Wellington Events - What's on and happening in Wellington, New Zealand from restaurants and cafes to events and services. http://www.wotzon.com http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031171 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031171 Raggamuffin Roadtrip, featuring some of the world’s hottest reggae artists, will make a stop at the Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua on Saturday 2 June as part of a five-city national tour. We just couldn’t wait another year, so Aotearoa’s biggest reggae festival, Raggamuffin is hitting the road this winter to bring fans a mini festival experience! The tour features headliner Fiji, who will be celebrating 20 years in the music industry on this tour with his friends, J Boog, Hot Rain, Spawnbreezie and Morgan Heritage’s very own Peetah Morgan. Top NZ acts will also join this massive line up including Sons of Zion and SOLJAH. Reggae band Oku Roots has been chosen as local support for the Porirua concert by fans. Tickets are on sale now from Ticket Direct. All updates and event info can be found on the RaggamuffinNZ Facebook page. Sign up at www.raggamuffin.co.nz. Raggamuffin Roadtrip Line Up Fiji George ‘FIJI’ Veikoso is one of the biggest and most enduring Polynesian artists of our time. His golden voice and musical blends have launched him on the world stage as a pioneer of island reggae music. Fiji’s fusion of classic reggae with hip-hop, RnB and jazz set him apart as a performer. His unique style defies the idea of categorizing artists into a single genre of music, giving Fiji widespread appeal and the ability to capture his array of his musical influences. J-Boog J Boog is a man of many influences. The singer of Samoan descent was born in Long Beach and raised in Compton, California. Growing up in the rough streets of Compton, the strong sense of tradition and culture that J Boog absorbed from his family was instrumental in his path to stay off the streets and begin a successful music career. Having worked with artists the likes of George “Fiji” Veikoso and Gramps Morgan of Morgan Heritage, J Boog has always been destined for success. Their influence, along with the assistance of the Wash House family have led J to record in several prestigious locations, including Bob Marley's "Tuff Gong" Studio. Hot Rain Now days, J Boog frequently tours with Hawaiian band Hot Rain, an up and coming group known for their backing abilities & musicianship, but now more so for their own music. In November 2011, they released their first album "Self Titled" which did not disappoint. With hit songs ‘Love’, ‘Cuz I'm’ and ‘Heavyweight Love’ hitting #1 on several of Hawaii's top radio stations, Hot Rain has the islands grooving to their brand of reggae music. Peetah Morgan In the past, countless solo artists have evolved from their already successful groups and branched out to enjoy success on their own. For many years, Peetah’s distinctive voice has led his legendary family band, Morgan Heritage on some of the biggest anthems in modern roots reggae. Such hits as “Tell Me How Come”, ‘Don’t Haffi Dread’, ‘Best Friend’, ‘She’s Still Loving Me’ and ‘Down By The River’, amongst others is what made the group a staple in the reggae community and the sibling band legendary all over the world. He is not only transitioning into a solo career, but he is also crossing over genres from reggae to R&B in order to showcase his versatility and musical prowess. Spawnbreezie With the combinations of island music, roots reggae, and hip-hop, Spawnbreezie has crafted a new kind of sound. Combining the percussions of hip-hop, the skank of reggae and the vocals of the Island music, he calls it, "Island Hip Hop". Spawnbreezie has performed for numerous venues: night clubs, parties, weddings, release parties and has done numerous shows to give back to the community. Soljah Soljah are a five piece unit hailing from Kaipara, Auckland. The group consists of five heavyweight musicians, who are currently creating waves across Aotearoa with their mesmerising live performances and ground stomping sound. Sporting a powerful combination of heavily distorted riffs with rhythms that knock you off your feet, bouncy drum & bass and tight vocal harmonies that drip with catchy melodies, Soljah are one of those groups built for the stage. Sons of Zion Sons of Zion are a six-piece fusion band whose sound is compromises a blend of reggae, heavy rock, dub and funk. Their live stage presence has captivated audiences around New Zealand and their infectious mixture of reggae grooves with melodic vocals, phat dubby base lines and metal inspired guitar riffs. There's something for every musical taste within their live performance. Sat, 02 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031167 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031167 Sydney-based male singing group Fourtunate head to New Zealand this May to play a selection of live shows with support from NZ RnB duo, Adeaze. Fourtunate burst into the Sydney music scene mid-2011 with enormous success, not only in Australia, but worldwide. Presently independent and with only one single to their name Fourtunate have already attracted 2.7 million Youtube views and over 21,000 Facebook fans. They have supported international acts including Omarion, Sons of Zion, Pleasure P, V-Tribe, Request Dance Crew, Clara C and have also appeared at many festivals including Big Exo Day, Summer Jam, Polyfest, and Supanova - a total of 40+ performances in the past 10 months. Fourtunate share a fresh music perspective inspired by artists from both RnB and Christian worlds while adding their own flavor and interpretation. Their infectious passion is underpinned by their values attached to their Sydney/Pacific culture and their love of music. Their vocals are tight, rich, fresh and soulful, blending together to produce amazing harmonies.  Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031147 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031147 Some of the faces are instantly recognizable, some aren’t – but all the women featured in the NZ Portrait Gallery’s exhibition All Woman have a unique story to tell. Wellington-based photographer Bev Short has spent more than two years travelling the length and breadth of New Zealand capturing images of women who inspire her. From a Carmelite nun to Olympic sportswoman Barbara Kendall ironing in her curlers – the result is a collection of original and intimate portraits capturing the essence of Kiwi women. “The women I met really opened up to me about their lives which I was so grateful to them for,” Short says. “It gives the results more depth and produced images which I hope will in turn inspire those looking at them.” Many of the women featured have had to overcome entrenched gender-biased attitudes as they made their mark in their chosen occupation. “The chains of gender have been a challenge for many of the women I met. But rather than work in jobs that were practical, safe and steady, they opted for things which stirred their imaginations,” Short explains. “I really admired their spirit and energy. I wanted to celebrate that, but also to share their stories and images with a wider public.” NZ Portrait director Avenal McKinnon says the exhibition is a true celebration of women’s determination and high-level achievement. “For many this has occurred in the face of extreme prejudice, and often alongside multi-tasking situations.” There is a speaker series which runs for the duration of the exhibition. Speaker Series In conjunction with the exhibition 'All Woman', a speaker series of ‘brown bag lunches’ will take place every Wednesday at 1pm in the Gallery. The talks will last for around 20 minutes. 2 May Bev Short - “My All Woman Journey” 9 May Catriona Williams – “Dare to Dream”. Catriona is an ex international equestrian and founder of the CatWalk charity for research into spinal injury. 16 May Melissa Clark Reynolds – “Women and Money”. Melissa is an entrepreneur and CEO of minimonos.com 23 May Elena – “My Blessed Life as a Violinist”. Elena has a successful solo career as well as being part of the Wellington Vector Orchestra. 30 May Jules Esther - "Our young people are our greatest resource - Let's get alongside them." Jules is a guidance counsellor at Paraparaumu College. 6 June Rae Julian – “Women and the UN”. Rae is Chair of the UN Women Aotearoa NZ National Committee 13 June Prue Hyman – “The F word – why we still need feminist analysis”. Prue is part of the Wellington Womens Studies Association. 20 June Dr Rosy Fenwicke – “To be or Not to be. Who makes the decisions.... Women and abortion in the 21st century.” Rosy has been a doctor for thirty years and now concentrates on Occupational Health and Women's Health. 27 June Ruth Herbert – “Violence against women – our national shame”. Ruth is Director of Family Violence with the Ministry of Social Development. 4 July Kerry Prendergast – “My Defining Five C’s”. Kerry is ex mayor of Wellington and now Chairs the NZ Tourism Board and is Executive Chair of the NZ International Arts Festival. Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031146 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031146 Ascend to greater heights with Richard Strauss’s virtuosic Alpine Symphony, performed by the NZSO on Friday 18 May at the Michael Fowler Centre. Composed for colossal orchestral forces, Strauss’s music will transport you, taking you on an expedition into the Alps with music that celebrates the elemental wonders of nature. Such a score could be in no finer hands than those of the world renowned conductor David Zinman. From the grandeur of the Alps we gaze heavenwards towards Mozart’s miraculous Prague Symphony. Filled with moments of compelling complexity, sparkling melodies and a finale that is impressive, effervescent and always graceful, this concert will certainly be an opportunity to exalt in the divinity of great music. NZSO: Apline Symphony Mozart - Symphony No.38 Prague R. Strauss - Alpine Symphony David Zinman - conductor In association with Minter, Ellison, Rudd & Watts Lawyers Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031135 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031135 Catch the Arvo Show featuring The Uprights on Saturday 19 May at the Southern Cross. Taking its’ name from the fact they use an old upright piano and upright bass (but not upright drums..) and featuring the rhythm section from The Roseneath Centennial Ragtime Band, (Dayle Jellyman: upright piano; Dan Yeabsley: upright bass; Mike Jensen: drums), The Uprights bring a new flavour to the Wellington acoustic music and jazz scene aimed at gettin’ a good groove goin’on. The Uprights have more of a bluesy, gospel sound, in the style of Ramsey Lewis and Benny Green. Playing all their own material, they aren’t afraid to holler along to their own songs when the occasion suits either! Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031128 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031128 POP-UP! @ the Embassy is a here today, gone tomorrow venture set up by some of Wellington's first class talent. Our goal is to offer Wellington the chance to experience some of New Zealand's best products and finest wines in the elegant surroundings of the Embassy Theatre at an affordable price. Chefs Jamie Armour and Adam Rickett have designed a $65 five course degustation that showcases unique and interesting locally sourced produce. Max Hart and Steven Kelly are set to enhance the dining experience with exquisite wine matches and outstanding service. POP-UP! @ the Embassy is a rare opportunity to see the future of hospitality in Wellington. POP-UP! at the Embassy Menu Jerusalem artichoke veloute - persimmon biscotti Crispy skin salmon - salmon gnocchi, clam beurre blanc, clams, sorrel and red mustard leaves Ravioli of confit duck and game consommé Pheasant breast and braised leg - sage and chestnut stuffing, celeriac puree and madiera sauce Rhubarb, quince and feijoa Included - a glass of wine, coffee About the Staff Maitre'D – Steven Kelly Stephen Kelly grew up and trained in London. His career includes stints working for the restaurant La Saveur, awarded two rosettes in its first month of opening and Canyon, voted Timeout’s “Brunch of the Year”, three years running. He has also worked for the Real Greek Group on London’s South Bank. Following travel and experience working in the Alaska, USA and Sydney, Australia, he recently settled in Wellington and has been Restaurant Manager at the Hop Garden,Wellington’s first gastro pub, since its infancy. Chef – Jamie Armour Jamie Armour began his career as a chef working in Scotland at one of Glasgows most prestigious restaurants. He later returned to New Zealand to study cookery and within a year had won 2 first prizes and 2 silver medals at the Wellington and New Zealand Culinary fares. After he worked his way to Demi-Sous Chef at one of Wellingtons institutions Hummingbird, he left to persue a dream of living and working in France. He had the chance to work for and meet Chef Joël Robuchon(holds the most michelin stars globally) at his Parisian restaurant L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon. Thereafter he began working for Gilles Epié(The chef who is the youngest ever to have won a michelin star) at Citrus étoile. Returning from France he spent a year in Melbourne, Australia. Working for Chef Raymond Capaldi (former chef at Fenix a 2 hat restaurant) he continued to develop his skills in classic french cuisine. Since Jamie has gone on to be head and sous chef of restaurants in New Zealand and Australia and has since run a pop up restaurant in Wellington and is currently planning a 70 seater pop up restaurant POPUP! @ the embassy. Bar Manager – Max Hart Max Hart has recently taken control of the 'The Black Sparrow', a 1930's style bar with an emphasis on high quality products, quirky cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. The direction he is taking the Embassy's new bar is based on ten years of industry experience accrued from globally renowned food and beverage establishments across Europe and Australia. Over the decade in which Max has inhabited the food and beverage industry, he has built on his knowledge of products and perfected the skills requisite of running enterprises such as fine dining restaurants, boutique breweries, wine bars and creative cocktail bars. Max exhibited these skills managing at local Wellington businesses Duke Carvell's and Ancestral, developing them into thriving institutions. Chef – Adam Rickett Head chef of the well established Pravda restaurant Adam Rickett is collaborating with Jamie Armour to create a new ‘pop up’ venture. He has over eleven years of international cooking experience. He has spent the last three years working in New Zealand which gave Adam a fresh insight into the New Zealand's epicurean field and has fallen in love with the produce and the high standard of food within the country. Adam has come from a humble culinary background in England, working in country pubs from his early teens but realized his potential when he began working in five star hotels in his twenties. In recent past he has been working under executive chef Simon Gault ameliorating his skills and improving his palate which he finds his most valuable asset in his repertoire. Adams well seasoned skills, rare passion and appreciation for fresh produce, new ingredients and flavour are his recipe for success. Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031118 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031118 About Face is a 50 minute show from Rebound Dance Company consisting of four original contemporary dance works, two jazz pieces and a series of short film vignettes. The show includes original choreography by Fleur de Thier, Paul Jenden and the late Sheryl Robinson, another important figure in New Zealand’s contemporary dance history. Rebound is a Christchurch based dance company of 11 ex-professional dancers, tutors and well known New Zealand choreographers all in their 40s. “With age comes experience with experience comes liberation. This is our motto” says Fleur de Thier. As one of New Zealand’s leading choreographers de Their usually works with New Zealand’s upcoming talent. “Rebound is different, once you are in your 40s you dance with a heightened mindset and passion,” she explains. The dance company’s endeavor is to celebrate dance through well crafted works that highlight the technical strength and performance qualities of the dancers. About Face is an entertaining live performance and a must see for anyone interested in the diversity of New Zealand’s contemporary dance. - Marlene LeCren, Creative New Zealand A very professional show and beautiful choreography. - Peter Millington It’s a great show: original music, very good choreography and excellent execution. - Marissa Gatto Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031106 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031106 A mesmerising flurry of amplified clarinet and electronics, set amidst Page Blackie Gallery's stunning exhibition of Neil Dawson sculptures. Let yourself be immersed in new universes of sound. Featuring clarinet virtuoso extraordinaire, Richard Haynes, with works by Michael Norris, Dugal McKinnon & Karlheinz Essl. (Duration: approx 40 min.) Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031094 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031094 Helen Mitchell's photographic project illustrates an ever-evolving archive of contemporary tattoo culture and relationships between tattoo collectors and their commissioned artworks. The stories behind the tattoos are as interesting and diverse as the tattoos themselves.  “Why Boba Fett? Boba Fett was my favourite when I was a kid.  Well, he's got the best toys. He's got a rocket and a jetpack. And he's a Maori bro, he's Uncle Tem.”  - Lizard, Tattooed by Chris Bezencon, Eastside Tattoo, photographed in 2009. Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031081 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031081 Fifty years after The Beatles’ first recording session at Abbey Road Studios and their radio debut, which prompted one of the greatest developments in popular music, the world’s first and finest homage to the Fab Four, The Bootleg Beatles, announce their debut tour of New Zealand. Now in their 33rd year, The Bootleg Beatles have performed almost 5,000 shows across the globe.  Their stunning authenticity coupled with their musical credibility has seen them perform at some of the world’s best-known venues such as Wembley Stadium, the Royal Albert Hall, Knebworth, Glastonbury Festival and the Budokan Stadium in Tokyo, where The Beatles originally played. They have shared the stage with the likes of Rod Stewart, Elton John, David Bowie, Bon Jovi, KD Lang, Iggy Pop, and were invited by Oasis to support them at their massive outdoor concerts in the mid nineties.  They were also invited to perform at Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee celebration at Buckingham Palace. Now, The Bootleg Beatles are bringing their acclaimed show to Wellington, performing their authentic renditions of the greatest songs from the entire Beatles catalogue, enabling you to relive the magic of the era recreating the greatest pop group in history from top to toe, with four costume changes reflecting The Beatles’ evolution, as well as from note to note using original instruments and with uncannily accurate vocals. Against a stunning video backdrop showing stills and clips evoking the 60s, they will be accompanied by an eight-piece orchestra, enabling them to faithfully re-create many of the songs The Beatles never played live on stage, such as Eleanor Rigby, Penny Lane and All You Need is Love. Producer James Cundall, CEO of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, said “The Bootleg Beatles are quite simply astounding – every minute detail of their performance has been researched and is delivered with such authenticity you can’t believe you’re not at a Beatles concert back in the 60s!  