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Monday, August 24, 2026
In Aotearoa New Zealand kōanga (spring) occurs between the months of September and November, bringing with it longer daylight hours, temperate weather and lush landscapes in full bloom. Visitors can also expect a packed calendar of events centred around arts and culture, live sporting fixtures and running races in scenic locations across the motu (country).
Clients travelling in spring who are looking to take part in New Zealand’s festivals and events can be wowed by the spectacle that is the World of Wearable Arts or take part in the Coastal Five running festival, appealing to the 85% of visitors who are interested in experiencing coastal areas while in New Zealand. For event details, programming and tickets refer to the official events websites.
Designers from around the globe partake in this annual international fashion competition that culminates in a three-week show(opens in new window) filled with incredible garments, music, dance and aerial choreography.
Established in 1987, World of Wearable Art (WOW) is an opportunity for designers to showcase their creativity and culminates in an exhilarating fashion show in Wellington
Sign your run club devotee clients up to this seven-race event(opens in new window) ranging from 2 – 50 kilometres, all backdropped by spectacular turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains. Note there are compulsory gear lists for each race including thermal and waterproof layers.
With seven distances, each backdropped by Mackenzie's jaw-dropping landscapes there's something for everyone from first-timers to seasoned athletes at Merrell Race Tekapo
October typically brings a mix of sunshine and spring showers, so advise your clients to pack waterproof layers. This is an excellent month for outdoor events like live sporting fixtures and running races as well as marking the start of the Great Walks(opens in new window) season.
New Zealand’s women’s national rugby team, the Black Ferns, resume their rivalry with France during a three-test home series(opens in new window) with matches in Hamilton (17th), Whangārei (24th) and Christchurch (31st) that’ll showcase the pace and skill of top-tier rugby.
The Black Ferns, New Zealand's national women's rugby team, hosts four home test matches against France in spring 2026 including at One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch
An offroad running event that takes in the best of the Port Hills. While the 53-kilometre Crater Rim Ultra(opens in new window) is the headline event, other distances range from 6 – 30 kilometres along with a “park dash” for future runners up to 15 years old.
Celebrate the 25th edition of the off-road Crater Rim Ultra in 2026, taking in the best of the picturesque Port Hills of Christchurch
A dynamic programme(opens in new window) of artistic and literary events celebrating Nelson’s creativity, culture and community where artists from around the country and overseas deliver an inspiring mix of theatre, music and kōrero (conversation).
Held over 11 days, the Nelson Arts Festival is New Zealand's longest running annual regional arts festival, showcasing the talents of local and national artists and authors
With five running events(opens in new window) (1.6 kilometres, 4.5 kilometres, 5 kilometres, 10 kilometres and 21.1 kilometres) spread over two days, participants choose their distance or take on all five to complete the full marathon challenge.
The Coastal Five in Taranaki is a marathon event with a difference: five events across two days, taking in coastal views and iconic landmarks like Te Rewa Rewa Bridge
Looking for inspiration beyond these major festivals and events to help curate your clients’ next itinerary to Aotearoa New Zealand? Our “What’s New in New Zealand” articles are filled with the latest accommodation openings, exciting new experiences and seasonal highlights.
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