Upcoming events.
George’s War: Following My Father’s Journey Exhibition
Museum prices apply. Free to locals. No bookings required.
Experience George’s War: Following My Father’s Journey, an intimate exhibition by local artist Sue Heydon, as she explores her father’s harrowing journey as a WWII prisoner of war
Tuia Te Hononga - Threading Connections Community Quilt
Free. No bookings required.
We invite you to contribute your story to our Tuia te Hononga - Threading Connections community quilt. You can be any age, of any sewing ability to take part. The important thing is to share what it is about Te Tauihu / The Top of The South that makes you feel that you belong. Pick up your entry form, with all the details, from Tasman District Libraries. Return it to us by 30 June. We’ll then transform all our amazing stories into a beautiful community quilt created by you.
Please contact: library.information@tasman.govt. nz with any questions.
Tuku 25 Bingo!
Free. Bookings required. Sign up via nelsonpubliclibraries.co.nz
Join Nelson Public Libraries’ Tuku 25 Bingo! For the duration of Tuku 25, read books about Te Tauihu’s culture and heritage, participate in Tuku events and be in to win! Log your participation with our Beanstack app to track your progress, complete challenges, and enter the prize draw
Miniature MASTerpieces: The Art of Peta Raggett’s Model Ships Exhibition
Founders charges apply. Free to locals. No bookings required
The Art of Peta Raggett’s Model Ships. Featuring selected ship models, this exhibition celebrates the artistry of Peta Raggett, a prestigious model shipbuilder whose detailed scratch build replicas capture rich maritime history. From immigrant ships like the Fifeshire and Lord Auckland, to the iconic Edwin Fox, Peta’s meticulously hand-crafted models feature intricate details, including working components and lifelike scenes on deck. Her dedication to authenticity and passion for storytelling make these miniature MASTerpieces a testament to creativity and the artist’s remarkable legacy
The Garden of Time: Florals, Fashion and the Home Exhibition
Broadgreen admission fees apply. Free for locals. No bookings required.
Step into a world where nature and style entwine in The Garden of Time. Explore the elegant rooms of Broadgreen Historic House where nature transcends the garden gate. Uncover how gardens have ignited creativity and infused elegance into interior décor with floral wallpapers, and ornamental furnishings bringing the outdoors in.
Discover how the vibrant colours, delicate blooms and lush greenery of gardens have inspired the intricate patterns and fabrics of fashion throughout time.
Join us for a captivating journey through the gardens of time that shaped fashion and interiors. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the world in full bloom.
Bring Your Past into Focus: Digitise Slides at the Library
Every weekday from Tuesday 1 April to Wednesday30 April, 9.30am - 4pm.
Free. Bookings required. Phone 03 543 8500 to book.
Preserve your memories, by digitising your cherished slides and photos at your local library. In your first session, our friendly staff will guide you through the process step by step. Once you’re confident, you can book the Imaginarium to complete your project at your own pace. It’s an easy and rewarding way to save, share, and enjoy your photos and slides in a digital format. Don’t let your memories fade – bring them into the digital age.
Bring Your Past into Focus: Digitise Slides at the Library
Every weekday from Tuesday 1 April to Wednesday30 April, 9.30am - 4pm.
Free. Bookings required. Phone 03 528 1047 to book an appointment.
Preserve your memories, by digitising your cherished slides and photos at your local library. In your first session, our friendly staff will guide you through the process step by step. Once you’re confident, you can book the Imaginarium to complete your project at your own pace. It’s an easy and rewarding way to save, share, and enjoy your photos and slides in a digital format. Don’t let your memories fade – bring them into the digital age.
Along the Path: Discover Motueka History Quiz
Free. No bookings required.
How much do you know about the history of Motueka? Take our ‘Historical Quiz’ based on Eileen Stewart’s book “Along the Path”. Pick up your quiz from Motueka Library: Te Noninga Kumu and look for the answers on the plaques along the path in Decks Reserve in front of the library.
