New Zealand is a nation full of colors, music and festivities all through the year. There are events both in large cities and in small towns that cover a variety of interests. Visiting New Zealand Festivals is a way to touch the local culture, to taste New Zealand food, and enjoy family friendly entertainment. Such things will make your trip unforgettable
To those visiting the area, it is also good to know about local festivities so that one can be able to navigate around the practicalities. Our New Zealand study visa guide will help you have a hassle free experience and you can enjoy these colorful festivals without any fear. The experience gained when attending such festivals gives one an insight into the heritage of New Zealand and a life time memory.
Here are the 10 Unforgettable Festivals in New Zealand
1. Auckland Arts Festival
The Auckland Arts Festival is one of the highlights of creativity and it includes theater, dance, and live music. It is organized annually in March and attracts both home-grown and international artists. Visitors are welcome to workshops, interactive exhibits, and performances that are geared toward all ages. The experience of the art is loved by the families and art lovers, which makes it one of the most fascinating festivals in New Zealand in order to see the creative nature of the country.
2. Wellington Jazz Festival
The Wellington Jazz Festival is held in Wellington in July each year and brings a soulful sound and the zest of life to the city. Various artists, singers, and musicians offer their talents to the city, performing jazz and blues, as well as, contemporary music. Teaching sessions with future musicians and outdoor concerts make unforgettable experience.
3. Queenstown Winter Festival
The Queenstown Winter Festival is an exciting event of sports, music, and food held every June. Ski competitions, live concerts, fireworks and costume parades spice up the town. Families can have outdoor games and adults can relax in the atmosphere. This is an event that best describes the adventurous spirit of New Zealand and it promises to be fun and exciting to all. Queenstown Winter Festival is one of the most iconic celebrations of the country.
4. Pasifika Festival
The Pasifika Festival in Auckland is a celebration of the cultures of the Pacific Islands with dance and music and Pacific Island food. Guests can enjoy vibrant parades, mouth-watering dishes and interactive shows. Children are able to attend cultural workshops whereas adults are able to explore arts and crafts. It is a true cultural immersion experience and one of the most vibrant and family-friendly Festival in New Zealand with a taste of Pacific heritage.
5. New Zealand International Film Festival
Held in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, this multi-city festival presents independent films, documentaries and classic international films. Guests will be able to attend workshops, visit filmmakers and take part in question and answer sessions. The festival offers a special opportunity to learn about world storytelling and artistic expression.
6. Hokitika Wildfoods Festival
The Hokitika Wildfoods Festival, held annually in March on the West Coast, is a great event to satisfy adventurous palates. It is a festival where visitors get to taste local dishes found nowhere, like huhu grubs to gourmet delicacies, entertain themselves with live music and entertainment. Families will be able to attend food tasting and cooking classes.
7. Rhythm and Vines Festival
Every December Rhythm and Vines is held in Gisborne welcoming the New Year. There is a variety of international and local artists who perform during the several days creating a high energy festival. Camping, dancing and fireworks make it very popular with young travelers and families. The Rhythm n Vines has been regarded as one of the most exciting Festivals in New Zealand and an un-forgettable way to start the summer season.
8. MÂ Maori New Year (Matariki)
Matariki is the Maaori New Year and is held in June or July with traditional ceremonies, storytelling and community feasts. Visitors are welcome to attend cultural workshops, performances, Māori astronomy and heritage. This festival is educational, family friendly, and offers a rich exposure to the native culture of New Zealand. Matariki is one of the most significant Festivals of New Zealand which combine tradition and community celebration.
9. WearableArt Awards Show
The World of WearableArt Awards Show in Wellington is a visual extravaganza of art, fashion and performance. Designers from all over the world show their wearable creations in a theatric environment. Creativity and innovation are mesmerizing to the visitors and it is an ideal experience to the family and art lovers.
10. Bay of Islands Seafood Festival
The Bay of Islands Seafood Festival is a wonderful festival of fresh seafood and Bay of Islands culture held in Paihia. Visitors are offered to take part in tasting sessions and cooking workshops, and live music is also provided, which creates a festive atmosphere. Families enjoy fun and games with children entertainment and enjoy the culinary delights.
Conclusion
Travelling to the festivals in New Zealand is a great idea to be introduced to the culture, music, art and food of the country. These festivals are rich in traditional Māori celebrations as well as high intensity music events that can satisfy every traveler. The presence at them will leave unforgettable memories and a better knowledge of the New Zealand heritage and modern way of life.
Out of students and travelers who intend to travel, our New Zealand study visa guide and New Zealand Visa services at Go Kite Tours make the process easy and hustle-free. Go Kite Tours is the right place to take care of you and your needs to enjoy every festival safely and comfortably with the help of experts and curated travel experiences. May the festivals inspire your trip and make memories to remember all of your life!