Published on
September 14, 2025
New Zealand, celebrated for its remarkable landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage, is gearing up for a spring season in 2025 filled with a dynamic range of events. These events promise to attract visitors from around the world, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether one is an adventure seeker, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, New Zealand’s spring events cater to all tastes and interests. In addition to the wealth of experiences it offers, this season also aligns with the country’s continued dedication to sustainable tourism and supporting local communities. The spring of 2025 represents a significant opportunity for New Zealand to further solidify its reputation as a leader in responsible tourism, not just within the region but on the global stage as well. These events are designed to provide enriching experiences while also contributing to New Zealand’s sustainability goals, making this a pivotal year in the travel industry.
Diverse Experiences Await Travelers
The spring season in New Zealand offers a wide range of events, ensuring there is something for every traveler. Whether visitors are interested in exploring New Zealand’s cultural heritage, enjoying the nation’s natural beauty, or partaking in culinary delights, these events provide a perfect mix of activities. From biking festivals and art showcases to beer tastings and live music performances, these events promise to create lasting memories. Additionally, the emphasis on eco-tourism ensures that guests can experience the very best of New Zealand while simultaneously supporting its efforts toward sustainability.
Pedal and Pour Cycle Event – Bannockburn, Central Otago
The Pedal and Pour Cycle Event in Bannockburn, located in the heart of Central Otago, stands out as one of the major highlights of the season. This event combines the excitement of mountain biking with the relaxation of wine tasting and the enjoyment of live music. Taking place in the Bannockburn hills, participants can choose from a range of cycling routes, including a family-friendly 5km course and a more challenging 22km route for experienced cyclists. The event concludes at Carrick Winery, where guests can indulge in woodfired pizza and sample Central Otago wines, making for a perfect day of adventure and relaxation. The event is not only ideal for cyclists but also for families looking to enjoy a day in the stunning New Zealand countryside.
We The Young Festival – Auckland
In Auckland, the We The Young Festival, scheduled for September 16 to 28, will celebrate the creativity of tamariki (children) and rangatahi (youth). This inaugural festival is specifically designed to engage young minds, offering over 19 live performances, workshops, and interactive art installations. The festival’s focus is on providing a platform for young people to explore art, creativity, and imagination. Highlights include the Dance-O-Mat, an interactive dance experience, and a variety of craft sessions aimed at encouraging artistic expression. By promoting creativity and cultural engagement, the festival ensures that the arts remain accessible to the younger generation, fostering an environment where youth can develop their skills and self-expression.
The Lightship at Auckland Waterfront
Auckland’s waterfront will be illuminated by the return of The Lightship, an extraordinary light installation set to mark the beginning of the 2025-26 season in September. Spanning 110 meters across Bledisloe Wharf, The Lightship is powered by 8,500 programmable LEDs, making it the largest light wall in Australasia. This year’s exhibition, titled “Thresholds and Crossings”, explores the relationship between land and sea, with works contributed by artists from both Aotearoa and Australia. The installation is free for the public to enjoy, offering an immersive and visually stunning experience along Auckland’s bustling port.
The Kiwi Icons Afternoon Tea – Hilton Auckland
For those seeking to indulge in New Zealand’s culinary culture, the Hilton Auckland’s Bellini Bar introduces The Kiwi Icons afternoon tea. Curated by Pastry Chef Hiranya Ratnayake, this afternoon tea presents a modern reinterpretation of classic Kiwi treats such as Ginger Crunch and Lolly Cake, along with savory dishes like roast lamb, kūmara wraps, Southland sushi, and golden parāoa parai (traditional Māori fried bread). With panoramic views of the harbor, this afternoon tea combines nostalgic flavors with a contemporary twist, offering visitors a unique chance to experience New Zealand’s culinary delights while soaking in the stunning views.
Esther’s Dinner Series in Marlborough
In the wine-growing region of Marlborough, Esther’s Dinner Series offers an exceptional dining experience combining boutique wines with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Curated by Chef Sean Connolly, each event in the series features a three-course dinner paired with some of New Zealand’s finest wines. The September 18 event will highlight Hans Herzog, a respected New Zealand winemaker, allowing guests to taste rare vintages and take part in the Mystery Pour Challenge. This interactive event not only provides a chance to sample exquisite wines but also offers insight into the region’s rich winemaking culture, combining food and storytelling in a meaningful way.
Te Wā o te Kōanga – Spring Festival in Wellington
Wellington will host the Te Wā o te Kōanga (Spring Festival) from August 31 to September 28. This vibrant celebration marks the arrival of spring with a mix of cultural and artistic events. Among the highlights are the Art of Ikebana Exhibition and performances at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush & Botanic Garden. The festival will also feature the Young Landscaper of the Year 2024 competition, where up-and-coming landscaping professionals will showcase their talents. This festival offers a unique opportunity to explore Wellington’s natural beauty while celebrating the cultural and creative renewal that comes with the season of spring.
Oktoberfest in Wellington Waterfront
Wellington’s Oktoberfest, set for September 30 and October 1, brings a taste of Germany to New Zealand. Held at the Wellington Waterfront, this event will feature a variety of German-style beers, traditional bratwursts, sauerkraut, and bretzels, along with live music from brass bands such as Das Steinbenders. This lively festival is perfect for beer lovers and anyone eager to experience the cheerful, festive spirit of Bavarian culture in New Zealand.
Hobbiton Movie Set Beer Festival in Matamata
For fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and craft beer enthusiasts, the Hobbiton Movie Set Beer Festival is a must-attend event. Set to take place on November 1 and 2, this festival, held at the iconic Green Dragon Inn in Matamata, offers exclusive craft beers, live folk music, and the chance to explore the famous Hobbiton Movie Set. It’s a unique fusion of Middle-earth magic and the joy of a traditional beer festival, offering visitors an unforgettable experience for Lord of the Rings fans.
Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival
The Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival, scheduled for November 8 and 9, will highlight New Zealand’s flourishing craft beer scene. Taking place at Forsyth Barr Stadium, this festival will feature a selection of local beers from various breweries, paired with delicious food from New Zealand’s top producers. The event will also feature live music, making it the ideal occasion for those who enjoy great food, drink, and entertainment in support of local businesses.
The Global Impact on Travelers
The upcoming spring events in New Zealand are expected to have a significant impact on the global travel industry, especially as travelers continue to look for experiences that merge luxury with sustainability. New Zealand is quickly becoming a prime destination for purpose-driven tourism, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty while supporting conservation and local communities. The emphasis on eco-tourism at these events encourages travelers to make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying world-class experiences.
As more destinations around the world embrace sustainable practices, New Zealand is setting an example for others to follow. Travelers today are increasingly seeking ways to contribute to local communities and conservation efforts while exploring the world. The events planned for the spring of 2025 are a clear representation of this growing desire, where the experience of enjoying New Zealand’s culture, food, and nature comes with a conscious effort to preserve those very elements for future generations.
The success of New Zealand’s spring events will not only have a positive impact on the country’s tourism industry but also help shape the future of travel globally. As travelers become more mindful of the environmental impact of their actions, these events showcase how luxury travel can coexist with responsible tourism. By offering opportunities to support local economies and contribute to the preservation of natural resources, New Zealand is setting a new standard for tourism that others may seek to replicate.
Ultimately, these spring events represent a significant moment for New Zealand’s travel industry. As the world moves toward more sustainable practices, the country’s focus on eco-tourism will continue to drive its appeal, offering travelers a chance to indulge in luxury while contributing to the greater good. New Zealand’s spring 2025 events are more than just celebrations; they are a step toward a more responsible, immersive, and eco-conscious way of experiencing the world.