Haiku Competition
Free. No bookings required.
Write your own Haiku poem celebrating Tasman’s natural environment.
Pick up your entry form at any Tasman District Library or via the Tasman District Libraries website.
Gary Gibbens Landscape Artist Exhibition
Every weekday from Tuesday 1 April to Wednesday 30 April, 9.30am - 6pm.
Free. No bookings required.
Gary Gibbens has been painting landscapes for over 40 years. Past President of Tasman Visual Arts and the Nelson Independent Art Group, (now Nelson Art Group) Gary paints in oils on canvas and board. His favourite subjects are the mountains of the South Island and the hills and valleys of the Nelson region. Visit: garygibbens.com
Richmond’s History Hunt: Putting Faces to Stories
Tuesday 1 April to Wednesday 30 April everyday 9.30am - 5pm.
Free. No bookings required
In the 1980s, a local history project captured oral histories of older residents, focusing on life in Richmond before 1950. While their stories and some voices are preserved on Tasman Heritage, we only have photos of a few of those interviewed. As part of Tuku25, we’re seeking photographs of these individuals and the people, places, or events they discuss in their interviews. We’re also seeking photos of others listed on Tasman Heritage, including servicemen recorded on the Rolls of Honour. Help us bring these stories to life by putting faces to names!
For more information contact digitaltasman@tasman. govt.nz or phone 03 5438527.
Tracks in the Snow: Skiing and Memories on Pourangahau Mount Robert Exhibition
RICHMOND LIBRARY, GLASS DISPLAY CABINETS
Free. No bookings required.
Featuring a selection of special items from the Founders Heritage Park collection, this exhibition celebrates the rich history of skiing on Pourangahau Mount Robert through the lens of one family’s experience in the mid-20th century. From treks up the mountain to downhill runs on homemade skis, our Tuku25 showcase honours the pioneering spirit, innovation, and shared memories of an era when adventure meant carrying everything on your back, heading up a mountain and tracking through the snow.
Kerry Fenton-Johns Artist Exhibition
Motueka Library Te Noninga Kumu, Gallery Wall
Free. No bookings required.
Featuring a selection of special items from the Founders Heritage Park collection, this exhibition celebrates the rich history of skiing on Pourangahau Mount Robert through the lens of one family’s experience in the mid-20th century. From treks up the mountain to downhill runs on homemade skis, our Tuku25 showcase honours the pioneering spirit, innovation, and shared memories of an era when adventure meant carrying everything on your back, heading up a mountain and tracking through the snow.
Rongoā with Ngahere Magic
Event is Fully Booked.
Koha. Bookings required, ngahere.magic@outlook.co.nz
Rongoā with Ngahere Magic provides you with the opportunity to wananga with a passionate Rongoa practitioner. You will learn the basics of the healing powers within our ngahere especially with winter approaching, and the importance and simplicity of integrating Rongoa with your whanau and hauora needs.
For all ages, however tamariki (children) will need to be engaged and participating in the kaupapa.
Indian Block Printing Workshop
$15 - Adult, $5 - Kids under 12.
Bookings required experienceindia.nz@gmail.com
Join us for one of two workshop sessions on India’s popular craft of block printing. Participants will make greeting cards for their loved ones using wooden blocks during the workshop. No prior experience is required. Free chai and Indian snacks will be served during each workshop. Come along to this enjoyable and hands-on creative activity.
Indian Block Printing Workshop
$15 - Adult, $5 - Kids under 12.
Bookings required experienceindia.nz@gmail.com
Join us for one of two workshop sessions on India’s popular craft of block printing. Participants will make greeting cards for their loved ones using wooden blocks during the workshop. No prior experience is required. Free chai and Indian snacks will be served during each workshop. Come along to this enjoyable and hands-on creative activity.
Big Little Ships
Free. No bookings required.
