The festival is finished for 2026, see you Waitangi Weekend 2027.

A vibrant, family-friendly event, celebrating culture and place at NZ’s most-loved beach.

Brought to you by Trust Horizon, Bay Trust, Whakatane District Council and Radio 1XX.  A big thanks also to Ngāti Hokopu, Karma Drinks, Cadera and Mata Beer.

This free event brings the community together with kite flying, sandcastle competitions, sand art, a lively festival hub filled with food trucks and entertainment.

This festival aims to honour our unique place in Aotearoa, enhancing pride for all its communities - past and present - and reconnecting whānau and visitors to the whenua, moana and stories that make it unique.