What to do in Wellington this Labour weekend

Light up your long weekend with Diwali celebrations 

Experience the colours, tastes, and sounds of India and South-East Asia at the Diwali Festival of Lights this Sunday from 2pm to 8.30pm. There’ll be non-stop cultural entertainment and activities for the whole whānau to enjoy. Explore Indian fashion and jewellery stalls, experience henna painting and lantern making, meet local community groups and enjoy delicious food from the regions. Finish the day with a short fireworks display on Wellington Harbour at 8.45pm.  Keep an eye on Council’s Facebook page and event for more information and any updates.

Dive into Thorndon Pool 

Thorndon pool is reopening for the 2024/25 season on Saturday 26 October. If you’re looking to get the summer vibes on early Thorndon Pool is the perfect place to go. Swim far or hit the spa this long weekend! 

Opening hours:

• Saturday–Sunday: 7.30am-7pm 
• Monday–Thursday: 6.30am-8pm 
• Friday: 6.30am-7pm 

Check out the Embassy Theatre and more this Wellington Heritage festival! 

Take a guided tour of the Embassy, celebrating its 100th anniversary, to learn about the building and some of the people and events that have shaped its life.

There will also be projections on the façade of the Embassy Theatre from 26 to 31 October between 7.30pm - 11pm. 

This event is part of the Wellington Heritage festival, which runs from 26 October to 17 November at various locations all around the region. Visit wellingtonheritagefestival.nz to see what else is on. 

Make a pointe to see The Royal New Zealand Ballet’s Midsummer Night’s Dream 

Join the Royal New Zealand Ballet for a performance filled with magic, romance and comedy! A Midsummer Night’s Dream is performing at the St James Theatre until 27 October and is a festive family favourite you won’t want to miss. Book now! 

Spend some timey wimey at the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition! 

It's your last chance to step into the universe of Doctor Who with Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder! Experience the wonders of time travel and other scientific concepts at Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre. With the last day of the exhibition being 28 October, make sure you don’t miss out! Grab your tickets here. 

Catch the NPC Final: Wellington v Bay of Plenty 

Make your way down to Sky Stadium on Saturday 26 October to see Wellington and Bay of Plenty battle it out to win the National Provincial Cup. With a 3.05pm kick off time, it’s one you don’t want to miss. Get your tickets here.

Holiday hours 

Wellington City Council’s services and facilities change slightly on public holidays, so just a reminder that:  

Rubbish and recycling collections will occur as per normal on Labour Day (Monday 28 October). 

On street metered parking is free on Labour Day. 

Some facilities and services may have reduced hours or may be closed, you can find out more on the Council’s holiday hours page.

Have a wonderful weekend Pōneke! Some events might be affected by the weather, so keep an eye on our channels.