Kōwhai Festival 2026

17th October 2026 – Warkworth’s golden day out is back: 150+ local stalls, live music and food on Main Street.

Kōwhai Festival is back, and it’s one of Warkworth’s biggest days on the calendar! Running since 1970, this one-day festival takes over Warkworth Town Centre with 12 hours of music, food and local pride, and 2026 is set to be bigger than ever, with more than 150 local vendors and an expected 10,000-plus visitors through Main Street.

This year, we’re taking it right back to where it all began: the iconic sounds, style and spirit of Rock & Roll from 1969. Dust off your flares, leather jackets, tie-dye, mini skirts, peace signs and platform shoes, and dress to impress for a shot at the Best Dressed Rock ...