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News | 10 September 2025
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Have a ball in Pōneke this weekend

This weekend will see Pōneke pumping with rugby, kai, entertainment, arts, culture and nature all happening around the capital for an epic experience for all to enjoy.

All Blacks face the crowd from the field with arms linked ahead of match.
All Blacks photo credit Marty Melville

Kicking-off the big action is the highly anticipated second rugby test on Saturday night as the All Blacks face South Africa at Sky Stadium in a bid to secure the Freedom Cup. 

 

The game starts at 7.05pm and Metlink has put on increased capacity on train and bus services, including two extra services on the Wairarapa Line.  

  

Fans using public transport to the game have their fare included in the price of their game ticket for Metlink bus, train and East by West harbour ferry trips (excluding Te Hunga Whaikaha Total Mobility taxis and the Airport Express). 

 

A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be in place around Sky Stadium for the All Blacks Test. There will be road closures before and after the match, and no public drop-offs at the Stadium after 5pm (except for mobility permit holders). Taxis, rideshares and drop-offs should use Bunny St (Wellington Railway Station) or Thorndon Quay at the Thorndon Spiral entrance.

 

The Wellington Cable Car is also putting on a special offer for rugby ticket holders on the big day, with 20 percent off adult and child return trips.  

 

Meanwhile, in Courtenay Place, whether you’re grabbing a bite before the big game, soaking up the post-show atmosphere, or just wanting a fun day and night in town, Eat Street is the place to be. 

 

From lunchtime until late on Saturday, the entertainment district will be celebrating the area with local restaurants offering special menus, live music, pop up shows, circus acts and street performers, with free entry for all. 

Other events to watch out for this weekend: 

 

Te Wā o te Kōanga - Spring Festival

Wellington Gardens

 

The annual Te Wā o te Kōanga - Spring Festival at Wellington Gardens runs for the whole month of September with a series of free springtime events where we enjoy a new season with friends, whānau, and visitors.  

Wellingtongardens.nz  

 

World Press Photo Exhibition 2025

Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre

 

Experience the world through the lens of award-winning photojournalists at the World Press Photo Exhibition 2025, marking 70 years, at Tākina from 5 September to 5 October.

www.takina.co.nz  

 

TAHI New Zealand Festival of Solo Performance

Various locations

10—20 September 

 

16 shows. 20 solo performances. ONE powerful celebration of storytelling. 

www.tahifestivalnz.com

 

South Coast Arts Trail

Wellington’s South Coast

13-14 September  

 

With more than 50 artists displaying their works in this annual event, there’s plenty of art for every taste and budget at the South Coast Arts Trail. 

Southcoastartstrail.co.nz  

 

Some major events will mean diversions or street closures for the health and safety of all. 

 

It’s recommended that car users consider alternative routes or modes of transport during major events, and pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooters should take extra care due to the large crowds and in case of any street changes. 

 

Full details of street closures can be found at: wellington.govt.nz/road-works.