What's on in our district

As the days grow longer and the summer season draws closer, now is the ideal time to gather with friends and whānau, discover new experiences, and lock in your plans for some of the region's most anticipated summer events. Wherever you are across the Coromandel, October is bursting with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and make the most of the season.

Fit for an Envelope - Thames

Saturday 10 October – Sunday 31 October: 10am–4pm

Browse the imaginative miniature works in Fit for an Envelope, then explore our Spring Art Sale, where you'll find original artworks ready for new homes

Two exhibitions, one welcoming heritage gallery, and plenty to discover

Whether you're searching for a unique piece of art, a thoughtful gift, or simply a creative outing, there's something waiting to catch your eye

Get ready for the Whangamatā Adventure Race, an action-packed day of fun, fitness and teamwork. Explore Whangamatā’s stunning natural environment as you run, ride, navigate and complete exciting challenges for all ages and abilities.

Andrew London Duo

Saturday 17 October 2026 - 7.30pm  

Tairua Garage Sale

Saturday 24 October 2026 - 8am - 1pm

A town garage sale where registered households hold their own garage sale at their address for $2. Maps of the garage sale addresses can be purchased for $2 from Bayleys Tairua Real Estate, all entrants will go into the prize draw

Light up Thames

Saturday 31 October 2026 - Gates open from 5pm 

A magical night for the whole whānau - fireworks, food and fun under the Thames sky.  This exciting community evening will feature a spectacular fireworks display, along with food and drink stalls, arts and crafts, entertainment and raffles. Tickets to be purchased on the night at the gate.

Steampunk Thames

Thursday 12 November – Sunday 15 November 

Steampunk the Thames celebrates 11 years. The annual steampunk festival of the arcane and thaumaturgic arts will crank up a head of steam with an action-packed, fun-filled weekend of high-energy hoopla for grownups and young people alike.

Ridge Runner: Colville

Date change – Saturday 5 December 

Ready to take on the Ridge?

Ridge Runner returns to the stunning White Star Station on Saturday 7 November, bringing you an unforgettable trail experience through native bush, rugged climbs and sweeping ridgeline views.

Whether you run, walk or take it all in at your own pace, this is more than just a race – it’s a full Coromandel adventure.

• Epic trails (with exciting new sections coming soon)
• Gourmet food
• Live music and afterparty vibes
• Camping under the stars

Round up your crew, lock in the date, and get ready for something special.

Thames Santa Parade and Whanāu Day

Saturday 5 December 2026

Thames Santa Parade and Te Kauaeranga Whānau Day is all about bringing our community together, strengthening connections, and creating lasting memories.

Save the date, spread the word, and we'll see you there.

Nau mai, haere mai e te whānau.

Benee - Coroglen Tavern

Monday 28 December 2026

Beloved NZ-born and Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter and producer BENEE will perform a special one-off headline show, joined by stellar supports Day We Ran and There’s A Tuesday.

Monument - Coroglen Tavern

Wednesday 30 December 2026 

Monument is the Coromandels summer hip hop and electronic festival featuring Ladi6, David Dallas, CHAII & Team Dynamite.  Bringing New Zealand’s biggest hip hop and electronic artists together for one epic night. Expect incredible live performances, an electric atmosphere, and a summer event you’ll be talking about long after the music ends

Buffalo Beach Party

Saturday 2 January 2027

We’re taking over Buffalo Beach Reserve, right on the Whitianga beachfront… the day before Coro Classic.  From world class DJs to homegrown homies, this lineup’s got all the ingredients for the perfect Coro Beach Party.

Coro Classic

Sunday 3 January 2027

Heading back to Matarangi’s golden shores for the biggest party yet.  Tickets are on their fourth release and selling fast, get in quick to ensure you don't miss out.  

Dave Dobbyn - Coroglen Tavern

Sunday 3 January 2027

Kiwi music legend Sir Dave Dobbyn will mark his 70th birthday with a special performance at the Coroglen Tavern on 3 January. Announcing the show, Sir Dave said, "For the good people of the Coromandel, there's nowhere I'd rather be on my 70th birthday." With a catalogue of timeless hits and a reputation as one of New Zealand's most celebrated performers, this one-off show is set to be a highlight of the summer events season.

Te Wehi - Coroglen Tavern

Wednesday 6 January 2027

Known for his engaging performances and feel-good energy, Te Wehi is set to deliver a memorable evening of live music in one of the Coromandel's most iconic venues. Don't miss your chance to be part of this summer celebration.

The Great Kiwi Music Festival - Coroglen Tavern

Friday 5 February 2027

Get ready to sing your heart out with some of the most iconic bands and songs New Zealand has ever produced. From timeless classics to legendary anthems, this is more than a concert - it’s a celebration of the soundtrack of Aotearoa.

Markets

Coromandel Town – Wharf Road: Fridays, 8.30am–1pm 

An array of local and homegrown produce and crafts for sale. Organic and gluten-free options. You will be spoilt for choice.

Coroglen Markets - Gumtown Hall - Coroglen : Sundays, 9am - 1pm 

A fabulous farmers's market for you to buy some local organic produce, home made goodies and crafts.  Conveniently located on the main road State Highway 25 at the historic Gumtown Hall. 

Pāuanui Market – Recreation Hall - Pauanui Club - Last Sunday of every month - 9am - 12.30pm

Stalls and live music, arts crafts, fresh produce, preserves, baking and fabulous coffee. 

Thames Market – Pollen Street, Grahamstown: Saturdays 8am–12pm

You'll find locally produced plants, fruit and veg, plus bric-a-brac, secondhand goods and books, arts and crafts, fine food, cheeses, specialty oils and much more.

Whiti Citi Markets - Soldiers Memorial - 9am–1pm

Arts, Crafts, and Produce Market welcomes everybody to their Saturday markets, located in the heart of Whitianga.  Next market 10 October, followed by Labour Weekend, and weekly from then.

The Little Big Markets - Williamson Park - Whangamatā - 24 October 2026 9am–2pm

Join us at The Little Big Markets for a vibrant day of community fun, unique finds, and delicious eats. Discover a diverse array of local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Have you got an event that has the potential to become iconic to the Coromandel - will attract domestic and international tourists as well as our holidayhome owners - and can be run outside of peak summer? You could be eligible for support through our District Event Fund.