Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts

Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts (ANZFA) is a much-anticipated event. Held every two years in Wellington, it runs for three weeks over the summer. The festival offers a programme of arts spanning the spectacular, joyful, and breathtaking. 

ANZFA has something for everyone. Experience music, theatre, dance, visual arts, literature, and more. The festival aims to make art as accessible as possible with a series of ticketed and free events. There’s also a region-wide visual arts programme that’s free to explore.

Since it began in 1986, more than 6.2 million people have attended the festival. “Beyond being inspired and moved by extraordinary performances by artists from all over the world, festivals like ours bring people together for shared and impactful experiences,” says Executive Director Angela Green. “The festival offers a space for connection, curiosity, and the enduring power of the arts to uplift everyone.” 

ANZFA is known for its bold, boundary-pushing spirit. It has a reputation as New Zealand’s premier cultural event. Over the years, it has hosted many remarkable performances and events. 

Hundreds of legendary artists and companies have graced the festival's stages. From Grammy-Award winning jazz singer Sarah Vaughan to iconic British rock band Dire Straits. The Edinburgh Military Tattoo was presented in 2000 marking the first ever performance outside of Scotland. In 2018, the festival brought one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies to Wellington. Acclaimed actor Sir Ian McKellen took to the stage, starring in the title role of ‘King Lear’. More recently, in 2024 over 31,000 people experienced Light Cycles by Moment Factory at the Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā. The event invited audiences on a nighttime adventure where natures secret rhythms came to life.

The festival is a crucial platform to celebrate the country's creative spirit. The programme has a strong Indigenous kaupapa . Pacific influences and contemporary New Zealand narratives are also highlighted. Audiences can expect to see cutting-edge works, innovative performances, and stunning exhibitions.

Wellington’s vibrant arts scene and spirit of creativity and innovation make it the perfect host. “The uniqueness of the city is such an asset. Venues are within walking distance. Locals are passionate about the arts, and artists are making great work,” says Angela.