Elemental AKL festival returns in July

Last Updated : 24 Jun 2021
Elemental AKL festival returns in July (3)
Elemental AKL festival returns in July (1)
Sythony

Elemental AKL is returning this July with an ever-growing number of events and experiences celebrating the culture, cuisine and creativity of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

From 14 July to 1 August, festivalgoers can experience art, food, music, and activities as Elemental AKL events transform eateries, bars and hotel lobbies, theatres, stadiums and public spaces across Auckland into hubs of exciting experiences. Events range from high-end ticketed experiences to free events.  

Auckland Unlimited - Auckland’s economic and cultural agency - works closely with leading events, entertainment, arts and hospitality experts to deliver Elemental AKL festival, which is now in its third year.

Richard Clarke, Auckland Unlimited’s Head of Major and Business Events says:

“We’re proud that Elemental AKL is developing into a festival like no other in New Zealand. The growing list of experiences is as diverse as Auckland is, and reflects the rich culture, creativity and kai of our region.”

“It has been a challenging year for our events, hospitality and entertainment sectors, and we’re proud to be working alongside so many leading experts in the industry to deliver this festival.”

Elemental AKL festival returns in July (2)
Takapuna Winter Lights

The programme features enlightening, surprising, thought-provoking, nourishing and unique events to feast your eyes, feed your mind and fill your heart.

For those that missed out in 2020, sold out events such as Synthony, Ahi - Auckland Food Story, Butchery and Beer Progressive Dinner, the Culinary Crawl in Onehunga and the Silent Disco City Walk will be returning alongside a host of new and exciting events.

Also returning this year to light up Auckland’s nightlife is Elemental Nights, an elite concert series presented by Live Nation showcasing an impressive line-up of local and international artists, including a dedicated evening in celebration of the 40th Anniversary of eponymous record label Flying Nun.

This winter, Elemental Nights will awaken some of Auckland's most iconic venues with the sounds of Julia Jacklin (AU), Courtney Barnett (AU), The Chats (AU) with further artists soon to be announced. Tickets on sale now through livenation.co.nz

Elemental AKL festival returns in July (4)

The festival will offer opportunities to see Auckland from new perspectives: a sunset kayak across the harbour and back for dinner; a hikoi discovering significant Māori public artworks in the heart of the city; a major art show at Eden Park; and a delightful winter lights festival in Takapuna. Incredible dining, world-class performances, and beautiful venues will also combine for evenings not to forget, such as tenor Geoff Sewell and chef Josh Emett curating a five-star evening at the Park Hyatt hotel.

Festivalgoers can also learn something new in the kitchen with an oyster masterclass with Josh Emett, or an exploration into ’all things mushroom’ at Good from Scratch with Michael Van de Elzen, or try a foodography class or winter foraging adventure.

Elemental AKL festival returns in July
Kai by Kayak

The list of experiences continues to grow, and further events will be announced in the lead up to the festival.

Check out the events so far at elementalakl.co.nz and register for the latest updates or follow Elemental AKL on Instagram and Facebook.  

Elemental AKL festival will be delivered in line with Ministry of Health guidelines and the Alert Level at the time of the event. 

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