Join us as we explore the maritime artistry and intricate details of Peta Raggett’s scratch built model ship replicas in this shared presentation with curator Ari Edgecombe and Peta Raggett.
Growing Our History
Free. No bookings required.
Join members of Heritage Roses Nelson in the gardens at Broadgreen House and immerse yourself in the scent and colours of the past.
Admire one of the first roses brought to New Zealand, learn about the common plants surrounding homesteads and their lesser known uses. Get hands on with these living heirlooms as we answer questions and share local knowledge of growing habits.
Tapa Workshop
Free. No bookings required.
Pasifika Arts and Culture Collective presents: We have a partially completed 5m by 4m Tapa cloth.
The workshop will continue on from Kainga Art Exhibition. We have approximately 50 empty 30cm square for community to decorate. This will be the focus of one of the days. There is also a 1.6m by 4m space that needs to be filled. This will be done by Pasifika youth.
Cre8tive Flora Toi
Event is fully booked. Email to join the waitlist.
Koha (gold coin). Bookings required info@aroha-visual-arts.com
With 28 years of experience in the floral industry, this workshop is designed to guide participants in creating meaningful floral tributes. These creations can be tailored for any occasion, whether as a gift of aroha, a heartfelt gesture, or a tribute in times of bereavement.
Whanau select from the two options.
1. Bouquet.
2. Tribute to loved ones. (Aroha tetahi ki tetahi)
Once you have booked your place, more information will be supplied.
NCMA Lunchtime Concerts
$20. Tickets required ncma.nz
Enjoy our lunchtime Concert Series at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. See website for individual performance details.
Historical Memoir Writing with Brenda Mills
Koha. No bookings required.
Write about your life, background, beginnings, and family stories, and share these personal memories with family, friends, and future generations. Come along to all or one of these sessions and learn how to record the stories that are pertinent to you by using simple one-word writing prompts.
A koha on the day is appreciated, with all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson-Tasman
ANZAC Dawn Service
Donation - buy a poppy.
No bookings required. We will remember them. The march assembles at a new starting position on Paru Paru Road (Trafalgar Centre car park) then progresses to ANZAC Park for the traditional dawn service.
ANZAC Wreath Laying Ceremonies
Donation - buy a poppy. No bookings required.
Short commemoration ceremonies at memorials and cemeteries in Nelson where you, your family and friends can reflect in a more personal and private way. Led by Nelson RSA. We will remember them.
Various Locations/Times:
• 8am - 8.15am Wakapuaka Servicemen’s Cemetery.
• 8.30am – 8.45am Queens Gardens, Boer War Statue.
• 9am – 9.15am Pikimai War Memorial, Cathedral Hill.
• 10am – 10.30am Marsden Valley, Servicemen’s Cemetery
ISEL AT WAR - Lest We Forget on Anzac Day
Free entry, no bookings required, koha welcome.
The residents of Stoke, and of Isel House in particular, have a proud record of involvement in the Boer [South African] War and in WW1 and WW2. Come along and look at the exhibition that honours their service.
Peter and Myra Millward can clarify the service of your forbears using the complete database of those who served from the Province of Nelson.
Come along and take advantage of this opportunity.
Nelson/Stoke Civic ANZAC Service
Donation - buy a poppy. No bookings required. Nelson’s ANZAC Day civic service.
Bhutanese Nepali New Year 2082 Celebration with Cultural Shows
Koha donation. No booking required.
The Nepali-speaking Bhutanese Community of Nelson is celebrating its own New Year 2082 with traditional and cultural shows/performances. They will be exchanging New Year greetings with each other. It will include music, songs, dances, traditional games, and paying respect to elderly members (senior citizens) of the community followed by catering conventional foods at the end.
Journey to New Edinburgh
$10 per person. Book at events.humanitix. com/journey-to-new-edinburgh
Based on a video documentary, Sean Brosnahan, a curator at Toitu- Otago Setters Museum, will give a talk about where the early Otago settlers came from.
