45pm. Tickets range from $35 to $42, with complimentary morning tea and plenty ofsingalong fun — call 0508 266 237 to book.
Rotorua Night Market runs every Thursday, weather permitting, at Kuirau Park on the corner of Kuirau Street and Pukuatua Street. From 4pm to 8pm, enjoy boutique shopping, food trucks, artisan stalls and live music in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
He pō kirihimete ki Wai Ariki – A Night of Christmas at Wai Ariki brings festive shopping, live music and giveaways to Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa from 4pm to 8pm. Entry is free, so come enjoy seasonal treats, exclusive specials and a magical evening inspired by Māori culture and wellness.
Dinner in the Domain brings food trucks and good vibes to Papamoa Pony Club every Thursday, starting Thursday, November 27 from 5pm to 9pm. Entry is free, so grab your friends and enjoy a relaxed evening of eats and entertainment under the stars.
Thursday, November 27 to Sunday, November 30:
The International Surf Rescue Challenge returns to Mount Maunganui Main Beach from Thursday to Sunday, running daily from 9am to 5pm. Entry is free and all ages are welcome to watch top teams from around the world compete in swim, board, ski and beach events across four days.
Friday, November 28 to Sunday, November 30:
The NZ Blues & BBQ Festival returns to Rotorua’s Village Green from 28–30 November 2025, with early bird passes already sold out and Aussie blues-rock trio 19-Twenty headlining Saturday night. Expect three days of epic live music, smoky barbecue, and good vibes — first release tickets on sale now at bluesandbbq.co.nz.
Fragments of Flow – Ocean Feelings, Wonky Forms opens from 6pm to 9pm at Portside Drive, Mount Maunganui, showcasing pottery, poetry, photography and floral design inspired by the ocean’s rhythms. Entry is free but tickets are required via Eventbrite — come and experience the creativity of Wonky Jane Pottery and Blooms.
Tadpole celebrates 25 years with a live show at Totara St, Mt Maunganui from 8pm to midnight. Tickets start at $40 for earlybirds and $55 general admission — don’t miss this R18 gig packed with nostalgia and energy.
Saturday, November 29 and Sunday November 30:
KJ Studios presents Human at Baycourt Addison Theatre, Tauranga — a powerful dance production exploring life through the eyes of non-human things. Shows run Saturday and Sunday at 11.30am and 6.30pm; tickets start at $28.14 for children and $40.45 for adults — book via 0800 BUY TIX or online.
The Rotorua Christmas Parade. Photo / Ben Fraser
Saturday, November 29:
The 2025 Rotorua Christmas Parade rolls out at 11am, starting from the Rotorua Government Gardens and winding its way past some of the city’s most iconic spots. Community groups, schools, and local businesses are all invited to join the fun and help bring this festive tradition to life.
The Rotary Kuirau Saturday Market runs every Saturday from 7am to 12.30pm at Kuirau Park, serving up coffee, breakfast and brunch alongside stalls of gifts, clothes and fresh produce. All site fees go back into the community — so shop local and make a difference while you browse.
Waihi Beach Summer Kick-Off Festival returns to Wilson Park from 11am to 3pm, with live music, food stalls, games and free fun for the whole whānau. Entry is free, and the Farmers Market opens early at 10am — bring your picnic blanket and celebrate the start of summer in true beachside style.
Seaside Sippers’ Carnival of Taste hits The Cargo Shed on Tauranga’s waterfront from 6pm to 10.30pm, turning the venue into a 1950s rock-and-roll paradise with live music, dance shows, and top-notch tastings. Tickets are on sale now at seasidesippers.co.nz — dress retro, grab your keep cup, and sip your way through an unforgettable night of flavour and fun.
You’re Not Pretty... But I Love You!! is coming to Luxe Cinema in Papamoa from 8pm to 9pm. Tickets are $19.14 (including fees) and the show is R18 — join comedian Sandra Pace for a hilarious and heartfelt one-hour journey through family chaos, cultural clashes and unfiltered mum quotes, with door sales available for $20 if not sold out.
