Thursday, July 10 to Saturday, August 9: Explore the cultural connections between Māori and Aboriginal heritage in Natasha Morrison’s Ngarara exhibition, on now at TheArts Village, Rotorua. Open 9am to 4.30pm. The show features dual-sided paintings that celebrate strength, adaptability, and the shared stories of two indigenous cultures.
Saturday, July 12 to Friday, August 8: Celebrate 75 years of photography with the Rotorua Camera Club’s Jubilee Exhibition at The Arts Village’s Wallis and Mosaic Galleries. Open Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, this public showcase features stunning work by club members and honours the club’s rich history since its founding in 1950.
Saturday, July 12 to Friday, August 1: Celebrate the richness of cultural traditions atCultural Heritage, an inspiring drawing exhibition opening Saturday 12 July from 5pm–7pm at The Arts Village, Rotorua. Running until August 1, this showcase invites the public to engage with diverse artistic expressions and vibrant cultural narratives from our local communities.
Tuesday, July 15: International illusionist Anthony Street brings his bold new show to Rotorua — part of his biggest and most personal New Zealand tour yet. Tickets available now for the Sir Howard Morrison Centre event.
Tuesday, July 15 and Wednesday, July 16: Tauranga Intermediate presents Moanaroa – Guardian of the Crabs, a powerful school production exploring belonging, whakapapa, and environmental guardianship, showing at Baycourt’s Addison Theatre at 7pm. Tickets range from $10.75 (child) to $25.08 (adult), with full accessibility available — book now to witness Moanaroa’s journey to protect Rangataua Bay.
Magic Men 2025 – Feel The Magic lights up Baycourt’s Addison Theatre in Tauranga at 8pm, featuring Australia’s top male revue and special guest Will Parfitt. Tickets range from $62.48 to $103.98 (Premium includes meet & greet), R18+ — expect electrifying moves, dazzling lights, and an unforgettable girls’ night out.
Australian blues-rock trio 19-Twenty hit Rotorua for the NZ Blues & BBQ Festival Taster at Citizens Club, joined by local acts Piece Of Cake and Hudson & Lurman. Tickets at 19twentymusic.com or in person at Citizens Club Rotorua.
Friday, July 18: Join the Graeme Dingle Foundation WBOP for a Gin Tasting Fundraiser at 6.30pm, Tauranga Club, 72 Devonport Rd. Tickets are $75 (or $130 for two) and include a welcome drink, five local gin tastings, nibbles, live music by Sophie-Maude, and a charity auction — all supporting youth development programmes in our community.
Friday, July 18 to Sunday, August 10: The Circus by Weber Bros Entertainment is rolling into Mercury Baypark, Tauranga bringing dazzling live family entertainment to the stage. With multiple showtimes and ticket options from $25 to $200, don’t miss your chance to experience jaw-dropping performances and unforgettable fun for all ages.
Saturday, July 19:
TheLinton Park West Care Group aims to plant 970 native plants and needs people to dig holes, plant and help with the sausage sizzle. BYO gardening gear and register at forms.office.com/r/r7kEnViF7F. 8.30am at the Edmund Rd entrance.
The Little Big Markets – Winter Series returns to Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui from 9am to 2pm, with free entry for all ages. Enjoy local stalls, street food, live music, games, and workshops.
The Friends of the Rotorua Library host a community book sale at Kuirau Park from 9am to 1pm, with free entry for all ages. Held on the first and third Saturday of each month, the sale features ex-library and donated books, magazines, music, and puzzles, with proceeds supporting local library projects.
BOPAS Industry Night takes place from 5pm to 6.30pm at the Bay of Plenty Actors Studio, 100 Grey Street, Tauranga. This free, all-ages event offers aspiring actors insights into the film and TV industry, with guest speaker Tanya Horo sharing advice on training, child laws, and navigating both local and international opportunities.
Come cuddle a greyhound this Saturday from 2pm to 4pm at Decor Garden World. Meet some gentle hounds, chat with Greyhounds as Pets volunteers, and learn more about adoption or fostering — no pressure, just pats and good company.
Sunday, July 20:
Skatescool’s Public Roller Skating Disco rolls into Mount Maunganui Sports Centre from 1pm to 3pm. Entry is $12 with skate hire available, and all ages are welcome to join the fun with music, lights, limbo, and more — no booking needed, just pay at the door.