Zomi Bamboo Dance
Free. No bookings required.
Join us for an exciting cultural experience as we bring the traditional Bamboo Dance and music of the Zomi community to Nelson!
Discover the rich meaning and significance of these ancient traditions, as we showcase a lively Bamboo Dance performance. You’ll also learn how to play the Gong, a traditional instrument from our community, and get hands-on with new dance moves and musical techniques. Whether you’re a dancer, musician, or simply curious, this event is a perfect opportunity to explore the rhythm, art, and spirit of the Zomi heritage! Don’t miss out on this unique cultural journey!
Nelson Italian Community Heritage Exhibition Showcase
Free. No bookings required.
An Exhibition featuring the history of the Italian families immigrating to Nelson late 1800 until today.
Discover the roots and history of many Italian families who contributed in many different ways to the Nelson community development. Volunteers from Nelson Italian Community will be on hand to talk about aspects of the display and answer questions.
Live Music Series: Paul Bond
Free. No bookings required.
Paul performs NZ originals about country life. Humorous anecdotes and poems about Kiwi history and topical events. Paul accompanies his songs with ukulele or accordion.
Taste Tāhunanui
CANCELLED
Free. Bookings required, email connect@tch.org.nz - phone 03 548 6036 for enquiries
Take your tastebuds on a trip around the world - right here, in Tahunanui. A chance for all of our local multicultural community to showcase and share their Kai, culture, music and performance!
Conservation – A Whakatū Nelson Story
Free. Bookings required, phone 03 2656519 or email gca@clmnz.co.nz
Join us for an inspiring session celebrating the pioneers of conservation in Whakatu Nelson!
Hear captivating stories of determination and success:
Craig Potton on Whales and Ocean Conservation
John Moore on saving Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau, the battle for the National Park
Dr. Gwen Struik & Margot Davis on The Friends of Nelson Haven and Tasman Bay Bruce Thomas on the fight to protect Breaksea Island
Discover how passionate individuals and community action have achieved lasting improvements for our natural environment.
NCMA Lunchtime Concerts
$20. Tickets required ncma.nz
Enjoy our lunchtime Concert Series at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. See website for individual performance details.
Historical Memoir Writing with Brenda Mills
Koha. No bookings required.
Write about your life, background, beginnings, and family stories, and share these personal memories with family, friends, and future generations. Come along to all or one of these sessions and learn how to record the stories that are pertinent to you by using simple one-word writing prompts.
A koha on the day is appreciated, with all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson-Tasman
The History of The Great American Songbook
$10 General public, $5 Members. No bookings required.
The Nelson Jazz Club present a historic look at the “Great American Songbook”. Often referred to as “Jazz Standards”, the Great American Songbook is a canon of the most important and influential American popular songs and jazz standards from the early 20th century that have stood the test of time in their life and legacy.
The genre includes popular and enduring tunes from the 1920s to the 1950s that were created for Broadway theatre, musical theatre, and Hollywood musical film.
Virtual Reality Time Travel
Free. Bookings required. Phone 528 1047 to register.
Step into history like never before, discover a new perspective on history with Virtual Reality. Technology meets storytelling to transport you to moments from the past. Bookings essential, sessions will be 45 minutes long.
Family History Friday
Free. No bookings required.
Are you having trouble finding your ancestors? Would you like to know more about using Ancestry.com, or what other family history or local history resources are available?
This drop-in session is aimed at those who have started on their family history journey and are wanting help with their research.
Specialist library staff will be available to assist you.
