WHAT’S ON
Tauranga’s event season is in full swing. A mix of sport, music and big-name performers are bringing plenty of life to the city. Whether you’re staying local or hosting visitors, there’s so much to see and do. “This summer is going to be huge,” says Tauranga mayor Mahé Drysdale. “Our city will be buzzing with events for everyone. Locals can enjoy an incredible line-up right here at home, and visitors will get to experience Tauranga at its absolute best – welcoming and full of energy.”
BLACKCAPS VS WEST INDIES — TEST MATCH December 18–22 — Bay Oval
Five days of classic summer cricket as the BLACKCAPS face the West Indies. Experience a lively crowd, great match-up and that unmistakable Bay Oval atmosphere.
L.A.B. & STAN WALKER
December 27 — Wharepai Domain
Two of Aotearoa’s most loved acts return for an afternoon and evening of music in the heart of the city. A strong line-up and a cruisy festival feel is exactly the kind of day Tauranga does well.
NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS
December 31 — Tauranga city centre, Mount Maunganui, Greerton, Matua, Pāpāmoa
Music, entertainment, food trucks, and a 9.30pm fireworks display at all sites (except Greerton which has a light show). A relaxed, fun New Year’s Eve for families and anyone keen to stay close to home.
HOT SPRING SPAS T20 BLACK CLASH
January 17 — Bay Oval Team
Rugby squares up to Team Cricket, led by Kieran Read and Dan Vettori. Fast, noisy and full of personality, this event is always a crowd-pleaser.
JIMMY CARR — LAUGHS FUNNY TOUR
January 25 — Mercury Baypark
A night of sharp, unapologetic comedy from Jimmy Carr as he brings his latest tour to Tauranga.
BAYPARK SPEEDWAY — SUMMER SERIES
Various dates — Mercury Baypark
Stadium High-powered racing, packed stands and full-throttle excitement, the summer series is back with a full run of events.
THE CHIEFS VS FIJIAN DRUA
January 30 — Blake Park
Get ready for a summer showdown as the Chiefs take on the Fijian Drua at Blake Park. Expect high-energy footy, electric fan spirit, and a warm-weather evening out for friends, families and rugby lovers alike.
FISHER
January 31 — Bay Oval
Global dance heavyweight FISHER becomes the first artist to stage a major concert at Bay Oval – set to be the biggest party the Bay has ever seen.
UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBELL
February 7 — Bay Oval
A summer favourite, with Ali Campbell bringing the Red Red Wine and a stack of hits to Bay Oval, all wrapped in an easygoing festival feel.
BEAST OF A FEAST
February 28 — Soper Reserve
Tauranga’s not-so-typical beer, food and music festival returns, featuring Ladi6, Avalanche City and P-Money.
TOI TAURANGA ART GALLERY
Current exhibitions — Tauranga
The gallery has reopened with a fresh line-up of exhibitions from artists across Aotearoa, Australia and the Pacific. It’s definitely worth stopping in to see what’s new.