Curious about death, dying, or just want a good coffee and a chat? Join Osbornes Funeral Directors for their Death Café & Open Day from 9am to 12pm at 197 Old Taupo Rd, Rotorua — a free, all-ages event where you can explore funeral planning, meet the team, and have open-hearted conversations (no suits required).
Get hands-on with creativity at the Lost Wax Ring Making Workshop from 10am to 1pm at The Incubator Creative Hub, Historic Village, Tauranga — no experience needed, just a spark of imagination. Tickets are $305 (R16), and include all materials, silver casting, refreshments, and your finished ring delivered by post.
Head down to Rotorua Racecourse from 10am to 2pm for a Free Family Fun Day — no bookings needed, just show up! With a $1 sausage sizzle, bubble soccer, face painting, bouncy castles and a giant inflatable obstacle course, it’s a great chance for tamariki to play while families connect with Blue Light and local police.
Tuesday, July 22:
Celebrate the legends of male harmony at It’s Raining Men, a toe-tapping concert featuring hits from Queen, The Beatles, and more from 11am to 12.45pm at Holy Trinity Church, Tauranga. Tickets start at $35 for groups, $39 standard, or $42 at the door, with complimentary morning tea and general admission seating from 10am.
Discover the rebellious side of sainthood at Rebels, Misfits, and Disobedient Daughters — an evening of poetry and storytelling with local poet and historian Stephanie Smith from 6pm to 7.15pm at Te Ao Mārama, Tauranga Library. Free entry, light refreshments, and tales of talking fish, brave princesses, and saints who broke the rules.
Wednesday, July 23: Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust invites everyone to its Annual Public Meeting at 6.30pm, held at the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Clubrooms, Sulphur Point. Enjoy an evening of conservation stories, forest updates, and a special talk from guest speaker Peter Shaw of the Forest Lifeforce Restoration Trust — free entry and all are welcome.
Wednesday, July 23 to Friday, July 25: Calling all tamariki and rangatahi — join the Te Tūkohu Ngāwhā Mātauranga Māori Science and Design Fair at 12.30pm to 5pm at Rotorua Energy Events Centre. This free event blends Mātauranga Māori and Western science to explore environmental issues, showcase student innovation, and celebrate creativity, with prizes, interactive exhibits, and expert kōrero for all.
Saturday, July 26:
Get ready for an epic adventure at The Great Forest Rogaine held in Whakarewarewa Forest. Foot or mountain bike, teams of two to four can choose a three or six-hour challenge trails — maps revealed on the day.
Get crafty at Queerative Workshop: Op & Pop at 1pm to 4pm at Rotorua Arts Village — just $30 for a colourful afternoon of upcycling, creativity, and good vibes. Led by mixed-media artist Ellen Jones-Poole, this rainbow-friendly workshop includes a short op shop stroll and three creative paths to choose from, with all materials, snacks, and drinks provided.
Saturday, July 26 to Saturday, August 2: Stage Right Trust presents Legally Blonde – The Musical, a high-energy, feel-good show packed with catchy songs, big laughs, and pink-powered fun. Tickets are on sale now, ranging from $27.12 to $56.84 at Baycourt.
Sunday, July 27: Presented by Tauranga Musica, acclaimed New Zealand pianist John Chen performs an all-French solo programme at Baycourt’s X Space, Tauranga at 7pm. Tickets range from $10.75 to $48.12 (all ages) — don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear works by Poulenc, Duparc, Franck, Fauré, and Saint-Saëns from one of the country’s finest classical talents.
The Ghost Trio - Gabriela Glapska, Monique Lapins and Ken Ichenose will perform at St Luke's church, Rotorua on July 29. Photo / Supplied
Tuesday, July 29: Experience a rich evening of chamber music with Ghost Trio at 7pm to 8.45pm at St Luke’s Church, Rotorua. Featuring works by Beethoven, Takemitsu, Ravel, and the world premiere of Glen Downie’s Sonata da chies a, this 105-minute concert (including a 20-minute interval) celebrates the cultural diversity of the piano trio repertoire.
August
Eve Gordon and Paku Fernandez star in Te Tangi a Te Tūī, coming to Baycourt on August 6. Photo: The Dust Palace / Ben Sarten
Sunday, August 3:
Got extra stuff lying around or produce you can’t use up? Come sell it at the Otumoetai Rotary Club Car Boot Sale at Otumoetai College Carpark — seller setup from 7:30am, $10 per space, buyers welcome from 8am to 11am. Proceeds go to Rotary projects. Electronic recycling - fee applies.
