Wairarapa Music in the Country celebrates 10 Years

This year Wairarapa Music in the Country is celebrating its tenth anniversary. Held at the scenic

Tauherenikau Racecourse, the three-day event (January 10 – 12) continues to attract music lovers from across New Zealand with its impressive lineup and welcoming atmosphere.

The three-day festival boasts an impressive roster of multi-award-winning musicians with distinguished careers both nationally and internationally. The lineup includes: The Warratahs, Dolly Parton Experience, Sisters in Country (Jodi Vaughan, Aly Cook, and Wendy Thornton), Melissa Partridge, Coopers Run, Jackie Bristow, Ainslie Allen, Matt Joe Gow. Saddle Up Sisters (Steffany Beck and Miranda Eastern), Katie Thompson and Kayla Mahon to name a few.

Matthew Sherry, Wairarapa Racing Club General Manager, expressed his excitement about the event, highlighting the exceptional calibre of the artists. “We are thrilled to showcase some of New Zealand’s most iconic musicians alongside rising stars. This year’s lineup features some of the finest talent in the country,” he said.

The festival is proud to partner with Trust House, an organization committed to supporting community initiatives. Trust House Chair Mena Antonio describes the festival as a regional highlight, bringing incredible talent and thousands of visitors to the Wairarapa for a weekend filled with music and fun. 

Beyond the impressive performances, the festival offers activities for all ages. Emerging and visiting musicians can participate in popular walk-up sessions, while families will enjoy activities such as line-dancing classes and oversized games like Connect Four, Hoopla, Jenga, and Noughts and Crosses.

Visitors can sample delicious offerings from food trucks and relax at the grandstand bar, all while taking in the beauty of the historic Tauherenikau Racecourse. Nestled beside the meandering Tauherenikau River and shaded by towering native trees, the venue offers the perfect setting for a weekend escape.

Wairarapa locals are encouraged to bring their tents and camp under the trees in a dedicated area, making the most of this unique experience right in their backyard.

Ticket prices are budget-friendly, with free admission for children aged 16 and under. Day passes start at $40, and accommodation packages for motorhomes or camping start at $95 single or double $160 for a three-day pass.

Book tickets online through Eventfinda. For full festival details, including artist videos, visit

www.tauherenikau.co.nz