Weekends In The City Centre

11 - 13 APR 2025:

This weekend? It's a good one!

TŌRUA – An Urban Dance Experience | Aotea Square | 4-13 April | Free

This free immersive dance experience will transform Auckland’s cityscape over two weekends in April, bringing movement, sound and storytelling to two of the city’s most iconic public spaces - Te Komititanga and Aotea Square.

Tōrua features an outstanding ensemble of dance artists, including Levi Siaosi, Sefa Tunupopo, Kia Jewell, Xin Ji, Jemina Smith, Ella Williams, Andre Busby, Petronilla Su'a and Cameron Holland. Hailing from across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, the performers will lead audiences on a journey through the urban environment, using the city as their stage - moving and responding to the city.

Monty Python's Spamalot | ASB Waterfront Theatre | 10-13 April | Tickets $35

Monty Python's SPAMALOT is a high-energy, irreverent musical that parodies the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, blending absurd humor, catchy songs, and over-the-top characters. Highlights include the iconic "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" and the memorable "Knights of the Round Table" number. With clever dialogue, witty satire, and a playful take on medieval legends, the show has become a fan favourite.

SPAMALOT won 3 Tony Awards in 2005, including Best Musical, Best Featured Actress in a Musical & 5 Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Musical and Outstanding Lyrics.

Thai New Year Festival 2025 | Auckland University of Technology City Campus | 12 April | Free

The Thai New Year (Songkran) Festival 2025 is a vibrant celebration of Thai culture, bringing the spirit of Songkran to Auckland.

This family-friendly event will feature traditional performances, a Muay Thai workshop, a Thai film festival, a water-splash festival, and authentic Thai cuisine. The festival welcomes people of all ages, with whānau-friendly activities for those seeking cultural experiences & entertainment, eager to learn about Thai traditions and food lovers excited to explore authentic Thai cusine.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience a taste of Thailand’s renowned hospitality and vibrancy right here in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau. 

Downtown Market | Te Komititanga | 12 - 13 April

Get ready for a weekend of market magic! The Downtown Market returns bigger and better, now spanning two days on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April.

Following the success of the inaugural Downtown Market in 2024, the vibrant fusion of General Collective and Britomart Market is back for a next-level market experience. Explore a carefully curated selection of stalls featuring the best in crafts, fashion, art, homewares and gourmet delights.

Get amongst a weekend of discovery, indulgence, and community spirit, celebrating the creativity and talents of the makers and artisans of Aotearoa. 

In Other Words | QTheatre | 11-12 April | Tickets from $35

For the first time ever, celebrated actors and real-life couple Jennifer Ward-Lealand and Michael Hurst perform together in a two-hander.

Connected by the music of Frank Sinatra, this intimate, humorous and deeply moving love story explores the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and the transformative power of music to help us remember the past, connect with the present and hope for the future. 

Meet characters Arthur and Jane as they retell how they met, fell in love and tried to cope with an encroaching illness.

Shoebox TVs for kids | Gus Fisher Gallery | 12 April | Free, registration required 

Join in this whānau-friendly craft workshop where you will be making shoebox televisions, inspired by the video displays in Having it all, all, all. Let your imagination run wild and create a short story to play on your own DIY television screen.

The workshop will take place at Aaiotanga Community Space at 22 Emily Place, just around the corner from the gallery. All materials will be provided, but you are invited to bring a small cardboard box that you wish to repurpose. Suitable for all ages.

18 - 20 APR 2025:

Fun for everyone in the family!

We Call It Ballet | SkyCity Theatre | 16 & 17 April | $29-79

Settle in for a spectacular show with We Call it Ballet at SkyCity Theatre! The timeless tale of Sleeping Beauty is brought to life like never before, with expressive storytelling, immaculate dancing, and costumes glittering with glow-in-the-dark lights. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful production that transcends tradition, taking you on a journey beyond imagination.

The Lost Dogs' Disco | Aotea Square| 5-25 April | Free

The Lost Dogs’ Disco is no ordinary exhibit, and perfect for kids and kid-like adults. With 16 larger-than-life dogs standing (or lounging) tall... some reaching an impressive 5.5 meters. The installation also boasts a custom-designed electronic soundscape, featuring an unforgettable chorus of barks, howls, growls, and other canine commotion. As you explore, you'll be swept into a whimsical world where dogs rule the dance floor, and every bark is a beat you won’t want to miss!

April School Holidays- Antarctic Architects | New Zealand Maritime Museum| 15-25 April | $5

Drop in for a LEGO® building session and design a hut strong enough to withstand Antarctica’s freezing conditions. When you’re done, explore the South Pole’s icy landscapes and wildlife with a fun scavenger hunt through our Antarctic exhibition Into Ocean and Ice, where tamariki can discover the stories of past adventurers and today’s young explorers.

Hop into the long Easter weekend!

Spot the Easter Bunny at SkyCity | 17 - 21 April | SkyCity Atrium 

From Tuesday 1 April to Tuesday 22 April, SkyCity's atrium will be transformed with some amazing Easter theming to delight all guests. Mark your calendars to meet the SkyCity Easter Bunny in the Atrium handing out sweet treats from Thursday 17 April to Monday 21 April. Take the kids along to meet him and be sure to treat yourself to delicious complimentary Easter treats. Find out more here. 

 Easter High Tea at La Marée | La Marée | 20 April | $79pp

Hop into the Easter spirit with a whimsical twist on high tea at Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour. This special edition features a delightful mix of Easter-themed treats, fluffy scones, and savoury delights, paired with your choice of tea or coffee. Add on their Bubby Package for an additional $79 per person, which comes with welcome drinks of a glass of Veuve Clicquot Brut and 2 selections of Champagne cocktails.

Easter buffet lunch at FISH Restaurant | 20 April | FISH | $85pp

It's back! Celebrate Easter with FISH Restaurant's indulgent Easter Buffet Lunch and enjoy stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and Auckland city while dinning on delicious dishes in sleek, nautical-inspired surroundings. From succulent seafood to herby roasts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

While adults tuck into their food, FISH makes sure the little ones are also catered to on this special holiday. Converting the private dining room into a themed space where children can paint Easter eggs, have a mini egg hunt and indulge in a few sweets, there is a little paradise for everyone!

See what else is on this Easter weekend here.