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Have an event-ful time at Manawatū’s awesome events

HAVE AN EVENT-FUL TIME AT MANAWATŪ’S AWESOME EVENTS

Grab your diary and a pen – there’s always something on in Manawatū! Travel around the world without leaving the country at our incredible cultural celebrations, compete (or cheer from the sidelines) at one of the region’s sporting events, or take the fam along to commemorate one of Aotearoa’s significant holidays with the community.

GRAVEL AND TAR

January | Ashhurst

Around January each year, elite Kiwi and international cyclists take to the pavement (and the gravel!) for a 140km race in through beautiful Manawatu backcountry. The Pohangina Valley, Ruahine Ranges, and Ashhurst Village form the backdrop for a charming yet challenging course. 

ENZED SUPERSTOCK TEAMS CHAMPIONSHIPS

February | Central Energy Trust Arena, Palmerston North

A premier event on the national and international speedway calendars, where fans travel from far and wide to attend this unique event with the most thrilling atmosphere. Get dressed up and join in the fun! Make sure you grab a ticket well in advance.

FESTIVAL OF CULTURES

February, Te Marae o Hine – The Square

Manawatū is a region bursting full of diversity, and each February we come together for a two-day showcase of our incredible cultures and communities. From a lantern parade to a World Food, Craft & Music Fair, it’s a fantastic fusion of cuisines, song and dance, games and more – and everyone’s invited!  

SIP & SAVOUR

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March | Hiwinui Country Estate

Immerse yourself in a afternoon of indulgence at Hiwinui Country Estate’s Sip & Savour Festival. Treat your senses at Hiwinui's first ever boutique food and beverage festival!  This event will bring together a curated selection of artisan dishes and a variety of beverages from top vendors.

With live upbeat music and a vibrant atmosphere, Sip & Savour promises an unforgettable afternoon of flavour and fun.

NEW ZEALAND RURAL GAMES

March | Te Marae o Hine – The Square 

Ever witnessed a speed tree climbing race? Fancy competing in a cowpat tossing contest? The much-loved Rural Games isn’t your typical tournament! Instead, athletes from across Aotearoa compete for titles in TIMBERSPORTS®, sheepdog trials, gumboot throwing, sheep shearing and more. Budding young farmers can get in on the action too, with haybale races and tug-o-war some of the events to keep Under 12’s active and entertained. Grab a bite and enjoy a slice of our rural heartland. 

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Central District Field Days

March | Manfeild Park, Feilding 

From farmers and foodies, to tech-heads and townies, New Zealand's largest regional field days has something for everyone.

Central Districts Field Days, is a unique agricultural event that attracts over 27,000 people each March for three days, to friendly Feilding in the Manawatū where they connect, discover and experience the future of New Zealand’s primary industries.

 
 

Puanga Festival

Puanga Festival, Palmerston North

June | Central Energy Trust Arena

Celebrate the Māori New Year with whānau and friends here in Palmerston North. Get among fun festivities, waiata, kapa haka, food and music while learning about and celebrating Puanga!

A WINTER'S DAY OUT MARKET

July | Awapuni Racecourse

Round up the squad and head to A Winter's Day Out Market for a delightful day out. You’ll feel the festive spirit come alive with over 90 boutique stalls, a Nordic-inspired feasting hall and live local music. 

PALMY DRAG FEST

Palmy Drag Fest Manawatū

October | The Regent on Broadway, Palmerston North

Get ready for a dazzling spectacle at New Zealand’s biggest drag show!

Hosted by the amazing Rhubarb Rouge and featuring performances by Rupaul’s Drag Race UK Vs The World Hannah Conda and Rupaul’s Drag Race Down Under Season 2 Winner Spankie Jackzon as well as a stellar cast of drag stars across Australasia.

Brace yourself for an unforgettable night filled with live singing, dazzling dance moves and mind-blowing acrobatics.
This show is everything - but a drag!

¡SALUD! FESTIVAL

Salud Festival Palmerston North

October | Awapuni Racecourse, Palmerston North

Introducing Palmy’s first food + spirits festival. An event to showcase boutique distilleries, breweries and beverage producers. With over 10 onsite bars, alcohol available for order from NZ’s finest liquor producers, a gourmet pantry with artisan goods + accessories to purchase, as well as epic local food trucks and incredible recognised NZ artists live on stage.

RURAL DAY

October | Manchester Square, Feilding

Flock to Feilding with the family for a country extravaganza that celebrates our region’s rural heritage. Join in on the action as thousands of locals and out-of-towners come together to see farm animals, a rural fashion parade, tractor and wagon rides, live entertainment, and the iconic farmer’s market. 

MANAWATŪ GARDENS FESTIVAL

Ataahua Blooms Manawatū

November | various gardens throughout Manawatū

Dig into Manawatū through the best gardens in the region, and the ultimate country fair! From gardens of national significance to spectacular swathes of rhododendrons, there's plenty to see and something different to suit everyone! Featuring gardens of all shapes and sizes, you won't want to miss getting out into the spring air and indulging your green thumb...

CROSS HILLS GARDENS COUNTRY FAIR

November | Cross Hills Gardens in Kimbolton

18 acres of gardens, 180 boutique stalls, and hundreds of beautiful rhododendrons – this is a market you won’t want to miss. Meander through Cross Hills Gardens and meet the talented artists, makers, and creators from Manawatū and further afield. Treat yourself or stock up on Christmas pressies as you soak up the live music, food outlets and charming countryside vibes. 

NEW YEAR’S EVE PALMY

December | Te Marae o Hine – The Square

Celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one with a full-noise extravaganza. Tamariki can enjoy their own special 9pm countdown, as the evening builds up to the big finale at 12. A spectacular fireworks display tops off the night as the clock strikes midnight. 

Keep up with all events happening throughout the year, on our events page.

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