Celebrating 40 Years of the extraordinary: 2026 Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts
2026 marks the first Festival led by Co-Directors Tama Waipara MNZM and Dolina Wehipeihana.
This milestone year promises an extraordinary three weeks of thought-provoking theatre, electrifying dance, brilliant minds, glittering cabaret, fresh sounds, and more. For our 40th anniversary, we honour iconic works from our past alongside bold new commissions, and welcome international artists whose work brings deeper understanding and awe-inspiring sounds, sights, tricks, and delights.
2026 also marks the grand opening of our newly renovated venue and Festival Hub, Tāwhiri Warehouse, Wellington’s newest space for creativity and connection located in the heart of Newtown – we can’t wait to welcome you.
Dive into the programme and start planning your Festival experience.
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Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts is presented by Tāwhiri Limited under the distinguished vice-regal patronage of Her Excellency The Right Honourable Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor-General of New Zealand.