New Zealand
NZ Events 2026 – Candlelight Concert Series You Can’t Miss
About Candlelight Concerts – Where Music Meets Magic
There’s something utterly captivating about music performed under the soft glow of candles. Candlelight Concerts
have taken the world by storm, transforming grand venues and intimate spaces alike into immersive sanctuaries of
sound and light.
Born from the vision of making classical and cinematic music accessible to all, these concerts reimagine the
listening experience. Each performance features talented local musicians illuminated by hundreds of candles,
creating a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
From Vivaldi’s baroque brilliance to Joe Hisaishi’s cinematic storytelling, Candlelight events celebrate
timeless artistry and emotional connection. It’s more than a concert — it’s a moment of stillness, beauty, and
wonder in a world that rarely slows down.
Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons – A Timeless Masterpiece
Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons has enchanted audiences for more than 300 years. Composed in 1723, its four
concertos mirror the moods of each season — from spring’s joy to winter’s stark beauty.
In January 2026, New Zealand will host this iconic piece performed by a live string quartet in breathtaking
candlelit venues. Expect familiar melodies like La Primavera and L’Inverno to unfold in shimmering new
dimensions.
These concerts aren’t just recitals; they’re sensory journeys. Each note reverberates through softly lit halls,
allowing audiences to feel the changing rhythm of nature in every movement.
New Zealand’s Candlelight Vivaldi events promise a uniquely local twist. Expect performances by top New Zealand
chamber musicians, accompanied by curated lighting designs inspired by Kiwi landscapes — from golden autumn hues
to Pacific blues.
The venues — whether Auckland’s St Matthew-in-the-City or Wellington’s St James Theatre — add acoustic depth
that amplifies every violin’s resonance. Combined with New Zealand’s summer evenings and gentle coastal air,
these concerts will offer something no European cathedral or city hall could replicate.
Candlelight: The World of Joe Hisaishi – A Journey Through Anime Soundtracks
If Vivaldi paints nature in sound, Joe Hisaishi captures the human heart. Known for his long-time collaboration
with filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away, My Neighbour Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle), Hisaishi’s music
speaks of wonder, courage, and innocence.
In mid-January 2026, Candlelight
Concerts NZ will
celebrate The World of Joe Hisaishi — a spellbinding evening
where string ensembles and pianists perform his beloved soundtracks surrounded by thousands of candles.
Unlike film scores projected on a screen, these performances invite you to listen without distraction. You’ll
hear Merry-Go-Round of Life or One Summer’s Day as if for the first time, stripped of cinema and re-interpreted
for chamber musicians.
The Candlelight setup — hundreds of flickering candles around the performers — adds a visual warmth that
amplifies Hisaishi’s emotionally charged melodies. It’s an evening where anime meets art music in the most
intimate way.
When and Where – Event Dates, Venues, and Tickets
Both Candlelight Concerts will illuminate major cities across New Zealand in mid-January 2026.
Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons- Auckland – St Matthew-in-the-City (17 Jan 2026)
- Wellington – St James Theatre (19 Jan 2026)
- Auckland – Holy Trinity Cathedral (20 Jan 2026)
- Christchurch – The Piano Centre (22 Jan 2026)
Tickets are typically released three months in advance via feverup.com — the official Candlelight Concert partner. Early booking is essential; these intimate performances often sell out within days.
How to Get There Hassle-Free with The Coach Company NZ
As the magic of candlelight beckons, the last thing you want is parking stress or crowded public transport.
That’s where The Coach Company New Zealand comes in — making group travel to these iconic events smooth and
stylish.
Whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or a corporate team, The Coach Company offers:
- Private luxury coaches and minibuses with chauffeurs
- Pick-up from multiple locations across Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch
- Flexible return schedules so you can enjoy dinner before or after the show
- Options for wine and dine packages or day tours to extend the experience
Book via The Coach Company Nz and enjoy an effortless journey to your candlelit evening.
Group Transfers for Friends & FamiliesA Candlelight concert is best shared with those you love. Whether you’re a group of ten friends or a family celebrating a special occasion, group coach hire lets you travel together comfortably. You won’t need to navigate traffic, split cars, or worry about designated drivers — just step aboard, relax, and chat as you’re chauffeured directly to the venue doors.