Hikoi Awhiowhio
$20 - $40 per person. Book tickets via theatreroyalnelson.co.nz
Hikoi Awhiowhio is a collection of stories told by those from Te Tau lhu, who joined the Hikoi in 2024 to protest against the Treaty Principles Bill. These stories are woven together by Donna Mcleod. The journey starts at Kaiteriteri beach with karakia acknowledging the Nelson Tenths and unresolved grief, following the ferry trip and plane flights across Te Moana o raukawa - Cook Strait - to marching, to standing before the Beehive. These are the voices of pepe, tamariki, rangatahi, pakeke, kaumatua, and whanau. Through waiata, haka, karakia, Whiti and korero in Te Reo Maori, English and other languages and taonga puoro their stories are told. This is intergenerational, this is bicultural, this is multi-cultural, this is Aotearoa.
Guided Tuatara Night Walk
FULLY BOOKED.
Koha. Bookings required. Book a place at brooksanctuary.org.nz/lots-to-seeand-do/tuatara-night-walks
The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary is thrilled to present Tuatara Night Walks, offering a unique opportunity to explore our stunning natural environment after dark. Join us for an enchanting evening beneath the stars as you wander along the Brook Stream. You’ll have the chance to see tuatara roaming freely whilst foraging for food. As you journey further through the Sanctuary, keep an eye out for captivating glowworms, graceful eels, and fascinating cave weta- . This immersive experience allows you to witness the diverse wildlife that flourishes in our carefully maintained pest-free ecosystem. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!
Ages 5+
Afro-Colombian Experience (Pacific Region)
Free. No bookings required.
Join us for an unforgettable AfroColombian experience straight from the vibrant Pacific region! Dive into the rich cultural traditions, including lively dance and music that will have you moving to the rhythm. Learn the secrets of our ancestral dialect, beliefs, and miracle beverages known for their healing powers. Savour delicious traditional drinks and sweets, and don’t miss the chance to try some new moves as you embrace our captivating dances. It’s a day full of culture, fun, and learning — come and celebrate with us!
Accessing Nelson’s Historical Databases
$3 per person on door. No bookings required.
The Nelson Institute presents a talk by Peter Millward: “Accessing Nelson’s Historical databases”. Peter is a former Director of Nelson Provincial Museum who has embarked on a reworking of the Early Settler Database as a ‘retirement project’.
Messages from the Matriarchs
Donation. Bookings required. Book (for free) at https://events.humanitix.com/messages-from-the-matriarchs
Listen as six dynamic women inspire guests with stories of their lives and visions for a bright future of cohesive social well-being. There will be singing, deep relating and maybe some weeping in the audience. Accompanied with projected images and amplification for the hearing impaired.
This is not a dry recounting of life details, but the sharing of personal wisdom that will make you glad to be attending. Several cultures and varied life experiences are presented.
Morris Dance Workshop
Free. No bookings required.
Keep the tradition going. Why not take this opportunity to learn some fun traditional English Morris Dances which have their origin back in the 15th century. No experience needed but a sense of humour helps, you may even be invited to join our performance group, go on give it a go - you won’t regret it!
Historical Memoir Writing with Brenda Mills
Koha. No bookings required.
Write about your life, background, beginnings, and family stories, and share these personal memories with family, friends, and future generations. Come along to all or one of these sessions and learn how to record the stories that are pertinent to you by using simple one-word writing prompts.
A koha on the day is appreciated, with all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson-Tasman
NCMA Lunchtime Concerts
$20. Tickets required ncma.nz
Enjoy our lunchtime Concert Series at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. See website for individual performance details.
Coin Pendant Workshop
$7 per person.
Bookings required visit: shop.nelsonmuseum.co.nz/products/ tuku-24-clay-fun-for-kids-copy
Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll clean and transform an old coin into a polished pendant. All materials are provided, and you’ll be able to take your finished creation home.
Suitable for ages 6+. Limited spaces are available, so be sure to pre-book online to secure your spot. A fun and creative way to connect with history and leave with a one-of-a-kind keepsake!
Coin Pendant Workshop
$7 per person.
