Festival Events

Immerse yourself in nature at the Sanctuary and witness six artists from around Aotearoa create sustainable, ephemeral artworks using only natural materials.

A medieval figure eyeballs the audience, snacking on Doritos to the soundtrack of crunched celery. Live Foley art, cinematic sound and dance meet (un)reality in dancer/choreographer Rebecca Jensen and sound artist Aviva Endean’s ode to the complexity of our current world. 

Likened to Kate Bush, Anna Meredith and Björk, Esther Swift explores ritual, connection, isolation, and the natural world with pedal harp and voice, spanning genres from classical chamber to Scottish folk music. Prolific, bold, innovative – all the way from Scotland for this special performance.

Crochet extraordinaires Lissy and Rudi Robinson-Cole are among THE most exciting contemporary visual artists in Aotearoa right now with their ngā toi celebrating cultural heritage through captivating storytelling and artistic innovation. We are immensely proud to commission their new large-scale project, Waka of Dreams. 

We’re proud to feature a star-studded line up of 22 of Aotearoa’s most beloved authors and exciting new voices.

Via ceramics, papier maché, textiles, poetry, pen and ink, Sam Duckor-Jones builds communities, casting a fluorescent pink lens across the fears and triumphs of an aspirationally shimmering live-alone gay in 21st century Aotearoa.

Renowned around the world for their visual storytelling in public spaces, urban artists Charles and Janine Williams explore the intricacies of identity vs cultural misconceptions in this exhibition of mixed media works – a must-see celebration of ngā toi Māori! 

Our 2024 Schools Programme features three stellar storytellers – Lauren Keenan, Rachael King, and Claire Mabey – who share their spellbinding tales (think ‘writers are rock stars’ vibe) and support tamariki to create their own.  

Keen to get right amongst the arts action and grow your skills under the guidance of our amazing Festival artists? We hear you!  

Leading Māori ceramicist Carla Ruka brings together a collective of artists to explore the powerful symbolism of clay in a new exhibition at The Suter Art Gallery. Delving into the realm of Hineukurangi, the Māori deity of clay, this showcase offers a unique perspective on Māori culture and artistry.

‘It was so Surreal’, is a common expression of strange visual phenomena which may feel fantastical, absurdist, dream-or nightmare-like, or as if ‘reality’ is muddled with the bizarre. The genes of Surrealist art are widespread in contemporary art practices today, but also in visual culture at large, such as film and advertising; so much so, we take them for granted.

A participatory art installation to create paper cranes for all people who have lost their lives during the current crisis in Palestine. Origami cranes are the Japanese art form Senbazuru, a traditional belief that by folding 1,000 origami cranes, one’s wish would come true.  

Midday music delights are back to brighten your lunch hour! First up: Rosemary Galton and Kyoko Takashima. 

Come celebrate the future of Aotearoa music right here in Whakatū! Tune Up will again transform Kirby Lane into an outdoor music hub with an amazing line up of rangatahi musicians.

After wowing us in Thoroughly Modern Māui, award-winning Rutene Spooner returns to celebrate showband legacy, idolise the greatest Māori showman and tussle with the future of Māori in entertainment. This is everything but an impersonation show. Can you be like Billy without being the butt of the joke?

Aged 11, Abby wrote a romance set in the Navy in the wake of World War II. Now 33, she returns to this tale of love, loss, nautical trauma and deeply undiagnosed Autism in her hilarious Billy T Award winning comedy show.

Featuring true icons of Aotearoa music and the most exciting new talent, the Deville dancefloor is ready for you, music lovers! 

Rhythms of the Pacific recreated on thundering toms and traditional pātē paired with huge live performance, Shepherds Reign bring their fierce Polynesian pride to our opening night. Shepherds Reign are a rare presence who demand the world stage.

From accessible housing design to the tiny house movement, and everything in between, what happens when people step outside the box in housing design and development? Join architect and housing advocate Jade Kake, disability rights advocate, essayist and poet Henrietta Bollinger and local visionary Miriana Stephens, who is leading Te Āwhina Marae’s redevelopment project, in conversation with Min Hall.   

In Aotearoa the number of people who will never have children is growing. Kathryn van Beek, one of the Otherhood anthology’s three co-editors, is joined by contributors Iona Winter, Henrietta Bollinger and Lily Duval for a more inclusive conversation about what makes a fulfilling life.  

Likened to Kate Bush, Anna Meredith and Björk, Esther Swift explores ritual, connection, isolation, and the natural world with pedal harp and voice, spanning genres from classical chamber to Scottish folk music. Prolific, bold, innovative – all the way from Scotland for this special performance.

Join acclaimed saxophonist Thabani Gapara and his band in a vibrant celebration of his new album Dzindza (ancestry) which blends traditional African rhythms with contemporary jazz sounds. From original Afro Jazz compositions to reimagined familiar classics, these flamboyant and infectious rhythms will get your feet stomping.

