Tauranga

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Events and Festivals

Local events, festivals, and seasonal celebrations held in Tauranga.

Sections

1. Tauranga Farmers Market

  • Type of Event: Weekly Market
  • When: Every Saturday, 7:45 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Where: Tauranga Primary School, 31 Fifth Avenue, Tauranga
  • Entry Cost: Free
  • What to Expect:
    • A bustling market featuring fresh, locally grown produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, and gourmet food.
    • Live music and entertainment often accompany the market, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere.
    • A great opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs, organic products, and locally made items.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Highlights the importance of supporting local farmers and artisans in New Zealand.
    • Offers a glimpse into the region’s agricultural richness and community spirit.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Arrive early for the best selection of produce and goods.
    • Bring cash, as not all vendors accept cards.
    • Wear comfortable shoes and bring reusable bags for your purchases.

2. The Little Big Markets

  • Type of Event: Artisan Market
  • When: Monthly (usually the first Saturday of the month)
  • Where: Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui
  • Entry Cost: Free
  • What to Expect:
    • A trendy, boutique-style market featuring a mix of handmade crafts, vintage items, clothing, jewelry, and gourmet food trucks.
    • Live music performances and entertainment for all ages.
    • A vibrant, community-focused atmosphere with a mix of locals and tourists.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Showcases the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Tauranga’s artisans and small businesses.
    • Promotes sustainable shopping and supports local talent.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Check the event’s social media pages for updates on dates and featured vendors.
    • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the event is outdoors.
    • Try the food trucks—they offer a variety of delicious options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

3. Bay Dreams Festival

  • Type of Event: Music and Entertainment Festival
  • When: Annually in early January (Summer)
  • Where: Trustpower Baypark, Tauranga
  • Entry Cost: Tickets range from NZD 100–200, depending on the type of pass (general admission or VIP).
  • What to Expect:
    • One of New Zealand’s largest music festivals, featuring international and local artists across multiple genres, including electronic, hip-hop, and rock.
    • Food and drink stalls, merchandise stands, and interactive entertainment zones.
    • A high-energy event that attracts thousands of attendees from across the country and beyond.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Celebrates New Zealand’s vibrant music scene and its connection to global music trends.
    • A key event in Tauranga’s summer entertainment calendar.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Purchase tickets early, as the event often sells out.
    • Plan transportation in advance—parking can be limited, and shuttle services are usually available.
    • Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing suitable for summer weather.

4. Tauranga Arts Festival

  • Type of Event: Arts and Culture Festival
  • When: Biennially in October/November
  • Where: Various venues across Tauranga, including Baycourt Community and Arts Centre
  • Entry Cost: Ticket prices vary by event, with some free activities.
  • What to Expect:
    • A diverse program of performances, including theater, music, dance, visual arts, and literary events.
    • Pop-up markets and craft stalls often accompany the festival, offering unique shopping opportunities.
    • Family-friendly activities and workshops for children and adults.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Highlights Tauranga’s growing reputation as a hub for arts and culture.
    • Provides a platform for local and international artists to showcase their work.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Check the festival’s website for the full schedule and book tickets in advance for popular events.
    • Explore the pop-up markets for one-of-a-kind art and crafts.
    • Combine your visit with a stroll along Tauranga’s waterfront for a complete experience.

5. Tauranga Home Show

  • Type of Event: Shopping and Lifestyle Expo
  • When: Annually in May
  • Where: Trustpower Baypark Arena, Tauranga
  • Entry Cost: Tickets typically cost around NZD 10–15 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.
  • What to Expect:
    • A large-scale event featuring over 200 exhibitors showcasing home improvement products, furniture, appliances, and lifestyle goods.
    • Live demonstrations, giveaways, and exclusive discounts from vendors.
    • Food and drink stalls to keep you energized while you shop.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Reflects New Zealanders’ love for home improvement and innovative design.
    • A great way to discover local businesses and products.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as the event covers a large area.
    • Take advantage of the free parking available at the venue.
    • Bring a notebook or smartphone to jot down ideas and contacts for future purchases.

6. Christmas in the Park

  • Type of Event: Family-Friendly Festival
  • When: Annually in December
  • Where: Blake Park, Mount Maunganui
  • Entry Cost: Free
  • What to Expect:
    • A festive celebration featuring live music, dance performances, food stalls, and a Christmas market.
    • Activities for children, including face painting, games, and a visit from Santa Claus.
    • A magical evening atmosphere with Christmas lights and decorations.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • Brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season.
    • Reflects the Kiwi tradition of outdoor summer festivities.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Bring a picnic blanket or chairs for seating.
    • Arrive early to secure a good spot near the stage.
    • Dress in layers, as evenings can get cooler even in summer.

7. National Jazz Festival Tauranga

  • Type of Event: Music and Entertainment Festival
  • When: Annually over Easter Weekend
  • Where: Various venues, including Baycourt Community and Arts Centre and Tauranga CBD
  • Entry Cost: Ticket prices vary by event, with some free performances.
  • What to Expect:
    • A celebration of jazz music featuring local and international artists.
    • Street performances, jazz workshops, and a vibrant night market in the city center.
    • Food and drink vendors offering a variety of options.
  • Cultural Significance:
    • One of the longest-running jazz festivals in the Southern Hemisphere, showcasing Tauranga’s rich musical heritage.
  • Tips for Attending:
    • Book tickets early for headline performances.
    • Explore the night market for unique shopping and dining experiences.
    • Check the festival’s website for a detailed schedule and venue map.

Final Tips for Visitors:

  • Transportation: Tauranga has a reliable public bus system, but renting a car is recommended for exploring the wider Bay of Plenty region.
  • Accommodation: Book early if visiting during major festivals, as hotels and holiday rentals can fill up quickly.
  • Weather: Tauranga enjoys a mild climate, but summer events can get hot—bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.

By attending these events and festivals, you’ll not only enjoy shopping and entertainment but also gain a deeper appreciation for Tauranga’s vibrant culture and community spirit.