Bookings required visit: shop.nelsonmuseum.co.nz/products/ tuku-24-clay-fun-for-kids-copy
Join us for a hands-on workshop where you’ll clean and transform an old coin into a polished pendant. All materials are provided, and you’ll be able to take your finished creation home.
Suitable for ages 6+. Limited spaces are available, so be sure to pre-book online to secure your spot. A fun and creative way to connect with history and leave with a one-of-a-kind keepsake!
Guided Tuatara Night Walk
FULLY BOOKED.
Koha. Bookings required. Book a place at brooksanctuary.org.nz/lots-to-seeand-do/tuatara-night-walks
The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary is thrilled to present Tuatara Night Walks, offering a unique opportunity to explore our stunning natural environment after dark. Join us for an enchanting evening beneath the stars as you wander along the Brook Stream. You’ll have the chance to see tuatara roaming freely whilst foraging for food. As you journey further through the Sanctuary, keep an eye out for captivating glowworms, graceful eels, and fascinating cave weta- . This immersive experience allows you to witness the diverse wildlife that flourishes in our carefully maintained pest-free ecosystem. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!
Ages 5+
Tapa Workshop
Free. No bookings required.
Pasifika Arts and Culture Collective presents: We have a partially completed 5m by 4m Tapa cloth.
The workshop will continue on from Kainga Art Exhibition. We have approximately 50 empty 30cm square for community to decorate. This will be the focus of one of the days. There is also a 1.6m by 4m space that needs to be filled. This will be done by Pasifika youth.
Stack Storytime
Free. No bookings required.
The Stack shelves at the library are filled with precious taonga, from award winning books to those difficult to replace. We’ve selected a few of the best for this special Story Time. All Ages.
Growing Our History
Free. No bookings required.
Join members of Heritage Roses Nelson in the gardens at Broadgreen House and immerse yourself in the scent and colours of the past.
Admire one of the first roses brought to New Zealand, learn about the common plants surrounding homesteads and their lesser known uses. Get hands on with these living heirlooms as we answer questions and share local knowledge of growing habits.
Bad Jelly the Witch Celebration
$5 per Family $2 per Person. Bookings required.
Contact the centre on 03 265 6519 email gca@clmnz.co.nz
Celebrate 53 years of the wackiest classic by Spike Milligan. Bring your children and your children’s children together for a magical morning of fun in Nelson – storytelling, whimsical crafts, and a daring scavenger hunt to outwit Bad Jelly. Plus much more!
Tui Raumata - Māori Tapestry
THIS EVENT IS FULLY BOOKED
Koha (gold coin). Bookings required loveyelkington@gmail.com
Come and learn about the art of ‘Tui Raumata - Maori Tapestry’ with local artist Lovey Elkington. You will be given a history of how and why Tui Raumata came to be an important part of Te Ao Maori, particularly in the realm of Kapahaka. We will look at patterns, colours and their meanings and you will design and create your own small piece over the course of the evening. This is perfect for beginners and anyone interested in this artform.
Mike Johnston: The Boulder Bank
Free. No bookings required.
Join renowned local geologist, Mike Johnston for a presentation on the Boulder Bank’s history and geology. Learn about its importance to Maori and Europeans alike throughout the history of Whakatu- Nelson.
The Taurapa.. How and Why?
Free. Bookings required maia.hegglun@gmail.com
The Taurapa Sculpture has been a significant feature on the Maitai in Whakatufor several years now. Artist and maker, Maia Hegglun explains: Tena koutou. Often when people are talking to me about the Taurapa, they refer to it as ‘your sculpture’. The irony here was that it was made for you! I will be speaking to the process from logistics through to the story that it stands for.
I will cover some FAQs and venture into a korero around public Art and its pertinence to the Cultural identity which we all participate. I would love to hear any questions that you have, share the space and korero about ‘your sculpture’. The venue is outdoors so dress appropriately.
Rain date: Sunday 20th April same time.
