What’s on this weekend in Auckland: Short-film festival, seedling sale, vintage market and more

Auckland’s weekend calendar is rich with a variety of events that reflect the city’s vibrant cultural and community spirit as spring takes hold. From horticultural activities to art exhibitions and film festivals, residents and visitors have a broad selection of experiences to enjoy.

The Kelmarna Community Farm hosts its annual spring seedling sale, a key event for gardening enthusiasts eager to cultivate their own summer crops. This free community gathering, running from 10am to 1pm, offers organically grown seedlings, seeds, compost, and gardening tools. Experts from Kelmarna provide practical advice on soil health and companion planting, while live music and food stalls enhance the lively atmosphere.

In Epsom, the Eden Garden open day invites the public to explore 5.5 hectares of landscaped gardens free of charge on Sunday. This one-day event includes market stalls, family-friendly activities such as face painting and a garden scavenger hunt, and refreshments from both an onsite café and food trucks. Given the expected high attendance, visitors are encouraged to use public transport or carpool, with free parking available onsite and a dedicated drop-off point for those requiring assistance.

Art aficionados can experience the “Made to Shine” exhibition at the Black Door Gallery in Parnell, featuring glassworks by acclaimed artist Garry Nash, ONZM. Running until October 19, the show supports Shine, a family violence service provider, with 60% of artwork sales donated to the organisation. The exhibition offers an opportunity to acquire unique New Zealand studio glass pieces while contributing to community welfare.

On the literary front, New York Times best-selling author Ryan Holiday is scheduled to appear at the Bruce Mason Theatre this Tuesday. Known for his work on Stoic philosophy, Holiday will present practical applications of ancient wisdom for contemporary challenges. His books have achieved notable international success, with over 10 million copies sold worldwide.

Artspace Aotearoa celebrates new creative voices with the launch of the Chartwell Trust New Commissions exhibition titled “Group Admits Mistake.” Opening this weekend, it presents works by five emerging Tāmaki Makaurau artists engaging with themes of authority, participation, and systemic complexity through diverse mediums including painting, video, and sculpture. The exhibition features artist talks and panel discussions that invite deeper reflection.

Cinema lovers are catered to by the ongoing Show Me Shorts Film Festival, running through to October 31. This prestigious event showcases 65 short films from both New Zealand and international filmmakers, many sourced from globally renowned festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, and Venice. The wide-ranging programme includes genres from comedy to science fiction, offering something for every taste.

For collectors and vintage enthusiasts, the historic Alberton estate hosts its popular vintage mini market on Sunday. With over a dozen specialty stalls selling fine china, Crown Lynn ceramics, retro clothing, and collectibles, this event combines shopping with the charm of a heritage setting. Entry to the market is free, while house tours are available for a modest fee.

The Tempo Dance Festival | Te Rerenga o Tere marks its 25th anniversary this Tuesday, spotlighting innovative dance and performance art throughout Auckland. Featuring over 160 artists, the festival embraces a spectrum of styles and perspectives, including contemporary, street dance, and Pasifika-influenced work. Highlights include Atamira Dance Company’s reinterpretation of the Village People’s iconic anthem, alongside workshops and screenings.

Looking beyond weekend activities, Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 begins on Monday with the theme “Belonging Matters.” This nationwide initiative encourages communities to foster connection and inclusion, responding to rising concerns about loneliness in New Zealand. Resources and ideas for participation are accessible online, promoting a collective focus on wellbeing.

These diverse events collectively illustrate Auckland’s dynamic public life as spring unfolds, offering opportunities for cultural engagement, community participation, and personal enrichment across the city. Details and ticketing information for individual events are available through their respective official websites and platforms, inviting all to partake in the season’s celebrations.