Elemental AKL Hub | July 1-28
Elemental Hub, basecamp for Elemental AKL is now open until July 28 with entertainment, food and unique interactive experiences for all. It features the Aotea Square Ice Rink and Ice Slide, the perennial magical winter playground for kids and grownups, now in its eighth year, plus the enormously popular 35-metre, multi-level ice slide complete with inflatable tubes for guaranteed super slippery, sliding fun. There's also the BOX Container Bar serving up tasty morsels and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages. Or, book yourself a table inside the cosy winter Snug, an igloo-style dining dome kitted out with comfy furniture, blankets and heaters. Nights in the Hub will be especially chill with the arrival of the Auckland Night Markets for the very first time in Aotea Square too.
World Press Photo Exhibition | June 29 – July 28
The prestigious annual World Press Photo Exhibition, exhibiting winning images from around the globe, is back at Auckland’s Smith and Caughey’s. The 2019 World Press Photo Contest drew thousands of photographers 4,738 from 129 of countries across the globe, with an astonishing submission of 78,801 images. The prize-winning photographs are assembled into an exhibition that travels to 45 countries and is seen by more than 4 million people each year.
War Horse | Now - July 14
The winner of more than 25 international awards, including the Tony Award® for Best Play on Broadway, War Horse is directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris. Nick Stafford’s adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s remarkable story of courage, loyalty and friendship tells the story of a young boy called Albert and his horse Joey, set against the backdrop of the First World War.
Once: The Musical | Now - July 14
A little musical with a huge heart, Once opened on Broadway to universal acclaim, winning over audiences and critics alike with its simplicity and profound beauty, becoming one of the most awarded musicals in history. It's now playing at ASB Waterfront Theatre.
Elemental Feast | All July
Elemental Feast, as part of Auckland's newest winter festival, Elemental AKL, will showcase an unforgettable gastronomic experience of Auckland's world-class food scene with fine dining restaurants, cafes, food trucks, bars and pubs from across the region creating a unique themed dish inspired by one of the four elements. Each dish will reflect Auckland's unique cultural story using local ingredients. Elemental Feast will take place as part of the Elemental AKL from 1-31 July throughout the Auckland region. Here are the incredible offerings from the city centre restaurants taking part.
Crafty Kids Winter Weekends | Every Sunday
Stop by the Maritime Museum every Sunday for these free family-friendly crafts. Kicking off in May, there will be a new nautical craft every month for crafty kids to make and take. No need to book, just come by for a relaxed day by the water.
Renault French Festival | July 11-14
The Renault French Festival is back for 2019 for a third year and promises to be even bigger, longer and better, taking over Shed 10 and The Cloud over four days, showcasing the best of French cuisine and culture. The programme for 2019 is packed with French delicacies, wine and food tastings, live music, dance performances, a vide dressing (a clothes market), pétanque competitions, exquisite dinners, fun wine and cheese masterclasses, a movie theater, a pop up bistro, fireworks and more.