I am truly delighted to be bringing such a top international act to New Zealand for the first time.” ‘They can safely say that they look and sound as good as The Beatles’ NME magazine, UK Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031075 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031075 The Tudor Consort presents The Earthquake Mass on Saturday 19 May at the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. Brumel's Missa 'Et ecce terrae motus' took its nickname of the 'Earthquake' Mass from the Easter plainsong phrase 'Et ecce terrae motus' ('And the earth moved') upon which the Mass is based. Those familiar with the dense polyphony of Tallis’ Spem in Alium will love this masterful work. The Tudor Consort will also perform two recently recently-commissioned works by Jack Body and Ross Harris. Given the obvious association with the Canterbury earthquakes, The Tudor Consort will record this Mass shortly after the concert, with all profits going to the music department of ChristChurch Cathedral. Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031050 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031050 The time is almost here for the grand opening and launch party at Matchbox Studios. The opening group exhibition 'STRIKEONE' will showcase a variety of mixed media artworks. Featuring Toast Art by Maurice Bennett (aka ‘The Toastman’), paintings by Felix Harris, Jade Townsend, Rachel Walker, Mel Mepham and Lucinda Gulliver. Also featuring are encaustics by Nicki Stewart, jewelry by Jean Burgers , video installation work by Jonathan Cameron and mixed media pieces by Eryn Gribble. There will also be music by local musicians including Lukas Jury. Come and check out the gallery space, have a browse in the Matchbox handmade boutique shop and take a look at our brand new photography studio. See you there! Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031040 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031040 Join the celebration. The 70th anniversary of the Friendly Invasion of New Zealand by U.S.Armed Forces 1942 - 1944 will be held in Kapiti, Porirua and Wellington from Saturday 28 May to Thursday 14 June 2012. Salute 70 is a unique 1940’s themed festival to commemorate the Anniversary. Kapiti Mayor Jenny Rowan says there’s overwhelming support for the celebrations which pay tribute to American servicemen and women who were stationed, trained or convalesced in New Zealand during World War II. Ms Rowan said it was also an opportunity to acknowledge the many thousands of sailors or ships crews who manned the 200 or more naval and support vessels which came here during the war. “Given the passing of time this is our last big opportunity to host Marines and other U.S. Armed forces, who camped on our land, were adopted by our families, dated our grandmothers, and defended our country while “our men” were fighting in the Middle East. “It’s a great time for people to find their old photos, their address books, and war-time treasures and be part of a very special anniversary,” she says. Organised by the Kapiti US Marines Trust in cooperation with the Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), the Kapiti Coast District Council (KCDC) and a range of other heritage, environment and tourism groups, Salute 70 aims to engage Kiwis and American citizens with connections to this important period of history. Come and be part of the celebrations. A list of events will be detailed here soon. For details visit www.marinenz.com Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031023 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031023 What would you do if you could re-live your life over? What would you change? What would you improve? Would you watch Casablanca knowing they never say, “Play it again, Sam”? Winner of the 2011 Wellington Raw competition Sam Smith and prominent Dunedin headliner Sam Irwin take you through an eclectic mix of stand-up, stories, backflips and music that wades through regret, heartache, joy, and celebration. Did we mention backflips? Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031021 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5031021 Parekotuku is Wellington’s own Maori power femme comedienne.  Described as a loud, proud Diva, sensual and witty, she has a Comedy Festival at the Cavern Club on 15-19 May. ”They say 'you are what you eat’, well then I must be the sexiest Peanut Slab out!” A natural with characters aplenty in her repertoire, she has great takes on race relations, bodily malfunctions, Gastric Bypass surgery, Maori politics, Diva drama’s and growing up in working class State housing when it was flash. She premiered in 2011 documentary series “I know a Sheila Like that” on Maori Television. “I’m an urban Maori, identified with this long before John Tamihere.  I didn’t grow up riding bare back on a horse across whanau land.  Grew up in a State House.  We were flash, because we had a Beer Garden before they were known AND we had Venetian Blinds!” Parekotuku is a larger than life Maori Wahine nestled in the big city lights of Wellington.  By day Parekotuku is the National Director for Maori Development with Wellington Stopping Violence and by night a glamorous Comedienne Diva.  Dedicated to the issue of domestic violence and bringing light to the issue but in contrast, she is a committed comedienne who believes that the funniest people are the ones who can laugh at themselves. Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +1200