Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts in Wellington

Held every two years since 1986, Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts (ANZFA) celebrates performance in all its forms. For 40 years, it has delivered captivating acts that have helped cement Wellington as a centre for creative excellence. The diverse festival programme delivers music, theatre, dance, visual arts, literature, and more.

For the 2026 festival programme, co-directors Tama Waipara and Dolina Wehipeihana have cast the net wide with nods to the past and future. "This Festival is a place to hui tahi, to gather, share, experience and access the very best ngā toi, our arts, culture and creativity, together,” says Dolina.

‘GLORIA — A Triple Bill’ honours renowned New Zealand choreographer and dancer, Douglas Wright. Debuted at the 1992 festival, the epic work involves The New Zealand Dance Company, Co3 Contemporary Dance Australia, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, and Voices New Zealand. Experience world-class artistry as platinum-selling artist Ron Ruha premieres new waiata with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. ‘TEIWA’ is described as a supernatural performance of tribal futurism.

A group of dancers throw another dancer in the air. They are all dressed in brown, with a black background.

GLORIA — A Triple Bill, presented by The New Zealand Dance Company and Co3 Contemporary Dance Australia

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds bring the Wild God Tour to Wellington for two nights. The Australian’s sophisticated mix of post-punk and experimental tunes continue to thrill audiences after four decades. The programme also offers a powerful play by British actor and activist Khalid Abdalla, a composition for six pianos by John Psathas, and the Royal New Zealand Ballet’s take on Macbeth.

Tāwhiri Warehouse is a major Festival hub this year. Recently renovated, the Newtown space is set to host electrifying theatre and dance, glittering cabaret and more. Numerous art exhibitions across the region will also take place along with a free Songwriter Speaks Series, and a writers programme. ANZFA also coincides with the re-opening of Te Ngākau Civic Square and Te Matapihi Central Library. Expect some grand celebrations as the cultural heart of Wellington re-emerges.