Warkworth’s premier festival regains its mojo

An estimated 8000 to 9000 visited the festival during the day, which started at 9am and wound up at 8pm.

The return of the Kōwhai Festival took a big step forward on October 19 with a programme that more closely reflected traditional festivals of the past.

The event has struggled to recover from disruptions caused by covid, but this year’s event saw a return to a full day’s programme, street stalls, large crowds and a festive atmosphere.

Kōwhai Festival committee chair Melanie Marnet says she has only had good feedback.

“Stallholders were pleased with their sales and the entertainment programme was well received,” she says.

“From set-up to pack-up, the day ran really smoothly. Bar another pandemic, things look very promising for next year.”

While there are always many to thank for a community festival of this size, Marnet said she particularly wanted to thank her committee, the volunteers on the day and sponsors.

She welcomed any feedback from the public, which could be discussed at a debrief next month.

Comments can be emailed to: kowhaifestival@gmail.com.