Aucklanders, do yourself a solid and check out at least something going on at Elemental AKL festival. Starting on the 20th of July, basically every suburb in the city will have something going down nearby. There are phat feeds, musical sets, and immersive artsy experiences if you're a classy one.
We're chucking five recommendations your way, so there should be at least one event you'd enjoy ya goober.
Step N Out Peter Ulrich Swingin’ Sextet - Takapuna Winter Lights
Saturday 22 July
Get classy on a Saturday by listening to a friggin swing band, a top-tier one at that. You'll start out with champagne and Sinatra, before kicking it up a gear with General Lee joining Peter Urlich onstage for a live DJ set. Finish your night off by checking out the buzzy and beautiful public light installations displayed along Hurstmere Road for Takapuna Winter Lights.
Tove Lo – Elemental Nights
Thursday 27 July
Yeahhhhh, Swedish-born singer Tove Lo is playing Auckland Town Hall as part of Elemental Nights. She's got a few Grammys in the trophy cabinet now but is back in Aotearoa after selling out the Powerstation on her last trip to NZ. She's in an even bigger venue this time round so bloody bring a mate.
Morning People’s Seventh Birthday
29 July 7 AM
Early birds will be frothing for this one. Hop out of bed and roll on over to Auckland’s biggest morning rave (or just come straight from kickons and #bendthrough). Head to the Auckland Town Hall to celebrate the 7th anniversary of Morning People and get down to dance music with complimentary coffee and snacks.
Garden Smoke and Fire
Friday 21 July
How good's a first-rate Fridee feed? Find out by getting out of the city to Muriwai’s Good from Scratch Cookery School, where renowned Kiwi chef Michael Van de Elzen will demonstrate how to prepare a pork belly to be cooked over a fire, including a lesson on cold and hot smoking. Then, head on a tour of the kitchen gardens before you enjoy your two-course lunch overlooking the scenic Muriwai valley.
Silent Disco Fan Walks
Thursday 20 July – Wednesday 2 August
Silent discos may just be revolutionised as this one involves walking around town. Celebrate women’s football with a brand-new immersive audio adventure as you boogie your way through the CBD! Chuck the headphones on, enter a world of your own and be gobsmacked as public spaces are transformed into d-floors, strangers become performers and more.
Of course, there are load more arts, eats, and beats happening throughout Elemental AKL. From 20 July – 6 August 2023, festivalgoers can experience art, food, music, and activities in an ever-growing programme of free and ticketed events across Auckland. Check out www.aucklandnz.com/elemental for more deets.
