Whangarei summer festival events

A line-up of 92 events have registered for this summer’s Endless Summer Festival in Whangarei to be held between January and March.

The variety is wide, including two International cricket matches, two open air cinema movies, six speedway events, two rodeos, six Tutukaka roller discos, fishing competitions, Super Rugby, various fun-runs, fairs, plays, performances, exhibitions and 12 lazy Sunday afternoon live music sessions.

“There is something here for everyone and cost is no real barrier,” said venues & events Whangarei’s marketing & events manager, Rachel O’Gorman. “Sixty-two registrations have been made for a total of 92 events, 41 of which are free entry.”

“The 2013 Festival will include January - usually we start in February - so we can include some of our district’s most celebrated events such at the Waipu Caledonian Highland Games and the Ruakaka Races. We also wanted to start promoting the Festival from early December to encourage visitors coming for Christmas and New
Year to return to Whangarei and enjoy the events our district has to offer beyond the statutory holidays.”

Ms O’Gorman says the wide range of events stretch across the district from the Classic Hits winery tour in the north to the grand pageant of Waipu in the south, rodeo in the west and kayaking in the east.

“There will be variety of exhibitions, art schools and markets. Residents and visitors will be able to make the most of our wonderful marine environment with events such as fishing and surfing competitions, guided snorkeling and kayak days and seaweek. There is a good selection of cultural, community and family days, as well as stand up comedy, concerts and festivals.

“The Endless Summer Festival concludes over the long Easter weekend with Whangarei’s new fritter festival. It will be a great way to top off what is sure to be a magical and memorable summer filled with unique events and good times for all.

The Endless Summer Festival booklet will be sent to hospitality, tourism and retail providers this week, and free copies are available from Toll Stadium, Forum North, The Hub or i-Site. It is also downloadable online at www.venuesandeventswhangarei.co.nz