Dame Jools Topp’s celebration of life: Watch the livestream or attend in person

Aotearoa will come together this Friday to honour one of our most beloved entertainers, Dame Jools Topp, in a celebration of life.

The legendary musician, comedian and activist passed away on May 23, aged 68, following a 22-year journey with breast cancer.

As one half of The Topp Twins, Dame Jools became a household name. Following her passing, tributes poured in from across the country, showing the impact she had on many Kiwis.

If you want to know how you can watch or be there in person, here’s what you need to know about the celebration.

When is Dame Jools Topp's celebration of life?

The celebration will take place on Friday, June 19, from 2pm at the Viaduct Events Centre in Auckland.

Can I attend to honour her?

Yes, the event is open to the public, but you’ll need to RSVP via free tickets available here.

Note: Only standing tickets are left. All seating options have been exhausted.

How can I watch from home?

The service will be streamed on YouTube to allow people across Aotearoa and overseas to pay their respects and celebrate Dame Jools' life live with those at the event.

You can watch the livestream here from 2pm.

Who is attending the event?

According to RNZ, more than 1,600 people are expected to gather at the waterfront.

Performances scheduled for the celebration include Oscar Kightley, Chris Parker, Edward Cowley and Michele A'Court.

Tami Neilson, Neil Finn and Helen Clark, Hollie Smith, Anika Moa, Annie Crummer, Bella Kalolo and Mereana Pitman are also reported to attend.

And, of course, Jools’ twin sister Dame Lynda Topp.

Just days after her sister's passing, Dame Lynda delivered an emotional tribute at the Aotearoa Music Awards 2026, reflecting on the bond she shared with her twin.

"Being a twin is such a beautiful thing to be," she said, before joking: "Not once in those 40 years did we ever rehearse."

"Right now, it feels like the whole country is grieving for my beautiful twin sister. I thank Aotearoa for that beautiful support that we have."

The celebration is expected to bring together many of the people whose lives Dame Jools touched throughout her extraordinary career.

It will give many of us a chance to say one final thank you to the legend.