🐝 WellyBuzz: Carnival Fireworks, Live Ballet & 80s Dance Floors Await!

👋 Hey Wellington!

If you’ve been looking for a reason to try something new, this weekend’s lineup is it. From pop-up comedy and craft markets to disco throwbacks and glow worm tours - it’s a little wild, a little weird, and very Wellington.

🔥 Quick Picks This Weekend

🎆 Carnival Grand Finale – Wairarapa’s happiest mid-winter festival wraps up Sat in Greytown. Expect a family street party, wild parade…and fireworks!
💃 The Royal New Zealand Ballet - Home, Land and Sea – A stunning evening of ballet, featuring three powerful performances about journeys and home at St James Theatre.
🍺 West Coast IPA Challenge - 32 breweries compete for hop glory in NZ’s biggest IPA showdown.
🎸 Love Shack: 80s Party at San Fran - NZ’s ultimate 80s cover band - Prince, Blondie, Queen & more.
🎪 Brewtown’s winter market returns Sunday with handmade goods, artisan eats, and warming brews.

🔥 In This Week’s Buzz

🐾 Pet of the Week – Meet Mr. Figs, the 5kg toy poodle with an 80kg attitude.
🕰️ Welly’s Time Machine – 160 years since Parliament first sat in Wellington.
🌟 Local Legends – A Cuba St boutique + inspiring art on Marion St.
🍽️ Food & Drink – Turkish flavours in Island Bay + a sleek café inside Tākina.
🎉 Events – Over 50 unmissable things to do this Friday through Sunday.
⛅ Welly Weather Watch – Sunny spells, light breezes, mild winter vibes.
💝 Extra Sprinkles – The volunteers restoring Wellington’s native green heart.

🐾 Pet of the Week – Meet Mr. Figs

Say hello to Figaro, or Mr. Figs as he’s known in the family. This tiny 5kg toy poodle might be small, but he’s got a big personality! Adopted after Granny passed, he’s grown from a cheeky pup into a more settled companion. He loves challenging his 80kg neighbour dog and has a soft spot for sweet treats like cheese scones and Subway - though he’s always happy to share!

Got a pet that steals the show? 🐾 Nominate your furry, feathery, or scaly friend for Pet of the Week by emailing a photo and blurb to [email protected]!

🕰️ Welly’s Time Machine – When Parliament met in Wellington for the first time

On 26 July 1865, 160 years ago this weekend (when the population of Wellington was just 4,900), the New Zealand Parliament officially sat in Wellington for the very first time, marking our city's debut as the nation's capital. The move from Auckland wasn't without drama - politicians were still arguing over whether Cook Strait was too rough for regular travel, but Wellington's central location and "harbour big enough for the entire Royal Navy" won the day.

🌟 Local Legends – Gems to Check Out:

IHC Art Awards (at Webb’s Wellington, 23 Marion St)

Opening this Friday at Webb’s Wellington, the IHC Art Awards celebrate the creativity of artists with intellectual disabilities from across Aotearoa. Every piece is for sale, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the artists. From bold brushwork to heartfelt storytelling, this powerful annual exhibition is one of the city’s most inspiring showcases of talent.

Cre8iveworx - 217 Cuba St

Located on Cuba Street, Cre8iveworx is a distinctive, joyfully cluttered boutique that celebrates New Zealand’s independent creatives. Specialising in handmade gifts, local luxury apparel, and unique crafts, the shop offers items you’ll rarely find elsewhere in the city. Locals prize the owners’ eye for unconventional finds - perfect for anyone wanting to browse (or buy) something truly original and support Wellington’s creative economy.

🍽️ Food & Drink – Must-Try Spots This Week

Parla (216 The Parade, Island Bay)

Parla brings vibrant Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours to Island Bay, with a menu featuring dishes like labneh, spicy zhug sauce, and sucuk sausage. The warm, cozy atmosphere is perfect for any meal of the day, from breakfast to dinner. Whether inside or outside, Parla offers a sunny spot for delicious food.

