The Eastern Bay has a new summer festival.

The first ever Redemption Roots Reggae Seafood Festival lands at Mataatua Reserve in Whakatāne on Saturday, February 13, bringing great music, fresh seafood and long summer vibes to the banks of the Whakatāne River.

Running from 2pm to 10pm, Redemption is headlined by 1814, with Hori Shaw, Classick J, Brutha Rodz and DJ Rio Hemopo also on the bill.

More acts from across the Bay of Plenty are still to be announced, bringing a mix of original music and much-loved classics to round out the day.

Festival founder Craig Murray of Intrinsic Events said Whakatāne was the obvious home for Redemption.

“It’s exciting to bring this event to the region, and to start off with such a huge line-up at Mataatua Reserve.

“It’s a special location, and we feel lucky and honoured to be able to host an event on the reserve.

“ Whakatāne has the sunshine, the coastline and the people, and it deserves a summer festival it can call its own.

“We want Redemption to become an annual fixture that locals look forward to and that brings visitors from right across the motu to the Eastern Bay.”

Whakatāne District Council team leader events Kim Fort said the festival was a strong fit for the district.

“Redemption reflects the type of event experience we want to see grow in Whakatāne; one that celebrates our place, attracts visitors, and contributes to a thriving local economy.

“We are pleased to support an event with a long-term vision that has the potential to become a valued fixture in Whakatāne’s summer events programme.”

Set just minutes from the town centre, Mataatua Reserve gives festivalgoers a stunning riverside setting, with the beaches and coastline of the Eastern Bay on the doorstep for anyone making a weekend of it.

For those wanting to take the day up a notch, a limited VIP zone offers a dedicated marquee right by the stage, with its own private bar and toilets.

Only 200 VIP tickets are available, and the VIP zone is strictly 18+.

Tickets start from $59. Fans can pre-register now at redemptionfestival.com to unlock exclusive pre-sale access from 7pm on November 9, 2026, with tickets opening to the public from 7pm on November 11.

Redemption Roots Reggae Seafood Festival River

■ Where: Mataatua Reserve, Muriwai Drive, Whakatāne

■ When: Saturday, February 18, 2027, 2pm to 10pm

■ Tickets: From $59 at redemptionfestival.com