October is usually the month that many look forward to in New Zealand. As we enter the final quarter of the year, Christmas seems like it is just around the corner and the early signs of summer are upon us as we head into warmer days and lighter nights! 2020 is going to be a little different. With COVID-19 still hanging over us, there is still a lot of uncertainty, however, for many, the show must go on. Event planners and organisers have had their work cut out this year but they continue to plan, rearrange and organise events wherever they can and October is no different.
As the spring weather starts to warm up, many of the events throughout October will take you outside, however there are some cracking events taking place (*crosses fingers*) both inside and outside depending on where your travels take you.
To give you a hand we’ve selected the 6 best events in October in New Zealand that you can consider depending on where your GO Rentals adventures take you!
1. Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical – Auckland
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The supercalifragilisticexpialidocious musical, Mary Poppins, has delighted audiences around the world and will now be seen in a stunning, all-new New Zealand-produced season this October.
As we write this post (16 September), everything is still planned to go ahead with the 16 night run of this much-loved musical. The magical story of the world’s favourite nanny is triumphantly and spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs.
Tickets are still available with multiple performances on weekend dates so don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to see one of the best musicals in the world right now right here in Auckland.
Event:Â Mary Poppins
When: 2 – 18 October 2020
Where: Civic Theatre, Auckland
2. New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
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Why not get a little classical this October and catch one of the number of performances from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra taking place at venues across the country.
The Podium Series 2020 marks 250 years since Beethoven’s birth and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra celebrates his legacy with performances of some of his greatest works. The much-loved Eroica, Fifth and Pastoral symphonies, the Emperor Piano Concerto and other seminal works will be heard in concert halls across the country.
The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra doesn’t just do concerts, it reaches beyond the stage to bring music to all New Zealanders. Make sure you book your tickets today and enjoy a real treat this spring.
Event:Â New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
When: 9 October – 12 December 2020
Where:Â Auckland, Wellington, and Dunedin
3. DIWALI FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS 2020
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The Diwali Festival of Lights is a fantastic celebration of culture that’s a fantastic thing to experience in many of the main centres across the country.
The Auckland event, for example, offers a packed schedule of events including music, dance and theatrical performances. In the background in between shows, you’ll be able to sample some great Indian food at one of the many stalls in Aotea Square.
The event is concluded with a dazzling fireworks display which is always a winner with young and old. Don’t miss out!
Event: Diwali Festival of Lights
When: 27 October – 14 November 2019
Where: Auckland (also hosted in other cities on alternate dates)
4. Benee
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Kiwi pop sensation Benee will be playing a six-date New Zealand tour in October which is not to be missed.
Benee has been described as the breakout artist of 2020, after her song Supalonely was used for a TikTok dance that was recreated by everyone from Jason Derulo to Jennifer Lopez.
With her hit singles playlisted the world over, Benee has collected over half a billion streams and a passionate global fan base obsessed by her groove-drenched sound and quirky lyrical take on the world. Sadly some of the venues are already sold out but there are still some tickets available so don’t miss out on an opportunity to see one of the biggest stars in world-music playing right here in her own backyard.
Event:Â Benee
When: 3 – 17 October 2020
Where: Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington, and Auckland
5. Digital Nights Wellington – Van Gogh Alive
Don’t just admire Van Gogh’s paintings – immerse yourself in them in the most visited multi-sensory experience in the world – now under the night skies of Wellington.
Vincent van Gogh’s works have been displayed and enjoyed around the world for over a century, but never like this. Created by Grande Exhibitions, Digital Nights – Van Gogh Alive is an outdoor art spectacular that gives you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself into Van Gogh’s artistry and truly venture into his world. A 45 minute, walkthrough exhibition, from the moment you enter a powerful and vibrant symphony of light, colour and classical sound bring Van Gogh’s masterpieces to life, giving you the sensation of walking right into his paintings; a feeling that is simultaneously enchanting, entertaining and educational.
Adults and children alike will forge their own paths and find their own meaning as they wander among masterpieces on a monumental scale under the night sky at Wellington’s iconic waterfront space, Odlins Plaza. Acclaimed as the most visited multi-sensory experience in the world, visitors are calling Van Gogh Alive ‘stimulating’, ‘engulfing’ and ‘unforgettable’ this is no ordinary art exhibition: experience it for yourself!
Event: Digital Nights Wellington – Van Gogh Alive
When: 1 – 30 October 2020
Where: Odlins Plaza, Wellington
6. Brewday
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BrewDay is a true celebration of beer and Wellington is well-known for its amazing beer festivals.
In 2020, BrewDay will be incorporating the themes of Oktoberfest and Halloween to bring you a celebration of great beer, food, wine, cider and music from the Wellington region and beyond. Held at the iconic Brewtown in Upper Hutt — home to Panhead Custom Ales, Boneface Brewing Co and Te Aro Brewing Co.
Like all great beer, food and wine festival here in New Zealand, BrewDay has a packed lineup of fantastic food, amazing live music and of course, the best of New Zealand beer. Your ticket price includes: entry to the festival, a drinking glass, live entertainment and an opportunity to have an awesome experience. Tickets are selling fast so don’t miss out on this awesome beer festival and kick off the food, wine and beer festival season in style at BrewDay.
Event: BrewDay
When: 31 October 2020
Where: Wellington
SOME GREAT OCTOBER EVENTS IN NEW ZEALAND
As you can see there are some great events and festivals taking place in New Zealand this October. Be sure you get to a few before the Christmas rush takes over!
