Grab your friends and whānau to enjoy a winter full of fun in Porirua
Winter in Porirua means fun events and festivals, museum hopping, stargazing, and meals enjoyed together.
Explore our great outdoors with trails to suit the whole whānau, or walk along the sand at one of our beautiful beaches. Although the weather can get a little wild here there’s plenty to keep the little ones busy with indoor activities too!
Winter events offer something for everyone
Our businesses are celebrated throughout Porirua Business Month in June, with free events to support, inspire and grow. On 10 June, celebrate our local businesses and get one-of-a-kind delights at our Love Local Expo, or grab a bargain at the Artisan Craft Market on 2 July at Pātaka.
During the July school holidays, bring tamariki to the City Centre Library for Maumaharatanga story time and craft sessions inspired by memories. The Porirua City Libraries' Tīrama, Ngā Whetū! school holiday programme runs from 5 - 12 July.
Te Rauparaha Arena has your sports needs sorted. From July to September, Basketball fans will rejoice as Tokomanawa Queens hit the court for the ultimate live game experience. On 27 September, show your support for the Silver Ferns as they take on the England Roses playing for the Taini Jamison Trophy. 21-22 October, the NZ Open Dance Championship is in full swing as they compete in ballroom, Latin American and new vogue styles of dancing.
On 16 June, Te Tini a Tangaroa - The Multitudes of Tangaroa opens at the Toi Gallery, with a ticketed Gyotaku workshop on 16 July where patrons learn the art of gyotaku fish printing using sustainably caught fish. From 1 July, new exhibitions open at Pātaka including, Toiora: Ki te Pō ki te Ao The Art of Wellbeing: Through Light and Shadow, and Naadohbii: To Draw Water - an exhibition that brings together contemporary Indigenous artwork from Canada's Turtle Island, Aotearoa, and many First Peoples nations of Australia.
To check out the fantastic events around Porirua City, visit our events page or Facebook.
"Simply getting out with a warm coat, a hot chocolate and looking up at the stars is a privilege many people in cities around the world don't get to experience"
Local astrophotographer Frank Hopfler shares why he loves the wide expanse of our universe from Porirua's night skies.
"Porirua is a great destination for night sky photography as we're further away from the bright lights of Wellington City. Pāuatahanui, Titahi Bay, Pukerua Bay and Whitireia are popular spots for stargazing.
"Cloudless nights are the best for astrophotography, or during the new moon phase, or with no moon present, stars will be more visible, which is ideal to capture the Milky Way's galactic centre with various parts of Porirua in the foreground."
Sip, snack or feast your way around our city
Porirua has great options for a leisurely brunch, your favourite coffee, or a cheeky brew.
Check out the latest craft beer on tap at The Beer Engine in Titahi bay, or wander next door to t bay cafe for some Porirua-famous seafood chowder. Abandoned Brewery has an array of bevvies on tap; The Karaage Kid's tasty eats are the perfect match for your brew of choice.
Make the most of a fun day out when you come and play in our beautiful backyard. We’re spoilt for choice with food to love in Porirua.
Walks for all weather
Porirua has more than 100 km of walking tracks that traverse the coastline, bush, city, farmland, wetlands, and historic sites. Hitting the trails in winter is the perfect way to either warm up or catch that gorgeous but elusive sunshine.
Pick your pace and walk, run or bike your way around our city.
Coming soon!
Snap your perfect selfie with one of our epic views using our brand new, gorgeous selfie stands designed by Ngāti Toa.
Catching the waves
Going into the water at this time of year is usually reserved for the most passionate water sports enthusiasts, but it makes for some excellent viewing.
On the more blustery days, you can spot kites and windsurfers making the most of the weather by zipping and flipping over and across the waves at Plimmerton Beach. These courageous beings with their colourful sails can make for spectacular viewing. It's also the perfect opportunity to pick up some fish and chips and watch the impressive display.
If you want to get out in the elements, why not check out one of our seven beaches in Porirua? Head our way for a mid-winter seaside refresher with kite and windsurfing or paddle boarding at Onehunga and Shelly Bay at Whitireia Park. Or head to Plimmerton to sail at Karehana Bay or walk and explore Pukerua Bay and Titahi Bay.
Things to do on a rainy day
We all know winter can throw crazy weather our way, but don’t worry, we’ve got loads of fun indoor options too.
Head to the pool, catch a movie at Pāuatahanui Light House, explore a museum or gallery, or take the little ones to burn off some energy at indoor amusement playgrounds where they can bounce and climb.
It's not just the littles that are spoilt for choice, with go-karting, ten-pin bowling or VR games, there's something for all ages. Or for some quieter indoor fun, check out our libraries holiday programme.