Multi-generational migrant stories are finding compelling new ways of being told in the capable, creative hands of two of the best debut novelists in Aotearoa, Jade Kake and Saraid de Silva. Both explore belonging and the legacy of intergenerational trauma while mastering a unique way of sharing the diasporic experience. Chaired by Nathan Joe. 

Rachael King and Lee Murray both evoke ancient mythological creatures from distant shores in their latest novels: the vengeful kelpie and the nine-tailed fox spirit, húli jīng.  In this session they will explore how myth not only maketh mystical realism but also elucidates key contemporary challenges. Chaired by Claire Mabey.  

In her very first festival appearance following the publication of Kataraina, Becky Manawatu discusses the highly anticipated sequel to her bestselling debut novel, Auē, alongside friend and fellow kaituhi Māori Talia Marshall, whose essay collection, Whaea Blue, is one of this year’s most anticipated non-fiction pukapuka. Chaired by Nuki Tākao.  

From broke solo mum to award-winning comedian and TV star in five years – is this a dream? Join Courtney Dawson for a hilarious wakeup call filled with warm, anecdotal humour and banger punch lines. 

Iconic Te Whanganui-a-Tara collective Rhombus are true masters of their unique, distinctively South Pacific sound – spiced with funk, soul, reggae and electronic dub wobbly bass. From 2002 album Bass Player to 2024’s Remixes and Archives Volume 2, the return of Rhombus with Lisa Tomlins & TK Paradza is not to be missed. 

RNZ presenter Susie Ferguson recounts her years as a war correspondent while battling endometriosis and discusses her breathtaking memoir on tenacity and self-belief, which shines a light on a health system that isn’t made for us and proves the importance of being loud with our truths. Chaired by Naomi Arnold.

These folx were so amazing in 2023, we had to bring them back! Join acclaimed artists Sheldon Rua and Talia Stanley for a workshop and/or exclusive live performance from the Victory Boxing ring – bring a poem or just come to listen. With special guest Nathan Joe at the Slam performance. 

Join us to celebrate Patricia Grace’s eighth short story collection, the astonishing Bird Child and Other Stories, as well as her remarkable writing life over almost 50 years. In this intimate kōrero with Becky Manawatu, she will discuss her latest book, her approach to writing and how she has collaborated with her talented whānau.

Conservation advocates Mike Joy and Dave Hansford both know what it’s like to raise their voices, especially when others disregard, or don’t agree, with scientific evidence. They discuss the role storytelling must play in triumphing over commercial and political agendas. Chaired by Debs Martin.

The whispers return to our city’s bollards! Led by artist and tutor Klaasz Breukel, Level 5 & 6 NMIT Digital Art & Design students share their reflections on how the arts can carve a path forward through the cresting waves of a fast-changing world. 

Be transported from the Boat Shed Cafe to the Greek island of Naxos in this special opportunity to savour some of the dishes featured in what has been described as the ‘most delicious of novels’, The Secrets of the Little Greek Taverna, featuring Whakatū Nelson’s very own bestselling author and restauranteur Erin Palmisano. Chaired by Nicola Galloway.  

We invite nature lovers and music aficionados alike to immerse themselves in a magical fusion of music and the natural world at the Sanctuary. New Zealand String Quartet presents an unforgettable experience that evokes the beauty of nature and birdsong. 

Dive deeper into the relationship between tangata (people) and wai (water) with our mini documentary film festival; featuring short film Tuhaymani’chi pal waniqa (the water flows always).

Flowing out of our curatorial statement, we explore the space between tangata (people) and wai (water) with a mini documentary film festival. Come ride the waves with us! 

Dive deeper into the relationship between tangata (people) and wai (water) with our mini documentary film festival; featuring Ko au te Awa, ko te Awa ko au – I Am The River, The River Is Me (Aotearoa, 2024).

Dive deeper into the relationship between tangata (people) and wai (water) with our mini documentary film festival; featuring Gaza Surf Club (Germany, 2016).

Join RNZ’s Critter of the Week researcher, illustrator, and author Lily Duval for a twilight romp through Brook Waimārama Sanctuary to learn more about our insect world – particularly the vital role ‘six-legged ghosts’ play – and how you can care for these creatures and their habitats.

Award-winning musicians and collaborators Ariana Tikao (Kāi Tahu) and Bob Bickerton have joined forces to create Muriwai. A confluence of two rivers, their music merges Māori and Celtic musical traditions through Celtic harp, vocals, and taonga puoro. 

In a world first, on the day the global sales embargo ends, hear Jacqueline Bublitz talk about her new novel, Leave the Girls Behind, the dazzling follow-up to her 2022 Ngaio Marsh Award–wining debut novel, Before You Knew My Name. Chaired by Susie Ferguson.  

Piezo transducers wired to locally found objects, augmented electronica and real-time projection of ghostly hints of underlying sound coalesce in a series of sculptural instruments. From the creators of Piki Mai, see a new multimedia work develop across two days or join for the final performance.

