2022 EVENTS

2023

WANAKA PLAYS HOST TO A NUMBER OF LOCAL AND WORLD CLASS EVENTS. HERE IS OUR PICK OF THE YEAR’S HOTTEST EVENTS.

2 JAN

ALAN KERR

WANAKA RODEO

The guys and gals of the rodeo demonstrate the prowess, skill and sheer bravery it takes to get in the ring. Starting at 11.00am in the magnificent Wanaka Rodeo Club Arena, Albert Town. Lots of great entertainment, food, beverages and bar. www.wanakarodeo.co.nz

28 JAN

THE RUBY

This annual event is a swimming festival for all, with swim distances ranging from the Ruby10 (10km marathon distance), to the 200m Little Gems for the kids. No excuses - if you can swim then you can do The Ruby. 8.00am kick off at Waterfall Creek. www.swimrubyisland.co.nz

16-18 FEB

INTEGRITY HOMES

CHALLENGE WANAKA

Challenge Wanaka features one of the world’s most scenic middle distance triathlon courses. Multiple events for all ages and abilities running from Thursday 16 February - Saturday 18 February. See website for all event information. www.challenge-wanaka.com

26-2 MAR-APR

FESTIVAL OF COLOUR

Voted “the best regional arts festival in New Zealand”. Seven exciting days and nights of astounding performances and inspiring kōrero/talks set against the spectacular autumnal backdrop of the Southern Lakes. www.festivalofcolour.co.nz

7-9 APR

WHEELS AT WANAKA

Australasia's biggest all vehicle event, Wheels at Wanaka is an all machinery history-in-motion vintage fair; includes steam engines, tractors and farming heritage, cars, motor-bikes, trucks, ATV and rally car demos, an earthmoving extravaganza and a non-stop parade ground programme. If it's got wheels or tracks it'll be on display. www.wheelsatwanaka.co.nz

23-27 JUN

NZ MOUNTAIN FILM & BOOK FESTIVAL

The 21st NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival presents a wide range of films, books, art, schools and presentations from inspirational adventurers. Our films and books tell stories of adventure sports, foreign cultures, remote travel and environmental issues. www.mountainfilm.nz

THURSDAYS

3-6 PM ARTISAN MARKET

ARDMORE STREET, LOCALLY GROWN/MADE PRODUCE & CRAFTS Visitors can enjoy seasonal artisan produce and regionally produced delights including locally-made arts and crafts, pastries, bread, fabric gifts, hand crafted wooden bowls, local wine, foraged nuts and much more. The market is located in the heart of Wanaka on Ardmore Street. See website for more information: www.wanakaartisanmarket.co.nz SUNDAYS

10-3 PM CRAFT MARKET

OCT TO APR

(AND SELECT SUNDAYS THEREAFTER)

This market is held at Market Corner, Pembroke Park and stocks a wide variety of handmade New Zealand arts and crafts. With around 50 stalls during peak season stocking greenstone carvings, photography, cards, art for your wall or garden, jewellery, soap and lotions, and much more. You’ll be sure to find the perfect gift or souvenir.

4 MAR

MOTATAPU EVENT

Held on one epic day, it is your one chance a year to experience the breathtaking high-country terrain as you bike, run, or walk the Motatapu Valley between Wanaka and Queenstown. The Motatapu is a hugely enjoyable and social event, famous for its relaxed southern vibe and huge camaraderie. www.motatapu.com

10-11 MAR

WANAKA A&P SHOW

One of the South Island’s largest and most popular agricultural and pastoral shows. See the animals up close, watch the equestrian action, enjoy the food, live music and entertainment. Browse the trade stalls and soak up the rural atmosphere in a spectacular lakeside setting. www.wanakashow.co.nz

18 MAR

RIPE WANAKA

Join world-class Central Otago wine and food producers surrounded by the majestic scenery of Glendhu Bay, Lake Wanaka. Wine tastings, live music, demonstrations, great food. Ripe has all the ingredients for a memorable day out. Visit our website to check out all things Ripe. www.ripewanaka.nz

27-11 AUG-SEP

WINTER GAMES

This is your chance to see current and future Winter Olympic, Paralympic, X Games and Freeride World Tour stars competing against New Zealand’s best on their home snow. There’ll be snow sports action at Cardrona, Coronet Peak and The Remarkables. See website for up-to date information. www.wintergamesnz.kiwi

03 SEP

MERINO MUSTER

The Merino Muster is an annual cross country ski event held at Snow Farm. It's similar to a city running event where beginners line up with experts. Choose your distance depending on experience: from 1km Mini Muster for under 10s. 7km, 14km, 21km to the longer challenge of the 42km Merino Muster, www.merinomuster.com

29-31 DEC

RHYTHM & ALPS

R&A is the premier South Island music festival; with up to 10,000 good humans joining us for 3 days from all over the world. The best sound and lighting production New Zealand has to offer! Check out the website for the line-up and ticket sales. www.rhythmandalps.co.nz