‘She’ll be Lovely’: Restoring a Piece of Aviation History
Free. Bookings required.
RSVP by 9 April to: Ari.Edgecombe@ncc.govt.nz
A favourite attraction since arriving at Founders Heritage Park, the Bristol Freighter aircraft has had a hearty refurbishment and sparkling paint job over the last 12 months. Fueled by generous volunteer energy, aviation enthusiasm, coffee and Tim Tams, this project is a feel good story about what happens when the community rolls up their sleeves and gets to work.
Come celebrate! Join us for morning tea and hear the story behind the Bristol Freighter Project direct from the people who generously donated their time, expertise, and workshop premises to refurbish this distinctive aircraft.
Kia Ngāwari Ki Tua
$20 - Adults. $10 - Tamariki/ Rangatahi/Kaumatua. Children under 5 free.
Booking fees apply to all tickets. Bookings via ncma.nz.
Welcome to a night of Kapahaka (Maori Performing Arts) with Te Kapahaka o Kia Ngawari.
Kahoa (garland) Workshop with Sione Monū
Free. No bookings required.
Come along for a drop-in kahoa making workshop using real flowers, as a way to ponder the ideas of intangible inheritance explored in He momo, na- te whanau — it’s a family trait: The 2nd Aotearoa Contemporary Jewellery Triennial.
Picnic in Pioneer Park
EVENT POST-PONED. NEW DATE TO BE CONFIRMED.
COMMUNITY ART WORKS - 11 HASTINGS STREET, PIONEER PARK (CNR OF HASTINGS STREET & WASHINGTON VALLEY ROAD). INDOORS IF TOO WET
Free. No bookings required.
Community Art Works invites locals and visitors to join a family orientated Picnic in Pioneer Park event. Bring along your picnic and help celebrate the history of this lovely central greenspace.
Dress in 1920s outfits to help create an atmosphere and compete for prizes, while engaging in shared activities that include musicians, games, performance and storytelling.
Explore local biodiversity and the social history of the area.
No need to book just bring yourself, friends and family and help celebrate the park.
Explore and Celebrate the Mahitahi/Maitai
EVENT NEW DATE: 12th APRIL
MAITAI VALLEY - please consult Council’s Facebook Event for specific locations, activities and timings
Free. No bookings required.
Come explore the rich history of the Maitai/Maitahi/Mahitahi valley and celebrate the incredible achievements under the Jobs for Nature funding of Project Mahitahi, which is helping to restore the valley’s natural ecosystems. Hop on a mini-bus or travel by yourself to visit key sites, where you’ll see the amazing progress in tackling invasive species and planting nearly 150,000 native trees. Hear purakau, take part in fun activities and enjoy delicious kai as we acknowledge the Mahitahi as a taonga for past, present, and future generations.
UPU
Pick your price tickets from $22-$47 per person.
Book tickets via theatreroyalnelson. co.nz
The power of Maori & Pasifika literature roaring to theatrical life, performed by a stellar cast of some of the best Tangata Moana actors in Aotearoa. In Samoan “UPU” means “word”. UPU is made from the words of a collection of Oceanic poets, capturing voices from across the Pacific ocean, weaving poems with theatre craft, using performance and a magical sound, light and projection design, to amplify the writers’ words, emotions and themes. Borders disappear and the theatre becomes a sea of Islands. Across the ocean, hear from the people dealing with colonisation, family, climate change, tourists, love, sex, religion and power.
Contains Strong language and themes R15.
Thinking Differently - Nelson’s DNA?
$12 per person. Tickets via: eventfinda. co.nz/2025/nelson-historical-society-jamesjenkins-lecture-2025/nelson
Nelson’s inviting climate seems to have attracted and encouraged people who think differently over the years. 2025 James Jenkins Guest Lecturer and Nelson College alumnus Mike Hutcheson will share his research into the alchemy of innovation and creativity and ask if the pantheon of politicians, scientists, writers, architects, and painters born and educated in the region are proof that Nelson’s DNA encourages thinking differently.
