Column by Porirua Mayor, Anita Baker
There’s heaps going on around the city over summer, as always, and I just wanted to share a few highlights with you.
Over the Wellington Anniversary weekend, Friday 16 to Monday 19 January, the Summer Concert Series returns to Adventure Park in Whitby. From 6–8 pm each night, you can enjoy live music from local acts. The Blueprint kicks things off on Friday, 2 Twenty plays Saturday, The Relatives take the stage Sunday, and Shaun Preston closes out the series on Monday. It’s a free, family-friendly way to spend an early summer evening out and about.
Also under way are the BodyBalance sessions at Aotea Lagoon, with free classes at the southern end of the lagoon most Sundays through January and into early February. These run from 4–4.45 pm on Sunday 11, 18 and 25 January, and Sunday 1 February. All you need to bring is something to lie on and a water bottle.
Sporting fans have something to look forward to as well, with the Hurricanes hosting the Chiefs in a pre-season match at Jerry Collins Stadium at 1 pm on Saturday 7 February. There are also related events around the match, including an open training session on Thursday 5 February and a captain’s run on Waitangi Day, giving local supporters a great chance to see the teams up close before the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season begins.
And as always, summer in Porirua includes one of the most significant days in our calendar. Waitangi Day at Te Rauparaha Park on Friday 6 February is the largest Waitangi Day event outside Waitangi itself, a day of cultural performances, stalls, music and connection that brings people together from across the region.
These highlights are just a snapshot of what’s happening around Porirua over the coming weeks. If you’re planning your summer, or just want to see what else is on, I encourage you to visit the What’s Happening page on the Council’s website for the full and up-to-date list of events.