Keen to find what’s on in Dunedin? From big shows and university season fixtures to intimate gigs, exhibitions and markets, we have gathered the best events in Dunedin to help you plan with ease. Stay at Scenic Hotel Southern Cross or Scenic Hotel Dunedin City for close access to popular venues and the city centre, so you can step out for a matinee, wander the Octagon and explore Dunedin.

Dunedin Midwinter Carnival

12-13 June 2026
A lantern parade through the city, with giant illuminated sculptures, costumes, and performances celebrating the winter solstice
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Otago v North Otago | Preseason Shield Challenge

16 June 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Preseason kicks off with last seasons NPC finalists putting the Ranfurly Shield on the line against North Otago in a fired‑up rivalry clash

Hayley Sproull | Sproull on the Prowl

19 June 2026
Glenroy Auditorium
Hayley Sproull brings her bold, unfiltered comedy to the stage, sharing a wild year of off‑the‑rails adventures in a laugh‑out‑loud show for adults

Matariki mā Puaka

10 July 2026
Logan Park
Celebrate Matariki with a free, family‑friendly evening of live music, food, and stunning drone displays that bring the stories of the Māori New Year to life

NZ International Science Festival

15-19 July 2026
The New Zealand International Science Festival transforms Dunedin into a city alive with discovery, offering inspiring, hands‑on science experiences for all ages that celebrate curiosity, innovation, and the wonder of the world around us

Chamber Music | Phileo Quartet

22 July 2026
Glenroy Auditorium
Phileo Quartet, drawn from the Vienna Philharmonic tour New Zealand for the first time with a unique programme that speaks directly to the unique sound, style, and traditions of the Vienna Philharmonic

DSO | Clerici Conducts Beethoven’s Triple

1 August 2026
Dunedin Town Hall
This DSO concert, conducted by Umberto Clerici, brings together Beethoven, Brahms, and contemporary works in a vibrant programme celebrating the University of Otago’s School of Music centenary and showcasing outstanding local soloists

Otago vs Canterbury

9 August 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Otago Rugby returns indoors for an exciting 2026 NPC season, celebrating 50 years of provincial rugby and the proud legacy of players and fans

Otago vs Wellington

23 August 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Otago Rugby returns indoors for an exciting 2026 NPC season, celebrating 50 years of provincial rugby and the proud legacy of players and fans

Mel Parsons | Castle Hill Album Release Tour

29 August 2026
Glenroy Auditorium
Mel Parsons brings her Castle Hill tour to the stage, delivering a vibrant live show filled with soaring harmonies and feel‑good energy from one of Aotearoa’s finest singer‑songwriters

Otago vs Waikato

29 August 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Otago Rugby returns indoors for an exciting 2026 NPC season, celebrating 50 years of provincial rugby and the proud legacy of players and fans

Otago vs Tasman

11 September 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Otago Rugby returns indoors for an exciting 2026 NPC season, celebrating 50 years of provincial rugby and the proud legacy of players and fans

Emerson’s Dunedin Marathon

13 September 2026
Sargood Centre, 40 Logan Park Drive
A must-do for serious and social athletes the 46th Dunedin Marathon will be held Sunday 13 September with full, half, 10k and 5k courses

Otago vs Auckland

1 October 2026
Forsyth Barr Stadium
Otago Rugby returns indoors for an exciting 2026 NPC season, celebrating 50 years of provincial rugby and the proud legacy of players and fans

Dunedin Craft Beer & Food Festival

27-28 November 2026
Forsythe Barr Stadium
The Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival returns in 2026! Join us on 27th –28th November for an epic two day celebration of brews, incredible flavours and live entertainment at Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium.