What’s On…
Creativity, craftsmanship and community
Taupō Quiltmakers Club vice president Julie Brunton (left) and president Fiona Hussey.
The Taupō Quiltmakers Club will proudly present A Quilting Affair, a vibrant exhibition showcasing the remarkable talents of local quilters while highlighting the club's commitment to supporting the community through the art of quilting.
Held at the Great Lake Centre on July 17-19, the exhibition features more than 100 quilts, with an impressive range of traditional and contemporary techniques.
Visitors can expect a stunning array of colours, textures and designs, reflecting the creativity, skill and dedication of the club's members.
Club President Fiona Hussey says the exhibition is more than a display of beautiful quilts.
"A Quilting Affair is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible work of our members while sharing the positive impact quilting can have within our community.
"Many of our members generously donate quilts to provide comfort and support to people facing difficult times. Every quilt tells a story and carries a message of care, kindness and hope."
Visitors will also be able to browse a sales table featuring handmade quilted items and participate in raffles with a variety of prizes on offer.
Five visiting merchants will provide quilting fabrics, supplies and accessories, while mini demonstrations throughout the event will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the techniques and skills involved in creating these works of art.
Whether you are an experienced quilter, craft enthusiast or simply appreciate fine workmanship, A Quilting Affair promises to be an inspiring and colourful event that celebrates both creativity and community spirit. July 17–18, 10am–4pm; July 19, 10am–3pm, Great Lake Centre, Taupō, $10 per person.
The New Zealand String Quartet is in Taupō on August 7.
Stories told to music
Join the Midday Concert on August 7 at St Andrew's Church, 91 Tītīraupenga Street to celebrate the art of storytelling through music with the New Zealand String Quartet.
The programme includes Henry Purcell Fantasias, Anthony RitchiePerpetual Motion from String Quartet no. (In Time), Fanny Mendelssohn Movements from String Quartet in E flat major, Benjamin Britten Movements from String Quartet No. 2, in C major (Op. 36), Antonín Dvořák Movements from String Quartet No. 12 in F major, Op. 96 (The American Quartet), Excerpts from the Danish String Quartet's album, Last Leaf.
The concert programme, crafted in the NZSQ’s signature style, aims to engage audiences regardless of their knowledge of classical music.
Each piece of music is preceded by a lively and informative introduction delivered by the Quartet members themselves.
These introductions seek to shed light on the stories behind the music, making it an enriching experience suitable for children and adults alike.
Choose your price when you book in advance through Eventfinda, or give a koha on the door when you arrive! This event is supported by Creative Communities Taupō.
July 3-19: Winter Festival; Get in quick to book your place at one of the many events that make up the Malcolm Flowers Insurances Winter Festival. There are 30 events spread out over the festival, many of them free, including the popular Drop Zone Light Hub. People will need tickets to some of the other events including Champagne and Ice, Liquor and Literature and the Wairakei Estate Ice Rink and the MB Century Ice Slide. Check out the full selection of events at www.taupowinterfestival.co.nz
July 29: Small Plates Speed Dates First events, for those age 42-52 is on Wednesday, July 29 at 6.30pm at Cobb & Co. Each event will be limited to between 16 and a maximum of 32 guests, with a clear age bracket for each evening. Tickets are intended to include entry to the event, eight small plates, one welcome drink, hosted conversation rounds, and post-event matching. Head to https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/tours-festivals/2026/small-plates-speed-dates for more information
July 31: Taupō Intermediate’s Room 24 is hosting a quiz night to raise funds for a cultural camp. Tables are $150 for a group of six which includes a light supper, table snacks and a drink. Located at Taupō Intermediate School Hall, 6pm to 8pm. For more details or to book a table, contact: pshepard@taupointermediate.co.nz
Regular events
Taupō 60'S Up Movement meets at 10am on the second Monday of the month at Taupō Bowling Club on Ferry Road. Come and join our group of men and women for companionship and listen to an interesting speaker while enjoying morning tea. We offer visits to places of interest, lunch and movie outings or you might like to join our ten-pin bowling team. Entry fee $5, Annual sub $30 for new members. Please contact Betty 07 376 9443
The Community Marketplace, every second Saturday of the month. Shop, swap and sell. Taupō’s local market for second-hand finds, slow fashion, produce, crafts and upcycled goods. Waipahihi Community Hall, 96 Richmond Ave, 10am-2pm.
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 10am-2pm: Become a Member at Active Arts Taupō. Love painting, pottery or mixed media? Join our vibrant creative community at 5 Redoubt Road. Connect, create and grow alongside local artists.
Every Thursday: The Taupō Scottish Country Dance Group meets every Thursday at St Pauls Uniting Church from 1.45–3.45pm. First session free, then $5. Meet people, maintain fitness, dance to enjoy Scottish music. Contact Margaret on greenmargaret26@gmail.com or 021 142 7590.
Sundays: Market Central, 9am-1pm Northcroft Reserve on Taupō’s beautiful lakefront. Live music, huge variety of food, 90+ stalls, games for the kids
Every Sunday: If you love to sing, have free time to take part in weekday concerts and can stay on your feet for a 30-minute performance, the AA65 choir would love you to join our group. We practise at 4pm every Sunday at Rotary House and sing at different venues every second month.
Ukulele Jamming/Strummers is on the first Sunday of each month at the Cossie Club, 2-4pm. Don't play but love to sing? We have song books for you. Join us for a fun time singing music from 60's, 70's and 80's. All welcome.
Send details of your event to news@tauponews.co.nz for a free listing in our weekly What’s On section. Publication is dependent on space. Send a brief summary of 50 words, a photo if you have one and a longer summary in case we have room.