The beautiful Anzac Bay in the Western Bay of Plenty is set to host the second Anzac Bay Summer Kickoff Festival on Saturday, December 2, 2023. The festival, which is free to attend, was first launched in 2022 by Waihi Beach Community Events and Promotions. The aim of the event is to celebrate the unique charm and stories of the Waihi Beach community through a family-friendly outdoor festival.
The festival is set against the stunning backdrop of Anzac Bay, where the coast and harbour come together to create a perfect setting. The organizers are hoping for good weather to enhance the festival atmosphere.
Matt Nicholson, Event Coordinator for Waihi Beach Community Events and Promotions, says the festival is a great opportunity for Waihi Beach. He hopes it will not only be a celebration, but also a way to strengthen community ties and attract visitors to experience the beauty of Waihi Beach.
The festival, which runs from 2pm to 6pm, offers a variety of activities for kids, including arts and crafts and hair braiding. There will also be food trucks and performances from local artists, featuring a mix of Maori songs, Polynesian reggae, and funk and soul music.
The festival aims to bring people together to enjoy the setting and celebrate local history. The organizers have worked with local hapu from Otawhiwhi Marae to create the festival, in order to highlight the cultural significance of Anzac Bay.
Jana Marston, Marketing Coordinator for Waihi Beach Community Events and Promotions, says the partnership with the local hapu allows them to showcase the area’s cultural richness and share it with a wider audience. The festival also aims to educate attendees about the local land and traditions.
The festival received a $10,000 grant from the local Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund (TWBCEF) for its second year. The fund, which is a partnership between several local organizations, aims to support community-led events that are free or low-cost.
Jodie Rickard, Community and Strategic Relationship Manager for the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, says the funding will help enhance the festival and provide a more immersive experience for attendees. The festival not only offers a fun afternoon out, but also serves as a platform for cultural celebration and storytelling.
The Anzac Bay Summer Kickoff Festival is free to attend and will take place at Anzac Bay, Waihi Beach, from 2pm to 6pm on December 2, 2023.