Lauren Nottingham & The Starlights bring their global jazz flair to Rotorua Citizens Club from 5pm to 8pm (entry from 4.30pm). Expect heartfelt songs from Lauren’s time in Mexico and Germany, plus fresh takes on jazz standards in a dynamic, authentic performance full of character and charm.
Wednesday, August 6, Sunday, August 10 and Monday August 11: Te Tangi a te Tūīis a powerful Te Reo Māori performance blending theatre, circus, and traditional storytelling to explore love, loss, and the impact of colonisation. Showing at Baycourt in Tauranga on Wednesday at Sir Howard Morrison Centre on Sunday at 7.30pm, with a schools’ matinee on Monday at 10.30am.
Friday, August 8: Celebrate creativity and hope at the opening of Tūmanako — a children’s and youth art exhibition for peace from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Te Ao Mārama, Tauranga Library. Enjoy inspiring artwork, entertainment, kai, and community connection as tamariki and taiohi share their visions for a peaceful, inclusive, and nuclear-free world.
Saturday, August 9: Salon Risqué: Tipsy in Wonderland hits Baycourt’s X Space at 7.30pm, promising a wild, R18 cabaret adventure through a twisted Wonderland. Tickets range from $37.38 to $58.38. Expect bold performances, vibrant costumes, and fabulous surprises in this one-night-only show.
Sunday, August 10: The Best of the Bee Gees – Saturday Night Fever Show brings disco fever to Baycourt’s Addison Theatre, Tauranga at 7.30pm. With hits like Stayin’ Alive and Jive Talkin’, plus special guests and dazzling tributes, tickets range from $62.48 to $83.48 for this all-ages celebration of Bee Gees brilliance.
Monday, August 11: DanceNZmade presents the Tauranga Interschool Solos, Duos and Trios at 6pm at Baycourt’s Addison Theatre. Tickets range from $20.48 to $31.23 (all ages) — come cheer on local talent as they compete for a spot at Nationals in this vibrant celebration of school dance.
Tuesday, August 12: Get ready to cheer as local schools light up the stage at the Dance NZ Made Interschool Regional from 6pm at Baycourt Addison Theatre, Tauranga. With tickets from $20.48–$31.23, this all-ages event celebrates unique dance styles and school spirit.
Wednesday, August 13: Kelvin Cruickshank Live comes to Baycourt, Tauranga at 7pm for an evening of spiritual connection and mediumship. This R16+ event offers messages from loved ones in spirit and insights into the Language of Spirit—tickets are $79.38.
Sunday, August 17:
Get ready to crawl, climb, and splash through mud at the Middleware Tough Guy and Gal Challenge at Lakes Ranch, Rotorua. Open to ages 13+, this off-road obstacle event kicks off from 10am with 6km, 12km, and team waves — expect mud, native bush trails, epic challenges, spot prizes, and hot showers at the finish.
Get ready for muddy fun at the first-ever Family Tough Guy and Gal Challenge from 10am to 2pm at Lakes Ranch, Rotorua. Designed for whānau teams, this obstacle course adventure is packed with climbs, crawls, and laughs for all ages — plus every participant gets a special finisher’s medal.
Wednesday, August 20 and Thursday, August 21: Tahatai Coast School presents Mad Pearse Takes Flight – First Man to Fly at Baycourt’s Addison Theatre, Tauranga on Wednesday at 6pm, and Thursday at 3pm and 6pm. This all-ages school production celebrates Kiwi inventor Richard Pearse with heart, humour, and a sky-high story — tickets from $20.48 to $25.59.
Friday, August 22: Celebrate Phantom Billstickers National Poetry Day with Lines & Lyrics from 12pm to 2pm at Te Ao Mārama, Tauranga Library. Enjoy live readings, share your own poems, and hear the winners of the Open Poetry Competition announced — free entry, no booking needed, and light refreshments provided.
Saturday, August 23: Third Space Symphony hits Baycourt at 7.30pm, blending pop, rock, and disco with full symphonic power in support of Waipuna Hospice. Tickets from $32.25 to $58.38 — don’t miss this unforgettable night of music for a great cause.
Sunday, August 24: Step into your power at Sheer Temptation — a burlesque dance workshop with Fifi OH! from 5pm to 7pm at Elizabeth Street Community Hall, Tauranga. Whether you’re new or experienced, this $50–$90 workshop invites you to explore sensual movement, confidence, and the art of glove and stocking reveals in a fun, supportive space — no performance required.
