Events
New Zealand is a happening place and you can guarantee there's a noteworthy event being held somewhere throughout the country every week of the year.
The annual events calendar sports a long list of diverse international, national and regional events to entice visitors keen to sample the country's best offerings from the table to the stage.
Kiwis love to get out and about and are great supporters of any event, particularly if it's for a good cause or charity. They're also immensely proud of their country and welcome the chance to share the scenery, world-class products and talents with international visitors.
Events provide a valuable insight into the local culture and uniquely New Zealand happenings like Matariki (Māori new year) and Te Matatini - the national performing arts competitions - are the perfect opportunity for visitors to rub shoulders with locals.
From October to March (spring to autumn) New Zealand becomes a food and wine lover's paradise offering visitors an opportunity to sample local fare and meet those responsible for putting the country on the global gourmet map.
Unique shows like the 'World of WearableArt' awards held each September in Wellington have also become internationally renowned, and head a long list of art and cultural events that you won't find anywhere else in the world.
New Zealand is also a sailing nation having produced some of the world's top yachtsman and hosted the sport's greatest event, the America's Cup. There are ongoing international sailing competitions in New Zealand waters, as well as a long list of endurance races and competitions for adventurous land lovers.
Add environmental awareness events like NZ Conservation Week, winter festivals, art and cultural events, flower festivals and fashion shows - and you've got a hint of what's on at any one time in New Zealand.
Whether it's sampling the country's finest fare and sipping award-winning wines at the many food and wine festivals, competing in adventure sports on land or water, watching world class entertainers or taking part in the variety of cultural fixtures and festivals - New Zealand events span many themes and every region.
More information:
New Zealand Events Calendar
Rugby World Cup
World of WearableArt
View these and more Events images from Tourism New Zealand's Image Library. All images are available to download.
The promise of new wine releases draws the crowds each year to the Toast Martinborough wine, food and music festival. More than 30 vineyards surround the town square, each matching fresh food from local and Wellington restaurants to their carefully crafted wines. Live music and a free bus between the vineyards ensure a festive time for all.
Photo credit: Scott Venning
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This duo of gowns designed by Margarete Palz, of Germany, was the BioPaints Runner Up to the 2008 WOW Supreme Award and Winner American Express Open Section.
Photo credit: World of WearableArt™ Ltd
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