August in Rotorua

August is here, and once again there are plenty of things going on the steamy city. Here are some of our picks, and some of the events you’ll hear Paul talking about on your Rotorua Day Show between 10 and 3 weekdays.

And make sure to listen each Thursday at 1.30 and Friday at 10.55 for The Hits List, updated for the weekend.

If you have something to include on The Hits List – email [email protected]

* regular events listed below these one-off dated events
* all information is correct at time of publishing. To be used as a guide only. Check official venue and event pages for additional information and confirmations.

Events Calendar: updated Mon 27 July

TARZAN: THE STAGE MUSICAL
Wed 5-Sat 8 Aug, 7pm (and 10.30a on Sat) / SHMC / tix via ticketmaster
Rotorua Boys’ High and Rotorua Girls' High School proudly presents Disney’s Tarzan — an unforgettable theatrical adventure filled with heart, humour, and high-energy music.
Based on the beloved story, Tarzan follows a young boy raised by gorillas deep in the African jungle as he struggles to discover where he truly belongs. When explorer Jane Porter enters his world, Tarzan is torn between the life he has always known and the pull of human connection.
Featuring spectacular performances, amazing singing, stunning choreography, and the iconic music of Phil Collins, played by a live band this exciting production showcases the incredible talent of RBHS and RGHS students in a show the whole family will enjoy.

alayna | SET HER FREE: THE ALBUM EXPERIENCE TOUR
Sat 15 Aug, 7pm / SHMC / ticketmaster
alayna brings her Set Her Free tour home to Rotorua for one intimate night, performing songs from her new album alongside earlier favourites in a tender, immersive show. More than a concert, this event combines a gallery exhibition of original artworks inspired by the album with an intimate performance featuring the songs, stories and journey to the album.

ROLLING IN THE DEEP – SONGS OF ADELE
Fri 21 Aug, 8pm / SHMC / ticketmaster
Caitriona, former lead singer of Riverdance and Tarnished Frocks and Divas, takes us on a journey of the emotional, exhilarating and vulnerable work that Adele has produced through the years. Performed in a theatre setting, this two-hour showcase of Adele’s songs spanning three decades including; Chasing Pavements, Rumour Has It, Hello, Set Fire to the Rain and Rolling in the Deep and many more.

OFF BROADWAY
Sat 22 Aug, 7pm / SHMC / ticketmaster
Friends of Rotorua Museum presents an evening of Broadway tunes performed by Everlyn Falconer along with Heather Lavelle, Craig Davson & Ben Kidd. This is a fundraiser for the Rotorua Museum Exhibition fund.

TOUGH GUY & GAL CHALLENGE
Sat 22 – Wed 26 Aug / Lakes Ranch, Tiketere
Are you tough enough to take on New Zealand’s original mud run series?  It is the ultimate obstacle course race designed for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, testing participants’ endurance, strength, and determination while offering a fun and exhilarating experience. Not just a race; it’s an adventure that promises memories for a lifetime. So gather your mates, gear up, and take on the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge!
Sat 22 Aug / ADULTS, GAL TEASM, FAMILY TEAMS
Mon 24 Aug / SEC SCHOOLS
Tue25,Wed26 / JUNIORS, PRIMARY SCHOOLS
www.eventpromotions.co.nz

A NIGHT OF INSIGHT AND HUMOUR WITH BARRY SOPER
Thu 20 Aug, from 5pm  /  Millenium Hotel / Tickets $50pp
Political journo Barry Soper comes to Rotorua, with stories and tales from his book ‘One Last Question Prime Minister’ and the night will be MC’d by local MP Todd McClay.  Fundraiser for restoration of St Faiths Church at Ohinimutu. For booking info – email [email protected]

EXPRESSIONS ART EXHIBITION AND AUCTION
Fri 28 Aug, 7-10pm / Ebbett Rotorua Showroom, Te Ngae Rd / Tickets $120pp
For six years, Expressions has brought together incredible New Zealand artists, generous local businesses, and a community that believes art can change lives. This event has raised over $100,000 for local causes, and in 2026 the primary beneficiary will be Hato Hone St John – Waka Ora / Health Shuttle.  Share with your art‑loving friends.  Organised by Rotary Rotorua Passport – search them on FB for more info