Friday, August 29:
Award-winning singer-songwriter Georgia Lines brings The Guest House to life in Tauranga at Totara Street. With tickets available now, expect powerful vocals, heartfelt songs from her new EP, and special guests Tusekah, Aisha & Bebe lighting up the stage.
Wave your flags and warm up your vocal cords for Last Night of the Proms, presented by Operatunity from 11am to 12.45pm at Holy Trinity Church, Tauranga. With tickets from $35–$42, enjoy a morning of singalongs, classics, and comedy — plus complimentary morning tea and a cast of stellar performers bringing the fun and flair.
Saturday, August 30: Don’t miss the Zespri AIMS Games Hip Hop Performance Events from 5pm to 9pm at Mercury Baypark Arena, Tauranga where the country’s top intermediate-aged crews bring the heat in a high-energy battle of moves, music, and style. Tickets are just $10–$15 and go on sale from July 23 at nzaimsgames.co.nz.
September
Kevin Bloody Wilson is playing in Tauranga in September.
Thursday, September 4 and Friday, September 5: Kevin Bloody Wilson’s Aussie Icon Tour hits Tauranga this September with two R18 shows at Baycourt Community & Arts Centre’s X Space at 7.30pm. Tickets are $72.21–$79.38, so grab yours for a night of politically incorrect laughs, classic songs, and a fair-dinkum good time.
Manu Samoa will take on the Flying Fijians in a much-anticipated rugby test match in Rotorua in September.
Saturday, September 6:
Manu Samoa will face the Flying Fijians in a thrilling rugby test match at Rotorua Stadium. This powerful Pacific clash promises pride, passion, and unforgettable action. Tickets via Ticketmaster.
The Orange Box is coming to The Historic Village in Tauranga from 11am to 12pm, with tickets just $12. This enchanting family-friendly show blends puppetry, circus, and illusion into a colourful adventure that’s anything but ordinary.
October
Wednesday, October 1: GOMIL rolls into Baycourt at 7.30pm, starring Kiwi comedy legend Mark Hadlow in a spandex-filled sequel to the hit show MAMIL. With tickets from $83.48, expect big laughs, mid-life crises, and Lycra that’s tighter than ever — book now before it pedals off.
Friday, October 10: Get ready to be hypnotised by laughter. Don’t miss the UK’s #1 Comedy Hypnosis Show with award-winning entertainer Frankie Mac at 7.30pm at Baycourt, Tauranga. Earlybird tickets are now on sale.
Thursday, October 23 to Saturday, October 25: Cirque Bon Bon lands at Baycourt’s Addison Theatre, bringing a whirlwind of acrobats, aerialists, dancers and comedy hosted by the fabulous Mario, Queen of the Circus. Fresh from a sold-out Aussie tour, this high-energy, family-friendly spectacle is part of the Tauranga Arts Festival—book now for a dazzling night out.
November
Saturday, November 8: See award-winning folk troubadours Albi & The Wolves as the foursome wrap up their national Fun-Raiser Tour at the The Jam Factory, 3.30pm and 6.30pm shows.
Sunday, November 9: Get ready to dance in your seat as TINA – The Ultimate Tribute hits Rotorua’s Sir Owen Glenn Theatre at 6pm. Featuring powerhouse vocals by Caroline Borole and a full international band, this high-energy show celebrates Tina Turner’s biggest hits—tickets available now.
Friday, November 14: Viral comedy star Luke Kidgell brings his Good Intentions World Tour to Baycourt, Tauranga on Friday 14 November 2025 at 7:30pm. Known for his razor-sharp wit and legendary crowd work, this R16+ show promises a night of wild stories and big laughs—tickets from $63.50.
Friday, November 21: UK comedy legend Bill Bailey brings his all-new show Vaudevillean to Rotorua’s Sir Howard Morrison Theatre. Don’t miss this one-night-only performance — tickets via bohpresents.com.
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.
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:
Friday Night Fun Night at Baywave – enjoy two hours of racing down the hydroslide, bobbing through the waves in our wave pool and bombing off a special platform to the latest tunes for $6 a person. From 6pm to 8pm Fridays, excluding public and school holidays.
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.
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.
■ To include your event, email details to whatson@dailypost.co.nz at least a week before the event.