Zephyr Café and Bar (50 Cable St, Te Aro)

Located in Tākina, Wellington's new home for world-class exhibitions and conferences, Zephyr Café and Bar offers an inventive and highly curated menu. It's an all-day dining destination where diverse people are brought together in a comfortable and inspiring space.

🎉 Events: Your Weekend Lineup 🌟

Thursday 24 July:

🍴 Hutt City Night Market
Dive into a feast of global street food, music, and community vibes at the weekly night market in Lower Hutt. Enjoy local food trucks, free entry, and a vibrant atmosphere to kick off your Thursday evening.
📍 Dowse Square, Lower Hutt | 🕓 4:00pm–8:00pm | 💥 Free Entry

Friday 25 July:

🦋 A Mid-Winter Garden Celebration
Explore frost-kissed paths, cosy glasshouses, and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies at Longbush Cottage. Daily Q&A with Luke on winter prep and garden structure.
📍 Longbush Cottage, 1023 Longbush Road, Carterton | 🕒 10:00am–4:00pm | 🎟️ $15 adults, Free for children 14 and under

🍺 West Coast IPA Challenge
32 breweries compete in Aotearoa’s boldest beer event with hop-fueled, palate-punching IPAs. Who will claim the Golden Gumboot?
📍 The Malthouse & Fork and Brewer, 76 Willis Street, Wellington | 🕒 11:30am onwards

💃 Delhi Vibes: A Bollywood Party Like No Other!
Dance the night away to Bollywood bangers, Punjabi hits, and desi remixes at this high-energy event hosted by Bollywood Social Wellington!
📍 Garden Hotel, 63 Courtenay Pl | 🕒 10:00pm–3:00am | 🎟️ Tickets on Eventbrite

🎭 The Sound Inside
A gripping drama about the unlikely friendship between a brilliant professor and a mysterious student. This New York hit comes to Circa Theatre starring Dulcie Smart.
📍 Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki St, Wellington | 🕒 8:00pm–9:30pm | 🎟️ From $30

🎬 Italian Film Festival 2025
Enjoy the best of Italian cinema at Masterton’s Regent 3 Cinema with a diverse range of films from classics to contemporary gems.
📍 Regent 3 Cinemas, 230 Queen Street, Masterton | 🕒 12:30pm–2:00pm & 7:30pm-9:00pm | 🎟️ $11–$25

🐾 Harvey Norman Hari the Pup Interactive Display
Join in the fun and make Hari the pup dance, spin, and strut with this interactive display at Greytown Town Hall. A festive, fun experience for all ages!
📍 Greytown Town Hall, 89 Main St, Greytown | 🕒 from 9:00am | 🎟️ Free entry

🦜 Ngā Tūrua Kiwi Play Space for Under 5s
Explore kiwi burrows, climb trees, and discover hidden forest surprises in this interactive play space designed for tamariki aged 0-5.
📍 Capital E, 4 Queens Wharf, Wellington | 🕒 9:30am–3:30pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎤 Raybon Kan: RAYBONANZA!
Award-winning comedian Raybon Kan celebrates 31 years of stand-up with his greatest hits show. Expect full-body laughs and sharp wit in this hilarious performance.
📍 The Offering, 65 Main St, Greytown | 🕒 7:00pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ $39.18

💃 The Royal New Zealand Ballet - Home, Land and Sea
Experience three stunning ballets exploring journeys and the concept of home, featuring dynamic choreography and the haunting melodies of taonga pūoro.
📍 St James Theatre, 77-87 Courtenay Place, Wellington | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ Prices vary

🎷 The Bebop Brigade
Join this exciting new quintet for an exhilarating night of bebop classics, from Charlie Parker to Fats Navarro. Enjoy swing, ballads, and intricate melodies.
📍 The Undercurrent, 118 Tory Street, Wellington | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ $22.75

