NZ Festivals & Events Calendar
The biggest recurring festivals, concerts, food events and cultural gatherings in New Zealand, organised by month. Bookmark this page — dates are updated annually.
← Also see: Month-by-Month Guide
Planning Your Trip Around an Event
New Zealand's major festivals often fall during peak tourist season (December–March), so accommodation near festival venues books out months in advance. A few tips:
Book early: For headline events like Rhythm & Vines, WOMAD, Splore and Wellington on a Plate, book flights and accommodation 3–6 months ahead. Use our itinerary planner to build a trip around your chosen festival.
Check dates carefully: Many events rotate dates annually. This calendar shows typical timing — always confirm exact dates on the official festival website before booking. Eventfinda (eventfinda.co.nz) and Ticketmaster NZ are the main ticket platforms.
Consider regional events: Smaller regional festivals like Alexandra Blossom Festival, Toast Martinborough and Bluff Oyster Festival offer more authentic Kiwi experiences without the crowds. Our month-by-month guide has more suggestions.
Transport and accommodation: For camping festivals (Rhythm & Vines, Splore, WOMAD), bring or rent proper camping gear. For city events, book accommodation within walking distance of venues — public transport is limited late at night in most NZ cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest music festival in New Zealand?
Rhythm & Vines in Gisborne is New Zealand's biggest NYE music festival, attracting tens of thousands to Waiohika Estate over 4 days. For world music and cultural variety, WOMAD in New Plymouth is the most respected. Splore near Auckland is the most boutique.
When is the best time for food and wine festivals in NZ?
February and March are peak food and wine festival season — the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival, Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, and Ripe Wanaka Wine & Food Festival all fall in this period. August is also excellent with Beervana and Wellington on a Plate.
How do I book tickets to NZ festivals?
Most NZ festival tickets are sold through the official festival website, Eventfinda (eventfinda.co.nz) or Ticketmaster NZ. For camping festivals, book as soon as tickets are released — early bird prices and preferred camping zones sell out quickly.
Are NZ festivals family-friendly?
Many are — Soundsplash, WOMAD, Taranaki Festival of Lights, Balloons Over Waikato, and Pasifika are all excellent for families. Camping festivals like Rhythm & Vines and Splore are more adult-oriented, though Splore has a dedicated family camping area.