The Spinoff’s top pick of events from around the motu. Here’s the best for the week November 13–20.
Welcome to The Spinoff event guide, your weekly, curated selection of gigs, events and exhibitions happening across Aotearoa. If you want to pitch your event for future guides then please use this handy form.
Tāmaki Makaurau
Festival: Te Ao Pūtahi
Aotea Square
11am–7pm (except on Sun 16th when it goes until 9pm), November 16–20
Free
A festival of indigenous art, artistry, rongoā, food, enterprise and more. All welcome. Timetable and map, here.
Visual arts: Open Studios Kaipātiki
Kaipātiki
November 15/16
Free
A self-guided tour to explore the studios of artists living in the Kaipātiki area. Participating artists and a map available at the website.
Various, outdoors
November 14–23
Mostly free, but registration required and koha welcome.
The fifth annual Wairarapa Walking Festival invites you to “discover the region’s varied landscapes and rich heritage through a curated programme of guided walks. From coastal panoramas and regenerating forests to working farmland and historic marae, participants will have the opportunity to encounter native flora and fauna, explore active farms, learn from local experts, and enjoy experiences that celebrate the region’s food, wine, dark skies and rich stories.”
Te Whanganui-a-Tara
Theatre: Robin Hood – The Pantomime
Circa Theatre
6.30pm Sat, November 15 (opening night)
$25–$60
It’s Panto season! Circa’s pantomimes are legendary with the perfect amount of innuendo, pop bangers, crowd participation and crazy good talent.
Onekaka
Music: Port Hillbillies
The Mussel Inn
8.30pm Sat, November 15
$15 door sales
“Emerging from the shadows of the Port Hills, Christchurch, New Zealand. One American, Justin Rogers on mandolin, guitar and vocals, one Aussie Gary Elford on guitar, acoustic bass and vocals. They meet up with a six-toed Kiwi singer, banjo and guitar player Steve Stern to share their love of Bluegrass, Old Time and Americana music.”
Ōtautahi
Film: The British and Irish Film Festival
Multiple venues
On until November 19
$15.50–$21
The British and Irish Film Festival has been making its way down the country and is in full swing in Christchurch this week. See the timetable online, here.
Waihōpai
Music: Road to Tamworth – Keily Smith and Friends
Southland Musicians Club, 33 Preston Street
1.30pm–5pm Sun, November 16
$40
“An unforgettable afternoon of music, laughter and community spirit as we come together to support, 2025 Senior Gore Gold Guitar Overall winner, Keily Smith on her journey in country music. Featuring performances from Keily and her special guests, this event promises heartfelt songs, uplifting stories and plenty of toe tapping fun.” Tickets include afternoon tea.
