From stadium roars to stage encores: this April is set to transform Wellington

This April is shaping up to be a standout month for events across the capital. While summer has drawn to a close, a strong line-up of autumn events is arriving in force, offering plenty for residents and visitors alike across sports, music, comedy and more.

Key highlights include the inaugural ULTRA New Zealand Music Festival, One New Zealand Warriors v Dolphins ANZAC Day match, New Zealand Cricket Home International Season, the Faultline Ultra, and 18 performance events across the city’s venues.

WellingtonNZ Events & Experiences GM, Heidi Morton, says that Wellington is gearing up for one of its busiest Aprils in recent years, with over 100,000 people expected to attend events throughout the month.

“Wellington is the place to be next month - the city will be buzzing with energy and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Not only is April going to be a great month for our residents and visitors, but local hospitality, retail and transport businesses will see the uplift in foot traffic and spend.”

“Wellington’s reputation as a creative and vibrant city is built on experiences that bring people together, and we know that a busy events calendar plays a huge role in that. Events are integral for both the local economy and the sense of pride and connection they create for people.”

ULTRA New Zealand Music Festival will make its debut on 10 April on the Wellington waterfront and is expected to attract more than 20,000 music fans. Headline acts include Alison Wonderland, The Chainsmokers, DJ Snake, NGHTMRE, Pendulum and Ray Volpe, supported by a mix of international and New Zealand artists.

Sporting action is front and centre throughout the month, with the WHITE FERNS taking on South Africa in the second and third ODIs at the Basin Reserve on 1 and 4 April, and the Hurricanes facing the Blues in the Super Rugby Pacific at the newly named Hnry Stadium on 11 April. ANZAC weekend will play host to a major rugby league fixture, with the One New Zealand Warriors v Dolphins ANZAC match also at Hnry Stadium. This marks only the fourth time the ANZAC Day match has been played in Aotearoa.

Faultline Ultra will return that same weekend. With six race options ranging from 6km to 161km for runners and mountain bikers, it offers a challenging course across Wellington’s distinctive, faultline-shaped landscape.

Alongside sport, a vibrant programme of live music and comedy will run throughout the month. On 2 April, more than 60 musicians from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra will perform with acclaimed singer-songwriter Bic Runga. Celebrating her 31-year career, Runga will present songs from her new album Red Sunset, alongside well-known favourites.

From 8 to 12 April, the New Zealand Brass Band Championships will bring over 1,000 competitors from 40 bands to the city, culminating in Brilliant Brass – In Concert with the National Band of New Zealand at the Michael Fowler Centre.

Fans of classic music can also attend a special performance at the St James Theatre by The Pogues on 8 April. The event marks 35 years since the band last toured New Zealand, and 40 years since the release of their album Rum, Sodomy & the Lash. Boney M also return to the St James Theatre with The Final Curtain Tour later in the month, with two shows on 30 April and 1 May that are nearly sold out.

Hnry Stadium will also host the fan favourite Armageddon Expo from 3-5 April, showcasing some of the greatest pop culture names in comics, movies, television, animation and gaming.

For inspiration while planning time in Wellington, or to purchase event tickets, visit WellingtonNZ.com.

Date published: 27 March 2026