The Pukehina Craft Market kicks off its season at Monty’s Pukehina on Saturday, November 29 from 10am to 2pm. Entry is free — browse local stalls, enjoy live music and grab a bite or a drink by the beach for a market day with a vibe like no other.
The Little Big Markets Summer Series kicks off at Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui on Saturday, November 29 from 9am to 2pm. Entry is free — wander artisan stalls, enjoy street food and live music, and soak up the summer vibes at the Mount.
The Tauranga Death Café meets at Patio Rose Café from 10am to 11.30am for open, respectful conversations about life and mortality. It’s free to attend, with no agenda — just meaningful discussion in a supportive setting.
Mount Makers Market is back at Mount Maunganui Sports Centre on Saturday, November 29 and Saturday, December 6 from 9:30am to 2:30pm — a family-friendly indoor market packed with handmade goods, art, and creative workshops. Entry is free, so bring the whānau and explore local makers under one roof.
Sunday, November 30:
KJ Studios presents HUMAN at Baycourt Addison Theatre, 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, with performances on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November at 11.30am and 6.30pm. Tickets are $40.45 for adults and $28.14 for children — this imaginative dance production explores life through the eyes of non-human things, each given one day to feel what it means to be human.
Agrodome Farmers Market is back for the 2025/26 season, running the last Sunday of each month from October to April at Agrodome, Rotorua. Enjoy fresh produce, local crafts, coffee and family-friendly fun from 9am to 2pm — entry and parking are free, with highlights including Shaun the Sheep, working dog demos and a farmyard playground.
Mount Maunganui Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon™ is happening at Arataki Park from 7am to 1pm — a fun day for kids aged 6 to 14 to swim, cycle and run their way through age-appropriate courses. Entry is free, so come along and cheer on the TRYathletes as they give it a go!
Step Back in Time for a Sip! Seaside Sippers Brings Rockabilly Flair to Tauranga Waterfront for ‘Carnival of Taste’
December
Saturdays in December:
The Mount Treasure Hunt kicks off at Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui every Saturday morning from the first weekend of December. Designed for kids aged 3 to 10, this family-friendly adventure runs in two sessions — 9am to 10am for ages 3–5 and 10.30am to 12pm for ages 5–10 — with tickets priced at $15–$20 per child.
Wednesday, December 3:
Twilight Christmas Raceday is set for Wednesday, December 3 at Arawa Park, with racing action from 2pm to 7.30pm. Tickets start at $120pp for a hospitality package that includes food, drinks and entertainment — the perfect way to wrap up the year trackside.
Rotorua Night Market runs every Thursday, weather permitting, at Kuirau Park on the corner of Kuirau Street and Pukuatua Street. From 4pm to 8pm, enjoy boutique shopping, food trucks, artisan stalls and live music in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
Friday, December 5:
Once Upon a Dream takes the stage at Baycourt Addison Theatre from 6.30pm to 9pm — a magical dance performance inspired by Sleeping Beauty, brought to life by The Academy Dance Studios. Tickets start from $26.10 for children and $39.43 for adults, with family passes available.
Saturday, December 6:
The Rotorua A&P Association’s 117th Annual Show is happening at the A&P Showgrounds, with gates open from 8.30am to 4.30pm. Entry is $20 for adults and free for kids 15 and under, with a packed day of competitions, displays, rides, music, food stalls and free kids entertainment.
Tauranga’s Christmas in the Park lights up Soper Reserve on Saturday, December 6 from 10am to 4pm with live music, Santa’s Grotto, craft stalls and family fun. Entry is a gold coin or donation of food or a wrapped gift — all supporting local families in need this Christmas.
Free Books Giveaway is happening at Kuirau Park in Rotorua on Saturday from 9am to 1pm, outside the brick kiosk. Thousands of books are up for grabs — just bring bags, boxes or baskets and take home as many as you can carry!
Rotary Kuirau Saturday Market runs every Saturday from 7am to 12.30pm at Kuirau Park in Rotorua. Browse gifts, clothes, meat and veggies, grab a coffee, and stay for breakfast or brunch — all site fees go back to the community thanks to Rotary Rotorua North Club.
