Visitor Information

See Programme & Floormap

2022 Highlights

Our 2022 Festival marked 70 years of diplomatic relations with Japan with a special Tea Ceremony for 70 VIP guests. Our guest of honour, Her Excellency the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, officially opened the Festival.

The theme chosen for 2022 was Japan’s Tanabata Festival (also known as the Star Festival) and Matariki. Visitors were invited to take part in the Tanabata tradition of writing their wishes on strips of paper and tying them to the bamboo trees dotted around the TSB Arena.

イベント会場

Location

Best Method

Public transport will be the best way to get to TSB arena.
There are plenty of bike parks available around the venue.

Closest Parking

Wilson Parking at the bottom of the TSB arena
$4.00 / 30mins - Maximum $30

Cheapest Parking

Street parking anywhere near the venue.
$3 / hour - maximum 2 hours

Alternatively

Victoria Street Wilson Parking is an economical option if you want to park longer than 2 hours.$5 / hour - maximum $15 for 12 hours.

*There are no carparks allocated for exhibitors/vendors at the venue. Loading zone will be open to exhibitors pre-post festival but we suggest you park at Victoria Street parking if you wish to park your car for a whole day.

FAQ

When is the festival?

Saturday, 18th June 2022.

Where can I find more information about the festival day?

This website should include all the information you need as well as Facebook page.

List of vendors, performers lineups and other detailed information will be released closer to the date.

How can I volunteer for the festival?

Thank you for your interest! We are looking for volunteers to help deliver the 2022 event - please click here to show your interest. Application closes on June 5th.

What will happen to the festival if COVID guidelines change?

Your safety is the most important to us. The festival cannot operate in Red-light. We will always follow the government’s recommendations and rules and deliver the safest environment so that you and your whānau can enjoy the festival. 

In any cases of changes, the Trust will release the updates as early as possible especially to the registered vendors / performers, as well as on the social media platforms.

Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to receive any updates.

Is there any wheelchair access?

Yes - however the festival day can be quite full and crowded. For your best experience possible, please approach one of our friendly volunteers to escort you around the venue if you wish to do so.

Can I bring my furry friend?

As much as we love your furry friends, unfortunately no animals are permitted to ASB arena and Shed 6 - other than service dogs. Please be mindful of the flashing lights and loud music on the stage as well as irresistible food smell at Shed 6.

Past Event List

"Tanabata x Matariki" marked 70 years of diplomatic relations with Japan and New Zealand. Photo Credit: Adrian, Bruce, Hiroya, Humaidi
“Japan meets Wellington” was unfortunately cancelled due to the COVID-19 level shifts.
"Matsuri - Summer Festival" was the first festival co-organised by WCC and newly formed The Japan Festival Wellington Trust. A giant Mascot from Atsugi City attended to promote the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Photo Credit: Clive, Hiro & Michelle
Two-week programme included the Japan New Zealand Business Council Conference, Cultural Show, Children's art exhibition, Photo exhibition, electric car display and beer garden. Photo Credit: Masanori & WCC
The festival moves to a bigger location - TSB arena for the first time! New Zealand's largest kimono (11 x 9m) was displayed in the middle of the arena. Photo Credit: Masanori & Daisuke
Kia kaha! Japan Festival celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and New Zealand. The participants lined up to make a 60 metre long sushi exceeding 2009 record! Event held at the Wellington Town Hall. Photo Credit: Masanori
Osaka based Chin-Don-Ya, street musicians roamed our street in Wellington! Event held at the Wellington Town Hall featuring Koto music concert and a movie screening. Photo Credit: Masanori
The first ever Japan Festival Wellington organised by Wellington City Council's International Relations team which was held at the Wellington Town hall. Celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Japan Society of Wellington by creating New Zealand's longest (50m) sushi! Photo credit: Tom