Porirua’s summer season is shaping up to be packed with free events, music, play, and community celebrations, kicking off on Sunday 7 December with Kirihimete in the City at Te Rauparaha Park.
From 4.30pm to 7pm, families can enjoy festive food, shop for gifts from local stallholders, and sing along to carols led by entertainer Nick Tansley. If the weather turns, the event will shift indoors to Te Rauparaha Arena.
Following the festive season, the Summer Concert Series returns to Adventure Park in Whitby from 16 to 19 January, 6pm to 8pm nightly. Locals are invited to bring a picnic and enjoy four evenings of free live music from talented local bands.
For tamariki and whānau, Wā Tākaro, Porirua’s brand-new mobile play trailer, will be touring suburbs throughout summer. Loaded with play equipment, sports gear and loose parts, it promises plenty of opportunities for spontaneous, creative fun. Visit poriruacity.govt.nz/play for the full schedule.
Waitangi Day on 6 February will wrap up the summer with a citywide celebration across Te Rauparaha Park, Arena, Pātaka Art + Museum and the harbour from 12pm to 5pm, featuring live music, cultural activities, and local food and market stalls.
Other events not to miss:
- Kiwi Christmas at Battle Hill
12 December, 5.30–8.30pm, Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
A special night of carols with Nick Tansley, followed by a screening of Kiwi Christmas. Free entry. - Wellington Phoenix Women’s Matches
Porirua Park: 20 Dec, 10 & 25 Jan, 15 Feb, 29 Mar
Cheer on the Phoenix women’s team in their A-League campaign. Details at wellingtonphoenix.com. - Eat Drink and Be Crafty
24 January, 10am–3pm, Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
A rural market featuring artisan food, handmade crafts, live music, and family entertainment. Adults $5, children free. - Summer Pool Party
30 January, 5–8pm, Arena Aquatics
Make a splash with music from DJ Gooda, manu platform, floaties, sausage sizzle and prizes. Usual pool entry applies. - Lunar New Year Celebration
21 February, 2–6pm, Aotea Lagoon
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with cultural performances, food, music and free train rides. Free entry. - Children’s Day
1 March, 11am–3pm, Ngāti Toa Domain, Paremata
A fun, family-friendly day with a construction and demolition theme. Free entry. - Battle Hill Tamariki Ranger Day
14 March, 1–4pm, Battle Hill Farm Forest Park
Kids aged 7–12 can explore nature with park rangers and earn a ranger badge. Free but bookings essential at gw.govt.nz/summerevents. - Porirua Grand Traverse
12 April
From a family-friendly fun run to full multisport challenges, there’s something for all levels. Register at poriruagrandtraverse.co.nz.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says these events reflect the strong community spirit of the city.
“It’s been a long year so we hope residents take the opportunity to get out and about with their friends and family to make the most of the summer months,” Baker said.