Christmas Crackers concert will be held at St. Peter’s in the City, Spring Street, Tauranga at 2.30pm. Tickets are $20 online via Eventbrite or $25 cash at the door, with free entry for children accompanied by an adult.
Mount Makers Market is back at Mount Maunganui Sports Centre from 9.30am to 2.30pm — a family-friendly indoor market packed with handmade goods, art, and creative workshops. Entry is free, so bring the whānau and explore local makers under one roof.
Rockys Backyard Ultra 2025 hits McLaren Falls from 8am — a unique ultramarathon where runners tackle a 6.71km loop every hour until only one remains. Entries start from $115 and include a limited-edition Rockys running cap, so secure your spot early if you’re ready to take on the challenge.
Seeka Te Puke Christmas Float Parade rolls through Jellicoe St from 11am to 3pm — featuring a steampunk and vintage twist, festive floats, and a Christmas market at Jubilee Park. Entry is free, so bring the family and enjoy live entertainment, tasty treats, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Katikati Lion’s Santa Parade and Christmas in the Park brings festive fun to Moore Park from 3.30pm to 5pm — with music, food, market stalls, and activities for the kids after the parade along Carisbrooke St. Entry is free, so grab a picnic blanket and enjoy a cheerful afternoon with family and friends.
Hilarious Comedy Hypnosis Show hits Greerton Hall from 7pm to 8.30pm — a laugh-out-loud night with hypnotist Haiming Jiang, as seen on TV and TikTok. Tickets available online, so grab yours and get ready for an evening of fun for all ages.
Sunday, December 7:
Pāpāmoa Santa Parade brings festive cheer to Dickson Rd from 10am to 12pm — with colourful floats, music, and plenty of Christmas spirit for the whole community. Entry is free, so gather the family and celebrate Pāpāmoa’s biggest holiday event.
The Otumoetai Rotary Club Car Boot Sale is at the Otumoetai College carpark, with sellers setting up from 7.30am and buyers welcome from 8am until 11am. Spaces are $10, proceeds go to Rotary projects, and recycling for car batteries and electronics is available — contact Brian on 021 1228735 or Bevan on 027 4612127 for details.
Home Alone & Special Guest! screens at Village Cinema from 1.30pm to 3.30pm — the ultimate Christmas classic for the whole family. Tickets are just $10, so grab yours and enjoy an afternoon of festive fun on the big screen.
Prime Minister and Pike River Movie Screening is on at Luxe Cinema, Papamoa from 6pm to 8.45pm — a powerful film event exploring one of New Zealand’s most significant stories. Tickets are $25 and available at the door.
Thursday, December 11 to Saturday December 13:
SEEN Christmas Trees Rotorua lights up Pipe Band Hall from Thursday to Saturday — with creative tree displays, food, games, and art activities for the whole family. Entry is free, with sessions running 5pm to 8pm on Thursday and Friday, and 11am to 3pm on Saturday.
Thursday, December 11 and Saturday, December 13:
The NZSO’s Summer Brass concert brings festive cheer to the Bay with two local performances:
Rotorua: Thursday at 7.30pm, Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Tauranga: Saturday at 7.30pm, Holy Trinity Tauranga
Tickets range from $11.27 to $63.28 — expect a vibrant mix of Baroque brilliance, dramatic fanfares, and joyful Christmas favourites performed by the NZSO’s Brass and Percussion sections.
Thumbelina dances onto the Baycourt Addison Theatre stage at 7pm — a magical performance by Dance Institute inspired by the classic fairytale. Tickets start from $29.18 for children and $35.33 for adults, with additional shows on Saturday at 2pm and 7pm.
Friday, December 12:
XMAS Standup Comedy Show hits Luxe Cinema in Pāpāmoa at 8pm — a festive night of laughs featuring some of NZ’s funniest up-and-coming comics. Tickets are $16.58, R18, so grab yours and get ready for holiday hilarity.
Christmas Quiz Night with Ben Hurley lights up Mercury Baypark from 6.30pm to 11pm — a festive evening of trivia, laughs, live entertainment, and a three-course Christmas buffet. Tickets are available online, so book your spot and celebrate the season in style.