Corporate or Team Outings to Candlelight ConcertsFor corporate teams and business clients, Candlelight concerts offer a refined yet affordable evening of entertainment. Combine it with The Coach Company’s executive-class fleet and you’ve got a perfect client appreciation event or staff reward night. Custom packages can include door-to-door pickup, on-board refreshments, and priority venue access for large groups.
Why Choose Coach Travel Over Driving or Rideshares
Here’s why coach travel is the smartest choice for Candlelight Concerts 2026:
| Feature | Rideshare | Rideshare | Driving Yourself |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (per person) | Low (when shared) | High | Medium |
| Comfort | Spacious & climate-controlled | Variable | Depends on vehicle |
| Parking | No hassle | Not included | Must find & pay |
| Eco Impact | Low CO₂ per person | High | High |
| Safety & Sobriety | Professional driver | Depends on app | Requires designated driver |
Conclusion: Travel together, save money, and enjoy the music without a care in the world.
Explore NZ’s Culture Beyond the Concert Night
Turn your Candlelight evening into a memorable mini-escape. Here are some ideas to extend your experience:
Auckland: Stroll Viaduct Harbour, dine at Depot Eatery, or take a sunset cruise.
Wellington: Visit Te Papa Museum or ride the iconic Cable Car before the show.
Christchurch: Explore the Botanic Gardens or enjoy dinner at Riverside Market.
The Coach Company NZ can create a custom itinerary to match your schedule — ideal for travellers from out of
town or international visitors.
Dress Code & Evening Tips for Candlelight Events
These concerts strike the perfect balance between elegant and relaxed. Think “smart casual with a touch of class.” A linen shirt, a flowing dress, or a pair of chic trousers will fit right in. Arrive 30 minutes early to soak in the atmosphere and snap a few photos before the lights dim. Photography during the performance is usually restricted — check with venue staff to respect artists and other guests.
The Eco-Friendly Choice – Sustainable Coach Travel for Cultural Events
When you choose group coach transport, you’re not just making a convenient choice — you’re making a conscious
one.
Modern coaches emit up to 85% less CO₂ per passenger kilometre compared to single-occupant cars. By booking with
The Coach Company NZ, you’re helping reduce urban congestion and support the country’s sustainability goals.
It’s the perfect fit for an event dedicated to the beauty of sound and light — and respect for the planet.
How to Book Your Coach Travel Now
Ready to immerse yourself in a candlelit night to remember?
Step 1: Visit https://thecoachcompany.co.nz/
Step 2: Click “Get Instant Quote” or call for custom group packages.
Step 3: Sit back and let our team handle the rest — routes, timing, and comfort.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, corporate outing, or friends’ night out, The Coach Company NZ
ensures a seamless journey from pickup to drop-off.
FAQs Before You Go
- 1. Do I need to book concert tickets separately? Yes — tickets must be purchased through feverup.com for official Candlelight events. Coach travel is booked separately via The Coach Company NZ.
- 2. Are coach packages available for small groups? Absolutely. Minibus options for 6–15 passengers are available nationwide.
- 3. Can we bring food or drinks on board? Yes — light refreshments are welcome on private hires. Ask about premium packages that include on-board beverages.
- 4. What if the concert ends late? Return times are flexible; your driver will wait until the concert finishes and your group is ready to depart.
- 5. Are coaches wheelchair-accessible? Yes, accessible vehicles can be arranged on request — please mention when booking.
- 6. Do you offer hotel pick-ups? Yes, The Coach Company NZ can coordinate door-to-door service from hotels, homes, or workplaces in most major cities.
Conclusion – Your Perfect Evening Awaits in NZ 2026
The Candlelight Concert series is a celebration of music, memory, and magic — and 2026 will be New Zealand’s
most enchanting edition yet.
Whether you choose Vivaldi’s Four Seasons or Hisaishi’s cinematic masterpieces, make your evening effortless
with The Coach Company NZ. From the first glow of a candle to the final note of a violin, let us handle the
journey so you can savour the moment.
Book today at https://thecoachcompany.co.nz/
and step into a world of music, light, and luxury.