😂 Best In Class: NZ Comedy School Show
Laugh along with top alumni of the NZ Comedy School as they perform in support of the school's Diversity Scholarship fund.
📍 The Fringe Bar, 26 Allen Street, Wellington | 🕒 8:00pm–9:30pm | 🎟️ $16.58–$25

🎶 NZSO – Mana Moana
A stirring fusion of orchestra and Pacific song featuring the 80-strong Signature Choir.
📍 Michael Fowler Centre | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets

🌟 Glow in the Dark Titiwai Tours – New Zealand Glow Worms
Explore the magical world of glow worms in Wellington Botanic Garden on this enchanting night-time tour.
📍 Wellington Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore St, Kelburn | 🕒 7:00pm–8:00pm & 8:00pm-9:00pm | 🎟️ Adults $10, Children under 12yrs free

🎹 Bikes In Space
Join Jonathan Crayford and his ensemble for an electronic, vintage keys-driven, fully improvised musical journey that feels like stepping into the mind of sci-fi legends.
📍 Meow Nui, 92 Vivian Street, Te Aro | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟️ $39

🎸 The Eastern
Catch this dynamic string band that blends punk, gospel, country, and folk into a powerful live performance, featuring songs from their latest album.
📍 Abandoned Taproom Petone, 38 Fitzherbert St, Petone | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟️ $35

❄️ Snowfall On Main – with FreshChoice Greytown
Experience a magical snowfall outside Greytown Town Hall, set to music and lights. Enjoy a taste of a northern hemisphere White Christmas right here in NZ!
📍 Greytown Town Hall, 89 Main St, Greytown | 🕒 6:00pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🌮 Food Truck Central
Indulge in a variety of mouth-watering flavours from tacos, sushi, crepes, and slow-cooked meats to cakes, churros, and even glow-in-the-dark candy floss!
📍 Main Street, Greytown | 🕒 4:00pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎶 Good Luck Returns!
Get ready for a night of disco-house beats from this 8-piece band, led by Mads Taylor and Lee Stuart, bringing the energy to e & Vagabond.
📍 The Rogue and Vagabond, 18 Garrett St, Wellington | 🕒 9:30pm–11:30pm | 🎟️ Koha entry

🎷 New Zealand Swing Quartet: Live at St Michael's Front Porch Series
Experience the vibrant sounds of New Orleans jazz with the New Zealand Swing Quartet in the stunning acoustics of St Michael’s Church.
📍 St Michael's Anglican Church, 81 Upland Rd, Kelburn | 🕒 6:00pm–7:40pm | 🎟️ Koha entry

🎶 The Earthen Collective
Embark on a sonic journey with The Earthen Collective, blending original songs across genres with stunning visual projections.
📍 St Peters Village Hall, Cnr Beach Rd and Ames St, Paekākāriki | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ Prices vary

Saturday 26 July:

🎉 Christmas Carnival Grand Finale – thanks to SWDC
Celebrate the end of Aotearoa’s happiest mid-winter festival with a street party, night markets, parade, and fireworks at Greytown Town Hall.
📍 Greytown Town Hall, 89 Main St, Greytown | 🕒 3:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

😂 Saturday Laughs with Alan McElroy and Samantha Hannah
Enjoy a night of top Kiwi comedy with award-winning Irish comedian Alan McElroy and Scottish stand-up Samantha Hannah at Waikanae Club.
📍 Waikanae Club, 8 Elizabeth Street, Waikanae | 🕒 8:00pm–9:45pm | 🎟️ $25.81–$34.05

🎤 Valiant Pro: Live at The 162
Catch an exciting night of top homegrown talent at The 162, featuring New Zealand’s finest performers in a high-energy live show.
📍 The 162, 162 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt | 🕒 5:30pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ $16.58–$70.40 (family pass)

🎸 Love Shack: Ultimate 80's Party
Get ready to dance all night to 80's hits by Prince, Blondie, Queen, and more with New Zealand's ultimate 80's supergroup at San Fran!
📍 San Fran, 171 Cuba St, Wellington | 🕒 8:30pm–late | 🎟️ Tickets on Eventbrite

🎨 Inked & Intimate: Tattoo & Pleasure Party
A unique event blending bold tattoos and intimate gadgets at The Gallery Tattoo Studio, with talks on pain, pleasure, and wellness. A portion of proceeds will support breast cancer survivors.
📍 The Gallery Tattoo, Level 2, 4 Bond St, Wellington | 🕒 4:00pm–9:00pm

🎸 Battle of the Bands: The Relatives vs. Frenzy
Join us for a high-energy night of live music as The Relatives face off against Frenzy in a Battle of the Bands at 1841 Bar & Restaurant. Two bands, two stages, one epic night.
📍 1841 Bar & Restaurant, 1 Disraeli St, Johnsonville, Wellington | 🕒 8:30pm

🎸 The Warratahs
Enjoy a night with one of New Zealand’s iconic bands at The Thistle Inn, celebrating their new album "Burning Daylight" with a mix of country, rockabilly, and folk tunes.
📍 The Thistle Inn, 3 Mulgrave St, Thorndon, Wellington | 🕒 6:30pm | 🎟️ $43.30 (show only), $103.85 (dinner and show).

🎤 House of Sound 80’s Invasion Mid Year Show
Enjoy a high-energy show as students perform classic 80s hits with bold outfits and big tunes, celebrating their musical progress this year.
📍 Te Raukura ki Kapiti, Coastlands Theatre, 34a Raumati Rd, Paraparaumu | 🕒 12:00pm & 3:00pm | 🎟️ Adult $25.82

💃 Showstopper: A Magical Musical Drag Show
Enjoy a night of glitzy showbiz history with a star-studded cast of local drag talent at The Fringe Bar. Expect razzle dazzle, tap dancing, and show-stopping performances!
📍 The Fringe Bar, 26 Allen Street, Wellington | 🕒 8:00pm–10:00pm | 🎟️ From $28.92

🎶 Albi/Chris Dent & Hannah Morrell
Join Chris Dent, known for his smooth yet powerful voice, as he performs earthy and heartfelt tunes alongside the talented violinist Hannah Morrell.
📍 Hilltop, 17 Upland Road, Kelburn, Wellington | 🕒 7:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ $34.05

💃 Mid-Winter Ceili
Enjoy a night of Irish music, dance, and hearty stew, all in support of NZ's Rose of Tralee, Ciara Jo Hanlon, as she heads to the international festival.
📍 Vogelmorn Hall, 11 Vennell Street, Brooklyn | 🕒 6:30pm–9:30pm | 🎟️ $28.92–$34.05

🎷 Oscar Lavën Quartet
Enjoy a dynamic tribute to Django Reinhardt's Hot Club music with Oscar Lavën and his talented quartet, bringing the infectious swing sound of 1940s Paris to The Undercurrent.
📍 The Undercurrent, 118 Tory Street, Wellington | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ $22.75

🎶 Last Night of the Proms
Join the Upper Hutt Brass Band and The Hutt Valley Singers for a spectacular evening of patriotic favourites and timeless classics at this New Zealand twist on the famous London event.
📍 Whirinaki Whare Taonga, 836 Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt | 🕒 7:00pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ $10–$25

🪄 Princess Chelsea's Midwinter Ball
Step into a world of swords, sorcery, and fantasy on the big screen with live performances by Princess Chelsea & The Dream Warriors, plus special guests Grecco Romank & Luke Buda.
📍 Meow Nui, 92 Vivian Street, Te Aro, Wellington | 🕒 8:00pm | 🎟️ Prices vary

👗 Sustainable Fashion Market
Explore NZ's biggest preloved clothing market featuring vintage, upcycled, and handmade items for all sizes, plus jewellery and accessories.
📍 Kai Tahi, 20 Parumoana St, Porirua - Mana | 🕒 10:00am–2:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

