From international sport to headline concerts featuring top Kiwi acts, an international DJ, and vibrant community celebrations, Tauranga has it all.
“This summer is set to be huge, and we’re proud to bring so many fantastic events to our city,” says Mayor Mahé Drysdale.
“Tauranga will be alive with something for everyone - locals can enjoy an incredible line-up right here at home, and visitors will experience our city at its very best: vibrant, welcoming and full of energy. We’re looking forward to seeing people from near and far enjoying all the events on offer in the weeks and months ahead.”
The season kicks off with a splash - literally - as the Tauranga Moana Manu Champs return to the Tauranga waterfront on Saturday, 13 December. This free, whānau-friendly event celebrates the art of popping a manu, promising big splashes and a fun day out, while also serving as an official qualifying event for the Z Manu World Champs for the second consecutive year.
Just days later, the spotlight shifts to Bay Oval as the BLACKCAPS face the West Indies in a five-day Test from 18–22 December. Following a draw in the first Test in Christchurch, the team is currently playing in Wellington, before heading here for the third and final Test. It’s a chance to soak up the summer cricket vibes and enjoy world-class sport. On Friday and Saturday, fans can also enjoy festive family fun, including Christmas craft activities and the chance to snap a photo with the big guy himself in the Santa tent.
Summer cricket at Bay Oval. Photo credit: Photosport.
On Saturday, 27 December, Kiwi music royalty takes over Wharepai Domain, with L.A.B. and Stan Walker returning for an unforgettable day of live music. Each show on the tour features a unique line-up, and in Tauranga that special addition is hometown favourites Corrella, joining Aaradhna and Te Wehi for a true Aotearoa summer soundtrack.
If you’re staying local for New Year’s Eve, Tauranga City Council’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will light up five locations across the city; Tauranga city centre, Mount Maunganui, Greerton, Matua, and Pāpāmoa. All community events will have live music, entertainment, kids’ activities, food trucks, and a fireworks display at 9.30pm (except for Greerton which will have a spectacular light show). It’s the perfect way to welcome 2026 with friends and family.
Fun community vibes in Tauranga city centre at last year's New Year's Eve event. Photo credit: Simon Dawson Photography.
Famous Last Words returns this New Year’s Eve to Mercury Baypark Arena with over 10 international acts. It will expand to three stages, including a new outdoor stage, headlined by UK drum and bass legends Rudimental.
January brings even more heat. On Saturday, 17 January, the annual Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport features world-class endurance racing. Then in the evening, the Hot Spring Spas T20 Black Clash in Association with Wolfbrook returns to Bay Oval, where Team Rugby takes on Team Cricket under the leadership of Kieran Read and Dan Vettori - marking one of summer’s biggest double-header days in the Mount.
Adding to the sporting excitement, the Gallagher Chiefs have announced a return to Tauranga for their 2026 pre-season match against the Fijian Drua on Friday, 30 January. This high-energy clash at Blake Park promises an afternoon of Super Rugby action.
Global dance music superstar FISHER will make history the next day on Saturday, 31 January as the first artist to perform a major concert at Bay Oval. FISHER is one of the most in-demand artists in the world right now and promises 'the biggest party the Bay has ever seen'.
FISHER performs to a sell-out crowd. Photo supplied.
The summer music line-up continues into February, with reggae legends UB40 featuring Ali Campbell headlining, alongside Katchafire, The Black Seeds and Corrella at Bay Oval on Saturday, 7 February, over Waitangi Weekend.
Rounding out the season on Saturday, 28 February is the return of Beast of a Feast at Soper Reserve. Tauranga’s popular not-so-typical beer, food, and music festival featuring Ladi6, Avalanche City, and P-Money.
Beast of a Feast is back at Soper Reserve on 28 February. Photo supplied.
With so much happening across our city, this summer is shaping up to be something special.
For full event details, visit whatsontauranga.co.nz
What’s on this summer in Tauranga:
Saturday, 13 December 2025 – Tauranga Moana Manu Champs,Tauranga waterfront.
Thursday, 18 – Monday, 22 December 2025 – BLACKCAPS v West Indies Test match, Bay Oval.
Saturday, 27 December 2025 – L.A.B. & Stan Walker, Wharepai Domain
Wednesday, 31 December 2025 – Tauranga City Council New Year’s Eve celebrations: Tauranga city centre, Mount Maunganui, Greerton, Matua and Pāpāmoa
Wednesday, 31 December 2025 – Famous Last Words, Mercury Baypark Arena
Saturday, 17 January 2026 – Fulton Hogan Mount Festival of Multisport, Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa
Saturday, 17 January 2026 – Hot Spring Spas T20 Black Clash, Bay Oval
Friday, 30 January 2026 – Gallagher Chiefs v Fijian Drua pre-season match, Blake Park
Saturday, 31 January 2026 – FISHER, Bay Oval
Saturday, 7 February 2026 – UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Bay Oval
Saturday, 28 February 2026 – Beast of a Feast, Soper Reserve