Celebrate women’s voices, strength and stories across a range of events this March. Photo / Getty Images
Celebrate women’s voices, strength and stories across a range of events this March. Photo / Getty Images
International Women’s Day 2026
International Women’s Day on March 8 will have the 2026 theme Give To Gain, which encourages people and organisations to give time, resources, mentoring, funding and visibility to support women’s rights.
Many events around Aotearoa and beyond will champion women-focused charities, turning celebrations into meaningful impact.Organisers can nominate causes and use the IWD Giving Directory to strengthen fundraising and awareness efforts. This global movement creates space for learning, connection and advocacy in one powerful day. For the full list of events, visit internationalwomensday.com/Events
Join communities worldwide as they celebrate womanhood and stand together for change. Photo / Getty Images
Table tennis takes centre stage this March as Women & Girls Have-A-Go Day rallies communities across Aotearoa. On March 7 and 8, 2026, women and girls of all ages step up to the table to celebrate International Women’s Day with energy, connection and a few friendly hits.
From Dunedin to Whangārei, Auckland to Nelson, associations nationwide host relaxed sessions designed for beginners, returning players and experienced athletes alike. Players serve, rally and build confidence in a supportive environment that values fun as much as skill. Optional team challenges add an extra spark for those keen to test their game. Each session focuses on movement, laughter and meeting new people. Forget the pressure of competitive table tennis and simply enjoy picking up a bat and giving it a go. See the full event schedule and the hosting associations in your city at tabletennis.org.nz/tournaments/national-tournament-calendar/women-and-girls-have-go
Pick up a bat, step to the table and rally with women and girls across Aotearoa. Photo / Getty Images
Siva Afi Festival returns to Auckland
Fire lights up Māngere as Siva Afi Festival returns for two nights of culture and competition. On March 6 and 7, 2026, Māngere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku hosts this free celebration of Samoan fire knife artistry, drawing performers and communities from across Aotearoa and beyond.
Young competitors from 5 years old share the stage with seasoned champions in junior, intermediate, women’s and men’s divisions. International judges from the United States, Australia, Tahiti and Aotearoa bring global prestige to what has become New Zealand’s annual international fire knife competition. Audiences can expect cultural performances, workshops, food stalls and a vibrant community atmosphere from 6pm to 10pm each day. For further information about Siva Afi Festival, visit sivaafiaotearoa.co.nz.
Feel the heat and witness fire knife artistry light up the night in Māngere. Photo / Sylvia Wongk
Feast in Melbourne
Big flavours take over Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, serving 10 days of world-class dining and celebration from March 20-29. This year, the iconic World’s Longest Lunch heads to Greece, with CBD favourite Kafeneion, Yarraville’s Tzaki and author Ella Mittas creating a vibrant shared experience. International cake sensation Cake Picnic makes its Southern Hemisphere debut, adding a sweet highlight to the 2026 programme.
The Global Dining Series features some of the world’s hottest kitchen talents, with limited seats that reward early planners. More than 170 food parties fill the special events calendar, while Fed Square and Baker’s Dozen return as buzzing festival hubs. For Kiwis chasing flavour-led travel, this festival offers a delicious reason to cross the Tasman and make summer count. melbournefoodandwine.com.au
Take a seat at the table and savour bold flavours across Melbourne. Photo / Visit Victoria
Chug challenge for a cause
The Rare Beer Challenge returns this March for Rare Disorders Month, bringing bold brewing talent together for a good cause. Craft breweries from across Aotearoa compete for the title of Rare Beer Champion by creating rare beers using unusual ingredients and inventive brewing techniques. From March 20 to 27, visitors can sample the full line-up on tap and vote for the People’s Choice Award winner.
For the first time, Auckland hosts the main event. Freehouse brewpub 16 Tun in Wynyard Quarter takes the reins in 2026, giving Aucklanders access to every entry in one place. Wellington supporters can head to The Malthouse, confirmed as the satellite venue. The public launch party begins on March 20 from 3pm. raredisorders.org.nz/get-involved/rare-beer-challenge
Raise a glass for a meaningful cause with the Rare Beer Challenge. Photo / Getty Images