Saturday, December 13:
The Tauranga Moana Manu Champs splashes down at the Tauranga Waterfront from 11.30am to 4.45pm, with free entry and open registration on the day. With live DJs, giveaways, sausage sizzles and big Manu energy, it’s a whānau-friendly event for ages 8 and up — just bring your togs, towel and crew.
Honest Liars’ Christmas Show hits 16th Ave Theatre, Tauranga at 7.30pm — a night of laughs, improvised games and festive fun. Tickets are $15, with door sales available and the theatre bar open, so bring your best suggestions and join the party.
The Mount Christmas Singalong turns Mount Mainstreet into a roaming carol session on Saturday, December 13 from 1pm to 3pm — free to join and all ages welcome. Rehearsals are at Mount Community Hall on Tuesday, November 25, December 2 and December 9 from 6pm to 8pm, so bring your festive spirit (and maybe a Santa hat) and get ready to sing!
Sunday, December 14:
TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift hits the stage at 7pm at Baycourt Addison Theatre, Tauranga. Tickets are $72.73 or $62.48 for groups of 10+ — expect dazzling costumes, a live band and dancers, and more than 20 hit songs from every era of Taylor’s career.
The Light Remains takes place at Bethlehem Baptist Church — a creative Christmas show celebrating light, life, and the message of Emmanuel through music, narration, and stunning visuals. Tickets are $4 for adults and $2 for children, with sessions at 6.30pm and 8pm each evening.
Tuesday, December 16 and Wednesday, December 17:
The Greatest Christmas Show rolls into Rotorua’s Sir Howard Morrison Centre on Tuesday and Tauranga’s Baycourt Arts Centre on Wednesday, bringing festive sparkle, music, dance and a visit from Santa. Tickets are available now — expect a night full of magic, glitter and Christmas cheer for the whole whānau.
Thursday, December 18 to Monday, December 22:
BLACKCAPS take on the West Indies in a five-day Test at Bay Oval, starting 11am each day — world-class cricket in the heart of summer. Tickets are available online, so grab yours and enjoy the action live.
Timezone opens its newest venue at 223 Fenton Street this December, bringing more than 800sq m of games, attractions and family fun to Rotorua. From Short Lane Bowling and racing thrills to dance games and a Prize Vault, it’s the ultimate spot for play — with giveaways for the first 300 guests on opening day.
Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21:
Turning Pointe Tauranga presents Beyond The Rabbit Hole at Baycourt Addison Theatre, 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, with shows on Saturday at 6.30pm and Sunday at 11am. Tickets range from $21.50 to $37.38 - expect a magical journey through Wonderland brought to life by 130 dancers aged 2 to 20 in ballet, jazz and contemporary styles.
Saturday, December 20:
Closer: An Evening with DEVILSKIN takes over Totara Street from 7pm to 11pm — an intimate acoustic showcase featuring reimagined hits, candid stories, and a rare chance to connect with the band. Tickets are $80, R18, and strictly limited, so secure yours for this one-night-only experience.
Waihī Beach Christmas in the Village brings festive cheer to Wilson Rd from 4.30pm to 7pm — with a community Christmas dinner (BYO food), live music, Santa’s Grotto, and family fun. Entry is free, but reserve your seat at the table online to join the long whānau-style feast.
L.A.B and Stan Walker headline Wharepai Domain, Tauranga from 3pm for an epic summer show with Aaradhna, Corrella and Te Wehi. Tickets are $92.50, R18, and VIP upgrades are available — secure yours now for the ultimate Bay of Plenty music experience.
EVES Surfbreaker Triathlon returns to Mount Main Beach from 7am to 11am — an iconic event featuring sprint, super sprint, and aquathon races, all finishing with a soft-sand run. Entries start from $45, so sign up and make this the highlight of your summer holidays.
Wednesday, December 31:
Famous Last Words returns to Mercury Baypark Arena, Mount Maunganui from 6pm to 1am with three stages and a massive lineup of bass music. Tickets are $119, R18 — ring in the New Year with Rudimental, Kurupt FM, Flux Pavilion and more.