📚 Trade Wars Zine Market
Join the zine community for a unique market where trades, swaps, and bartering are at the heart of the action — bring your zines, produce, or even good jokes!
📍 Victoria University School of Design, 139 Vivian St, Te Aro, Wellington | 🕒 12:00pm–4:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎻 Party Faithful – NZSO
Two bold 20th-century works from Shostakovich and Britten, featuring cellist Lev Sitkov.
📍 Michael Fowler Centre | 🕒 7:30pm | 🎟️ Tickets

🛍️ Wellington Vintage Market
Shop for vintage treasures from a curated group of vendors in the plant-filled Atrium of the Exchange Building. Enjoy a good-vibe market with great coffee and eats nearby.
📍 The Exchange Building, 21 Allen Street, Wellington | 🕒 10:00am–3:00pm | 🎟️ Gold Coin Entry ($1)

🎤 Louis TM - Wellington
Experience Louis TM’s soulful blend of modern revival and classic R&B with his full live band. A night of powerful Aotearoa soul not to be missed!
📍 Meow, 9 Edward St, Te Aro, Wellington | 🕒 7:00pm–10:30pm | 🎟️ $25

🎶 Sacred Heart Church Singers
Enjoy beautiful carols and Christmas messages from the Sacred Heart Church Singers, with Dutch doughnuts and mulled wine to keep you cozy.
📍 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 60 Main Street, Greytown | 🕒 6:00pm–8:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎶 The Mixtape Vol. 6
Get ready for a night of RnB, Soul, and Funk with LJ Crichton and some heavy musicians at The Rogue and Vagabond.
📍 The Rogue and Vagabond, 18 Garrett St, Wellington | 🕒 9:30pm–11:30pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🦪 Oyster Saloon with Martin Bosley
Join Martin Bosley for a day of oyster shucking, crisp Champagne, and mulled wine in the festive courtyard at Aperitif Wine Bar.
📍 Aperitif Wine Bar, 101 Main Street, Greytown | 🕒 3:00pm–7:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🛍️ Stallkeepers Greytown Markets
Discover unique handmade goods from talented makers, creators, and artists at this boutique market in the heart of Greytown.
📍 Greytown Town Hall, 89 Main St, Greytown | 🕒 9:30am–8:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🗿 Sculptures and Their Stories - Guided Walk
Explore the rich history of sculptures in the Wellington Botanic Garden on this guided walk, delving into their stories and significance.
📍 Wellington Botanic Garden, 101 Glenmore St, Kelburn | 🕒 1:30pm–2:30pm | 🎟️ $5

Sunday 27 July:

🛍️ Brewtown Winter Craft Market
Warm up this winter at the Brewtown Winter Craft Market with unique handmade gifts, artisanal food, brews, and local art, all in the heart of Brewtown’s Greenspace.
📍 Brewtown, 27 Blenheim St, Upper Hutt | 🕒 9:00am–2:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎷 Sunday Jazz
Enjoy live jazz every Sunday at The Undercurrent with The Undercurrent All-Stars, playing swinging tunes from the 1940s and 50s in a charming, bohemian setting.
📍 The Undercurrent, 118 Tory Street, Wellington | 🕒 3:30pm–4:30pm | 🎟️ $16.20

👗 Women's Clothing Pop Up Shop
Shop a wide range of women's clothing at great prices, including Augustine pieces, with sizes from 12 to 20 and shoes in sizes 41 and 42.
📍 The Real Motherhood, 110 Amohia Street, Paraparaumu | 🕒 10:00am–3:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

🎻 Levansa Trio (piano trio)
Experience a stunning performance by the Levansa Trio featuring works by Clarke, Fisher, Martinu, and Saint-Saens, with renowned musicians Andrew Beer, Lev Sivkov, and Sarah Watkins.
📍 St Andrews on the Terrace, 30 The Terrace, Wellington | 🕒 3:00pm–5:00pm | 🎟️ $10.25–$44.30

🎉 Parrotdog 14th Birthday Bash
Celebrate Parrotdog's 14th birthday with a day full of food and drink pop-ups, live music, and birthday giveaways at Parrotdog Bar!
📍 Parrotdog Bar, 60-66 Kingsford Smith St, Rongotai, Wellington | 🕒 From 11:00am | 🎟️ Free entry

