Waitangi Day marks the anniversary of the initial signing – on 6 February, 1840 – of the Treaty of Waitangi. This year, because the official date of Waitangi Day falls on a Saturday, the following Monday, February 8th, will be observed as a public holiday. There's plenty happeninmg on the Matakana Coast to keep the whole family entertained this Waitangi weekend. 

Friday

Looking For Alaska, The Leigh Sawmill Cafe

Hamilton indie-folk band Looking For Alaska released their new album 'Light and Shadow' this November, and to celebrate are playing a bunch of ‘sick as’ shows around New Zealand over summer. Looking For Alaska are stoked to be visiting Leigh for their first ever show. Joined by their band, this night at the legendary Leigh Sawmill Cafe is going to be fantastic.

Rhys Darby Movie Club: Monty Python and the Holy Grail Sing along, Matakana Cinemas

Head along to the Matakana Cinemas for some Friday night funnies with this hilarious, cult classic. All tickets purchased are eligible for a complimentary Zeffer Cider from the Vintry. There will also be a 'lucky ticket' prize-pack to be drawn on the night. Movie begins at 8:00 p.m.

Saturday

Moveable Feast, 8 Wired Barrelworks

Matakana’s iconic Street Food Festival is back for an unstoppable fifth summer season. We’re bringing the best food trucks to the village again for you to sample the creativity of these talented, mobile foodies. Fun for the whole family!

Summer Classic, Ascension Vineyard - SOLD OUT

Matakana will be in seventh heaven this weekend with Summer Classic back in 2021 for its 7th year running, bigger and better than ever, hosted at the fan-favourite picturesque surroundings of the Ascension Wine Estate.

With giant headliner Kanine, along with the legendary singer/songwriter/producer Example, recent Aotearoa Music Award winners Lee Mvtthews, Savage - back for one of his first NZ festivals since his stint in the US/Australia - and rising stars T1R, TwentyTwo, Syrup, Bloom, Kidku, and many more top Kiwi artists, this isn’t one to be missed!

The Slow Water Band, The Tahi Bar and Kitchen

There's something wonderful that happens whenever the Slow Water Band plays at The Tahi. The atmosphere is magical. Such beautiful, timeless music, played and sung so gorgeously. Everyone in the audience is on an emotional high. It's a lovely thing to be a part of. You should come down and join the fun. There's no cover charge.

Cellar Door Sessions, Matakana Estate

What could possibly be a better way to spend a long weekend than a wine tasting and live music? What a way to spend the Waitangi weekend holiday! The Matakana Estate is hosting a cellar door session, with live music from a four-piece jazz band, a summer lunch menu and cheese boards, and wine tasting and beers. Free entry for all. To book a table, contact Matakana Estate on 0800 568 686 or email [email protected].

I'm Still Standing - Elton John Experience, The Leigh Sawmill Cafe

Relaunching at the historic Leigh Sawmill after a successful set of shows at Anthology Lounge in late 2019, I'm Still Standing - An Elton John Experience is back!.

Josh Clark pairs up again with NZ music icon Laughton Kora to bring the good vibes. Missed the Elton John concert? Why not come and see the next best thing NZ has to offer!

Sunday:

Sunday In The Park Work Day, Tawharanui Regional Park

This is your opportunity to make a real difference to the biodiversity of Tāwharanui, and you may see parts of the park you have never been to before. All members, family and friends are always welcome. Once the work is completed, we will treat you to a barbecue lunch back at the woolshed. Vegetarian options are available. Please come with sturdy footwear that is clean to protect kauri at Tāwharanui. We know it's hot, but jandals are for the beach. Also ensure you bring water, sunscreen and a sunhat.