To revitalise and boost tourism, Central North Island has announced the return of more than 50 upcoming key events to entice international visitors.
Events across the region include agriculture, sport and music to target all types of travellers. Whether it’s the The Middle-earth Halfling Marathon in Waikato, the array of music festivals in the Bay of Plenty region, international sporting events in Rotorua or the Taupō Summer Concert Tour, there is something for everyone to experience this summer.
Rae Baker, Director of the Flavours of Plenty Festival, says: “There’s no better time to trial our region’s plentiful produce than during our summer events. We can’t wait to welcome international manuhiri (visitors) to experience our stunning coastal hotspots, our region’s fresh and innovative food, and the manaakitanga (hospitality) of our people.”
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said, “Rotorua is well known for its strong Māori culture so there’s no better place to host the Harvey Norman NRL All Stars Māori vs Indigenous games. We’re looking forward to celebrating both cultural and sporting excellence when the teams come together for these historic games next March.”
The events will run across the summer months with tickets available now.
Summary of events:
- Across the coastal Bay of Plenty, the Flavours of Plenty Festival 2023: A multi-event food festival to celebrating of the region’s world-class horticultural produce and hospitality scene.
- In Rotorua, the Harvey Normal NRL All Stars Māori v Indigenous games: showcases a double header of men’s and women’s rugby league action as the Indigenous All-Stars take on the Maori All-Stars in an action packed clash of cultures.
- In Taupō, the Taupō Summer Concert Tour: the tour is finally back for 2023, now hosting a huge lineup of international acts who will be taking centre stage!
- In Waikato, the Middle-earth Halfling Marathon: takes Halflings on a journey through sites and scenes from the epic trilogies including some locations previously only ventured to by wizards and never-before accessed by the public.
Sinead Vincent – District Events Manager, Taupō District Council,, said, “Summertime in the Taupō region brings an exciting mix of events with something for everyone – foodie street market stalls line the grass reserves and music pumps from the amphitheatre and boutique lodges. It’s an incredible atmosphere with an infectious buzz that we’re so excited to share with everyone again!”
Shayne Forrest, General Manager, Hobbiton™ Movie Set, said, “Creating events like our The Middle-earth Halfling Marathon adds an extra touch to an already magical place in the heart of the Central North Island. The Lord of the Rings film series has invited so many visitors to Hobbiton, but we think the unique experience amongst the green hills leaves the biggest impact.”
