A Celebration of Community, Colour and Springtime Joy 

As the kōwhai trees burst into golden bloom, so too does the heart of Warkworth. The much-loved Kowhai Festival returns this October 18th, bringing renewed energy, community spirit, and the unmistakable hum of celebration back to our streets. After a quieter few years following COVID, this year’s festival promises to be one of the biggest yet, with around 140 stalls, live music, delicious local fare, and plenty to delight the whole whānau. 

A Legacy Rooted in Local Pride The Kowhai Festival began back in 1970, when locals Phil Wilson, Jim Ferguson and Jack Keys sat in Kowhai Park, admiring the vibrant blossoms and chattering tūī. Their simple wish, to celebrate the beauty and community of Warkworth, grew into a tradition that has thrived for more than half a century. 

Supported in those early days by the Rotary Club, Jaycees, and Lions, the inaugural ten-day event drew hundreds to the town. 

Over time it evolved into a bustling single-day celebration, uniting locals and visitors alike along Queen Street and the Mahurangi River. Even through challenging years, the festival has remained a symbol of community strength, proof that Warkworth’s spirit never truly fades. 

The 2025 Festival

Bigger, Brighter, and Back in Bloom This year’s programme is brimming with entertainment, local food, family fun and live music. The town centre will be alive from 9 am to 9 pm, spanning Queen Street, Baxter Street and Wharf Street, with events flowing into Lucy Moore Park. Expect over 140 market stalls offering artisan crafts, fresh produce, handmade goods, and culinary treats from across the region. Local groups will also host raffles and competitions, with plenty of prizes up for grabs. 

Music That Moves the Crowd 

Music remains the beating heart of the festival. Beloved local Andy Richards, performing as The Alphabeatz, will light up the community stage at Lucy Moore Park from 12:30 pm. From the Hibiscus Coast, dynamic teen rock band The People take the main stage, fresh from earning a Top 20 spot in the 2025 Smokefree Rockquest. Expect high-energy originals and explosive covers. As dusk settles, local lads The Flashbacks will carry the crowd into the evening with 80s, 2000s rock and their own original compositions, starting from 5 pm. 

Between acts, buskers, dancers, and performers will keep the festival buzzing throughout the day.

Local Flavours and Festival Favourites 

The Festival Glasses return this year, available for just $5, as a fun keepsake and a small fundraiser. The bar is once again hosted by Bohemian Cider, serving their crisp local brews. 

On tap too: beer from Sawmill Brewery + Smoko Room and 8 Wired Barrelworks & Tap Room, alongside wines from the Matakana Winegrowers. Warkworth Toyota is proudly sponsoring the Mini Macks, delighting kids young and old. A gold-coin donation supports Home Builders, proof that even the smallest ride makes a big difference. Don’t forget to enter the community raffle: $2 per ticket or 3 for $5, with excellent local prizes up for grabs. 

Flags, Family, and Festival Spirit 

Children’s competitions, creative zones, and plenty of interactive fun will keep the youngest festival-goers busy, while visitors can soak up the relaxed riverside atmosphere that makes Warkworth such a special place. 

More Than a Festival 

The Kowhai Festival isn’t just an event, it’s a celebration of identity, resilience and belonging. It connects locals with their heritage, brings visitors into the fold, and reminds everyone why this corner of Aotearoa is worth celebrating. 

When the kōwhai bloom, they signal renewal and warmth returning to the land. 

Likewise, this year’s festival is a testament to community renewal proof that Warkworth’s golden heart continues to shine. So grab your hat, bring a gold coin or two, and come celebrate the joy of spring at the Kowhai Festival 2025.

Saturday 18 October - Warkworth Town Centre & Lucy Moore Park.