Oyster Bay Bluff Oyster & Southland Seafood Festival (April)

This annual event showcases an array of local Southland seafood, fine wine and entertainment. Bluff is particularly well known for its superb oysters and restaurants from in and around Southland offer a wide selection of fresh, succulent seafood and local specialities.

Gourmet Experience, Hawkes Bay (April)

Held in the heart of one of New Zealand’s premier food, wine, olive oil, cheese, fruit and vegetable producing regions, this festival incorporates tastings, demonstrations and wine appreciation courses, giving visitors a taste of all the region has to offer.

Queenstown Winter Festival (June)

The Queenstown Winter Festival is one of New Zealand's biggest parties, a ten day non-stop event, held in the heart of this buzzing and vibrant town. The festival incorporates food, wine, music, art and comedy, as well as a host of adrenaline activities for which the town is so famous, and appeals to locals and visitors of all ages and interests.

Arrowtown Autumn Festival (April-May)

Arrowtown enjoys some of New Zealand's finest autumn colours and panoramic vistas, so this is an ideal time to visit the quaint, historic township. Now 11 days in length, the festival incorporates live music, entertainment, a huge market, festival parade and a spectacular Actionflite air display.

Matariki - Maori New Year (June)

The Maori New Year begins in June, when the constellation of the Pleiades returns to the New Zealand skies. The constellation is also known as Matariki, the name given to the to the annual celebrations, and this is a time of great festivity for Maori people throughout the country. Originally important for determining the correct time to plant crops, the festival now marks a celebration of culture, language, spirit and people. Get involved at the Te Papa Museum in Wellington.