New Zealand 2023 Calendar: A Guide To Festivals And Events
As someone who has spent a considerable amount of time in New Zealand, I can tell you that the country is home to some of the most vibrant and exciting festivals and events in the world. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there is always something happening in Aotearoa. In this article, I will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the New Zealand 2023 calendar and highlight some of the events and festivals you should not miss.
January
The year starts with a bang in New Zealand, with the country celebrating the start of the new year with fireworks, parties, and concerts. One of the biggest events in January is the ASB Classic, a tennis tournament that attracts some of the biggest names in the sport. The festival season also kicks off in January, with the likes of Rhythm and Vines and Northern Bass drawing crowds from all over the world.
February
February is a month of cultural celebrations in New Zealand, with Waitangi Day on the 6th marking the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs in 1840. The Auckland Lantern Festival is another highlight of February, with thousands of lanterns lighting up the night sky in celebration of Chinese New Year.
March
March is a month of music in New Zealand, with the Wellington International Jazz Festival and the Auckland Arts Festival both taking place. For something a bit different, head to the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival on the West Coast, where you can sample some of the country’s more unusual culinary offerings.
April
The Easter long weekend in April is a popular time for camping and outdoor activities in New Zealand. For something a bit more cultural, head to the Pūtangitangi Raukawa Māori Arts Festival in Otaki, where you can experience traditional Māori culture through music, dance, and art.
May
May is a quieter month in New Zealand, but there are still plenty of events to keep you entertained. The New Zealand International Comedy Festival takes place in Auckland and Wellington, while the annual Bluff Oyster and Food Festival celebrates the beginning of the oyster season in the southern town of Bluff.
June
June is a month of winter sports in New Zealand, with the ski season kicking off in the Southern Alps. For something a bit more low-key, head to the Matariki Festival, a celebration of the Māori New Year that takes place throughout the country.
July
July is a month of music in New Zealand, with the New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival taking place in Christchurch. For something a bit more family-friendly, head to the annual Winter Festival in Queenstown, which features everything from ice skating to comedy shows.
August
August is a month of outdoor activities in New Zealand, with the annual Winter Games taking place in Queenstown and Wanaka. For something a bit more cultural, head to the annual Māori Language Week, where you can learn more about the indigenous language and culture of New Zealand.
September
September is a month of spring festivals in New Zealand, with the Auckland Heritage Festival celebrating the city’s rich history and culture. For something a bit more active, head to the annual Coast to Coast multisport race, which takes competitors from the west coast to the east coast of the South Island.
October
October is a month of food and wine in New Zealand, with the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival showcasing some of the best wine and cuisine from the region. For something a bit more adrenaline-fueled, head to the annual World Shearing and Woolhandling Championships, which take place in the rural town of Masterton.
November
November is a month of music and culture in New Zealand, with the annual Womad festival bringing together musicians and artists from around the world. For something a bit more outdoorsy, head to the annual Great Lake Relay, a 155-kilometer relay race around Lake Taupo.
December
The year ends with a bang in New Zealand, with Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations taking place throughout the country. For something a bit more cultural, head to the annual Kawhia Kai Festival, a celebration of traditional Māori food and culture in the small coastal town of Kawhia.
Q&A
Q: What is the best time of year to visit New Zealand?
A: It really depends on what you are looking for. The summer months (December-February) are the most popular time for tourists, but the winter months (June-August) offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the Southern Hemisphere. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are great times to visit if you are looking for fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
Q: What is the weather like in New Zealand?
A: New Zealand has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The North Island is generally warmer than the South Island, but both islands can experience four seasons in one day, so it is always a good idea to pack for any weather.
Q: What is the food like in New Zealand?
A: New Zealand cuisine is a fusion of Māori, Pacific, and European influences, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include fish and chips, pavlova, and the famous meat pie.
Overall, New Zealand is a country that has something for everyone, no matter what time of year you visit. From outdoor adventures to cultural celebrations, there is always something happening in Aotearoa. So why not plan your visit around one of the many festivals and events on the New Zealand 2023 calendar and experience the best of what this beautiful country has to offer?