Cristina Sanders and Lauren Keenan are two of Aotearoa New Zealand’s preeminent historical fiction writers. Journey back in time with them to experience life through the eyes of those who history books have, to date, largely neglected. Chaired by Sylvan Thomson.

An exploration of identity, desire, family, and of being disabled and Pasifika, AIGA (Sāmoan for family/whānau) is ground-breaking theatre told through the lens of Pacific Toa award-winner Lusi Faiva.

A traveller arrives at a border with a stack of battered suitcases. From them, whole worlds emerge… Renowned for inventive staging, Trick of the Light (The Bookbinder) guide us through dark comedic tales told via lo-fi shadow play, dancing hands and a 70s stereo.

Cristina Sanders, author of Mrs Jewell and the Wreck of the General Grant (shortlisted for the Jann Medlicott Acorn Prize in 2023) and her latest book Okiwi Brown, leads this workshop on how to outline a historical fiction story and make a start on writing it.

MasterChef NZ 2022 winner Sam Low will discuss his bestselling cookbook, Modern Chinese, during this cooking demo and kōrero with his friend, celebrated poet and playwright Nathan Joe. Enjoy Kismet’s special matching cocktail/mocktail suggestions followed by a chance to taste Sam’s concoction.

True stories told live without pictures or notes: Couch Stories returns with the much-loved couch and all new stories. This year, we’re thrilled to host the 20th edition of this popular event, with tales centred around the theme: Time. 

From starting to relapse after five years of sobriety to today, do not miss this “…sharp, smart, vulnerable, and surprisingly moving work of comedy” about mistakes, addiction, compassion and how to live. Rhys Mathewson (7 Days) is unflinchingly honest and side-splittingly funny.

Midday music delights are back to brighten your lunch hour! This week, enjoy a stunning hour with pianist Ya-Ting Liou.

Tessa is a criminal defence lawyer at the top of her game: defending, cross-examining, playing to win. But when the tables turn, she finds herself at the mercy of this system. After West End and Broadway seasons, don’t miss this exceptional Aotearoa production during its national tour. Directed by Lyndee-Jane Rutherford, and starring Mel Dodge.

The perfect pairing of two boldly creative artists is found in veteran producer Haz Beats (Home Brew) and soul-heavy vocalist Miloux. A striking fusion of jazz, soul and hip hop topped with soaring vocals – expect to be completely enraptured! 

Featuring true icons of Aotearoa music and the most exciting new talent, the Deville dancefloor is ready for you, music lovers! 

What better way to celebrate 30 years of Nelson Arts Festivals than with this all-time favourite – please join us for the street party of the year, Whakatū! There’s so much to enjoy: the parade, pop-up performances, a whole zone curated by the amazing folx at Pasefika Arts and Culture Collective (PACC), a stellar music line-up, and delicious kai from our food vendors. We can’t wait to see you there!

South Korean-born Yeyeong Jenny Jin has won many awards, including the 2023 Michael Hill International Violin Competition. 2023 Sydney International Piano Competition winner, Jeonghwan Kim joins Jenny as part of a 10-centre tour for an evening of mesmerising sonata.

Good art is good for you, and that’s why we’re prescribing you a day dedicated to browsing, looking and listening. Slow Art Day returns with a slow-paced but jam-packed programme of artist talks and beautiful exhibitions all over town. 

A clown dressed as Napoleon lands on the moon. Bubbles go everywhere. Intergalactic sounds emanate from a spaceman. What on earth is happening on this moon? These new dads have made a show that their kids would like. Bring yours, especially if they’re 7 and under! 

We’re proud to again gift a paid residency to an artist from Te Tauihu, to progress their mahi or trial new ideas. This will culminate in a sharing during the Festival where the selected residency artist can show the community what they’re working on. Our 2024 recipients are Hariata Herekoe and Chloe Loftus.

Experience the greatest concert film of all time like never before: Stop Making Sense was shot over three nights at Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre in December 1983 and features Talking Heads‘ most memorable songs. Dance floor tickets available! 

A three-day rave condensed into an award-winning art performance: three dancers, non-stop, endurance, club culture. A spectacle of the human body as victim to music, passion and our endless desire to achieve more. Prepare to be (literally) moved. Dance floor tickets available! 

Join us for an unforgettable night at Wero, a curated club event that honors and celebrates the vibrant contributions of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities within Aotearoa’s electronic music scene. This unique gathering is more than just a club night; it’s a powerful homage to those who have dared to challenge societal norms, push boundaries, and reshape the cultural landscape.

The incredible, award-winning Tami Neilson performs a collection of her favourites from Willie Nelson’s Songbook, while sharing stories of working with the man himself.

Join World of WearableArt Founder & Ambassador Dame Suzie Moncrieff, Show Director Malia Johnston and award-winning designer Gill Saunders for an entertaining evening of memories.