New Zealand Classical Guitar Competition

New Zealand Classical Guitar Competition takes place in Wellington, New Zealand. It is held every two years.

Repertoire requirements

Check website

• Competition Round · 15-20 min
  • Free choice program

Official website

https://wellington.classicalguitar.org.nz/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's compact capital, offers a vibrant blend of culture, heritage, and fine food, all set against a stunning harbour and rugged coastline. Known as Te Whanganui-a-Tara in Māori and often nicknamed "Windy Wellington" for its lively climate, it is the world's southernmost capital city. Attending the biennial New Zealand Classical Guitar Competition here means immersing yourself in a city celebrated for its arts and entertainment, with a dynamic inner-city experience wrapped in dramatic New Zealand scenery.

Getting there

Wellington is primarily served by Wellington Airport (WLG) in Rongotai, the country's third-busiest airport, which connects the city domestically and internationally. From the airport, various transport options are available to reach the city centre. Wellington's wider transport network also includes train and bus lines extending to the Kāpiti Coast and the Wairarapa, while ferries provide connections to the South Island. Its compact nature means that once you are in the city, many attractions are easily accessible.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Wellington on Omio →

New Zealand uses Type I sockets, so pack a travel adapter for your tuner and chargers.

These open third-party sites in a new tab. We may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

Where to stay

Wellington's charm lies in its walkability and concentrated city centre. For convenience, consider basing yourself in the central business district or the adjoining Te Aro area, where boutiques, art galleries, trendy cafés, and restaurants are all within easy reach. The city is set around Wellington Harbour and ringed by hills, offering scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere for a few days of musical immersion and exploration.

What you'll hear

The New Zealand Classical Guitar Competition takes place biennially, drawing talented young guitarists to Wellington. The competition runs Open and Youth categories, each with its own prizes. The repertoire varies, so checking the official website for specific requirements is advisable, but expect to hear a range of challenging and inspiring performances from emerging artists.

Wellington is widely regarded as New Zealand's cultural capital, boasting a diverse and often youth-driven arts scene. Beyond the competition, the city offers an array of theatre, music, and dance. It is also home to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, a national attraction that showcases the country's rich cultural heritage.

The local table

Wellington is celebrated for its fine food and coffee scene, known for its trendy cafés and restaurants. Areas like Cuba Street and Newtown are particularly renowned for their creative innovation and diverse culinary offerings. While specific local dishes are not widely grounded, the city's reputation for quality dining means visitors can expect excellent fare, from casual café bites to sophisticated restaurant experiences, often with a focus on fresh, regional produce.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Wellington →

While you're there

There is much to explore in Wellington between competition events. Begin at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, a national treasure offering engaging insights into New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment. Stroll along Lambton Quay, where plaques mark the original 1840 shoreline, a testament to the city's growth on land raised by a major 1855 earthquake. Embrace the city's "Windy Wellington" moniker by observing the flag on the Beehive, indicating wind speed and direction. For outdoor enthusiasts, a network of walking and biking trails offers beautiful vistas, while wineries and vineyards are just a few hours' drive away in the surrounding region.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Wellington →

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

← All competitions & festivals