Tussock Country is the energetic beating heart of the fresh, new country-crossover movement in New Zealand.
Think Jenny Mitchell. The most contemporary of singer-songwriters, yet seemingly timeless.
Get front-row at Top Paddock, the headline event that kicks off the festival, delivering a dynamic line-up of national stars.
It’s authentic song-writing on show, with musicians telling uniquely Kiwi stories – from love songs to joyous harmonies expressing connections to our land.
That sweet spot where song-writing and storytelling meet, creating a truly memorable experience as you connect with an artist’s inner most thoughts. ‘Bearing their souls’, as Johnnie Cash put it.
Inspiration is on tap at the Green Bird Café Sessions where musicians gather to sing a few acoustics tunes. You never know who might roll up and jam out a few songs.
You might even feel inspired to join in the Open Mic Session - go on, whip your name up on the blackboard and show us what you’ve got.
Polished stars shine. Raw talents emerge.
Be the envy of your friends – when you say: “I saw her before she made it big.”
Explore the host of different festival venues nestled around the town - clubs, restaurants and bars, theatres and street fronts.
Listen to street buskers while you’re out and about during the ‘Freeze Ya Bits Off’ competition, then park up in a courtyard - outdoor heaters blazing - mulled wine in hand, taking in the street party vibe.
But don’t think all the entertainment happens after the sun goes down.
Fly in a vintage aircraft, view world-class art, browse fashion boutiques, sample Hokonui moonshine or take a stroll in Gore’s native bush surrounds – all in the shadow of the beautiful Hokonui Hills.
There’s even a parade of rigs big and small, gleaming paintwork and shiny bumpers, lighting up the main street – be sure to get a good spot.