Auckland's Annual Zinefest Market Is Returning for a Huge Weekend This Month

Attention all creatives and lovers of ideas — we've got great news. The weekend-long Auckland Zinefest Market is coming back for two massive days this month.

This jam-packed weekend will be dedicated to celebrating the lively hub of Tāmaki Makaurau zinemakers and their craft. Zines play a big role in Auckland's art community. Their ability to provide platforms to push accessibility and innovation has produced unique, bite-sized pieces of creativity — and served to drive diverse and interesting forms of self-expression.

After attracting over 5,000 people in 2022, this year's instalment is expected to be even bigger with the return of international travel and the works of 120-plus zinemakers on display. Plus, there will be a bunch of free workshops running throughout August expanding the festival's offerings.

From Saturday, August 5–Sunday, August 6, you'll find a wide range of artwork, poetry, travelogues, comics, fanzines and more to explore alongside like-minded creatives at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. And the best part — it's free entry.

"Our aim is to foster a supportive and inclusive space for self-publishing artists to showcase their talents," said the event's co-chair Catalina Paz Nunez Elevancini.

"It is not just an event, it's a celebration of creativity and an invitation to experience the diverse and expressive art culture of our city."

The market weekend will be open from 11am to 4pm daily, so you'll have two full days to immerse yourself in everything zine-related. Whether you're an avid collector or just learning about zine culture and are ready to delve headfirst into its exciting world, these markets will have something for you.

Head over to Wellesley Street East in Auckland's CBD to catch Auckland Zinefest between Saturday, August 5–Sunday, August 6.