Pop up Skate Park

Explore the city. Walk the bridge. Feel the vibes.

From 10am Saturday 14 March the Claudelands Bridge will be closed to vehicles and open to EVERYONE!

Expect a lively, walkable space packed with festival energy, food trucks, activities, and a safe, direct route across the river.

No Homegrown ticket required whether you are heading to the festival, meeting friends or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Expect delicious food trucks, fun interactive activities, and all the festival vibes!

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There's a great line up events on each month in the central city.

Inspired by the brilliantly dark imagination of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award–winning musical Matilda celebrates the wild spirit of childhood, the limitless power of imagination, and the uplifting journey of a young girl determined to change her destiny. The show has earned 47 international awards and continues to captivate audiences of all ages around the globe.

At the heart of the story is Matilda, a remarkable girl blessed with extraordinary intelligence, sharp wit, and even mysterious psychokinetic abilities. Neglected by her cruel parents, she finds comfort and encouragement in her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey. As their friendship grows, Miss Honey begins to see and nurture Matilda’s exceptional gifts.

But school is far from easy. The fearsome headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, despises children and rules with intimidation and harsh punishments. Armed with courage, cleverness, and a fierce sense of justice, Matilda may be the very hero her classmates need.

Note: The Children's Cast will alternate between performances.

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27 June - Saturday: 7:30 pm

28 June - Sunday: 2:00 pm

30 June - Tuesday: 6:30 pm

1 July - Wednesday: 6:30 pm

2 July - Thursday: 7:30 pm

3 July - Friday: 7:30 pm

4 July - Saturday: 2:00 pm & Saturday: 7:30 pm

5 July - Sunday: 2:00 pm

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This May, Opus Orchestra presents a powerful evening of orchestral and vocal music, pairing a major New Zealand opera by Dame Gillian Karawe Whitehead with one of Beethoven’s most exhilarating works.

At the heart of the programme is The Journey of Mataatua Whare, a moving opera in concert telling the true story of the great wharenui taken overseas without consent and returned home in 2011.

Exploring history, identity, loss and return, this unforgettable performance features outstanding New Zealand soloists alongside the Waikato University Voice Programme Ensemble.

An evening of depth, drama and powerful storytelling you won’t want to miss

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