January
Saturday, January 17:
The Hot Spring Spas T20 Black Clash hits Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui from 5pm to 10.30pm, as Team Cricket takes on Team Rugby in NZ’s ultimate cross-code showdown. Tickets start at $79 — don’t miss big names like Dan Vettori, Tim Southee and Kieran Read battling it out under the lights.
The Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport takes over Pilot Bay, Mount Maunganui on Saturday, January 17 from 6am to 5pm with triathlon, aquabike and half marathon challenges. Entry starts at $42 — whether you’re chasing a PB or soaking up the summer vibes, this iconic event has something for everyone.
Saturday, January 31:
FISHER brings the biggest party the Bay has ever seen to Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui from 3.30pm to 10.30pm. Tickets are $149, R18 — don’t miss this history-making night of dance anthems and high-energy vibes.
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell brings their Big Love Tour to Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui from 4pm to 10pm for a massive Waitangi weekend celebration. Tickets range from $119 to $159, R18 — secure yours now for an unforgettable night of reggae classics and summer vibes.
Thursday, February 26:
Dub Fx and Tiki Taane team up for an epic night of live looping and bass-driven beats at Totara Street, Mount Maunganui from 8pm to 11.55pm. Tickets range from $57.50 to $65, R18 — don’t miss this powerhouse duo bringing the vibes.
Join a run club every Monday evening at 5.30pm, starting outside the EightySix Coffee kiosk at the lakefront (old QE end). Everyone’s welcome.
Harmony A Plenty have been singing for 20 years. Covid has reduced our numbers. We are inviting men to join and enjoy our 7pm-9pm Monday practice, supper and sing-outs in Tauranga. If this appeals to you contact Frank 576 3037 or David 576 0575.
Tuesdays:
Rotorua District Cadet Unit Parades – if you’re Year 9 and up, come along to see if you are the next cadet to join the ranks. Where: 23 Geddes Rd, Rotorua, on Tuesdays during school term, 6.15pm to 9pm.
Cards 500 at the Mount Community Hall 12.30pm to 4pm. All welcome. Inquiries to phone 0276586848.
Thursdays:
Rotorua Night Market, weekly at Tutānekai St from 5pm until 9pm. Weather dependent.
The Mount Art group meets every Thursday at St Peter’s Anglican Church hall, 15 Victoria Rd at the Mount, from 9am until noon. Call Merilynn on 0274846874 for more information.
Air Training Corp parade during term weeks from 6.15pm at 23 Geddes Rd. Age 13-plus. Come down and have a look or contact cucdr.75sqn@cadetforces.org.nz for more information. You are welcome to come and have a look.
Cards 500 at the Mount Community Hall 12.30pm to 4pm. All welcome. Inquiries to phone 0276586848.
Fridays:
Enjoy two hours of racing down the hydro slide, bobbing through the waves in our wave pool and bombing off our special platform to the latest tunes for just$10 per person or $35 a Family and meal deals are available. The first Friday of every Month 6.30pm to 8.30pm. This event is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Up to 13 years – Keep Me Safe Supervision Rules apply.
Tauranga Night Market at McKinley Park in Tauranga Racecourse. 5pm-8.30pm. Come along for food, small business stalls and entertainment.
Saturdays:
The Little Big Markets – Summer Series: October 20, Tauranga CBD Waterfront, 9am to 2pm.
Rotary Charity Market at Kuirau Park has been operating for 37 years, every Saturday morning, wet or fine, 7am to 2pm. Stalls selling vegetables, a wide range of takeaway food, popcorn, coffee, meat, jewellery, clothing, gift cards, and more. Proceeds are used for various community undertakings. Sites for stalls cost $30.
Tauranga Farmers’ Market rain or shine, 7.45am to noon at Tauranga Primary School.
Kuirau Park Book Sale on first and third Saturdays, from 9am until 1pm in the kiosk near the playground. All proceeds to Rotorua Library.
The Greerton Hall Market on the second and last Saturday of every month from 8am to noon.
Sundays: Waihī Beach Sunday Market 9am to 1pm at Wilson Park.