🎶 A Grand Tour
Join the Hutt Valley Orchestra for an exciting concert featuring music from Finland to Russia, including Bizet’s L’Arlésienne Suite and Sibelius’ iconic Finlandia.
📍 St James Church, 71 Woburn Road, Lower Hutt | 🕒 3:00pm–4:30pm | 🎟️ Prices vary

🍷 Meet the Maker - Marathon Downs
Join Jess and Nick from Marathon Downs for a hosted wine tasting featuring their expressive wines, made with care from their Awatere Valley farm.
📍 Rosella, 18 Majoribanks Street, Wellington | 🕒 2:30pm–5:00pm | 🎟️ $25 (wine flight)

🎹 Pātaka Friends Winter Music Series - Kevin & Fran
Enjoy a mix of jazz, pop, and razzmatazz with Fran Barton and award-winning pianist Kevin Clark, bringing 54 years of musical magic to the stage.
📍 Pātaka Art + Museum, Cnr Parumoana and Norrie St, Porirua | 🕒 2:00pm–3:00pm | 🎟️ $5 (Free for Friends of Pātaka members)

🎶 Rogue Sunday Jazz - Emma Hattaway
Join Emma Hattaway and her band for an afternoon of sharp, playful jazz, celebrating the voices of Thelonious Monk and Charles Mingus.
📍 The Rogue and Vagabond, 18 Garrett St, Wellington | 🕒 5:00pm–7:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry (Koha encouraged)

🎸 Lockie Bennett & Elijah Mulheron - An IAS Cushion Concert
Join jazz musicians Lockie Bennett and Elijah Mulheron for an intimate evening of bebop, ballads, and everything in between at Inverlochy Art School.
📍 Inverlochy Art School, 3 Inverlochy Place, Wellington | 🕒 5:00pm–6:00pm | 🎟️ $10

🎶 Live Music & Kai With Hanwho – a New Chapter In Newtown
Enjoy smooth live music, delicious kai, and great community vibes at Baobab Café, with soulful tunes curated by Hanwho.
📍 Baobab Cafe, 152 Riddiford St, Newtown, Wellington | 🕒 6:30pm–9:00pm | 🎟️ Free entry

😂 Poprox Improv Comedy Nights
Enjoy an hour of hilarious improv with Wellington's best-dressed comedy troupe, Poprox, for a night filled with laughs and long-form narrative comedy.
📍 Circa Theatre, 1 Taranaki St, Wellington | 🕒 7:00pm–8:15pm | 🎟️ $25–$35

🌱 Wellington Winter Foraging for Wild Edible Weeds
Join Felicity from Homegrown Botanica for a guided foraging walk, discovering wild edible weeds and learning about their nutritional and medicinal benefits.
📍 Innermost Gardens Site, Lawson Place, Mt Victoria, Wellington | 🕒 1:00pm–3:00pm

⛅ Welly Weather Watch

☀️ Friday: Fine. Light winds. High 13°C, low 7°C
☀️ Saturday: Fine. Northerlies developing. High 14°C, low 9°C
⛅ Sunday: Partly cloudy. Northerlies. High 15°C, low 11°C

💕 Extra Sprinkles – Conservation Volunteers NZ Wellington

Every week, these dedicated volunteers are out planting, weeding, and trapping across our green spaces - helping restore the native forest that makes Wellington one of the world's greenest cities. They're the unsung heroes behind our thriving urban wildlife, partnering with everyone from Zealandia to local community groups to keep Te Whanganui-a-Tara flourishing.

Bundle up, get out there, and embrace all the winter magic our capital has to offer this weekend!

Ngā mihi nui,
Kirstie & Steve 🐝

✨ If you’ve made it this far, we’re taking that as a good sign! Help us spread the buzz - share this with friends, family, and neighbours. The more, the merrier!