Wairarapa MUSIC IN THE COUNTRY 10 – 12 January, 2025

Celebrating 10 years running, there’s a fantastic line-up coming to you for the 2025 Wairarapa Music in the Country festival at the Tauherenikau Racing and Events Center.

From Friday 10th until Sunday 12th January, you’ll be blown away by the amazing calibre of some of NZ’s finest multi-award-winning musicians with distinguished careers both nationally and internationally.

The festival offers opportunities for everyone to get involved. Visiting and emerging musicians are encouraged to share their songs and talent onstage throughout the weekend with ever popular walk-up sessions.

A range of family-friendly activities, including a learn to line-dance class and oversized games like Connect Four, Hoopla, Jenga, and Noughts and Crosses will be available.

*This event is partnered with Trust House, an organisation committed to supporting projects that benefit the wider community.

Tickets & pricing

* Children 15 years and under are free!

Friday Single Day/Night Pass – Standard $40
Saturday Single Day/Night Pass – Standard $40
Saturday Single Day Pass – Premium $60
Sunday Single Day Pass – Standard $20

Three Day Festival Pass for 1 – Standard $65
Three Day Festival Pass for One Person- Premium $85
Three Day Festival Pass for Two People – Premium $170
Three Day Festival Pass for Two People – Standard $130

Single Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival for 1 – Standard $50
Single Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival for 2 – Premium $130
Single Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival Package for 2 – Standard $110

Three Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival Package for 1 – Standard $95
Three Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Premium Festival Package for 1 – Premium $115
Three Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival Package for 2 – Standard $160
Three Night Tenting, Motorhome & Caravan Festival Package for 2 – Premium $195

Gourmet platter for 1 $30.00
Gourmet platter for 4 $100
Collect Saturday between 12pm – 4pm from bar area.

Get your tickets now

OUR ARTISTS

The Warratahs

The Warratahs are a New Zealand music institution. They continue to produce new music and perform, driven by their passion for genuine, heartfelt music and the joy of live performance. You must see them as many times as you can in your life!

THE DOLLY PARTON EXPERIENCE

Iconic musicians Karen Davy and Ken Strong will be capturing the stage as Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. They have played both nationally and internationally, winning some serious awards along the way.

Sisters in Country

Sisters in Country is Country Music Legend Jodi Vaughan, and award winning recording artist Aly Cook, with guest sister Wendy Thornton, international performer for 40 years.

Kayla Mahon

International performer Kayla Mahon will more than impress you with her original songs and polished performance.

MATT JOE GOW

With a reputation as an earnest performer to go alongside the authentic alt country tones and many accolades, don’t miss out on his amazing act.

JAMESRAY

JamesRay is a multi award winning international performing and recording artist.After touring the world throughout the mid 90’s with Bob Dylan, he settled in NZ for a lifestyle change.

KATIE THOMPSON

Katie Thompson is a versatile and prolific alt-country artist. Her accomplishments extend to her impressive stage presence, having opened for legendary artists such as Sir Elton John.

JACKIE BRISTOW

What a treat! Her exquisite songcraft and compelling live performances have seen her share the bill and a personal connection with many of the world’s musical elite.

COOPER’S RUN

Cambridge-based country rock duo Cooper’s Run has twice been named New Zealand’s top country music act. Their music has taken them across New Zealand, Australia, and the USA.

MELISSA PARTRIDGE

Melissa has performed and toured alongside some legends in Country Music in all parts of Australia, New Zealand and America. Winner of the NZ 2021 senior Gold Guitar Award.

ROGER TIBBS

His debut album, “Yodelling Man,” released in 1984, sold 60,000 copies. His career has spanned Australia, NZ, and the USA. Winner of the 2022 NZCMA Entertainer of the Year award he’s back!

SADDLE UP SISTERS

Steffany Beck, and Miranda Easten have partnered up to bring you the Saddle up Sisters act. Bringing their celebrated new original cowgirl country music that will make you want to dive in Boots n’ all.

AINSLIE ALLEN

After spending a lifetime in the public eye, Ainslie has grown into a true performer producing hauntingly beautiful melodies.

MELISSA PARTRIDGE

Shenanigans are high energy, modern and traditional Irish music. Get ready to dance until you drop!

RENÉE THERÉSE

Renée Therése is a Māori country singer and songwriter. She’s performed on television and radio multiple times. Her 2021 country album of original songs titled Better With Friends was on the NZ Top 20 album charts.

Wayne R. Heath

Over 50 years experience as a top-line entertainer and recording artist. Wayne is a NZ Silver Scroll recipient.

Maddy Bean

Our rising star, Maddy Bean, has talent to burn! We’re predicting big things for her future.

Tell me more about the festival…

Wairarapa Music in the Country is the perfect weekend escape for motorhomes and caravans, a fantastic day and night out for families and a musical paradise for toe tappers near and far.

We’ll have food and beverage options available for purchase throughout the event, but you can beat the queues by pre-ordering a gourmet picnic platter box now. These are available in small (suitable for one person) or large (suitable for four people) sizes and will be available for collection on the afternoon of Saturday 11th January. Purchase these through Eventfinda when you purchase your tickets!

Book your tent, motorhome or caravan package now!

What can I bring?

Alcohol:
This is a licenced event, so no BYO alcohol – we will have a bar open across the festival for beverage purchases.

Food:
We’ll have food options onsite, but you’re more than welcome to bring your own picnic treats! Gourmet hamper orders close on Wednesday 3 January – order yours here

Dogs:
Dogs are welcome on lead at your motorhome or tent site, but are prohibited in event area.

Seating:
If you’ve not booked premium grandstand seats then be sure to pack a rug and some deck chairs (even bean bags) so you can grab yourself a good spot to enjoy the entertainment. If bringing shade, please be mindful of those sitting behind you.