WellingtonEvents
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra performing at the Michael Fowler Centre in Wellington, New Zealand.

The NZSO offers an outstanding programme for 2026. Hear works from the classical canon to contemporary Kiwi artists, from international stars to emerging talent.

The NZSO’s reputation for artistic excellence attracts many of the world’s leading musicians, conductors, and soloists. In 2026, some of the music-world luminaries include violinists María Dueñas and James Ehnes, trombonist Jörgen van Rijen, pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason, and New Zealand piano prodigy Shan Liu.   

Wellington shows are hosted in the Michael Fowler Centre, home of the NZSO. The touring programme will see the orchestra perform over 100 concerts in over 30 communities. Be among over 100,000 people across the motu who experience live orchestra music. 

See the NZSO in Wellington

Stephen Hough.

Enigma

13 November 2026Michael Fowler Centre

NZSO Principal Conductor Gemma New and legendary pianist Sir Stephen Hough present a concert of charm and mystery. Elgar’s masterpiece Enigma Variations is considered a work of compositional genius. It’s programmed with Saint-Saëns Piano Concerto No. 5 and Ross Harris Concerto for Orchestra.

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New Zealand-born conductor, Gemma New, holds a conductor's baton.

Beethoven 9

19 November 2026Michael Fowler Centre

The grand finale of the NZSO’s season involves a monumental work of emotional power. For his 9th symphony, Beethoven used an audacious juxtaposition of styles and forces. This included a choir, which was revolutionary at the time. Join four soloists and The Orpheus Choir in a thrilling end to the year.

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Two people are standing on Kumutoto Wharf near Lambton Quay on a sunny day. The water behind them is green and the sky is blue.

By the seaside: Where to eat and drink on the waterfront

If you’re wandering along Wellington’s waterfront, here’s where you can eat and drink along the way.

Interior of Hummingbird restaurant in Wellington, with guests seated at a green-tiled bar while a staff member prepares drinks behind the counter, shelves of bottles and glassware illuminated by warm, ambient lighting.

Capital classics: Long-lasting restaurants

Wellington is fortunate to have fantastic restaurants that have stood the test of time. These restaurants and cafés are some of the oldest in Wellington.

Two people enjoy a flight of coffee at The Hangar.

Your essential guide to coffee

Wellington takes its coffee seriously. Whether you’re after a creamy flat white, a jet-fuelled long black, or something in between, there are plenty of places to keep you caffeinated.

Racks of clothes are positioned in front of Sully's shop windows, looking out on Ghuznee Street.

Boutique shopping in Wellington

Showcasing a curated range of brands from New Zealand and beyond, boutique shopping in Wellington is a one-stop fashion shop.

Two people look at the art on display at Te Whanganui a Tara exhibition, Wellington Museum.

What to do on a rainy day in Wellington

When it’s wet outside, Wellington provides plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied. Head to these attractions to stay warm, dry, and entertained.

Modern café interior with hanging pendant lights, a glass food cabinet and a service counter in central Wellington.

New and notable places in Wellington

Treat your tastebuds and find a new place to eat at one of these new cafés, restaurants, and bars in Wellington.

Two friends enjoy a meal at Rita. The small restaurant has dim amber lighting and staff working in the background.

From first date to foodie: Where to take your date for dinner

Whether you’re looking for first-date inspiration, a new spot for date night, or something for a special occasion dinner, here’s where to book in Wellington.

Couple standing at the top of the Mount Victoria Lookout, with Wellington harbour and city in the background on a sunny day.

Top 10 Wellington must-dos

There’s much to see and do in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. These are a few of the special experiences that shouldn’t be missed.

Two people browse through books outside Pegasus Books in Left Bank off Cuba Street. Pegasus Books is an older wooden building with shelves of eclectic books outside.

Wellington’s independent bookstores

Welcome to bookworm heaven. From secondhand treasures to the newest releases, there’s a book for everyone at these boutique bookshops in Wellington.

Looking into Iris Store + Studio adorned with their beauty products in white bottles on shelves along the wall and a counter in the centre.

Wellington‘s top spa and wellness experiences

Feeling frazzled? Aura a little off? Wellington offers fantastic spots to relax and reset. Whether you’re after a luxury spa experience, or a soothing facial, there’s a place you can escape to.