Te Wāhi Toi/The Arts Place exists to connect the creative community of Queenstown and Wānaka with audiences, students, teachers, spaces and each other. We are a not-for-profit organisation powered by Three Lakes Cultural Trust and inspired by local arts and culture.
What's On July: Queenstown, Wānaka & surrounds
The snow finally arrived, and so did the cold temperatures! Stay warm this winter and check out a range of arts, culture and creative happenings throughout our district this month. From pianists, puppet shows, comedy, live music, workshops and more there’s plenty to keep you entertained this month. And for the kiddies over school holidays, lots of options for them…
Don’t forget to secure your spots too. We are hearing more and more events are selling out these days, so don't forget to book it in. Here’s what’s on this July in Queenstown, Wānaka and surrounds - read on, then head to our What’s On page for even more.
Creative Workshops
This month, awaken your inner child, or learn how to write your memoir. These are only a few of the creative workshops happening this July. Give something new a go, awaken your creative juices. The Te Wāhi Toi creative directory has loads of classes, workshops and events to try this month. Sign up, grab a friend (or make a new one) and get creative!
From basic to advanced classes, Studio 42 provides a welcoming hub for anyone with an interest in learning goldsmithing and contemporary practice. Classes range from taster experiences to 10-week courses and can accommodate solo guests, couples, families, groups of friends, or private groups.
QAS, TART and Kasia Hebda Studio offer a co-lab ‘Awaken Your Inner Child’ workshop as part of the "Winter Tale" exhibition at Te Atamira. Unlock your artistic potential and explore the world of creativity with our innovative and experimental drawing techniques. In this 2-hour workshop, you'll create a unique work of art that showcases your personal style and creativity.
Are you interested in developing your creative side? This practical art class class is aimed at beginners and intermediates who are a little rusty; who would like to gain / develop some perceptual drawing skills and explore a variety of drawing and painting techniques and ideas.
Interested in writing your memoir? Join this immersive three-hour memoir-writing workshop with award-winning author, Caroline Barron, for a rare opportunity to refine your craft, unlock your creativity, and bring your personal story to life.
Art Exhibitions
Explore art galleries and exhibitions from local and visiting artists in Queenstown, Wānaka and surrounds. Whether you’re browsing or buying, this is a great way to support local artists.
Gallery Thirty Three is pleased to present new works by the New Zealand artist Simon Kaan, John Oxborough and Belinda Griffiths.
A rare opportunity to see a collection of unique kākahu (cloaks) made by internationally recognised Māori weaver Rokahurihia Ngarimu-Cameron, along with hand-made taonga puoro (musical instruments) from Roka’s collection.
Theatre & Performing Arts
Be entertained through theatre, musicals and plays in Queenstown, Wānaka and throughout the district! With school holidays underway this month, there are some just for the kids too.
Bring the whole family to enjoy this warm, funny and touching documentary telling the story of one of New Zealand’s most iconic pop songs, led by Dalvanius Prime and the Pātea Māori Club. Director Tearepa Kahi will lead a question and answer session about the film after the screening.
Based on a book by Dr Maysoon Salama and designed for families and children aged 3 to 9 years, Aya’s story encourages compassion and empathy for different cultures, and helps us all become part of an important movement of change towards living together in peace, featuring plenty of magical puppet moments, music and songs, and lots of joining in!
‘Red Heavens’ portrays the true story of Angelina Moleta, an Italian pioneering immigrant on D'Urville Island, whose fate is intertwined with the forces of nature and her deep connection with a high-born Māori woman.
Looking for a laugh? Comedian Magician, Jarred Fell, has been making a name for himself worldwide with his extreme approach to Comedy and Magic for over 20 years. Jarred has performed for MANY celebrities such as Jack Black, John Legend, Kenan Thompson, Chrissy Tiegan and that's to name a few!
Live Music
There is something for everyone this month across Queenstown, Wānaka and surrounds when it comes to live music. From Cowboy Lounge to pianists on the rise, all of your music tastes are covered, just make sure to secure your tickets to avoid missing out!
The programme features Concertante from Claude Bolling’s Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio, Libertango by Astor Piazzolla, Limestone & Felt by GRAMMY-winning American composer Caroline Shaw, and other musical gems.
Multi-dimensional, galactic funk 5 piece Black Comet, founded by Ninja, Laughton Kora (Kora, L.A.B, Fly My Pretties), is a groove-based experience with narratives.
Discover The King of Rock n Roll and his rollercoaster life and lifestyle through the eyes of his love child…. Charlotte Graf.
Legendary local Mark Wilson is a pianist who happens to be blind, sees the natural world through sound in sparkling bird song, in the trickling of a stream, or in the rustle of leaves on a tree.
Hailed by critics as a “gifted young pianist of genuine substance” and “New Zealand’s most notable young emerging pianist,” Sylvia Jiang is a brilliant performer on the rise.
School Holidays
Needing to keep the kiddies entertained these school holidays? How about a creative programme?
Are you aged between 12 and 18 and have an interest in film and video? If so, this is for you. Film director Tearepa Kahi (Poi E, Muru) invites you to a creative workshop for young people exploring how to generate and capture your ideas for film and video.
Looking for an exciting and enriching experience for your kids this July school holiday? Join Te Atamira this school's holidays for a multidisciplinary arts programme led by accredited art teacher Michelle. Te Atamira offers 20 different arts programmes - from painting and textiles, to hip hop dance, improv theatre to clay crafts, their workshops are designed to spark creativity.
And that’s just a taste of what’s on in July in the arts and culture scene here in Queenstown, Wānaka and surrounds. Whether it’s live music, film festivals, open mics, events or art exhibitions, there’s no shortage of arts and culture for everyone. For more of what’s on in Wānaka, Queenstown and surrounds this July, head to our What’s On page to keep exploring.
PS. If you are a local creative or have an event you want to share, make sure sign up and create your free listing!