Mike is an AUT Adjunct Professor and former Managing Director of Saatchi and Saatchi. This event will be of strong interest to the arts and business sectors and especially to the under 50s who may not know about Nelson’s earlier innovators and creatives.
Morris Dance Workshop
Free. No bookings required.
Keep the tradition going. Why not take this opportunity to learn some fun traditional English Morris Dances which have their origin back in the 15th century. No experience needed but a sense of humour helps, you may even be invited to join our performance group, go on give it a go - you won’t regret it!
Exploring Antipoetry – Break the Poetry Norms
$10 waged - $5 unwaged. Bookings required.
Book via humanitix.com/nz
Join us for a creative journey into the world of antipoetry, a rebellious movement that emerged in Latin America.
Challenge traditional poetry with a raw, direct, and often humorous approach. Learn to craft writings using everyday language, irony, critical themes, and breaking away from conventional forms. In this workshop, you’ll explore the basics and experiment with your own knowledge, embracing the spirit of freedom and innovation.
No experience needed — just an open mind and a willingness to push creative boundaries! Perfect for those interested in songwriting, spoken word, or discovering something new about themselves.
Toi Ahiahi Heritage Themed Crafts
Koha. No bookings required.
Join us for a heritage-inspired craft activity! Perfect for ages 6+
Historical Memoir Writing with Brenda Mills
Koha. No bookings required.
Write about your life, background, beginnings, and family stories, and share these personal memories with family, friends, and future generations. Come along to all or one of these sessions and learn how to record the stories that are pertinent to you by using simple one-word writing prompts.
A koha on the day is appreciated, with all proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters Nelson-Tasman
NCMA Lunchtime Concerts
$20. Tickets required ncma.nz
Enjoy our lunchtime Concert Series at Nelson Centre of Musical Arts. See website for individual performance details.
Introduction to Ancestry Workshop - Richmond
Free. Bookings required. Phone Richmond Library 03 5438500 to register.
Learn search tips for using Ancestry. com, look at various record collections for New Zealand and the UK, view Public Member Trees and send records home from the library. Basic computer skills are essential.
Guided Tuatara Night Walk
FULLY BOOKED.
Koha. Bookings required. Book a place at brooksanctuary.org.nz/lots-to-seeand-do/tuatara-night-walks
The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary is thrilled to present Tuatara Night Walks, offering a unique opportunity to explore our stunning natural environment after dark. Join us for an enchanting evening beneath the stars as you wander along the Brook Stream. You’ll have the chance to see tuatara roaming freely whilst foraging for food. As you journey further through the Sanctuary, keep an eye out for captivating glowworms, graceful eels, and fascinating cave weta- . This immersive experience allows you to witness the diverse wildlife that flourishes in our carefully maintained pest-free ecosystem. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!
Ages 5+
Poi 102 with Matepo
Koha. Bookings required kapahakakiangawari@gmail.com.
Limited spaces.
Traditional poi were made from flax blades, raupo, corn husks, and core pith. Contemporary poi can be made from a variety of materials. During this workshop you will learn how to make a pair of long poi and a simple waiata for you to master the use of the poi.
“Nelson New Zealand” a Ray Salisbury Book Talk
Free. No bookings required.
Ray Salisbury, local author and photographer will showcase his visual book “Nelson New Zealand”. This book presents the people of Nelson at work and play, as well as scenic natural features such as the three national parks.
Community Read - “The Dressmaker and the Hidden Solider” by Doug Gold
Free. Bookings required https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/tuku-community-read-the-dressmaker-and-the-hidden-soldier/nelson
The Dressmaker and the Hidden Solider is New Zealand author Doug Gold’s captivating debut. Come together to discuss this compelling historical tale, a story of love and daring, of bravery in the face of oppression, of betrayal and resistance. All welcome.