26 March – 19 November 2026
Michael Fowler Centre
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.
Aotearoa New Zealand’s brightest young musicians perform as soloists and side-by-side with the NZSO in a concert celebrating the next generation of performers. Previous young artists have gone on to perform as soloists with the NZSO, NYO and other orchestras across Aotearoa New Zealand.
One of the world’s most acclaimed conductors, Sir Donald Runnicles, returns to conduct a concert of ravishing beauty. Richard Strauss’s Rosenkavalier Suite evokes the decadence of 18th-century Vienna, while his sublime Four Last Songs are interpreted by the silver-voiced soprano Madeleine Pierard.
Mozart’s last piano concerto (No. 27) receives an intelligent and elegant interpretation by the dynamic British pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason. To round out the programme, the NZSO performs two works that deserve a wider audience — Brahms’ Serenade and Elfrida Andrée’s Andante Recitative.
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.
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.
If you’re wandering along Wellington’s waterfront, here’s where you can eat and drink along the way.
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.
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.
Showcasing a curated range of brands from New Zealand and beyond, boutique shopping in Wellington is a one-stop fashion shop.
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.
Treat your tastebuds and find a new place to eat at one of these new cafés, restaurants, and bars in Wellington.
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.
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.
Welcome to bookworm heaven. From secondhand treasures to the newest releases, there’s a book for everyone at these boutique bookshops in Wellington.
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.