Katikati Avo Fest returns 10 January 2026 with big tunes, fresh flavours, and pure summer fun
The highlight of the local summer calendar is back. Katikati Avo Fest will take over the Uretara Domain on Saturday, 10 January 2026, from 12pm to 6pm, serving up a celebration of New Zealand’s Avocado Capital with live music, delicious food and beverages, and sun-soaked good times.
Since 2004, Katikati Avo Fest has drawn crowds from across the Bay of Plenty and beyond for its relaxed atmosphere, dance-ready bands, on-the-hour cooking demonstrations, and an irresistible line-up of avocado-inspired food and beverages.
Crowd favourite Tami Neilson headlines the DMS Main Stage
Katikati Avo Fest has locked in its headline act: Tami Neilson – the Canadian-born, Aotearoa-based dynamo whose roof-raising blend of country, soul and rock ’n’ roll has wowed audiences from the Grand Ole Opry to orchestral stages at home.
A “fire-breathing belter” (Rolling Stone), Tami’s career spans busking with her family to becoming one of New Zealand’s most decorated artists. Recent highlights include a duet with Willie Nelson, a #1 album (KINGMAKER), sold-out shows with the Auckland Philharmonia, a Grand Ole Opry debut, the tribute release Neilson Sings Nelson, and her acclaimed 2025 album Neon Cowgirl. She also joined US tour dates supporting Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan.
“When we surveyed our ticket holders, country music stood out as the clear favourite,” says Events Manager Kylie Watkins. “That feedback really shaped our decision, and it’s why we’re so thrilled to have booked Tami as our main act - we’re giving our audience exactly the music they wanted.”
“Holy Guacamole! I can’t wait to hit the stage at Katikati Avo Fest and bring the party in the summer sunshine with my incredible band this January - make sure to bring your dancing shoes!” says Tami.
Chelsea Winter to headline the Seeka Kitchen Marquee
Beloved Kiwi cookbook author and live presenter Chelsea Winter will headline the kitchen at Katikati Avo Fest 2026, serving up avocado-inspired demos and a special book signing.
Chelsea – one of New Zealand’s best-loved food personalities, bestselling author, and an engaging live presenter known for her relaxed, down-to-earth style – will host hourly cooking demonstrations in the Seeka Kitchen Marquee at Uretara Domain on Saturday, 10 January 2026, bringing fresh, achievable recipes that celebrate the Bay of Plenty’s favourite fruit.
For more than a decade, Chelsea has inspired home cooks with crowd-pleasing dishes that work in real kitchens – no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Her iconic creations, from Lockdown Loaf to Lamb Shanks, Crazy Italian Chocolate Cake and Macho Nachos, have become staples across Kiwi households. Following the success of her chart-topping Tasty (2024), her new release Nourish (October 2025) continues her focus on flavour, balance and real ingredients.
Chelsea says she is excited to bring her passion for seasonal produce to Katikati, sharing avocado-inspired recipes and fresh ideas with the local community. Across the afternoon, festival-goers can expect a line-up of approachable, flavour-packed dishes, including:
• Flatbreads with Avo & Whipped Feta
• Vietnamese-Style Poached Chicken & Avocado Salad
• Hot Smoked Salmon & Avocado Cups
• Decadent Orange-Choc Mousse
In a special local twist, Katikati College students will rotate as sous-chefs during the demos – an opportunity designed to grow real-world skills and confidence.
Chelsea will also host a book signing at 5pm in the Seeka Kitchen Marquee, with Nourish available for purchase from Katikati Paper Plus on the day. Fans are welcome to bring along any of her books to be signed. “It’s very exciting for Katikati to have Chelsea visit our rural region,” says Emma Low, Store Manager, Katikati Paper Plus.
Full festival experience: music, food and avo-fun
Katikati Avo Fest (12pm–6pm) celebrates New Zealand’s Avocado Capital with live music, great food and beverages, and sun-soaked good times.
This year’s DMS stage line-up includes:
• The Relatives – Wellington favourites serving up sing-along hits from yesteryear through to modern rock anthems guaranteed to get the crowd moving.
• Sonar Flare – a high-voltage supergroup led by Jason Kerrison and featuring platinum artists from The Feelers, Opshop, Zed, and Sola Rosa – expect arena-sized energy and massive musicianship.
• The Lady Killers – Tina Cross, Suzanne Lynch, and Jackie Clarke – delivering a dazzling harmony masterclass that glides from gospel to rock ’n’ roll, with pin-drop moments, big laughs, and feel-good thrills.
• Tami Neilson – closing out the day as headline act with her powerful blend of country, soul, and rock ’n’ roll.
“Katikati Avo Fest is the result of thousands of volunteer hours, tireless community spirit, and a passion for giving back,” says Trevor Burgess, Chair of the Katikati Fun Fest Charitable Trust, kaitiaki (guardians) of Katikati Avo Fest. “Each year, it’s a chance to celebrate our region, share good kai and music, and support local causes - while shining a light on Katikati’s world-famous avocados.”
“It’s the perfect summer afternoon to relax and enjoy - or get up and dance!” says Kylie Watkins, Events Manager. “With great music, delicious food, and plenty of fun to be had, Katikati Avo Fest is the place to be. Everyone leaves with a smile - it’s the ultimate summer experience.”
Ticket update
Premium and Early Bird tickets have sold out. General tickets and transport are available now via iTicket or KatikatiAvoFest.co.nz.
