What's On in Rotorua
Rotorua hosts world-class events year round
Events bring communities together, help our city grow, showcase creativity, and often they celebrate our unique treasures such as geothermal wonders, Māori heritage, and gold-level mountain biking trails.
Sporting events are always fun whether you're competing, supporting a loved one who's competing, or cheering from the sidelines. The same goes for performing arts, festivals, concerts and more.
The next time you're looking for something to do, check this page for what's on and join us here in Rotorua.
Giant 2W Gravity Enduro
1 February
The final of New Zealand’s premier enduro three-race series in the world-renowned Whakarewarewa Forest. Ride at your pace as an individual or socially with your mates; catch shuttle buses to the tops of the hills if you don’t feel like riding them, then let rip, racing down timed, long, flowing descents in the world-famous trail network.
Waitangi Day celebration
6 February
Experience the spirit of “Mō te aroha o te iwi – For the Love of the People,” proudly hosted by Te Paratehoata Marae (Tūnohopū) at the serene Wai Ariki Spa starting at 10am. This whānau friendly event invites our community to come together in celebration and reflection, fostering a vibrant day of acknowledgement, connection, and inspiration.
Waitangi Day celebration
6 February
Kicking off at 9:30am, Te Puia have got activities for the whole whānau! If you're feeling hungry after taking on those activities, celebrate with kai and inu at the street food market with an extensive array of delicious options, including Hāngī cooked in the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Take your whānau and friends along for a day of celebration and discovery.
Classic & Wooden Boat Annual Parade
8 February
For nearly three decades, the Lake Rotoiti Classic & Wooden Boat Parade has attracted boats and boating enthusiasts from far and wide to see beautiful vessels cruising the lake.
Josh Wolf - High on Life Tour
12 February
Josh is one of comedy’s funniest artists currently touring. His tour SOLD OUT quickly last time round, so don’t miss out on seeing one of the best in the business in his first ever visit to Rotorua!
Tarawera Ultramarathon
15-16 February
The Tarawera Ultramarathon is New Zealand’s most prestigious trail ultra. Runners can complete the 21km, 50km, 102km distances or the ultimate 100-mile endurance run. The course takes in seven lakes plus forests, waterfalls and the most stunning scenery imaginable.
The Big Bike Film Night
27 February
Now in its 11th year, the festival celebrates cycling in all its glorious shapes and forms. Enjoy a feast of short films devised and designed to delight all two-wheel devotees.
Johnny Cash & The Outlaws
5 March
Experience the legendary hits of Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson, brought to life by talented performers David Thompson, Jeff Carter Jr., Michael Martin, and Peter Ferguson. Don’t miss this unforgettable tribute to the icons of outlaw country music.
Crankworx Rotorua
5-9 March
The world’s largest mountain biking festival sees hundreds of professional riders compete in several events
RNZB's Tutus on Tour
18 March
Tickets are available now for the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Tutus on Tour which features two show-stopping pas de deux: the elegant and sophisticated Grand Pas Classique, and the charming Wedding pas de deux from Act III of Coppélia.
Rotorua Lakeside Concert
22 March
For nearly three decades, Rotorua’s most popular and iconic public event has been taking place at the Village Green alongside Lake Rotorua. This year’s theme, Funkyside, will feature a star-studded line up of the best artists and performers from around New Zealand as well as rising young talent from Rotorua. It’s a fantastic, FREE family-friendly night of festivity, fun, and fireworks.
The Bruce Springsteen Experience
4 April
The Bruce Springsteen Experience is dedicated to honouring the timeless music of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Featuring a full nine-piece lineup, this captivating performance delivers an electrifying blend of visual and audio excitement. Audiences are consistently wowed.
Supergroove: The Phenomenon Tour
7 April
Their 8 April show has already sold out, so don't miss this one! Featuring the original 1995 lineup of the iconic group, the band comes together for a rare series of shows. Known for their high-octane live performances, this is a special opportunity for fans to experience Supergroove on stage all night delivering their timeless hits.
Dracula's: Sanctuary
4-6 July
Dracula’s returns with four performances of "Sanctuary", a carnal cocktail of the undead and criminally insane. From death-defying aerial acrobatics to knockout vocals – get ready for a blockbuster show, set to dazzle, and delight in a way only Dracula’s can. Tickets on sale now!
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in Rotorua?
Visit Mai Rotorua, your guide to Rotorua local's events.
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