What's on in our district

As winter continues and the school holidays arrive, July is the perfect time to embrace the season and make the most of the many events happening across the region. With Matariki encouraging us to come together, reflect and celebrate, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with whānau, friends and the wider community through a fantastic mix of experiences and activities.

Matariki Whangamatā

9—12 July 

We welcome you to celebrate Matariki in Whangamatā as we come together as a community to reflect, remember and connect. Whangamatā will host a weekend of activities featuring workshops at the Memorial Hall and a hāngī and concert at Williamson Park.

Pāuanui Fire Brigade Matariki 

10 July: 5.30pm—7pm

South end of Pāuanui Beach: come along and celebrate Matariki and support the local volunteer fire brigade.

Kūaotunu Domain Matariki 

10 July: 5am—7pm

With commentary provided by local night sky guides, you'll be able to watch other planets and stars and learn more about the Dark Sky Community project.

• View Matariki rising and other planets
• Commentary from two experienced guides
• Large astronomical telescopes and binoculars
• Meteorites on view and Mars bars provided
• Coffee, BBQ, free snacks and take-home star charts

Matariki Family & Stargazer Train Ride

10 July 

Hop aboard for a relaxed ride through the bush as the sun dips below the horizon. We’ll pause to admire the winter stars (weather permitting) and soak up the peaceful sounds of the forest settling in for the night. Bring your mates, bundle up, and pack your favourite flask — tea, coffee or something with a little extra warmth. On the way back down, keep an eye out for glowworms lighting up the undergrowth, and take a stroll through the old goldmine tunnel — home to our long-legged friends, the cave wētā.

Sonic Boom: Monkey House Theatre, Whitianga

11 July 

New Zealand’s favourite party band, The Monroes, present Sonic Boom: a concert experience just for kids.

Get ready for a high-energy concert made especially for tots to tweens, packed with epic singalongs, wild dance moments and non-stop fun. With a full professional live band, expect flashy guitar solos, glamorous costumes and that signature Monroes rockstar vibe that kids (and parents) will love!

Voices without Border: Whitianga Town Hall

25 July: 2—6pm 

Join this special evening where music becomes a voice of hope, compassion and love. Through the gift of song and the power of community, we will come together to support local charities and bring help to families and communities in the Philippines and Uganda.

Every performance will tell a story. Every note will carry a purpose. Every act of generosity will make a difference.

This is more than entertainment; it is an opportunity to touch lives, restore hope and remind others that they are not forgotten.  

Tickets can be bought from Paper Plus, Whitianga

Mana Retreat, Coromandel

7—9 August 

Join the Mana team for a relaxing weekend combined with gentle, beginners yoga, meditation and Qi Gong. Stop the clock, immerse yourself in the beauty of Mana, and experience recreation in a way that supports your wellness and wellbeing.

To view full retreat details see the Mana Retreat Centre website.

An Evening with the Madeleines: Monkey House Theatre, Whitianga

Saturday 8 August: 7—9pm

The Madeleines are a vintage vocal trio, specialising in jazz, swing and glamour.

Join them at Monkey House one last time for a night of toe-tapping fun.

This trio is made up of Hannah Heke-Kee, Lauren Collins and Jemma Goeldner. These three unique vocalists blend beautifully to create The Madeleines, playing all the favourites from the 1940s, 50s and a few modern hits too.

Your ticket price includes one house wine/beer/soda upon entry.

 Be sure to bring your dancing shoes; this is not to be missed.

Whitianga Oceans Festival

Saturday 19 September

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitianga Marina, the Whitianga Oceans Festival is a celebration of great music, delicious food and the unique spirit of the Coromandel — where coast meets country.

This much-loved event brings together an exciting line-up of local, national and international artists performing throughout the day, creating a lively festival atmosphere by the water. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of tasty food offerings, including fresh local seafood and a variety of festival favourites.

Whangamatā Half Marathon

Saturday 29 September

Whether you’re local or just visiting, invite your family and friends to join you at the Whangamatā Half Marathon, 10km or 5km – run or walk.  Perfectly timed for the first weekend of the spring school holidays.

Open Studios Coromandel Arts Tour

Saturday 3 October — Sunday 11 October: 10am—4pm

Coromandel is famous for its creative people. Come and meet some of them in October as part of the Coromandel Open Studios Arts Tour. Every year, on the first two weekends of October, nearly 40 artists from in and around Coromandel Town open their studios for you to visit.  

Ridge Runner: Colville

Saturday 7 November

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 + afterparty vibes
• Camping under the stars

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

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.

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.