Things to do over Wellington Anniversary weekend

1. Pack a picnic and enjoy live music at Botanic Garden Ki Paekākā

The iconic Gardens Magic Concert Series has been filling the summer nights with sounds from some of the capital’s top talent! There’s an awesome line-up this weekend from 7pm to 9.15pm. Grab a good picnic spot for the show, then stay after dark to take in the Light Display created by MJF Lighting between 9pm–10.30pm. Check out the event webpage for the full programme.

2. Check out The Art of Banksy exhibition in its final days

This weekend is your last chance to see the world’s largest collection of original and authenticated Banksy works right here in Wellington! The Art of Banksy at Tākina finishes up next Monday 20 January.

This is your chance to see iconic pieces like ‘Girl With Balloon’ and ‘Flower Thrower’ up close and in person. With over 150 original works on display, including rare pieces and insider stories, this exhibition is a must-see! 

3. Take your tamariki to Mini Banksy Masterpieces

Add some creativity to the school holidays. Kids can channel their inner artist with Mini Banksy Masterpieces, which will be set up in the main foyer at Tākina on Sunday 19 January. For $10, participants are provided with two mini canvases, access to creative stations, and a license to unleash their inner artist. Between 10am and 1pm creative stations will be stocked with paints, pencils, stencils, brushes, and sponges. With room for 24 mini artists, Mini Banksy Masterpieces promises to be a fun and affordable way to spend an hour or two. Find out more on The Art of Banksy website.

4. Explore the jewellery of icon Vivienne Westwood

Starting on Friday 17 January, Te Papa kicks off the global tour of Vivienne Westwood & Jewellery – a retrospective exhibition celebrating the iconic jewellery of renowned British fashion royal Vivienne Westwood. 

Designed and curated by the house of Vivienne Westwood and produced by Nomad Exhibitions, this exhibition showcases an impressive collection of over 550 pieces of jewellery, and over 15 complete ensembles and garments, spanning four decades. 

5. Say hello to the Otters at Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo is celebrating the Otters' return to their upgraded habitat with new dens and the launch of our expanded White-Cheeked Gibbon viewing deck, bringing you even closer to these amazing primates. Catch special Otter and Gibbon talks and lots of fun activities each day between 10am–3pm like learning to sing the Gibbon call, stamps, bubbles, and a juggling competition.