Friday to Monday: Have you ever wanted to try your hand at glassblowing? Learn how to blow and shape glass into a design of your choice at Amokura Glass. Make your own Paperweight, Pumpkin or Tumbler to bring home with you, while learning fundamental glass-making skills during one of our hot glass experiences. Prices start from $150- $220 per person, depending on the design choice. Workshops take approximately 45 minutes. Experiences can be booked from Fridays to Mondays. 9.30am to 3.30pm.
Daily: Government Gardens Guided Tours, 11am, outside Rotorua Museum.
Fortnightly:
Pakihi Ora Māori Business Network Māori Business Rōpū focused on bringing together and supporting ngā pakihi Māori. Anchored in Māori values, knowledge and cultural practices, dedicated to creating spaces that are mana enhancing. A place where Māori business owners can come together and feel connected through mātauranga. This is a Wednesday fortnightly kaupapa held at Kai Caff Aye, Fenton St, 7.30am to 9am. Visit Pakihi Ora on Facebook for more information.
Twice-monthly:
Geyserland Country Music Club meets twice monthly at the Rotorua Bowling Club — on the first Wednesday from 1pm to 4pm and the third Sunday from 1pm to 4.30 pm. Entry is $6 for non-members and free for children under 13 — for more information, visit the Geyserland Country Music Club Facebook page or contact Dallas at 350 2048 or Bruce at 027 446 5800.
Every first and third Saturday, and on public holidays, Friends of the Library sell hundreds of books from the brick kiosk in Kuirau Park. 9am until 1pm. Find that sought after book!
Monthly:
Muscular Dystrophy Support Group meets the last Sunday of the month at 11am at the Whipped Baker Cafe, Historic Village. Family and friends welcome. Any inquiries to reactn2you@gmail.com.
Sol Markets at Simpson Reserve includes products, services and information from local stallholders that consider sustainability in their business practises. From 9am to 2pm on the first Sunday of the month.
Geyserland Country Music Club meets on the first Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm and the third Sunday of the month from 1pm to 4.30pm at the Rotorua Bowling Club. Non-members $6, children under 13 are free. For more information go to Geyserland Country Music Club Facebook page.
Rotorua UkeBox Ukulele Open Mic and Strum Along. Third Sunday of the month, 3pm to 4.30pm at Te Runanga Tea House. Free to strum or sing along or watch.
Western Bay Crop Swap, a free event for backyard gardeners, home bakers and food foragers to swap and share high-quality local food on the first Saturday of the month, 10am to 11am at SuperGrans Western Bay of Plenty, 14 Jocelyn St, Katikati.
Rotorua Jazz Club meets first Sunday of every month, 4.30pm to 8pm, winter and summer. Rotorua Citizens Club, Arawa St. $20 entry for adults, $2 for juniors. The public is always welcome. For upcoming events and bands go to Rotorua Jazz Club Facebook page or email rotjazzclub@gmail.com.
Historic Village Wellbeing Market on the third Saturday of the month from 10am to 3pm.
Ōmokoroa Market featuring arts and crafts, produce, plants and car boot, plus more. Held on the last Saturday of the month 9am to noon at Ōmokoroa Settlers Hall.
Maketū Market from 7am at Maketū Village Green on the third and fifth Sunday of the month. Vendor stalls $10. Phone Maureen 021 2671 685.
Improv Comedy with The Honest Liars – 16th Ave Theatre. First Saturday of the month 7.30pm to 9pm, entry $15.
BoP Blues Club Jam, first Wednesday of the month, 7.30pm to 10.30pm, Rotorua Citizens Club.
Art By Bike Tours, third Saturday of the month, (finishes April 15) 10am, Te Manawa.
Collective Energies Holistic Wellness Market the fourth Saturday of each month 9am to 2pm at the Mount Community Hall, 345 Maunganui Rd, Mount Maunganui. Collective Energies Facebook/Insta. Contact Melanie 027 286 8268 for more information.
Rotorua Probus Club. Meets on the first Thursday of each month at 10am at the Rotorua golf Club
Rotorua East Probus Club. Meets 2nd Thursday of each month at 10am at the East Side Bowling Club
Rotorua North Probus Club. Meets on the 4th Monday each month at 10am at Parksyde. Contact Richard on 021 496 151
■ To include your event, email details to whatson@dailypost.co.nz at least a week before the event.
