Whanganui Vintage Weekend

Get ready to step back in time and celebrate the elegance of yesteryears at the Whanganui Vintage Weekend 2026!

Join us for a spectacular four-day extravaganza over the Wellington Anniversary Weekend that will transport you to a bygone era filled with vintage charm, classic cars, retro fashion, and nostalgic entertainment.

Throughout the event, you'll have the opportunity to participate in vintage fashion contests, explore heritage exhibitions & arts workshops, enjoy the drama of a show in one of our heritage theatres and savour mouthwatering cuisine. Come dressed in your best retro attire and enjoy all that Whanganui has to offer!

If you’re after a good old knees-up or a place put those feet up and unwind, our weekend of scheduled events has got you covered. Whether you’re into high speed and thrills or relaxing on a scenic cruise, you’ll find just the ticket at Whanganui Vintage Weekend.

Come admire classic cars or hop aboard a river cruise. Take in the atmosphere of a Steam Inc steam rail regional experience, or take to the skies for unimaginable views via the Aero club Open Day. Vintage tractors, traction engines & Royal Enfield motorcycles will be on display. And there’s rides for the kids! We are also excited to announce the return of the Soapbox Derby for 2026, the crowd favourite that was dearly missed last year, is back! Take in the thrills and spills on Drew’s ave as competitors from around the land speed down the slopes of Pukenamu Queens Park & Drews Avenue, in all manner of gravity powered vehicles.

Enjoy hunting for treasures and trinkets at our markets and fairs. Take a stroll through beautiful summer gardens. Pack a picnic full of local treats and pack your dancing shoes for our biggest party, where there’ll be food, fashion, live music, and entertainment for all ages.

Whanganui Vintage Weekend promises a delightful blend of nostalgia, entertainment, and community spirit. This event is not just a celebration of the past; it's a chance to create cherished memories and connections in the present. Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Whanganui Vintage Weekend! 16th - 19th January 2026. The weekend schedule will include both free and ticketed events which will all be found on our website.  Make sure you keep an eye out for new events and updates. The complete online & printed programmes will be available at the Whanganui I-site, markets and cafés from 22nd December. 

Learn more about the upcoming events on their WEBSITE!

Park overnight at the Wanganui Racecourse in amongst all action thanks to the Local NZMCA Area

• Entry is from 12pm 16 January 
• Departure by 12pm Tuesday 20 January.
• The cost is $5 per person per night. Cash on arrival.
• Dogs on leads at all times as it's a working racecourse and pick up after them
• No booking necessary, first come first serve 
• Any inquiries contact David Hawkins on 027 388 7011