With a major film premiere, an international cricket match, a cruise ship, and even Santa coming to the capital next weekend, it’s going to be a busy time – and a huge boost for the local economy, and hospitality and screen sectors.

The main event will see the Australasian Premiere of Avatar: Fire and Ash happening on Saturday 13 December. Similar to previous film premieres, the event will see Wellington’s Courtenay Place transformed into a red-carpeted parade of stars led by film-maker James Cameron, as they make their way to the Embassy Theatre.

Mayor Andrew Little says Wellington really comes to the party for big events, and next weekend will be an opportunity for our UNESCO City of Film to shine.

“The Avatar premiere is a huge deal for Wellington, we’ll host the stars and of course the great director James Cameron. The premiere underscores Wellington’s place as a global leader in film production, which is testament to the incredible talent who call the Capital home.

“Alongside the premiere, there’ll be plenty of events for sports fans, festive activities for friends and whānau, and all sorts of culture to enjoy. I encourage everyone to head into Wellington and get amongst the exciting atmosphere, and support our local shops and hospo while you’re there.”

Mark Oldershaw, Chief Executive of WellingtonNZ, says: “What a weekend ahead! With the Basin Reserve just a short stroll from the premiere venue the Embassy Theatre, cricket fans can walk straight from the final session of the day’s play to spot celebrities on the red carpet, enjoy dinner in the city, soak up the electric atmosphere, and head off to carols in Waitangi Park.

“The premiere is a real celebration of Wellington’s world-class screen sector that drives millions in regional GDP and supports hundreds of local jobs across creative and technical industries. The Avatar franchise alone has contributed $1.1 billion to the New Zealand economy over the past eight years.”

Wellington City Council’s role for the Avatar event is primarily facilitative. Courtenay Place and the surrounding area will get a spring clean so it looks its best with the eyes of the world watching the premiere, and for the upcoming busy summer season.

The Michael Fowler Centre, waterfront and Cable Car tunnels will be lit red and orange to celebrate the Avatar: Fire and Ash colour themes.

Bars, restaurants, and retail operators will be business as usual in the area, and there’ll be crossing points along the carpet for easy access before and after the guests arrive.

There are some diversions in place for the event and to allow organiser access, set-up, pack down, and primarily for the health and safety of all.

Visit wellington.govt.nz/avatar-premiere for information about road closures, diversions, resident access, deliveries, parking, and changes to loading zones, taxis and rideshare access.

Temporary bus diversions and bus stops will also be in place in the area. Check metlink.co.nz for more information closer to the event.

Car users should consider alternative routes or modes of transport during major events, and pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooters should take extra care due and dismount in high pedestrian areas.

What’s on next weekend:

BLACKCAPS v West Indies Test

10-14 December | Cello Basin Reserve

The summer cricket season continues with a Test against the West Indies. Show some home support for the second match of the series at the home of cricket, the Basin Reserve.

Visit nzc.nz for more information and to book tickets.

Christmas in the Quarters

Saturday 13 December | 11am – 5pm | Waitangi Park

Be at Waitangi Park to meet Santa, and for a fun range of Christmas activities, including ice skating, the snowball globe, foam pit, face painting, caricatures, live music and entertainment. A variety of food trucks will be on site.Stay at Waitangi Park after Santa’s special event for a Christmas carols sing-along from 5pm-7pm.

For more event details and the full programme visit wellington.govt.nz/christmas

Avatar premiere

Saturday 13 December | Guests start arriving 5pm | Courtenay Place

The Embassy Theatre hosts the Australasian premiere of Avatar: Fire and Ash with cast and film makers in attendance, plus invited guests. The public can view the arrival action from each side of the red carpet.

Tākina Christmas Market

Saturday 13 December | 11am – 6pm & Sunday 14 December | 10am – 4pm

Tākina Convention & Exhibition Centre

Christmas magic is returning to Wellington for two festive-filled days with 100+ stalls of gifts and crafts, kai and kid’s activities. Tākina will transform into a glittering holiday wonderland with twinkling lights, joyful music, and festive cheer included.

More information: Tākina Christmas Market

Breathe | Mauri Ora

13 December – 27 April | Te Papa

An immersive digital art experience unlike anything seen in New Zealand before will take visitors on a mind-blowing journey into nature.

More info: Tepapa.govt.nz

Handel’s Messiah

Saturday 13 December | 7.30pm | Michael Fowler Centre

Celebrate the festive season with a magnificent performance of Handel’s Messiah presented by Orpheus Choir Wellington in collaboration with Orchestra Wellington. This timeless masterpiece has been a beacon of holiday joy for centuries, blending grandeur, beauty, and drama in equal measure.

More information at Handel’s Messiah.

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