The cold weather is creeping in, but you can still chuck on a jacket and get out to enjoy these great events over the city. Here’s what’s on this May in Auckland!
Lights, Camera…Bonjour!
From 27 May 2026
Multiple locations
The French Film Festival is back in NZ! 24 fresh French stories, across 24 towns and cities, over 4 weeks from 27 May. After a standout 2025 marked by packed theatres and widespread sell-outs, the festival celebrates its 20th edition by bringing the magic of French cinema back to audiences across Aotearoa.
It guarantees a compelling line-up of standout, hand-selected films including French box-office hits, Cannes favourites and award-winning talent including Pierre Niney in Guru, Angelina Jolie in Couture, Pierre Lottin in the modern take on the Alfred Camus classic The Stranger, and Isabelle Huppert in The Richest Woman in the World – all with that unmistakable French flair that audiences continue to fall in love with year after year.
View locations and get your tickets here.
Trivet x Cloudy Bay
7 May 2026
Trivet, 22 Albert Street, Auckland
Trivet is teaming up with Cloudy Bay for a one-night-only dining experience that brings together standout cuisine and world-class wine. Led by chef Wallace Mua, the menu draws on Polynesian roots and seasonal local produce, paired with wines presented by winemaker Nikolai St George. Thoughtfully matched courses highlight the connection between food, place and flavour, creating a warm, intimate evening that celebrates the best of New Zealand dining. To book, click here.
Gindulgence
8-9 May 2026
Shed 10, Queens Wharf, Auckland
Gindulgence returns this year with its biggest line-up yet, bringing together 25 standout distillers pouring not just exceptional gin, but a full spectrum of craft spirits including rum, whisky, vodka and liqueurs.
You can taste your way through a diverse range of pours, each with its own distinctive flavours and backstory, while chatting directly with the makers behind them. Alongside classic G&Ts, expect inventive cocktails and signature serves, with bottles available to take home. A lineup of local food vendors will keep things fuelled, and this year’s event also teams up with Alchemy & Tonic for an extra touch of magic. Get your tickets here.
Comedy Festival
1-24 May 2026
Multiple locations
The NZ International Comedy Festival is back in Auckland with a tummy grabbing lineup of stand-up and local and international comedians at The Civic, Q Theatre, Aotea Centre, Basement Theatre, The Classic Comedy Club and more! For more info click here!
Normanby Wine Tastings
Normanby Fine Wines & Spirits tastings are all about keeping things relaxed, engaging and genuinely enjoyable. Whether you’re new to wine or well-versed, these guided sessions offer a chance to learn without the pressure. Led by an experienced team and guest experts, it’s a welcoming space to explore new flavours, ask questions and build a deeper appreciation for what’s in your glass, all while sharing good wine and easy conversation. Click here for dates and times over May!
Open Art Studios Upper Harbour
9-10 May 2026
Artists are opening their doors to Auckland for one weekend only, inviting visitors inside nine private studios across the Upper Harbour. Featuring 20 local artists, the self-guided trail spans everything from painting and sculpture to textiles, ceramics and photography. It’s a rare chance to see art where it’s made, meet the makers and explore the creative process up close. With live demos and hands-on moments for families, the event offers a free, local and inspiring way to connect with Auckland’s artistic community. Check out the details here.
KidsCan GlowRun
2 May 2026
Eden Park, Auckland
Auckland is set to light up Eden Park on Saturday 2 May, bringing a colourful, family-friendly evening to the city. This 2.5km fun run or walk invites participants of all ages to glow their way through the iconic stadium, with live DJs, interactive games and food trucks creating a lively, festival atmosphere. Beyond the fun, every ticket supports KidsCan, helping provide warm essentials for Kiwi kids in need this winter.
Jody Hope Gibbons, Vintage Exhibition
15-27 May 2026
Turua Gallery, St Heliers, Auckland
Jody Hope Gibbons returns to Turua Gallery this May with Vintage, a special solo exhibition showcasing a rare archival collection spanning decades, the exhibition traces the evolution of her richly layered, colour-driven practice. Alongside the works, Jody’s personal vintage objects are woven into the gallery space, offering insight into her creative process. Intimate and deeply personal, Vintage invites you into the story behind one of New Zealand’s most beloved contemporary artists, with strong interest already building among collectors.